We Must Work Toward Racial Justice
Friday, May 29, 2020
On Monday evening George Floyd was murdered while in custody of the Minneapolis Police Department. George was just 46 years old, a father, a son, a brother, a fiancé and a member of our community. Moments like this offer striking clarity and bring to the forefront why our mission to eliminate racism is ever more crucial.We have seen this tragedy before. Unfortunately, George Floyd is just one of countless other black lives lost to police violence, including that of Jamar Clark and Philando Castile. These incidents leave us feeling overwhelmed, saddened, angry and often stuck on how to take action.However, we cannot let this moment and our motivation to create positive change pass. As a community, we must work to dismantle the systemic racism embedded in our nation that allows these tragedies to continue. We must work toward racial justice. And we must work in partnership with others to hold our elected officials and law enforcement accountable.Call your elected officials to ensure that a proper investigation and trial for George Floyd’s murder takes place. Support local agencies working to offer alternatives to policing and practitioners who are committed to the healing of historically oppressed communities.Strengthen your connection with YWCA Minneapolis. Get involved to advance our Racial Justice and Public Policy work. Participate in our next It’s Time to Act!™ forum on June 30 and bring us into your space to help facilitate difficult conversations about racism and actions we can take to combat it.It is also crucial that we take time to process horrific events like this and ensure our personal well-being. Consider these resources to support healing and self-care, and help you engage in the work of eliminating racism.YWCA Minneapolis has reached out to Minneapolis Mayor Frey offering assistance through these turbulent and difficult times. We look forward to keeping our key stakeholders updated about these efforts and how you can be involved.Racism is alive and well in our community and our hearts go out to George Floyd’s family. YWCA Minneapolis remains dedicated to its mission to eliminate racism, empower women and promote peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all. Thank you for standing with us.Donate to our Racial Justice Scholarship Fund