TO: YWCA Local Association Leaders
FROM: YWCA USA Mission Impact
DATE: June 11, 2015
SUBJECT: Racial Justice for McKinney
Dear YWCA Leaders,
We are troubled by the violence that occurred in McKinney, TX this weekend when a police officer responding to a neighborhood conflict involving local youth, reacted aggressively and disproportionately toward youth of color. We are particularly outraged by the use of undue force by the officer in handling an unarmed 14-year-old girl.
That this event occurred on Friday, as many gathered at our 2015 Annual Conference to discuss a renewed focus on women and girls of color, only illustrates the importance of our work in direct service, issue education, and public policy advocacy to eliminate racism wherever it exists. We want to share and highlight some YWCA resources that may be of use to you as you address this issue in your communities or respond to any media queries:
We have also prepared a statement and blog which address this incident specifically.
Finally, we encourage you to take action today by urging your legislators to pass the End Racial Profiling Act which would help end incidents like this one by ensuring data collection, law enforcement training and accountability. Take action now.
If you have any questions regarding racial profiling, contact advocacy@ywca.org
Sincerely,
YWCA USA Mission Impact
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