Dr. Helen S. Faison Racial Justice Student Essay Contest
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
 
The Dr. Helen S. Faison Racial Justice Student Essay Contest for 2010 is under way. Awardees will be celebrated at a special award ceremony on Wednesday, April 21st.
 
The annual essay contest supports the mission of the YWCA – eliminating racism – by raising awareness about diversity among young people and acknowledging their search for ways to create racial harmony and equality.
 
This year, students in the sixth, seventh and eighth grades will be asked to respond to the following question:  How would you design a media campaign (for example: newspaper/print, tv/film, radio/music, internet or social media site such as Facebook or Twitter) to challenge and eliminate racism? (300 words or less)
 
For Essay Contest rules and entry form, please click here . 

For a Lesson Plan for educators, please click here.

Note: All essays must be received by the YWCA by March 12, 2010.

A panel of judges from the greater Pittsburgh educational community will select three essay finalists in each of the three grades. Successful students will be awarded U.S. Savings Bonds:  First Place, $1,500; Second Place, $1,000; and Third Place, $750. 

For more information, please call 412.255.1466.

Mission of the Center for Race and Gender Equity

The Center for Race and Gender Equity empowers individuals, organizations and communities to engage in educational and communication opportunities that address racism, injustice, oppression, diversity, and inclusion.

The Center for Race and Gender Equity supports nonprofits, community activists, government officials, and students in their efforts to address diversity issues.

Our Intent 

• Prepare employees within the Greater Pittsburgh Region as culturally competent members of an increasingly diverse workforce.
• Foster sensitivity towards and appreciation of diversity and inclusion.
• Develop behaviors that contribute to a non-discriminatory, respectfully workplace.
• Identify ways that promoting diversity can benefit individuals and businesses.

Services

• Consult with organizations on systemic change initiatives.
• Facilitate cross-cultural dialogues on race relations.
• Provide anti-racism and cultural competency training.
• Support advocacy and public policy initiatives.
• Collaborate with organizations to sponsor lectures and cultural events.

Programs

The Center for Race and Gender Equity programs include, but are not limited to the following areas:

Cultural Diversity: Building-Bridges – This introductory workshop is designed to increase cross-cultural communication skills.

 

Community Dialogues on Racism – This program provides ethnically/racially diverse groups and individuals with a forum to engage in dialogue.

 

Diversity for Teens – This training exercises skill building that teens/students can use to interrupt and stop harassment, racism, sexism, and discrimination based upon cultural differences in the community and at school.

 

Diversity and Inclusion – This workshop is designed to prepare individuals as culturally competent leaders and develop action plans and to ally – building activities that create an inclusive community.

Join the YWCA in taking a Stand Against Racism on April 30, 2010. More information soon.

Center for Race and Gender Equity
305 Wood Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Melanie Steven Cosnek
Phone: 412-255-1466
Fax: 412-391-5109
Email: mstevencosnek@ywcapgh.org