United Way of Illinois Launches ‘21 Week Equity Challenge’
United Way of Logan County encourages local involvement

 

[January 11, 2021] 

Take the pledge to help heal our community! There is significant need for us as individuals and organizations to gain a better understanding of how inequity and racism impact so many of our neighbors. We have partnered with local United Ways across Illinois and the Illinois Department of Human Services with their Healing Illinois initiative. This 21-week program is a self-guided learning journey that examines the history and impact of racism, and how it has shaped people’s lives. It’s not enough to be kind, and our journey is still only beginning.

The United Way of Illinois is launching a ‘21 Week Equity Challenge’ this week. Following a year of unrest and strife, this free, online learning program will provide lessons and resources for Illinoisians to learn about racial issues and systemic inequalities, together.

“Our association, in partnership with local United Ways, is so excited to be taking this journey with our communities.” said Eithne McMenamin, Director of Public Policy and Advocacy for United Way of Illinois. “This is an excellent opportunity to learn -- personally and professionally -- have necessary conversations and equip our communities to engage meaningfully in the work of racial understanding and healing.”

The United Way of Illinois 21 Week Equity Challenge encourages individuals, families, friends, and co-workers to have racial equity conversations to gain a deeper understanding about the impact systemic racism and inequality have on our state and in our local communities. United, we can help create a stronger, more equitable Illinois economy and stronger, more inclusive Illinois communities.

From Martin Luther King Jr. Day (1/18) to Juneteenth (6/19), participants will complete weekly learning assignments about equity, racism, bias and more. The 15-minute assignments include readings, videos, and questions for participants to consider. Upon completion, they’ll receive a digital certificate and tips and tools to help continue the conversation in their local community.

The 21 Week Equity Challenge is supported by Healing Illinois, the State of Illinois, The Chicago Community Trust and United Way of Illinois. The weekly curriculum was designed by United Way of Champaign, using evolving content originally created by United Way of Washtenaw County in Michigan. New challenge content will be released on a weekly basis.

United Way of Logan County is proud to join United Way of Illinois and 43 other local United Ways across the state to embark on the 21 Week Equity Challenge. Our hope is that many in Logan County will participate including corporate partners, volunteers, and donors.

You can take the pledge today by visiting www.unitedwayillinois.org/equity-challenge.

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United Way of Illinois is an association of local United Ways representing communities across Illinois. The organization. We advance the common good through public policy. We monitor the activity of government, review legislation, and educate the general public and our public officials related to their impact on human services and on our local communities. To learn more, visit www.unitedwayillinois.org.

[Text provided by Patti Becker, United Way of Logan County