We Stand Against Racism with YWCA!

You may already know that the Red Cross of WNC partners with the YWCA of Asheville for Aquatics Programs and Lifeguarding Classes. You might not know, however, about our commitment to Stand Against Racism with the YWCA.

The Stand Against Racism is a movement of the YWCA with the goal of bringing people together from all walks of life - across the country - to raise awareness that racism still exists.

The methodology of the Stand Against Racism is to bring together like-minded organizations that share in a vision of eliminating racism and celebrating the richness of diversity.

Stand Against Racism Day is April 29 but events will be held locally and nationally.

Of the seven principles of the American Red Cross, at least four can be interpreted as principles which stand against racism or discrimination of any kind.

Humanity: The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, born of a desire to bring assistance without discrimination to the wounded on the battlefield, endeavors, in its international and national capacity, to prevent and alleviate human suffering wherever it may be found. Its purpose is to protect life and health and to ensure respect for the human being. It promotes mutual understanding, friendship, cooperation and lasting peace amongst all peoples.

Impartiality: The American Red Cross makes no discrimination as to nationality, race, religious beliefs, class or political opinions. It endeavors to relieve the suffering of individuals, being guided solely by their needs, and to give priority to the most urgent cases of distress.

Neutrality: In order to continue to enjoy the confidence of all, the Red Cross may not take sides in hostilities or engage at any time in controversies of a political, racial, religious or ideological nature.

Unity: There can be only one Red Cross or Red Crescent Society in any one country. It must be open to all. It must carry on its humanitarian work throughout its territory.

Racism, indeed, hurts everyone. Everyone. As Kathryn Liss wrote in the Asheville Citizen- Times: "For those of us who are not targeted, we are hurt by the separation we experience from people whom we might like to know, become friends with, learn from. As long as some people are left out, everyone is kept separate."

And so come April 29, 2011, in principle and in action, we will stand against racism because if we do not, we will fail in our mission to provide humanitarian relief.

We are encouraged by the YWCA's mission to eliminate racism and recognize the importance of doing so! We stand in solidarity with you!

For more information on the week's events and the Stand Against Racism movement, visit the YWCA of Asheville or the Stand Against Racism website. Please consider attending an event.