YWCA is dedicated to eliminating racism and empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. Social justice is embedded into the work we do internally as an organization and externally in the community with our clients and partner organizations. Our advocacy efforts are focused on:
- Health, Safety, and Empowerment
- Gender-Based Violence
- Racial Justice
- Civil & Human Rights
Click here to view our Advocacy Priorities.
Community Initiatives
Stand Against Injustice Lunch & Learn Series
Our Stand Against Racism monthly lunch and learn series explores how race and the legacy of discrimination continue to affect our lives – whether in our everyday interactions with others at work, school, or in our neighborhoods and communities. Each month, we host experts and thought leaders on specific topics. Due to COVID-19, our series moved to an online platform, allowing for more people to join the conversation. The 2022-23 season is supported through a generous grant from the Nissan Foundation. Click here to visit our registration page.
21 Days of Anti-Racism Challenge
YWCA Nashville & Middle Tennessee offers facilitated conversations on racial justice and equity for any organization or group that participates in the 21 Days of Anti-Racism Challenge. If you or your organization would like to have a facilitated conversation, please contact our Senior Manager of Social Justice & Advocacy at: Amber.Ellis@ywcanashville.com
We’re proud to work with the Dan & Margaret Maddox Fund and admire its commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice. Click here to visit the Maddox Fund’s DEIJ resource page.
Archived Advocacy Letters/Comments
3-6-20 Click here to read our letter to Rep. David Hawk on H.B. 2529 to expand Medicaid in Tennessee.
12-17-18 Click here to read our letter to Gov. Bill Haslam requesting clemency for Cyntoia Brown
10-16-18 Click here to read our comments to the Bureau of TennCare on Amendment 38 (Work Requirements)
Register to Vote in Tennessee
Did you know Tennessee ranks 50th in the nation for voter turnout? We have to do better! If you're not registered, take a few minutes to do so today, or share the link with some friends.
Stand Against Racism
We are committed to fighting racism and prejudice in our community. Will you join us? YWCA offers FREE monthly webinars featuring timely topics and experts on race, racism, and social justice as well as an annual community rally.