THE OFFICIAL WEB SITE OF THE MADISON TIMES WEEKLY NEWSPAPER

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

YWCA’s honors Harris and Racial Justice Volunteers

In keeping with the YWCA’s One Imperative, “to eliminate racism wherever it exists,” we are proud to continue this annual tradition of “honoring ordinary people doing extraordinary work” in the area of racial justice. Since 1990, the YWCA of Madison has recognized and honored individuals, corporations, and organizations that work toward the elimination of racism and creation of racial equity. This year, the YWCA will honor Dr. Richard Harris and the 2004/2005 YWCA Racial Justice Volunteers for their efforts to create a more tolerant and diverse society.

Dr. Harris has always sought ways to remedy the social and economic inequalities that persist in communities of color. Today, as the executive director of Genesis Development Center, he is committed to meeting the needs of economically disadvantaged individuals by providing job training, health awareness programs, education programs, mental health and other drug abuse outpatient clinics, residential services, as well as economic development initiatives on Madison’s south side. A longtime Madison resident, Dr. Harris focuses on leveling the playing field for small minority-owned businesses to help them establish roots in South Madison, while working to bridge employment opportunities between these businesses and residents of disenfranchised neighborhoods. “It is imperative that Genesis succeed,” says Harris. “If we don’t, it could possibly delay the establishment of another Black or minority agency by three to four years. We’ve always had that on our minds — we have to succeed, not just for us, but for others.” Because of his uncompromising principles, his commitment to civil rights, and his skills in community development and creating partnerships, the YWCA is proud to honor Dr. Harris with the 2005 Racial Justice Award.

The volunteers for the YWCA Racial Justice program are an incredibly committed and diverse group of individuals who have attended extensive training to gain skills in facilitating YWCA sponsored programming on race and diversity. Volunteers facilitate at large and small community lunches and workshops and share their skills at different workplaces in the Madison community.

The awards will be presented at the fourth annual YWCA Racial Justice Conference featuring Dr. Shakti Butler. This conference will take place on Friday, Oct. 21, 8-12:30 p.m. at the Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center.