Every year, on the Tuesday following Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we observe the National Day of Racial Healing. This day serves as a vital reminder of the ongoing work needed to dismantle racism and build a truly just and equitable world. 

As the YWCA, an organization dedicated to empowering women and eliminating racism, we believe in the power of collective action and individual commitment to create lasting change. This National Day of Racial Healing, let's recommit ourselves to: 

1. Reflecting on our own biases: We all carry unconscious biases, shaped by our experiences and environment. Take time to honestly reflect on your own biases and how they might impact your interactions with others. 

2. Educating ourselves: Commit to ongoing learning about the history of racism, its current manifestations, and effective anti-racist strategies. Explore books, articles, documentaries, and other resources that offer diverse perspectives and challenge your own assumptions. 

3. Engaging in open and honest conversations: Start meaningful conversations about race with family, friends, colleagues, and community members. These conversations are crucial for building understanding, empathy, and solidarity. 

4. Supporting organizations fighting for racial justice: Donate your time, money, or skills to organizations like YWCA that work tirelessly to dismantle racist structures and create opportunities for all. 

5. Holding ourselves and others accountable: Commit to speaking out against racism and holding yourself and others accountable for perpetuating harmful stereotypes or promoting discrimination. 

6. Celebrating diversity: Actively seek out opportunities to engage with people from different backgrounds and cultures. Celebrate the richness and beauty of our diverse world and learn from each other's experiences. 

Together, we can create a society where all people are valued and respected, regardless of race, ethnicity, or any other factor. Let us use this National Day of Racial Healing as a springboard to take concrete steps towards a more just and equitable future. 

Join us in the fight against racism: 

Donate to YWCA: Your financial support helps us empower women and girls and combat racial injustice. 

Volunteer your time: Share your skills and expertise to support our programs and initiatives. 

Raise awareness: Talk to your friends, family, and colleagues about YWCA's work and the importance of racial justice. 

Advocate for change: Encourage your elected officials to support policies that promote racial equity and dismantle harmful systems. 

This National Day of Racial Healing, let's each pledge to be a force for positive change in our communities and the world. Together, we can create a brighter future for all.