Advancing Equity
Our Community Engagement Department celebrates another impactful year! Since this department’s founding in 2022, it has been our goal to create positive change by fostering community awareness, advocating for racial justice, and preventing intimate partner violence. We are excited to share with you the results of work achieved in 2024…
More
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. December spotlight, LaRae Wiley and Christopher Parkin, Salish School of Spokane.
More
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. November spotlight, Julie Schaffer, who specializes in Restorative Practices and Mediation.
More
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. October spotlight, Ana Marrie Caldwell, Filipino-American Association of Inland Empire.
More
Important Dates September 17 – National Voter Registration Day October 28 – Register to Vote Deadline November 5 – General Election Ballots due by 8pm How To Vote Before the election we encourage everyone to check their voter registration status to ensure that their information is up to date, their…
More
Over the past nine days, we explored healthcare discrimination, gender financial inequality, and the links between white supremacy and gun violence. By addressing systemic barriers and advocating for policy changes, we can support marginalized communities and create a more inclusive society. Thank you for participating in the 2024 Racial Justice Challenge.
More
Transportation often feels routine, yet for women and LGBTQ+ individuals, it can be fraught with anxiety. Safety concerns, harassment, and discrimination transform public transit into a space of fear. Addressing these issues requires better safety measures, inclusive infrastructure, and representation in decision-making to create a system that serves everyone equitably.
More
Systemic racism has deeply impacted transportation systems, influencing where infrastructure is built and who benefits from it. Historically, highways were routed through minority neighborhoods, displacing communities and creating lasting divisions. Public transit in these areas has often been underfunded, leading to poorer service. These disparities continue, affecting access to essential services and perpetuating cycles of inequality.
More
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. September spotlight, Monica Guzman, Latinos en Spokane
More
Firearms in homes with domestic abuse make situations far more dangerous. Research shows that women in such homes are five times more likely to be murdered. Guns not only escalate violence but also instill fear, trapping victims and complicating police intervention. Effective laws and victim support are crucial to addressing this issue.
More
White supremacy’s link to gun violence is alarming, with incidents like the Christchurch and Pittsburgh shootings highlighting this trend. Perpetrators often act out of racial hatred, using guns to target specific communities. Addressing this requires stricter gun control, better education, and improved online content monitoring.
More
The gender pay gap is significantly influenced by unpaid caregiving, primarily done by women. This unpaid work, including child and elder care, leads to career interruptions and lower wages due to part-time work and reduced hours. Recognizing and valuing caregiving in policies is crucial to closing the pay gap.
More
Women’s financial rights in the U.S. have evolved significantly. Initially, laws limited women’s control over money and property. Milestones include the Married Women’s Property Acts, the 19th Amendment, and key legislation like the Equal Pay Act and the Family and Medical Leave Act. Despite progress, challenges persist.
More
To foster inclusivity, it’s crucial to address how weight bias intersects with racial discrimination. Anti-fatness and racial stereotypes harm both physical and mental health and can hinder access to medical care. Media often perpetuates narrow, Eurocentric beauty ideals, marginalizing diverse body types and reinforcing harmful stereotypes. Understanding these intersections helps create a more supportive environment for all.
More
Transgender healthcare encompasses crucial services like gender-affirming hormone therapy and surgeries, which align physical traits with gender identity and improve well-being. Finding affirming care can be challenging due to limited providers and insurance issues. Advocacy and understanding local resources are key for accessing comprehensive, respectful healthcare.
More
Recent discussions highlight urgent issues at the intersection of race and healthcare, focusing on medical racism and abuse. These problems—evident in cases like Serena Williams’ childbirth complications—reveal deep biases and mistreatment that undermine patient care. Addressing these disparities is crucial for ensuring equitable healthcare for all.
More
The Complexities of Domestic Violence Protection Orders Domestic Violence Protection Orders (DVPOs) are legal tools designed to offer safety to individuals experiencing domestic violence. While the intention is to offer protection, the legal process can leave survivors feeling disheartened and vulnerable. Understanding these challenges is crucial for anyone navigating the…
More
YWCA Spokane joins thousands in Spokane for the 2024 Pride parade and festival.
More
Maternal Health in the United States Each year in the United States, several hundred people die during pregnancy or within one year following giving birth. Thousands of others experience unexpected complications during labor or delivery which can lead to serious short-term or long-term health conditions for both them and their…
More
About YWCA Spokane’s Racial and Social (RSJ) Learning Community is an intentional space for courageous conversations about systemic issues that impact our community. Together, community members and YWCA Staff & Board can learn what to do with our awareness and how to create change. Explore our racial and social justice…
More