The organization I chose to write about is the Young Women's Christian Association (YWCA). The YWCA's mission is to eliminate racism, empower women, and promote peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all (YWCA USA, n. d.). Many associated them with the Young Men Christian Association, but these are two totally separate organizations. It began in England back in 1855 and has expanded globally (YWCA USA, n. d.). According to YWCA USA (n. d.) the first goal of the organization was to be social support for women in England. YWCA is the largest women organization in the world (YWCA USA, 2013). YWCA's foundation of Christian principles is still prevalent, but their focus has been amended to include social programs and services. As the organization evolved they began working with issues such as refugees, health, HIV and AIDS, literacy, human rights of women and girls, poverty, education, racism, and youth (YWCA USA, n. d.). The organization has been a forerunner in movements for race, labor, and women issues.
Social Justice.
The YWCA is seen as a human rights organization by many. YWCA deals with several social justice issues. Racism is a social justice issue of the YWCA. YWCA have support various policies and legislation that would eliminate any racism. This includes maintaining the Affirmative Action law that protects people from discrimination based on race or gender. It supports action taken to eliminate racial profiling, reducing hate crimes, and increase education in race issues. Immigration is another social justice issue of the organization. The YWCA supports laws the will increase immigrants' rights. According to YWCA USA (n. d.), the organization is promoting immigration reform legislation. Equality for women is another social issue that YWCA fights for. These are rights in the workplace, community, and the world. There are various women issues they promote. The women issues include welfare reform, child care, and equal pay.
