Dear McGaw YMCA community,

We are not okay.

Over the past few weeks, our neighbors across the country and here in Evanston have endured countless acts of hateful violence, many of which were racially motivated.

Whether it’s the nooses found hanging outside of Haven Middle School, the attacks targeting Black people in a Buffalo, NY, grocery store, the recent school shootings including the devastating loss of life at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, TX, or the ongoing violence that continues to harm families locally, we need to talk about how systemic racism and exposure to trauma is affecting our mental health and wellbeing.

As an organization dedicated to creating a safe and supportive community where everyone belongs, the McGaw YMCA is committed to processing and reflecting on what is happening here in Evanston and across the country because actively addressing the root causes of violence requires everyone’s efforts.

We also need to hold space for the pain. Normalizing the conversation around the trauma we endure and the impact on our mental health is an important step in helping us all get the support we need so that we can care for ourselves and our community. This is part of the work necessary to fulfill our YMCA’s commitment to building a more equitable and anti-racist community.

Today, start by checking in with those you care about – children, parents, educators, partners, neighbors – each other. Something as simple as intentionally asking “how are you?” and encouraging honest answers can provide us an opportunity to normalize mental wellness and help others when they need it most.

Sincerely,

Monique Parsons
President/CEO
McGaw YMCA