YWCA’s annual Stand Against Racism events will take place on June 25 and June 26 and we’re excited to invite you in joining us!
Even though our events have moved to a virtual platform, there are still multiple ways for you to support our work in eliminating racism. We have provided a list of ways to host a virtual SAR and actionable items to make our community more equitable for all!
We believe that a collective voice is a powerful voice!
Hosting A Virtual Stand:
Wherever you are, you can host a virtual Stand on Friday, June 26! What does a virtual Stand look like?
- We invite all of those participating in our Stand Against Racism events to take a moment of silence with us on June 25 in memory of George Floyd. This day marks one month after his murder. We are asking individuals to take a moment of silence at 11:35am, for 8 minutes and 45 seconds.
- Holding up signs in front of your organization, while social distancing, that asks passersby to honk for “racial justice,” “if they will vote,” “want equity for all,” etc.
- Holding up signs in your neighborhood that share racial and social equity statistics.
- Posting on social media how you or your organization will combat racism using the SAR hashtags (#StandCLT, #StandAgainstRacism, #SAR2020).
- Posting on social media how COVID-19 has impacted you or your organization as well as the people you serve.
- Take the Stand Against Racism Pledge.
- Sharing YWCA’s recommended reading and terms with friends, family, and coworkers to expand knowledge and awareness on racial and social justice issues
- Wearing orange on Friday, June 26 to show support for YWCA Central Carolinas and our Racial Justice & Advocacy work.
- Purchasing a 2019 Stand Against Racism shirt. (Your purchase will support YWCA’s mission to eliminate racism and empower women. After submitting your information, a YWCA associate will contact you for payment details.)
How To Take Action:
- Host a Stand Against Racism event in your neighborhood, faith-based community, and/or your business.
- Check your local police department’s Excessive Use of Force Policies and Procedures to make sure that the department is meeting the 8 policies to decrease police violence. #8CantWait.org
- Sign-up to participate in CMPD’s Citizens’ Academy. Citizens can learn first-hand about police operations through a series of lectures, simulated activities, practical sessions, and tours.
- Check with your city to see if there is a Citizens’ Review Board.
- Support the bill that would target police misconduct and racial bias by writing to your legislators to ask for their support.
- Visit the League of Women Voters’ website to register to vote, find candidate information and much more.
- Sign a Petition to End Violent Policing Against Black People
- Completing the Census would create more opportunities and serves to help our marginalized populations.
- Become a Court Watcher through the ACLU. Contact Kristie Puckett-Williams at kwilliams@acluofnc.org.
- Host a community conversation around the issues of equity, equality, racial justice, and bail reform.
- Sign the “Hands Up” Petition
- Follow YWCA’s blog to expand your knowledge on frequently used racial justice terms.
- Read a book from our CEO’s book recommendation list.
