Interracial YWCA of the U.S.A. records, Record Group 11. Microfilmed headquarters files

Documents concerning issues of race, civil rights and racism internal and external to the YWCA of the U.S.A. including black power, Apartheid in South Africa, a consultation on black leadership in the YWCA of the U.S.A., and integration and desegregation. In the 1960's the YWCA of the U.S.A. increases its push towards an integrated movement and public affairs platforms concerning civil rights through programming, education and activism. Though civil rights and racism have long been a part of their program, the sixties brings a renewed effort in part due to the social and political climate of the United States and from within the organization. One issue of global importance is the Apartheid in South Africa, an issue of particular concern to the National Student YWCA. Resolutions, letters of concern to organizations and leaders, clippings and correspondence from the National Student YWCA explain their concerns and goals, and seek to educate others about the issue. Domestically, the YWCA of the U.S.A. grapples with the Black Power movement and its role. The topic is explored here through papers, lectures, addresses and articles. Within the national movement and local associations the YWCA of the U.S.A. is focused on a fully integrated movement. This means representation in leadership, desegregated associations and understanding across all members. Minutes, reports and notes from the YWCA of the U.S.A. Consultation of Black Leadership document this gathering of leaders to explore the role and status of African American leadership in the organization, the need for further development and their role in the full integration of the national and local associations. In order to achieve local desegregation of associations, the YWCA of the U.S.A. issues a self audit guide, guiding principles and resolutions. Also included is the text of a speech by Dorothy Height titled, "Responsibility of YWCA for Desegregation, Integration and Civil Rights." To address interpersonal relationships during this time, dialogue groups are introduced to programs across the nation. These small group sessions encourage frank discussion in a safe space with the hope that intimate and real conversations will help ease racial divides and racism. The program is further explained in a handbook for leaders. Following these documents is a series of correspondence and reports concerning a situation with the Eastman Kodak Company in Rochester, New York and the company's ultimate agreement and plan to stimulate small business and economic growth in the town.