Write for Rights - Advancing peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all

To our YWCA Family:

The immigration enforcement tactics being used around our country stand in stark opposition to the YWCA’s commitment to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. We wholeheartedly agree with YWCA USA CEO, Margaret Mitchell, that “No person, regardless of immigration status or background, should fear lethal force in their own community.” All of our community members—including our immigrant and refugee families—deserve to feel safe walking down the street, in their schools, at their jobs, and at their places of worship.

We are also reminded of the words of MLK Jr., currently displayed on our marquee at the corner of South French Broad, An injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. The horrific events occurring in Minneapolis are not only a threat to those in Minnesota but to every community across the U.S., including our corner of western North Carolina.

While we grieve the loss of life and liberty, we also feel called to action—not in anger or division, but in advocacy, love, and solidarity. We will continue to uplift the voices of our Asheville community and of what we know to be good, true, and liberatory, as we have done for 119 years.

There are a number of nationwide and local demonstrations taking place this Friday, January 30th to protest the harmful use of force occurring around the country, and to call for just, humane treatment for all. Several YWCA of Asheville staff members plan to attend the local National Shutdown demonstration gathering at 1:00pm at Pack Square, offering our organizational presence as a sign of support and care. And while we have made the decision to remain open, in order to continue to provide vital services to our community; we have made this decision in deep solidarity with the advocacy efforts happening nationwide.

We warmly invite you, our YWCA members, friends, and allies, to join us tomorrow, Friday, January 30, to Write for Rights! Stop by the YWCA Multi-Purpose Room (MPR) anytime between 11:00 and 5:00 where we are providing a welcoming space for connection, materials, and resources to help you locate and write to your local representative. We will bring the snacks and supplies—you bring yourself to show up and speak out!

In gratitude,

Diana Sierra, CEO