A special message from YWCA USA CEO Margaret Mitchell
You are a witness.
A witness to this moment in history.
For just the fourth time in history, following in the footsteps of Geraldine, Sarah, and Hillary, Kamala Harris, the first woman and the first woman of color to be elected and to serve as Vice President of the United States of America, is now the first woman of color to be the presidential nominee of a major political party. Regardless of political views or affiliations, this is a profound time in our nation’s history, of which we are ALL witnesses.
YWCA USA recognizes the resilience and determination of Sojourner Truth, Alice Paul, Ida B. Wells, Pauli Murray, Betty Friedan, Dr. Dorothy Height, Gloria Steinem, Shyamala Gopalan — women who have fought long and hard for equality, justice, and representation. For more than 165 years, YWCA USA has been at the forefront of advocating for reproductive rights and economic empowerment of women. Today, we reflect on how this moment embodies the progress we have championed and continue to pursue.
This moment powerfully underscores the impact and influence of women. Women are equal, powerful, unstoppable.
This moment highlights the critical importance of our daily work to build and sustain a society where women of all colors and backgrounds have the agency, resources, and opportunities to achieve success beyond the wildest dreams of our ancestors and foremothers.
As we celebrate this historic moment, we reaffirm our commitment to continuing the fight for racial and gender equity. The challenges we face — from housing insecurity and childcare access to ending violence against women — requires bold, courageous action. YWCA USA will continue to lead in these areas, inspired by the progress we have made and deeply motivated by the work that still lies ahead.
YWCA USA’s deep and rich legacy of tackling the most urgent issues facing women and communities of color is not just our past, but also our present and future. Our commitment to ensuring safe and affordable housing provides countless women and families with the stability they need to thrive. We are tireless advocates for and providers of accessible and affordable childcare, recognizing it as a cornerstone of economic security and opportunity for women. Our work to end violence against women remains a central pillar of our mission, as we support survivors and advocate for policies that prevent and address intimate partner violence and sexual assault.
In this historic moment, as in those before, YWCA USA reaffirms our dedication to creating a future where every woman and girl lives free from fear, with the dignity and opportunity they rightfully deserve.
As a nonpartisan organization, YWCA USA addresses real needs regardless of the political landscape or political affiliations, and in compliance with the rules applicable to 501(c)(3) organizations. Our commitment is with the more than one million women and children we serve. We are driven by our mission, by people not politics. We reflect our principles and mission every day to build a more just and equitable society for all.
In celebrating this historic moment, we mark a significant milestone in the ongoing journey toward gender and racial equity — values that transcend political affiliations.
Margaret Mitchell, CEO
YWCA USA
