End Racism: 10 Action Steps

YWCA Central Alabama promotes peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all. Therefore, we are committed to dismantling systemic racism in our state, nation and the communities we serve. To do so, we need allies! Here’s what you can do:

1. Become an Advocate. Join our advocacy brigade to receive calls to action and advocacy alerts. Visit our action center regularly to write letters to our elected leaders. Don’t forget to check out our Social and Racial Justice Library for useful resources.
2. Become a YW Ally. While we believe women working across lines of difference can transform and improve the life of all women. There is a crucial role for men in this work. Each year we recognize Central Alabama men who have advocated for gender and/or racial equality in their company, community or with YWCA Central Alabama. Nominate an ally. 
3. Step up and take a stand against racism. When you see something, say something. Come out publicly as antiracist. Commit to action. Share the actions you are taking publicly and invite others to join you. Call out your friends. Have difficult conversations with your family and neighbors. Sign the pledge to stand against racism or join the 21-Day Challenge.
4. Equity and equality efforts are key. Be willing to put something on the line. You have a role to play. Don’t just be part of the unintentional problem. Be intentional about change and the actions you take.
5. Step back to evaluate where you are and then seek education. Take a Conversations in Color course or invite us to speak or present to your group. It is our responsibility to intentionally seek out resources to learn the ugly truth about how we got to where we are today and to keep learning about antiracism advocacy.
6. Support minority and women-owned businesses. See list of businesses and learn more about YWCA Central Alabama’s economic empowerment and advancement work.
7. Promote policies to combat bias with your employers. Rachel Cargle has a customizable template for employers. If you are in a position of power or leadership, check out Government Alliance on Race and Equity’s resources about implementing a racial equity framework.
8. Contact local officials. Let your local elected officials know that you support institutional police and criminal justice reform and demand that these institutions take steps to make substantive change.
9. Get involved. Read our research and policy priorities. Volunteer or help raise funds for organizations, such as YWCA Central Alabama, that do social and racial justice work in our community.
10. Vote. Register to vote, encourage your network to register and vote in every election. Protests raise public awareness and highlight injustice, but that can only happen when we have elected officials throughout all levels of government that support us. Am I registered?

(Special thanks: YWCA Columbus)