Racism. The observance is meant to draw attention to how racism still
harms communities and to move the nation to racial justice.
In 1991, a California motorist named Rodney King was brutally beaten by
four police officers in an incident widely regarded as racially motivated.
The next year, the YWCA USA initiated the Day of Commitment to Eliminate
Racism in response to that incident, the subsequent acquittal of the
police officers charged in the case and the ensuing riots in Los Angeles.
The observance is meant to draw attention to how racism still harms our
communities and to move the nation to racial justice. The YWCA feels
that it's important to fight racism year-round. One of the most
pernicious ways racism is exhibited is in jokes and remarks that all too
often don't even register. By calling people out on even racist remarks
that may be meant jokingly, we can help eliminate the attitudes that
cause discrimination and hatred.
Here are some things you can do to combat bigotry:
• Be inclusive when planning meetings, activities, posters, and
surveys to ensure everyone is represented, while avoiding tokenism. Make
sure your organization has truly embraced diversity.
• Racial jokes aren't funny. Don't laugh. Interrupt and ask the
person to stop telling the joke.
• Do not tolerate prejudiced talk or racist action. Intervene and
tell those involved that their behavior is unacceptable.
• Make a list of injustices and commit to fighting them.
• Start looking at each individual as an equal and as an individual.
• Write letters to newspapers, magazines, and TV sponsors about
public statements and actions that demean people.
• Set an example for your family and friends by showing an
unbiased respect and acceptance of others.
• Be proud of and share your heritage so others can learn about you.
• Find others who are taking active steps to eliminate racism and
join them.
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