Justice Now: A Community Learning Together for Liberation
The inaugural session of Justice Now marked more than just a beginning—it ignited a journey toward justice, liberation, and community empowerment for Lancastrians.
Hosted by YWCA Lancaster’s Center for Racial and Gender Equity, this first session provided foundational knowledge in advocacy and Queer studies, laying the groundwork for what it means to be a true co-conspirator in the fight for equity. From exploring the basics of LGBTQ+ identity to challenging the gender binary, participants were invited to reflect deeply on their socialization, lived experience, and sense of self.
The result? A space filled with vulnerability, curiosity, and a collective desire to do more.
“People left this session feeling eager to learn more and do more,” one participant shared. “I plan to attend the next sessions because I want to keep growing.”
Throughout the training, co-facilitators Veronica Willig and Hannah Short cultivated a space of safety, honesty, and connection.
“Veronica and I flowed with the energy of the room to lean into building solidarity, finding a common understanding, and making participants feel safe in our space,” said Hannah Short, Assistant Director of the Center for Racial and Gender Equity.
The energy in the room was palpable. Participants leaned all the way in—grappling with discomfort, confronting difficult truths, and matching each other’s vulnerability.
As Veronica Willig, co-facilitator, reflected:
“It was an absolute joy to return to YWCA and help kick off the Justice Now series with LGBTQ+ Community 101 & Breaking the Gender Binary. The group demonstrated they are energized to engage in hard conversations and intentional community building.”
Many attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose and a clearer vision for the kind of Lancaster they want to help build—one rooted in justice, safety, and joy.
“I felt energized.”
“I felt hopeful.”
“I felt connected.”
“I’m happy to have met several people in the community and look forward to getting to know them better at future sessions.”
As participants voiced frustration with the current state of the world and a longing for deeper joy and connection, Justice Now offered a response: step in. Show up. Build together.
“In a time when marginalized communities are actively experiencing violence,” said Willig, “it is absolutely necessary that we all step out of our comfort zone to confront that violence and build a stronger, safer, and more knowledgeable Lancaster. The Justice Now series, and those who choose to participate in it, are doing just that.”
The Center for Racial and Gender Equity is proud to offer Justice Now at no cost to the community. We are committed to creating a space where all are welcome—no matter where you are in your social justice journey.
“We have a mission to provide the knowledge, skills, and resources to disrupt systems of oppression and build a more just community for all individuals—especially for marginalized groups,” said Isabel Castillo, Director of the Center. “We hope to see you at our next session!”
