In this world, every woman deserves to enjoy the full scope of rights outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and other international human rights documents.
YWCA Edmonton is one of Alberta’s oldest organizations dedicated to helping women psychologically, morally, and financially when needed. Operating in the Edmonton region of Alberta since 1907, YWCA Edmonton advocates for justice, drives social change, and fosters progress for women and families in the region. More details at edmontonka.com.
Part of the international YWCA movement, YWCA Edmonton works to build a strong, healthy, and equitable community. It is Canada’s oldest and largest women’s social organization. More on edmontonka.com.
How Did YWCA Edmonton Begin?
The organization’s first program, called Cushing House, provided rooms for single women who had fled abusive relationships in other Canadian cities. The organization rented a few rooms for these women, covering monthly costs of $60.
YWCA Edmonton has provided support, experience, knowledge, and growth opportunities to countless women in need. The organization initiated many specialized programs aimed at rehabilitating survivors of violence. For over a century, it has been dedicated to empowering women, children, and families while implementing programs that simplify lives and offer hope for a brighter future.
YWCA Edmonton remains committed to empowering women and families and fostering effective social innovation within the community. Over the years, the organization has supported Edmonton women through two world wars and the Spanish flu. For more than a century, it has adapted and innovated to provide critical support during challenging times, remaining a reliable source of help for all community members in need.
YWCA World Day
Every year, on April 24, the world celebrates YWCA Day. This occasion highlights the organization’s shared membership and achievements in promoting human rights and women’s leadership.
The event focuses on themes such as how young women can transform and challenge the power structures that dominate society and hinder their ability to achieve equal rights.
The YWCA believes every woman has the right to make choices, express her views, and be heard. This theme serves as a powerful tool for self-reflection, allowing women to grow, understand their role in the world, and challenge patriarchal and sexist systems still present today.
YWCA emphasizes that women constitute half of the world’s population, yet power structures often fail to reflect this reality. In countless ways, the world is designed to accommodate men while systematically discriminating against women. Therefore, women must use their diversity to continue advocating for change through all available means.
Through the solidarity and determination of its members, YWCA challenges oppressive systems. This begins by listening to young women’s stories and amplifying their efforts to build an equitable society.
Unique Experiences and Leadership
Every woman has her unique experiences and individual ways of expressing her strength. Each woman experiences gender discrimination differently depending on her age, culture, identity, and status.
YWCA Edmonton promotes leadership within homes, communities, and beyond. Through its unique approach, young women are empowered to independently create a world rooted in fairness and equality.