RSJ
Over the past nine days, we’ve explored key issues like abortion access, racial discrimination in hair, entrepreneurship barriers, and gun violence. We’ve highlighted the need for fairer policies in mental health, transportation, and law enforcement. By raising awareness and advocating for change, we can build a more equitable society for all.
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Creating equity means recognizing that people face different challenges and providing tailored support to meet those needs. It’s about dismantling systemic barriers, redistributing resources, and uplifting marginalized voices so that everyone has a fair chance to thrive.
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Racial bias in traffic stops means people of color get pulled over more often than white drivers, even when they haven’t done anything wrong. This unfair treatment causes stress, fear, and distrust in the police. It’s part of a bigger problem in the system that needs real change and fairness.
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Discrimination in transportation goes beyond police encounters – it’s present in airports, bike paths, and even jogging through neighborhoods. BIPOC and LGBTQ+ individuals face unequal treatment, from extra security screenings to harassment while cycling. To create fair communities, we must address these disparities in all forms of mobility, not just cars.
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Gun violence hits Black and Latino communities harder than others, leading to more deaths, injuries, and trauma. This isn’t just about numbers or news stories – it’s a real problem affecting families and neighborhoods. Mental health issues like PTSD and anxiety are common, especially for young people living in these areas.
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Thank you for taking this challenge! We’re so glad you’re here! From Monday, May 12th through Friday, May 23rd, YWCA Spokane will send a daily weekday email to everyone registered for this 10-day challenge. The content will invite you to explore key issues related to racial equity and social justice,…
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The Second Amendment says all Americans can own guns, but minority communities often face more gun violence and unfair treatment under gun laws. Historically and today, Black, Indigenous, and Latino people are more likely to be victims and less likely to benefit equally from gun rights due to systemic inequality.
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Starting a business is more than making money, it’s about turning your ideas into something real and helping others. Entrepreneurs create jobs and new products. It’s not easy as there are challenges like money, risk, and competition – but it can be worth it. It gives you freedom, creativity, and a chance to succeed.
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Hair is a powerful expression of identity, culture, and beliefs. For many, it reflects heritage, from African braids to Indigenous long hair, each style carrying deep meaning. Despite this, hair discrimination persists, with some facing judgment or exclusion for wearing natural or cultural styles. Everyone deserves the freedom to choose their hair without prejudice.
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Abortion is legal in Spokane, but access is hindered by cost, travel, and confusing laws. Marginalized groups face the most barriers. Local resources like Planned Parenthood help, but more support is needed.
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Thank you to everyone who attended the YWCA Spokane’s Equity for All event! Your participation in the important conversation about “Restorative Practices in Community” was incredibly meaningful. A special thanks to our panelists, performers, and volunteers for making the event a success. Together, we are strengthening our commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable community.
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YWCA Spokane staff joined thousands of community members in rallying and marching at the Martin Luther King Jr. event on January 20th at the Spokane Convention Center. The MLK Center organized their annual rally, march, and resource fair to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and promote…
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YWCA Spokane staff joined hundreds of community members in rallying for bodily autonomy on January 18th at the Women’s Rally in Riverfront Park. YWCA supports equal access to healthcare, abortion, and birth control for all including the trans and LGBTQIA2S+ community as part of our mission of eliminating racism and…
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Join YWCA Spokane’s annual Equity for All event on April 17, 2025, from 5pm – 7pm at Hamilton Studios for a courageous conversation about the impact of restorative practices in our community. Learn with community leaders and enjoy performances by local artists.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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