February RSJ Spotlight | April Eberhardt

Racial & Social Justice Spotlight Series

Each month, YWCA Spokane spotlights an organization or individual in our community that is aligned with our mission so we can highlight the work they do to create real and lasting change for a more equitable Spokane.

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February Spotlight

April Eberhardt, Spokane Public Schools

April Eberhardt is a powerhouse. Spokane is so lucky to have her working in the public school system, showing our younger generations what options they have post-high school and beyond. All her work is approached with an equity and anti-racism lens. Throughout our entire conversation, I kept asking myself how I could support her, how I could contribute to her goals and the outcomes she wants for our community. In her relatively short time in Spokane, she’s already identified so many gaps in the systems we have to operate in, and how to narrow those gaps. I really resonated with her collectivism mindset, and being transparent through all things, and sharing of information. Our conversation was a much needed reminder that we are stronger together.

Key takeaways from the discussion with YWCA Equity Coordinator, Lara Estaris:

• Building community and connecting with each other is the first and most important step in doing the work to advance progress in Spokane
• A concerted effort to help Black, brown, Indigenous and other students of color thrive is missing
• Make time to create art
• Our rural neighbors can’t be left behind
• Gauge where to direct your efforts – is winning the battle worth it? Does it contribute to the end of the ‘war?’

“Show up for your kids. Because you know your child better than anyone. It takes a village, but when it comes to what your child needs, speak for your child. As your child matures, teach your child how to advocate for themselves and know when to speak up.” – April Eberhardt

Check out YWCA Spokane’s recent RSJ Spotlights

• JAN 2024 | YW Community Engagement Team
• FEB 2023 | If You Could Save Just One
• MAR 2023 | Latrice Williams
• APR 2023 | Tracy Poindexter-Canton
• MAY 2023 | Naghmana Sherazi
• JUN 2023 | Mujeres in Action
• JUL 2023 | INDEx
• AUG 2023 | Olivia Evans
• SEP 2023 | Justice Forral
• OCT 2023 | Inga N. Laurent
• NOV 2023 | Tamika LaMere

Find all past RSJ Spotlights here. If you or someone you know should have their advocacy work highlighted through the YWCA Spokane’s Racial and Social Justice Spotlight series, please email equity@ywcaspokane.org.