NORFOLK, Va. — The YWCA of South Hampton Roads held its first-ever conference on racial equity and social transformation - also known as R.E.S.T for short - on Wednesday, June 15.
It was held at Norfolk State University as a celebration commemorating Juneteenth and with the goal of addressing the impact of racism in the Hampton Roads area.
The theme of the conference this year was “Journey to Reconciliation.”
Dozens attended the event that focused on the next steps towards a more inclusive community.
The conference featured panel discussions on the impact of historical racism in diverse communities.
The conference brought together community leaders with the goal of advancing racial justice.
“You begin to create a community of people when you really open yourself up to getting to know other people. And not just another person who is different from you in terms of gender, or nationality or race or ethnicity,” said Dr. Cassandra Newby-Alexander, the Dean of the College of Liberal Arts at Norfolk State University.
“And so I think that is one of the most important steps. The other important step is to be involved and care to make a difference.”
Proceeds from this conference will go towards helping to support programs and services provided by the YWCA of South Hampton Roads aimed at eliminating racism.
Check out our coverage on the YWCA's 21-day "Stand Against Racism" challenge, which took place in April:
- YWCA kicks off 'Stand Against Racism' 21-day challenge
- YWCA's 'Stand Against Racism' challenge invites people to speak about better living wages
- Latest conversation in YWCA's 'Stand Against Racism' challenge stresses importance of representation in media
- YWCA's 'Stand Against Racism' challenge takes on critical race theory
- YWCA's 'Stand Against Racism' challenge discusses importance of reproductive justice
