YWCA Columbus Presents: Activists and Agitators

Oct. 12, 2023 (COLUMBUS, OH) – On Thursday, Oct. 19, 2023, at 5:30 p.m., YWCA Columbus will host its 6th annual Activists and Agitators, entitled: Learning Our Lesson: Anti-Racism in Education. This educational and empowering event at the Southern Theatre will focus on antiracism, education, and efforts to ensure history remains accessible to all ages.

“Across this nation and here in Ohio, we are witnessing historical tactics for disenfranchisement wielded once again against marginalized groups in our education system,” said Elizabeth C. Brown, president and CEO of YWCA Columbus. “As a social justice organization, we have a duty to ensure all youth – no matter their ZIP code, race, religion, or wealth – are given equitable opportunities to succeed.”

This year’s event comes just before the landmark Brown v. Board of Education decision turns 70 next year, and on the heels of concerted efforts in Ohio and across the nation to undercut accurate curricula, ban books, and compromise children’s education. The evening will connect the dots between past and present by illuminating the ways in which schools have always been a battleground for civil rights. Ibram X. Kendi will be interviewed by Brown about antiracism, education, and his recent work to make history accessible to all ages.

Additionally, YWCA Columbus will host panelists from Policy Matters Ohio, OPAWL, and Equality Ohio to discuss some of the challenges they are facing today, including equitable school funding, book bans, and attacks against trans youth. This conversation will be led by Ange-Marie Hancock with The Ohio State University’s Kirwan Institute.

“Without confronting our history, we are bound to repeat it, and when it comes to the education system, our future is truly at stake,” said Brown. “As our community grapples with what equity looks like in a growing region, this is an evening you can’t miss. Attendees will walk away more aware of how systems rooted in white supremacy continue to impact our community today, and we hope they will be inspired to advocate for more equity in their own schools and neighborhoods.”

A few remaining seats and unlimited virtual passes are available at ywcacolumbus.org/aanda.

About YWCA Columbus 

YWCA Columbus defies the status quo that puts women, people of color, and the underprivileged on uneven footing. By fostering dialogue and providing practical resources and education, we promote empowerment and inclusion. YWCA Columbus initiates systematic social change that will create a Columbus of peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all.