At the Y, we honor and celebrate Black history in the month of February and every day as we work toward becoming an anti-racist, multicultural organization where everyone can be, belong and become. We are committed to learning from our past, listening to our present, and making changes that will create a feeling of being welcome for generations to come.
We are part of the larger YMCA movement that believes that our vision must be rooted in humanity and in the fact that, Black Lives Matter. We embrace and celebrate all dimensions of diversity at McGaw by ensuring equity within our organization. We are committed to becoming an anti-racist, multicultural organization that intentionally leads and boldly models diverse and inclusive cultures that impact and strengthen the foundations of our community.
LAST UPDATED: February 1, 2022, AT 9:00 A.M.
The YMCA in Evanston
An Unforgettable Legacy
Watch Unforgettable: Memories of the Emerson Street Branch YMCA, to honor the unforgettable legacy of the Emerson Street Branch YMCA, an anchor for the social and civic life of Evanston’s Black community between 1909 and 1969. Through photos and oral histories, the film chronicles Emerson’s sixty-year influence still resonating in the lives and hearts of those who lived it, and for those who benefit from the life lessons passed on today. The three-part video series is available to watch on the McGaw Y YouTube Channel.
Watch Unforgettable Here
The Y’s Connection to Black History Month
Did you know that Black History Month has roots associated with the YMCA? Read about the “Father of Black History,” Carter G. Woodson.
We Wear Black – February 25
As part of Black History Month, we invite you to join the McGaw YMCA and other YMCA’s across the nation for We Wear Black on Friday, February 25, to be in unity with those who are fighting injustice and racism in all forms.
We Wear Black is intended to bring awareness to systemic racism and oppression of Black people in the United States and around the globe. To participate, on Feb. 25, wear black, take a photo, and post on social media with a short statement on why you wear black. Be sure to use the hashtag #WeWearBlack and tag @mcgawymca. Encourage others to post and engage!
