Wilmington, DE – Tuesday, December 12, 2023 — YWCA Delaware calls upon the community to join its MLK Day of Action, a civic engagement initiative aimed at empowering individuals to influence public policy through advocacy.

Scheduled for Monday, January 15, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., the event will be hosted virtually and in-person at the First Unitarian Church, located at 730 Halstead Road in Wilmington, Delaware. In-person attendees will have the opportunity to network and share a casual meal from 5:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. YWCA Delaware will offer an in-depth presentation on the organization's 2024 Advocacy Pillars and insights on engaging with Delaware’s legislative process from 6 p.m. until 7:30 p.m.

Annually, YWCA Delaware lends its public support to legislation improving women and families' economic security, health, safety, and social equity, with a dedicated focus on policies affecting people of color. 

“As we approach the new year, we aim to inspire as many individuals as possible to engage in the decision-making process that shapes our communities,” said Rebecca Cotto, Director of YWCA Delaware’s Racial and Social Justice Program. "We aspire for 2024 to be the year all Delawareans collectively work together to support and prioritize the well-being of women and families.”

Guest speakers Representative Larry Lambert and Senator Elizabeth Lockman will share insights on how collective actions can influence public policy, and community advocate Lynne Kielhorn will share her experiences in effecting positive change in Delaware.

“MLK Day of Service is an opportunity to help others. Our goal is to provide Delawareans with the tools and resources to become more involved in legislation that advances our intersectional mission to eliminate racism and empower women," said Melissa Gonville, CEO of YWCA Delaware.

In addition, YWCA Delaware is offering Racial and Social Justice Facilitator training sessions to empower individuals to lead discussions promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. In partnership with New Castle County, YWCA Delaware will also offer a Meet the Author event on 'The Best We Could Do' by Thi Bui on Thursday, February 22, 2024, from 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. at the New Castle County Library, 424 Delaware St, New Castle, DE 19720. YWCA Delaware will host weekly winter group book discussions following the event.

ABOUT YWCA DELAWARE

Founded in 1895, YWCA Delaware is committed to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. As a leading association among a national network of more than 200 YWCAs, YWCA Delaware touches the lives of thousands of women and families annually through the delivery of comprehensive human services. YWCA Delaware is a leader in the areas of economic empowerment, housing, racial and social justice, domestic violence and sexual assault response, and youth development. With a 24/7 crisis helpline and centers located in Wilmington, Newark, and Georgetown, YWCA Delaware serves as a highly effective, inclusive and uplifting force that empowers women and their families to achieve their full social and economic potential. Learn more at www.ywcade.org and follow @ywcade on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

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