Written by John Contreras, Racial Justice Community Engagement Manager, YWCA Southeast Wisconsin I thoroughly enjoy being in new places and learning new things from people around me. When I moved to Milwaukee, not too long ago, I found myself visiting various neighborhoods and looking to be involved in a community however I could. For my… Continue Reading Reflections from Indigenous Peoples’ Day

Written by Dynasty Ceasar, Racial Justice Trainer, YWCA Southeast Wisconsin  In the wake of Indigenous People’s Day it would be easy to focus our energy on discussing the turmoil that was caused by Christopher Columbus. It would be equivalent to the effortlessness that comes with talking to a family member who shares the same negative… Continue Reading Anishinaabe on Turtle Island

Written for the Advocacy Corner Blog by Dynasty Ceasar, Racial Justice Trainer, YWCA Southeast Wisconsin  Every Saturday for the last three months, I’ve gathered with good friends. As we enter two at time in a quiet place we find ourselves in a lively conversation discussing race, politics, and what it takes to change the world.… Continue Reading Words with Friends on Immigration

Written by Martha Barry, PhD, Racial Justice Director, YWCA Southeast Wisconsin Given the current national emphasis, much of our focus is on Hispanics/Latinos immigration. Our attention lingers on the horrors of detention centers at our US – Mexico border. Seeing young people ripped from their parents and held in inhumane conditions is heartbreaking. Immigration is… Continue Reading National Hispanic Heritage Month

Written by Paula Penebaker, President & CEO, YWCA Southeast Wisconsin On August 26, 2019 we will celebrate the 1920 ratification of the 19th Amendment to the Constitution prohibiting the states and federal government from denying the right to vote to citizens of the United States on the basis of sex. The date was first celebrated… Continue Reading Women’s Equality Day

Written by Martha Barry, PhD, Racial Justice Director, YWCA Southeast Wisconsin Patriotism: a loaded term.  One can think of going to war to defend our country, of allegiance or loyalty to the country, or nationalism. It can also include images of flags, fireworks, backyard barbecues and family celebrations. We often think of the 4th of… Continue Reading Patriotism

Written by Jamaal Smith, Racial Justice Community Engagement Manager, YWCA Southeast Wisconsin “Hands Up, Don’t Shoot!” “You’re pretty for a Black girl!” “I can’t breathe!” “Guilty!” “Criminals!” “Rapists!” “Drug dealers!” All of these statements or declarations are common when referencing people of color.  The belief in biological inferiority of Black and Brown people in comparison… Continue Reading Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and its Connection to Racism

Written by Martha Barry, PhD, Racial Justice Director, YWCA Southeast Wisconsin  I am female. I love many females. We are interesting, complex, thoughtful, courageous individuals who sometimes prioritize others over self.  Growing up, I remember learning at 19 that my mother had high blood pressure. Her doctor put her on medication. It took some time… Continue Reading Women’s Health

Written by Paula Penebaker, president & CEO, YWCA Southeast Wisconsin April is the month when we shine a light on sexual assault.  As many serious issues have a month where organizations and advocates bring to the fore challenges associated with issues, the problems are often ignored until showcased the next year during the assigned month.… Continue Reading Silence: The Loudest Supporter of Sexual Assault (SA)

Written by Dynasty Ceasar, Racial Justice Trainer, YWCA Southeast Wisconsin The month of March is Women’s History Month, during which, it is important to examine who this would include and whose history we are celebrating. Particular attention should be paid to the concept of inclusion within the Feminist Movement for women of color. March has both,… Continue Reading Feminism and Inclusion | White Supremacy to Colorblindness