Every day, people throughout our region and across our country are confronted with systemic barriers based on race, gender, social class, ability, citizenship and other identities.
The history of discrimination and oppression in the United States has fostered deeply ingrained institutional bias resulting in gross racial and ethnic disparities in countless aspects of life. We recognize that these disparities are the result of a massive systemic failure, and in many cases, have been deliberately constructed to oppress specific communities. To truly create opportunity for everyone and advance the mission of United Way, we must come together to recognize these issues and work to address them.
We are committed to deconstructing systemic racism and institutional bias while promoting Diversity, Equity and Inclusion as a core value in every aspect of our work. We collaborate with community stakeholders, prioritize both large and small matters of injustice, and keep equity and inclusion at the center of our work while fighting for change. Click here to learn more about our commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.
Our Racial Equity Fund is designed to help all people experience authentic inclusion and have equitable access to resources and opportunities. Since its inception in 2022, we’ve awarded $3.2 million to organizations working to address racial and systemic inequities in Southeastern Michigan. Click here to read more about our Racial Equity Fund and learn more about the organizations that received awards.
In 2021, we launched our first ever 21-Day Equity Challenge. Thousands of people from across Southeastern Michigan participated, taking it upon themselves to learn, grow and educate others. Together, we’re building a brighter future for our region by understanding our history and what drives inequity around us.
This year’s fourth annual challenge is set for May 17-June 14. Click here to sign up, and click here to learn more and read content from previous equity challenges.
We hope you’re as excited as we are about our fresh new look and redesigned website! It’s more modern, interactive and built to help you find the information you need quicker and easier than ever. Need help finding something? Try our new and improved search function!
