YWCA is partnering with Mission Equality on a leading-edge equity leadership and education program which will build on our proven commitment to racial equity by embedding new and progressive approaches to leadership, strategy and communication in the racial justice space.

Our President and CEO, Tracy Williams announced, “In 2023, we want to reimagine how to best serve our community in Wisconsin, to dismantle systemic barriers affecting women and girls of the Global Majority, or who are deliberately disadvantaged. Mission Equality is one of the most progressive companies in this space, with a track record of tackling inequality at all levels. Partnering with them will enable YWCA SEW to level up and create actionable and future-forward solutions leading to positive and meaningful change.”

The wide-ranging program will include internal vision and culture initiatives, and an updated social and racial justice strategy, which builds on our previous work in the community.  At the same time, the two organizations will collaborate on the design and delivery of a world-class social justice education program for delivery to our key stakeholders.

“We’re delighted to be working on such a progressive approach to leadership and racial justice,” says Lea Jovy-Ford, Co-Founder and Strategy Director for Mission Equality. “The new curriculum will represent innovation, best practices and a global approach to DEI, all with a foundation of anti-racism, which is essential if we’re to achieve long-lasting change.”

One of the kickoff events for the partnership will be a month-long book club in June focused on I’m Tired of Racism: True Stories of Existing While Black, authored by Sharon Hurley Hall, Co-Founder and Equality Director of Mission Equality. The book provides an opportunity to get global perspectives on the impact of racism in a very readable and accessible way.  “The book opens a window into experiences of racism that most people outside the Global Majority don’t usually get,” says Hurley Hall. “This will provide a great foundation for YWCA SEW’s team and key stakeholders as we roll out the program.”