2023 YWCA USA Leadership Conference
This past June, YWCA associations across the nation meet together in Washington DC for the 2023 YWCA USA Leadership Conference. The conference was themed Mission Forward: Building a Movement with an intention to bring this group closer together to realize our full potential as a national force. YWCA Spokane CEO, Jeanette Hauck, and our Chief Philanthropy Office, Dana Morris Lee, attended the conference alongside hundreds of other leaders who are committed to our agency’s mission of eliminating racism and empowering women.
A Message From Our CEO About The Conference
Dear Valued YWCA Spokane Community,
I am excited to share with you the incredible experience I had attending the YWCA USA’s 2023 National Conference in Washington, DC. As the CEO of YWCA Spokane, it was an honor to participate in this monumental event. This conference brought together passionate leaders from YWCAs across the country, and it was an inspiring gathering that left an indelible mark on my heart and mind.
The conference served as a platform for women, allies, and activists to unite, reflect on our collective accomplishments, and strategize for the road ahead. The theme, “Mission Forward: Building a Movement,” encapsulated the spirit of the event, emphasizing the importance of our ongoing mission to eliminate racism, empower women, and promote peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all.
Throughout the conference, we engaged in thought-provoking discussions, attended powerful workshops, and connected with like-minded individuals who are dedicated to creating meaningful change in their communities. The exchange of ideas and experiences was invaluable, fostering an environment where learning and growth thrived.
One of the major takeaways from the conference was the recognition of the vital role that YWCAs play in advocating for social justice and equality. We were reminded that our work is not just about individual empowerment but about dismantling systemic barriers and creating a society that uplifts everyone. The conference reinforced the importance of our holistic approach to addressing issues such as racial injustice, gender inequity, and violence.
Moreover, the conference highlighted the power of collaboration. We learned that by working together across diverse sectors, we can amplify our impact and build a stronger movement. It was heartening to witness leaders share their success stories, innovative strategies, and effective programs. These collaborative efforts inspire us to reimagine what is possible and embark on new initiatives that will drive lasting change in our communities.
One of the most valuable aspects of the conference was the opportunity to hear from incredible speakers who shared their wisdom and expertise. Their inspirational stories reminded us of the resilience and strength within us all. Their messages of hope and determination instilled in us a renewed sense of purpose and ignited our passion to continue fighting for social justice.
The YWCA USA’s 2023 National Conference was not just a gathering of individuals; it was a convergence of like-minded souls who are deeply committed to making a difference. The connections made and the knowledge shared during this event have energized me and reignited my dedication to our mission. It has reaffirmed my belief that together, we can create a future where every individual is valued, empowered, and has an equal opportunity to thrive.
I return to Spokane with a heart full of gratitude and a mind filled with fresh perspectives and innovative ideas. I am excited to collaborate with all of you as we continue our journey towards a more just and equitable society. Let’s take the lessons learned at the conference and translate them into concrete actions that will shape a brighter future for all.
Thank you for your unwavering support, and I look forward to our continued work together.
Jeanette Hauck YWCA Spokane CEO
Capitol Hill Day
On day two of the conference, we were proud to join a record number of YWCA advocates for Capitol Hill Day, an organized effort to meet with Senators and Representatives in order to urge Congress to increase federal support for YWCA services and programs.
We advocated to support survivors and prevent gender-based violence, to stabilize the childcare sector, address the staffing recruitment and retention crisis, increase childcare accessibility for women and families, increase access to emergency and transitional housing, and urge our elected officials to address racism as a public health crisis.
YWCA Leaders from Washington State visited with staff members supporting Cathy McMorris Rogers and Senator Patty Murray and met in person with Senator Maria Cantwell. She shared her about her focus on the housing crisis and we all had the opportunity to share our challenges and needs. Jeanette and Dana shared that a highlight from the trip was meeting some of the legislative interns in the congressional cafeteria who had just taken their positions. They enjoyed listening to their passion and hopes and dreams for their future careers.
Highlights From The Conference
On the last day of the conference, the keynote speech was given by our YWCA USA CEO, Margaret Mitchell. She is focused on providing strong support to the network of agencies and growing the impact we have in this nation. She also spoke to the real, and specific nature of the history of racism in our movement. She challenged us to reach deep into our personal and agency systems of values and remove lingering racism, othering and exclusivity. She hopes that we can continue to mentor the next generation of young women and lead with courage and compassion. She sees the importance of intergenerational power.
“As a network, we have done tremendous work for the women and families we serve, and we will continue this movement across the country and the world — no matter the distance, every step forward we take, we take together as One YWCA. Our mission is FORWARD!,” stated by Margaret Mitchell, YWCA USA CEO.
Conference Photos
The conference experience was chronicled through a series of photographs that can be accessed through the following links:
Conference Videos
Below are video highlights recorded of the conference.
- Opening Town Hall: The Power of Our Movement (Wednesday Afternoon)
- Opening Plenary (Friday Morning)
- Building a Movement: In Our Communities, Across the USA, and around the world! (Friday afternoon)
- 2023 YWCA National Conference: Awards Celebration (Friday night)
Re-Released YWCA Magazine: A Special Issue On Racism
During conference, YWCA USA was proud to re-release the June 1968 edition of the YWCA Magazine, a Special Issue on Racism — 55 years after its initial publication. This magazine featured the writings of powerful leaders for racial justice, including civil rights advocate Bayard Rustin and YWCA’s very own Helen Claytor and Dr. Dorothy Height.
By: Erica Schreiber