MVHS program to explore history, impact of local YWCAs

Mahoning Valley Historical Society will explore “The History of the Local YWCAs” during its May “Bites and Bits of History” program. The online video debuts noon, Thursday, May 20.

The program will focus on how the YWCA developed in the Mahoning Valley, along with its significant advocacy for social equity and racial justice for women, girls and marginalized groups.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this public-outreach program will be presented online. The public can view the presentation on MVHS’ YouTube channel.

The main presenter will be Leah Merritt, who serves as president and CEO of YWCA Mahoning Valley. The YWCA’s stated mission of eliminating racism and empowering women has encouraged Merritt to work toward equity and social justice. During her tenure, she has led impactful services for women, families and marginalized persons. The largest focus of these is affordable housing, which is a social determinant of health. In 2018, she and her team executed the merger of YWCAs Warren and Youngstown into YWCA Mahoning Valley.

Dr. Cryshanna A. Jackson Leftwich will also contribute to the program. She is associate professor of public affairs and politics at Youngstown State University, where she also serves as the program coordinator of the political science program and the director of Women’s and Gender Studies. Her research interests focus on anti-racism, social equity, cultural competence, and gender equality. She currently serves as chair of the Board of Directors for YWCA Mahoning Valley.

“Bites and Bits of History” lunchtime programs are presented by the John and Loretta Hynes Foundation. The public can find information about previous programs here.

More information about YWCA Mahoning Valley can be found here.

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