A Step Toward Equity at Race Against Racism 5K
August 9, 2021
We were thrilled to see everyone come out for our Race Against Racism 5K! Even the morning rain couldn't put a damper on the day. After the isolation over the past year and a half, it felt great to be together with community.“After many virtual events, we were excited for our community of athletes, supporters and social justice advocates to come together in person and draw on our strength and resilience as we promote health equity and racial justice,” said Rachael Weiker, YWCA Minneapolis engagement director.
Connecting Fitness and Racial Justice
This event tied together the often disconnected values of fitness and racial justice. In YWCA’s work, we recognize that movement can be a process for healing and change. At this event, we moved our bodies, our hearts and our minds in the collective desire for a brighter, equitable future.
Through this race, we aimed to raise awareness of racism as a public health crisis. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has stated that racism -- both structural and interpersonal -- has a direct, negative effect on the mental and physical health of millions of people of color in America.Our work for racial justice is about fixing the system so that we all have equal access to opportunities and tools to lead healthy, abundant lives. Racers' entry fee went to support YWCA and participants had the option of fundraising to support our Racial Justice work further.
Toward a More Just Future
Participants joined us to take a step toward a more just future and support our work to eliminate racism, empower women and promote justice, freedom and dignity for all. We congratulate each and every person who participated this year and made it across that finish line!
We thank our generous sponsors that helped make this event possible: MPR News, St. Catherine Univerity, Cargill and Children's Minnesota.A big thanks to our vendors who helped support this event: 3M, Andros ENT & Sleep Center, The Loppet Foundation, Lunds and Byerlys and Minnesota Nice CreamLearn More about YWCADonate to YWCA Minneapolis