African American and Native American women have been providing leadership in YWCA's movement since the 1800s, and because of the leadership of women of color, in 1946 YWCA began working for integration throughout the entire organization, adopting an "interracial charter" that established that "wherever there is injustice on the basis of race, whether in the community, the nation, or the world, our protest must be clear and our labor for its removal, vigorous, and steady." That work culminated in the addition of the "elimination of racism" to our mission statement in 1970.
RACIAL JUSTICE & ADVOCACY
YWCA's approach to racial justice goes beyond changing hearts and minds. We strive to transform communities, systems, and public policy. Our Racial Justice Program advocates for justice, equity, diversity and inclusion.
In addition to our direct services and programs related to racial justice, we engage our community to participate in YWCA USA annual
Racial Justice Challenge. Be sure to select YWCA Hamilton as your agency! This year the challenge runs from March 31 - April 28, 2025.
HEALTH EQUITY
Our unyielding charge and commitment are to reduce Black maternal and infant mortality rates by focusing on
health care provider education, infant vitality programs and access to resources.
Black babies are 2xs more likely to NOT see their first birthday than white babies (13.7 to 6.6).
Black women are 2-3x more likely to die of pregnancy-related causes than white women.
More than 80% of pregnancy deaths are preventable.
EDUCATION & F.I.E.R.C.E. YOUTH
We are committed to cultivating resiliency, self-advocacy and action in students through various
FIERCE YOUTH initiatives and programs.
The Power of Choice
A Teen Leadership Summer Series & Summit
June 3rd - June14th
10am-3pm, Monday - Friday
Miami University Hamilton Campus
Program includes:
- Career Exploration
- Mental Health
- Community Impact
- Media Production
- Self-care & more
Erin's Law Education
In collaboration with local schools in Butler County, we provide age-appropriate education to students K – 12 using evidence-based curriculum that address the tenants within the Ohio State Legislature’s “Erin’s Law”.
Program includes:
- Personal Safety
- Digital Safety
- Healthy Relationship
- Sexual Abuse and Violence Prevention
ADVOCACY, COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT & ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT
The strength of community requires intentional commitment to forging a sense of civic responsibility, belonging, and a call to action. Strategies for collective action make sure all voices in a community are heard and the wellbeing of citizens are central to the decision-making process.
Supporting minority and women owned businesses starts by empowering entrepreneurs and business owners while educating residents about these gems in our community. Building social capital within the business community provides additional avenues for advocacy and community engagement.
BLACK BUSINESS EXPO
Booker T. Washington Community Center
Black Maternal Health Week Community Event
Saturday April 12th, 2025 9am-2pm
Please join us as we celebrate "Black Maternal Health Week!" There will be resources and information sessions throughout the day to educate, empower and enlighten each and every one who would like to participate in a call to action for the entire community. We hope to see you there!
Greater Hamilton Equity Alliance
The GH Equity Alliance is a non-partisan group committed to the advancement of Freedom, Dignity and a more Peaceful community for all.
If you witness, or are a victim of any hate related speech, violence or violation of human rights, contact us. We provide resources through education, direct response, and referral.
Our Legacy
