Action Conversations on Race
Every third Wednesday of the month 12-1pm EST, YWCA Greater Pittsburgh’s Center for Race & Gender Equity presents Action Conversations on Race, a panel discussion dedicated to racial justice. Featuring local experts and leaders in fields such as equity and diversity, policy change, and advocacy, these conversations are designed to build community and create change.
If you are interested in becoming a sponsor for Action Conversations on Race, please contact Elizabeth Surgil.
Join the Conversation!
Action Conversations on Race are broadcast live on Zoom on the third Wednesday of each month from 12 PM to 1 PM EST. ASL interpretation is provided. Participants are encouraged to contribute questions and comments during the discussion. Register below to participate.
YWCA Greater Pittsburgh is a nonpartisan 501(c)(3) organization and does not support or endorse any candidates for public office. All partner organizations are participating in events in strict accordance with these 501(c)(3) rules and restrictions. All speakers are participating in their individual capacity, and their statements are not attributable to or endorsed by the host organizations. There will be no discussion of candidates or political parties by speakers.
February 19, 2025: Hairstories of Black Women
12 PM - 1 PM EST
Live on Zoom - ASL interpretation provided
Hair is a form of self-expression with deeply personal and political contexts, especially for Black women who are beset by the intersection of sexist and racist beauty standards. In recognition of Black History Month, our panelists will discuss past and present cultural attitudes about hairstyles for Black women while manifesting a future where prejudice, discrimination, and internalized oppression are replaced with freedom, empowerment, and self-appreciation.
March 19, 2025: Care Economy
12 PM - 1 PM EST
Live on Zoom - ASL interpretation provided
Globally, women are key providers of both paid and unpaid care work such as childcare and eldercare. This important and necessary work benefits the overall well-being of societies and yet negatively impacts women’s economic status when compared to men. The economic disparities that result from the care economy are even worse for women of color, who are more likely to engage in unpaid and low-wage care work. Panelists will discuss the impact of women’s participation in the care economy and reimagine how organizational cultures and social norms can embrace caregiving as “everyone’s business.”
May 21, 2025: Racism & Cognitive Health
12 PM - 1 PM EST
Live on Zoom - ASL interpretation provided
Racism can have a significant impact on cognitive health, elevating the risk of Alzheimer’s and other dementias. In particular, Black and Brown people experience significant stress and trauma related to systematic racial discrimination that can result in cognitive decline. Panelists will discuss racial disparities, how to build health equity at the community level and how to promote brain health through individual and systems-wide advocacy.
June 18, 2025: Neurodiversity
12 PM - 1 PM EST
Live on Zoom - ASL interpretation provided
Neurodiversity is an increasingly popular subject in mainstream discussions of accessibility and inclusion. Yet, the experiences of neurodiverse white people are often centered, leaving neurodiverse BIPOC underrepresented or unacknowledged. Panelists will assess the unique obstacles faced by neurodiverse people of color and propose action steps to eradicate stigma and alleviate barriers to care.
Are you interested in participating as a panelist or do you have a topic idea for an Action Conversation on Race?
Contact Adale Sholock at asholock@ywcapgh.org
Latest Action Conversations on Race
Self-Care - January 15, 2025
Black lesbian, feminist, mother, warrior Audre Lorde famously stated, “caring for myself is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare.” Lorde’s words offer important guidance, especially during increased stress, oppression, and uncertainty. But, how do we practice self-care in ways that resist capitalist values of individualism and overconsumption? Panelists show us how to connect self-care to anti-racist community care and collective liberation.
Black Maternal Health - December 18, 2024
Black women and birthing people in Pittsburgh are more than twice as likely to die while pregnant, during birth or postpartum, compared to their white counterparts. Steep racial inequities persist, however a passionate base of advocates and professionals in our city are working to improve these unjust conditions so that Black birthers may experience the healthy pregnancies and deliveries they deserve. Panelists will review racialized disparities in maternal health and recommend ways to improve birthing outcomes.
Food Justice - November 20, 2024
Pittsburghers are struggling to access food at increasingly high rates. Black neighborhoods and women-headed households are especially vulnerable. Food justice advocates in our region are working toward holistic, equitable solutions to food insecurity. Panelists will discuss the root causes of racial and gender disparities in food accessibility, what food justice means, and how our city can improve food access to individuals and families across all neighborhoods.
Supported by ↘
Our Action Conversations on Race are presented by Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield & Allegheny Health Network.
Thank you for your support!
Interested in sponsoring our Action Conversations on Race?
Contact Elizabeth Surgil.