Blogs

TO: YWCA Local Association Leaders

FROM: YWCA USA Mission Impact

DATE: June 23, 2015

SUBJECT: Rising for Charleston

Dear YWCA Leaders,

YWCA USA extends our deepest sympathy to those impacted by the tragic shooting at Mother Emanuel AME church in Charleston, SC. Please also take the time to read YWCA Greater Charleston’s heartfelt statement. YWCA has spoken out against hate crimes for many years – you can read more about the YWCA position and resources on hate crimes. Right now there is tremendous momentum in communities and organizations across the country to respond to this tragedy with a call for racial justice. YWCA USA is proud to be a part of this response.

Here some actions that you can take to support YWCA Greater Charleston and their community:

• Issue a public statement or pledge, such as this one from Issue a public statement or pledge, such as this one from YWCA Tulsa
• Support the families of victims via the Mother Emmanuel Hope Fund
• Share racial justice expertise, resources, and materials with your community
• Share these resources and support using #RisingforCharleston
• Stay informed: related upcoming events and activities
• Join the movement to take down the Confederate Flag in South Carolina:
• SC Take the Flag Down Facebook group
• Color of Change: Petition - Take Down the Confederate Flag
• Moveon.org: Petition - Take Down the Flag
• Use hashtag #takedowntheflag

YWCA USA encourages each local YWCA to honor the victims of the hate crime in Charleston by taking action through programs, issue education, and/or advocacy to eliminate racism.

Sincerely,

YWCA USA Mission Impact