Library, YWCA get ‘Real’ with book discussion

In partnership with the Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library and the Library’s Black Events and Exhibits Committee (BEEC), the YWCA Greater Cincinnati presents the fall selection for its Real Reads Regional Book Discussion series. These free community conversations look at the effects of interpersonal and structural racism on our culture and society.

Join us virtually 6-7:30 p.m. either Wednesday, Nov. 17, or Thursday, Nov. 18, to discuss The Color of Law, by Richard Rothstein. Rothstein’s book explores how federal, state, and local housing policies mandated segregation and undermined the ability of Black families to own homes and build wealth. Local governmental policies were supplemented by government programs that depressed Black incomes and oppressed Black lives in a myriad of ways that continue to plague our communities.

“We are excited to be co-hosting Real Reads with the Library,” said Yvette Johnson-Hegge, Executive Coordinator for the YWCA. “We expanded these book discussions to bring them to the greater community so that they too could benefit from this sort of in-depth discussion of important and timely issues. The Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library has been integral in our efforts to reach the greatest number of people. We hope people join us in the conversation about institutional racism and engage with each other to connect across differences.”

Representatives of both the YWCA and CHPL are facilitating the book discussions. On Nov. 17 the moderators are Karen Bankston, YWCA Racial Justice Committee member, with Corrie Schuster and Alli Jacobs, co-chairs of the BEEC. On Nov. 18 Ray Ball, a YWCA Rising Star, is facilitating the discussion with BEEC members Kelwin Hester and Justin Robinson.

Please register to receive the Zoom link to the virtual events. https://cinlib.org/YWCArealreads.

Learn more about the YWCA’s Real Reads Regional Book Discussion series.

If you or someone you know is having eviction problems, please call the Legal Aid Society of Cincinnati, opens a new window at 513-241-9400 and ask for eviction prevention intake.

Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library has been cultivating curiosity from the moment we first opened our doors in 1853. Since then, we have evolved into one of the biggest and busiest libraries in the country: supporting minds of all kinds who seek to unlock their full potential. With 41 neighborhood branches, a vast range of programming, and an ever-growing collection of virtual resources, we're proud to be a place where everyone can learn without limits. To learn more, visit CincinnatiLibrary.org or call 513-369-6900

YWCA Greater Cincinnati has been at the forefront of the most pressing social movements and addressing issues affecting women, girls, and people of color for 153 years. Every day we stand up for survivors of domestic violence by providing safety, support, and stability. We foster dialogue, provide practical resources, educate, and initiate social change that will create a community of peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. We do this work boldly, unapologetically, and collaboratively, fueled with the fierce urgency of now. YWCA Greater Cincinnati is a United Way partner agency. For information call the YWCA Greater Cincinnati at 513-241-7090 or visit www.ywcacincinnati.org.