Organizing For Racial Equity

Systemic Racism exists in America, in California, in our beloved community, and in our agency. We see the evidence in unequal poverty rates, graduation rates, disproportionate incarceration rates, even in life span. We see it in the experiences of our own programs and when working with our clients.

What is happening in our country is an incredible moment of reckoning– one that calls for deep listening, personal reflection, the collective acknowledgment that we can and need to do better, and direct action in solidarity with the black community in the fight for racial equity.

At this moment, as we lean in and commit ourselves to do more to address the racism we see before us, we want to lift up black voices and fellow organizations who can connect you with immediate direct action. We encourage you to view our shortlist of organizations working towards racial equity. Reach out to them for community action and new learning or to provide financial support of the cause.

Racial Equity Organizations in Santa Cruz County:

Communities Organized for Relational Power In Action (COPA)

NAACP Santa Cruz  | Facebook Page 

UCSC Student Groups – African American Resource & Cultural Center

Center for Community Advocacy

Resource Center for Nonviolence

Santa  Cruz County Community Coalition to Overcome Racism

Showing Up for Racial Justice Santa Cruz Chapter   | Facebook Page

Barrios Unidos

Santa Cruz County Immigration Project

Undocufund Monterey Bay

UCSC – Chicanx Latinx Resource Center

OF/BY/FOR ALL

Ther are also opportunities for learning or action happening on Wednesday, June 3rd in Santa Cruz that include a march and rally at 5:30 pm in front of the Dream Inn and a community forum hosted by the Mayor Cummings and Police Chief Mills at 6 PM.

Mayor Justin Cummings and Police Chief Andy Mills will provide a community presentation on the steps that the Santa Cruz Police Department has taken over the years to reduce bias, increase diversity in the department, and de-escalation tactics. Mayor Cummings will also discuss policy that he will bring forward with the police chief.  Learn More.

Address Racial Equity with the Causes You Care About

In addition to this list, we believe you can engage in the work of racial equity wherever your passion leads. The issue of racism pervades into every corner, whether you are passionate about education or the environment, there is work to be done to make our systems and structures more inclusive and equitable. Volunteerism provides the opportunity to step out of your circle for new learning, conversations, connections, and community action.

Choose Your Cause and Register to Volunteer