ywca diversity

The YWCA is committed to the elimination of racism and other forms of oppression. Below, you can find out more about the diversity resources we offer right here at YWCA Clark County.

Social Change Awards

We give two awards to recognize people in our community who are working to end oppression. The Val Joshua Racial Justice Awards, named for longtime YWCA volunteer Val Joshua in honor of her commitment to and work for the elimination of racism, recognizes individuals and groups who are leaders in the struggle for peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all people.
Click here for more information about the Val Joshua Racial Justice Award.

For the first time in 2007, we will offer the Youth Social Justice Award, which recognizes high school students (both individuals and groups) whose work has made a positive impact in Clark County.
Click here for more information about the Youth Social Justice Award.

Anyone can nominate someone for either of our social change awards! Nominations are due to YWCA Clark County by Friday, December 14, 2007 at 5:30 pm.
Questions? Call Kathy Deschner at 360-906-9123.

Eliminating Racism Workshop

The YWCA is continuing work on the Eliminating Racism Workshop, which was created with the help of a grant from Hewlett-Packard Vancouver. The workshop, subtitled Tools for Cultural Awareness and Personal Action, is scheduled to be offered three times in 2007.

The four-hour workshop analyzes the various aspects of racism. Presentations and discussions focus on the definitions and structure of racism, institutional racism, and the idea of white privilege. At the end, each participant is encouraged to make his or her own personal commitment to take action against racism.

The workshop is $30 a person, though need-based scholarships are available. The workshop is free for YWCA staff and volunteers. To register, please contact Judy Kinsey at (360) 906-9103 or e-mail jkinsey@ywcaclarkcounty.org.