April 27th marked the YWCA’s Expo and program to Stand Against Racism, bringing the community together to stand up to racism and work for racial justice.  The program is a signature campaign of YWCA to build community among those who work for racial justice and to raise awareness about the negative impact of institutional and structural racism in our communities. The campaign is now nationwide and Unity House is proud to partner with the YWCA of the Greater Capital Region in downtown Troy to lend our voices to Stand Against Racism.

The Unity House awareness campaign included a decorating competition among staff and various programs. People and groups across Unity House worked together to create artwork, posters, displays, and information surrounding issues of racism and social justice. Ideas included a Women of Color Book Club to Info graphics and political cartoons. The Unity House store, ReStyle, was decked out in the color orange to further awareness about the campaign. Finally, each program of Unity House took the Pledge to Stand Against Racism, proudly displaying the pledge with an opportunity for community members to sign. Many of these poster sized pledges were filled to the max with names pledging support.

Unity House is grateful for community partners like the YWCA and others who work toward racial and social justice. As an organization and individuals, the YWCA is truly ‘leading change and allies’ as their Expo on the 27th stated.

For photos from the day, please visit this Times Union Photo Gallery:

For more information on the YWCA of the Greater Capital Region and their work toe eliminate racism and empower women, consult their website.