We Wear Black in Honor of Black History Month and our Commitment to Equity and Justice
Last updated: January 20, 2025, at 10:41 a.m. PT
Originally published: January 20, 2025, at 10:40 a.m. PT
YMCAs across the country have committed to being anti-racist organizations in a show of solidarity by wearing black on the fourth Friday of February. In 2025, We Wear Black will take place on February 28 and the YMCA of Greater Seattle will take part in this initiative to honor Black History Month.
We wear black to honor the struggle of those who came before us. The Y is in unity with those who are working daily to fight injustice, prejudice and inequity. To best serve our community, we must do our part to ensure those who come after us have greater opportunity to thrive.
Our Commitment to Become an Anti-Racist Organization
- Owning Our History: The Y of Greater Seattle is owning the painful truths of our past to learn, grow and heal our community.
- Living our Equity and Justice Pledge: We pledge to become an anti-racist organization, and to establish an Equity and Justice Center of Excellence.
- Adopting a Board Statement: Our Board of Directors fully supports the work the Y is undertaking. Read the statement of support.
- Becoming Anti-Racist: We are focused on addressing the needs of our community and dedicated to advancing diversity, equity and inclusion.
Learn more about our commitment to equity and justice and how you can get involved on our website.
Celebrate Black History Month
While February is Black History Month, we take time to remember and celebrate the amazing contributions of African Americans throughout history year-round. We remember the struggles and hardships they faced, like slavery and segregation, and we honor the activists, scholars, and everyday people who worked hard to make things better. We also pledge to keep working for equity and justice for all.
About We Wear Black
We Wear Black was created by YMCA of the USA’s African American Resource Network in 2020, as a response to the societal awakening to systematic racism. The goal is for all YMCAs to become anti-racist, multicultural organizations that intentionally lead and boldly model diverse and inclusive cultures that impact and strengthen the foundations of our communities.