TO: YWCA Leaders
FROM: YWCA USA Communications
DATE: January 10, 2017
SUBJECT: Gathering for Justice: Women's March
Dear YWCA Leaders,
We appreciate your patience as we have thoughtfully considered to what extent YWCA USA will participate in the upcoming Women's March. The YWCA USA board of directors has voted to not formally partner with the Women's March in Washington D.C. on January 21, 2017.
We know that some of you plan to march here in Washington, D.C. and others will march in your own communities. Regardless of where or whether you march, please keep these talking points in mind:
- YWCA is on a mission to eliminate racism, empower women, stand up for social justice, help families, and strengthen communities. Women's empowerment cannot happen without the elimination of racism
- At YWCA [your association], we work for this mission by ... [discuss the ways you serve your community!]
- We invite everyone to join our 10th annual Stand Against Racism campaign. Registration opens February 7 and the campaign runs from April 27 – 30. This year's theme is Women of Color Leading Change.
The meeting place for those attending the march in Washington, D.C. is 7th and Jefferson Avenue at 10:00 a.m. on January 21. This location is subject to change as we learn about potential closures on the National Mall.
We will continue to keep you abreast of any new information that we learn as we continue to participate in Women's March planning calls. We also want to make you aware of two other related events. First, the National Action Network is also planning a rally for January 14 in Washington, D.C. that will focus on a commitment to civil rights. Second, the United States of Women is planning a day of advocacy training and networking following the march on January 22. YWCA USA plans to attend and may present at this event. We will keep you posted on the details as more become available.
Thank you again for your patience as we worked to determine the best path forward for YWCA USA's involvement in these events.
Sincerely,
YWCA USA Communications
#NationalCommunications