On April 27, more 30 social service providers and civic, education, and faith-based organizations from across Evanston released a joint statement affirming a shared commitment to equity and the work being undertaken by people of multiple social identities to address issues of race, racism, and bias. These organizations across Evanston share in a belief that the community must engage in open and honest dialogue in order to create a socially just and welcoming Evanston – a city where all people regardless of race, ethnicity, mental and physical ability status, gender identity, sexual identity, citizenship status, and religion feel a sense of belonging.

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April 27, 2018

A Statement from the Evanston Community

Over the past several years leading institutions across Evanston have embraced an equity agenda focusing on addressing issues of race, racism and bias. We have stepped forward to have honest and open dialogue and discussions about racial equity. We have also stepped forward to offer racial equity training opportunities that include, among others, Beyond Diversity and SEED training. We realize that these trainings and discussions are not easy and are uncomfortable for some, yet we recognize that the potential to change our institutions so that they truly belong to people from all races and walks of life requires focused and sustained commitment to addressing race and equity head-on. In recent weeks several individuals have publicly criticized our efforts. As leaders in Evanston, we stand in strong support of our equity work and will continue to engage citizens in honest and open dialogue about race. And by doing so we will create a socially just and welcoming Evanston where all people of all backgrounds have opportunities to fulfill their true potential.

(Supporters in alphabetical order)

Beth Emet The Free Synagogue – Evanston 

Bundled Blessings Diaper Pantry

Caring Outreach by Parents in Evanston (COPE)

Childcare Network of Evanston

City of Evanston

Connections for the Homeless

Covenant Nursery School

Erie Health Centers 

Evanston Branch NAACP 

Evanston Community Foundation

Evanston Cradle to Career

Evanston Police Department

Evanston Public Library

Evanston/Skokie School District 65

Evanston Township High School District 202

Family Focus Our Place 

Foundation 65

Infant Welfare Society of Evanston 

James B. Moran Center for Youth Advocacy

Jewish Reconstuctionist Congregation

Learning Bridge Early Education Center

McGaw YMCA

Northwestern University

Oakton Community College

Piven Theatre Workshop

Reba Early Learning Center

Second Baptist Church Evanston

St. Nicholas Church

School for Little Children 

Warren W Cherry Preschool

Youth & Opportunity United (Y.O.U)

Youth Job Center

YWCA Evanston/North Shore