YW Boston is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all.
We will reduce systemic inequities, such as racial and gender disparities, to improve outcomes for women, people of color, and women of color in Boston. By targeting organizational and systemic change,
As the first YWCA in the nation, we are proud of our history as leaders in the causes of eliminating racism and empowering women. On March 3, 1866, 30 women met in Boston at the home of civic reformer Pauline Durant to adopt a constitution for the Boston Young Women’s Christian Association. It was the first time in the United States the name – YWCA – was used. Their objective: “The temporal, moral, and religious welfare of young women who are dependent upon their own exertions for support.” What followed was 150 years of YWCA Boston catalyzing unprecedented advances in women’s empowerment and social justice in the city.
We are a proud member of YWCA USA.
"Boston cannot maintain its position as a world class city if it doesn’t recognize and utilize the talent of all of its citizens. YW Boston has been working on racial and gender equity since our founding in 1866 and we won’t stop until our mission has been accomplished. YW Boston is uniquely positioned to work with the public, private and non-profit sectors to help make Boston equitable and accessible for all."
As the first YWCA in the nation, YW Boston has been at the forefront of advancing equity for over 150 years. Through our DE&I services—InclusionBoston and LeadBoston—as well as our advocacy work and F.Y.R.E. Initiative, we help individuals and organizations change policies, practices, attitudes, and behaviors with a goal of creating more inclusive environments where women, people of color, and especially women of color can succeed.