Racial Justice Challenge

A Catalyst for Racial and Social Justice Work

2025 Challenge

The Racial Justice Challenge helps raise awareness of systemic racism and teaches us how we can advance justice. The Challenge fosters personal reflection, encourages social responsibility, and motivates participants to identify and act on ways to dismantle racism and other forms of discrimination.

This year, we deepened into the following 4 main topics: Bodily Autonomy, Financial Empowerment, Gun Violence, and Transportation.

Make the most of this experience.

What to Expect

This series is designed to help community members, organizations, and businesses dedicate time and space to build more effective social justice habits, particularly around issues dealing with race, power, privilege, and leadership.

Each topic gives access to articles, videos, and podcasts that dive into each of our Challenge topics. 

Consider dedicating 15-60 minutes a day to digest the Challenge content. Afterward, we suggest you hold time to reflect and discuss these topics with friends, family, and colleagues. 

I realized that no matter how involved I am and how much I think I know there is always more to learn.

- Taryn, Challenge Participant

I've loved every one of the challenges and I've saved them all for future viewing. I care deeply about making real change; there is so much to be done!

- Shannon, Challenge Participant

This challenge gave me a lot to think about and sit with. I feel more equipped to have conversations about race and equity with my peers.

- Brit, Challenge Participant

Over 1,500 Individuals and Organizations Have Taken the Challenge

Taking the Challenge How Your Business Would Benefit

The role businesses and corporations play in promoting racial equity and social justice has never been more critical. These sectors have a unique opportunity and responsibility to give back to their communities by deepening their knowledge of racial and social justice issues.

The Racial Justice Challenge beckons these organizations to step forward as advocates for real change. Participating in this challenge demonstrates an alignment with corporate values, benefits the workforce, and contributes to a more equitable Spokane.

Previous Challenges Released

2024
2023

Embark on a transformative journey where the powerful intersection of disability, housing, mental health, and music takes center stage. As we delve into racial equity and justice, we illuminate the interconnected narratives shaping our communities. Discover how accessible housing is a cornerstone of inclusivity, mental health finds its voice through the rhythm of music, and individuals with disabilities become agents of change. Through engaging resources and meaningful discussions, we unpack the layers of this intersectionality, fostering a deeper understanding of how these elements coalesce to create a more just world.

2022

In the 2022 Challenge, a spectrum of critical issues converge to explore a more just and inclusive world. Participants explore interconnected topics, including closing the racial and gender wealth gap, advocating for LGBTQIA2S+ representation in media, grappling with colorism, and challenging Islamophobia in TV and film. The challenge takes a closer at critical social issues, such as period poverty, comprehensive sex education, and abortion restrictions. By engaging in curated resources and personal reflection, this challenge is a call to action, encouraging all to become advocates for equity and justice.

 

2021

Set out on an exploration of social identities and systems of oppression through the 2021 Challenge. It dives into the intricate interplay of various levels of oppression, hate crimes, domestic violence, wealth gaps, and homelessness, shedding light on the complexities that shape our communities. Participants unpack the action of reparations, confront implicit bias, privilege, and whiteness, and foster an anti-racist mindset. We hope this  empowers you to dismantle barriers, question systemic injustices, and cultivate a more equitable and inclusive community for everyone.

2020

The 2020 Challenge explores the nuances between equity and equality, and unravels the impact of microaggressions, stereotypes, and cultural appropriation on marginalized communities. Participants dive deeper into the intersectionality of race, gender, and identity, while also addressing the compounding effects of COVID-19 and combating xenophobia. The challenge also navigates the inequities embedded in the legal system, housing, and the school-to-prison pipeline. Engage in daily activities and curated resources that empower you to dismantle systemic barriers and foster a more just and inclusive community.

Acknowledgment

Special acknowledgement to Dr. Eddie Moore, Jr. and Debbie Irving, creators of the original 21-Day Racial Equity Habit Building Challenge that has inspired YWCAs from across the nation to create an annual learning challenge.

Blog

Dec 3, 2025 Dec 6 @ 4:02 pm

The Reality of Hoteling for Survivors – A Mission Moment

Our domestic violence safe shelter is near capacity almost every day. We look to options such as hoteling for survivors to ensure their safety.

Nov 24, 2025 Dec 6 @ 4:02 pm

Community Engagement Intern Experience

“Thank you Savannah for supporting YWCA’s work and mission! From taking event photos, calling partners, to tabling in the community, you brought energy and passion to this position. Best of luck on whatever is next for you and congratulations on…

Nov 20, 2025 Dec 6 @ 4:02 pm

Goodwill SSVF Commits to DV Education

At YWCA Spokane, our commitment to ending domestic violence extends beyond providing direct services to survivors. We also work to build a community that understands the complexities of abuse, supports healing, and takes action to prevent future harm. Whether that’s…

Events

Oct 16, 2025 Dec 13 @ 11:00 am - 3:00 pm

Youth Self-Care Summit 2025

The Youth Self-Care Summit is a special one day conference for youth, provided through a partnership between YWCA Spokane and SWAG. The summit is centered on promoting and encouraging self-care among youth, with a focus on young women of color.

Nov 7, 2025 Jan 12, 2026 @ 10:00 am - 11:30 am

DV 101 Training: Recognize. Respond. Refer.

Join YWCA Spokane for this important free, virtual training on January 12th at 10:00am. Learn more about intimate partner domestic violence, how to help a friend, and about YWCA Spokane’s free and confidential services.

Nov 7, 2025 Jan 15, 2026 @ 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm

DV 101 Training: Recognize. Respond. Refer.

Join YWCA Spokane for this important free, virtual training on January 15th at 2:00pm. Learn more about intimate partner domestic violence, how to help a friend, and about YWCA Spokane’s free and confidential services.