This year’s Unite Against Racism event explores how rising authoritarianism is reshaping vital institutions such as education, healthcare, and political representation. Through a dynamic panel conversation, we’ll examine the growing influence of Christian Nationalism, the anti-DEI movement, and the resegregation of our society—and how these forces threaten our collective futures.
Panelists will share their insights and experiences across education, public policy, health, and advocacy to help us make sense of this moment, while offering inspiration and practical strategies for resistance, resilience, and collective action. The conversation will be moderated by Roger Moreano, Director of the Equity Institute.
Join us Monday, April 28 at YWCA Evanston/North Shore for an evening of courageous conversation and connection. This event is free and open to all, and attendees can choose to participate in person or virtually via Zoom. Doors open at 5:30 PM with light food and refreshments; the program begins promptly at 6:00 PM and includes time for audience Q&A.
Free parking is available.
About Unite Against Racism:
Unite Against Racism is an annual event presented by the Equity Institute at YWCA Evanston/North Shore. The gathering brings together people and organizations committed to racial justice for powerful conversations that deepen awareness and inspire action. This event is a space for learning, reflection, and movement-building—where solidarity becomes not just a value, but a shared practice.
Panelists:
Venoncia M. Baté-Ambrus, Ph.D. (she/her/ella)
Dr. Baté-Ambrus is a community health psychologist and Executive Director of the Healthcare Foundation of Northern Lake County. With more than 20 years of experience spanning healthcare, faith-based organizations, and nonprofits, she is a champion of health equity, workforce development, and culturally responsive systems change. Her work centers marginalized communities and builds multisector partnerships for lasting impact/
Ayanna F. Brown, Ph.D. (she/her/hers)
Dr. Brown is Vice President of Strategic Growth & Partnerships at Erikson Institute and founder of Thought Spectrum, LLC. With nearly three decades in education, she is a national leader in racial literacy, curriculum design, and research on the intersections of language, race, and equity. Her work supports transformative dialogue in schools and communities across the U.S. and beyond.
Connie Mixon, Ph.D. (she/her/hers)
Dr. Mixon is Professor of Political Science and Director of the Urban Studies Program at Elmhurst University. She teaches courses on American government, urban politics, public policy, and environmental studies. A respected political analyst and award-winning educator, she brings deep expertise in American government, urban politics, and public policy. She is also the co-editor of Twenty-First Century Chicago, now in its fourth edition, and a frequent political commentator in local and national media.
QUESTIONS? Contact Roger Moreano (he/him/él), Director, Equity Institute, at rmoreano@ywca-ens.org.
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About Equity Institute
YWCA Evanston/North Shore’s Equity Institute is dedicated to promoting racial equity at all levels. In order to do so, we engage with individuals, community groups, and institutions. Our full range of training & education, community engagement programs, racial equity resources, and annual events offers opportunities for all to develop the knowledge and resources to move towards racial equity.
About YWCA Evanston/North Shore
YWCA is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. Established in 1931, YWCA Evanston/North Shore is one of 194 local YWCA associations across the country and a part of one of the oldest and largest multicultural women’s organizations in the world. Through comprehensive, trauma-informed direct services, education and training, and community partnerships, we advance our mission across four key areas: Domestic Violence, Racial and Gender Equity, Economic Advancement, and Aquatics. These efforts aim to build stronger, more equitable communities and a future rooted in justice and dignity. Learn more at ywca-ens.org.