THE YWCA TAKES A STAND AGAINST RACISM

All are welcome to join the YWCA in taking a Stand Against Racism on April 25, 2018 on the campus of University of Evansville. Stand Against Racism unites communities in a bold demonstration that delivers a clear message: we are on a mission to eliminate racism.

“Racism is not always as overt as segregated public buses or water fountains, but instead it is the misunderstanding and intolerance of cultural differences,” says YWCA of Evansville CEO, Erika Taylor.“This intolerance of diversity is not just institutional. It is also driven by individual beliefs which can occur within each culture. Now is the time to resolve inequality and evolve as an open-minded society.”

Stand Against Racism is a signature campaign of YWCA USA to build community among those who work for racial justice and to raise awareness about the negative impact of institutional racism and structural racism in our communities. This campaign is part of YWCA’s larger national strategy to fulfill its mission of eliminating racism. The YWCA of Evansville has sponsored local Stand Against Racism events since 2011. The University of Evansville now joins the YWCA as a community partner for the second year.

This week, Stand Against Racism events are anticipated in nearly every state across the country including public policy advocacy, community education, and public proclamations. Over 300,000 people are expected to participate nationwide. Here in Evansville, the YWCA will partner with the University of Evansville to present a full day of events.

The lineup of events begins at 11:15 a.m. at the University of Evansville Ridgway University Center with a special proclamation by Mayor Lloyd Winnecke and remarks from YWCA and University of Evansville officials and students before attendees take the Stand Against Racism Pledge. Other activities include a panel discussion on racism and higher education, open mic expressions on themes of racial justice and equality, a display of passive protest posters, and information table.

The day will culminate with a keynote address by Robert Jackson at 6:00 p.m. in Eykamp Hall, Room 251, Ridgway University Center. This event is free and open to the public. Mr. Jackson’s topic will be “Respectand Compassion for All.”

Jackson is the author of The No More Excuses Curriculum, featuring the books, Black Men Stand Up!, The Workbook: A Boys Guide to Manhood, The Workbook: A Girls Guide to Womanhood, Solutions to Educating Black and Latino Males and Put a Stop to Bullying. He is a nationally renowned speaker, educator, consultant, and owner of Lavelle Publishing and Robert Jackson Consulting.

He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Technology from Western Kentucky University where he lettered four years in football and track. After being cut from the NFL Minnesota Vikings, Jackson began teaching. Wanting to make a bigger impact on education, he began conducting professional development workshops and keynotes nationally for educators, parents and students. He is committed to serving his community as mentor and leader, especially on issues facing African American and Latino students.

He is an active Life Member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., 100 Black Men and Bachelor Benedict Club and a member of the NFL Players Association (NFLPA).

He has received numerous awards for his work, including the Bridge Building Award from Collaborate to Save our Sons for his leadership and mentorship toward youth and adults nationally, The Do Something Positive, Be Something Positive Award for his leadership in the community, Civil Rights Justice by Action Youth Award from National Organization of Black Law Enforcement for his tireless work with students nationally.

Stand Against Racism Schedule of Events:

11:15 a.m.

12:00 p.m.
2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. 3:00 p.m.

4:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m.

Proclamation by Mayor Lloyd Winnecke; Remarks from YWCA and University of Evansville officials and students; attendees take the Stand Against Racism pledge. (Ridgway University Center – Lobby Area)

Anti-Bias Training Session (registration has closed)
Community Information Tables with prizes and giveaways (Outside Ridgway Center)

Open Mic Forum: All are welcome to express themes of race, racism, social justice and cultural diversity through spoken word, poetry, monologues, song, and dance. Passive protest poster display. (Outside Ridgway Center)

Panel Discussion: Racism and Higher Education (Outside Ridgway Center)
Keynote Speaker: Robert Jackson (Ridgway University Center, Eykamp Hall, Rm. 251)

The YWCA is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all. The YWCA has been serving the Evansville area since 1911 and from its inception has provided housing and services for women and girls. The Evansville YWCA is part of an international movement serving over 2 million in the United States and 25 million worldwide.