YMCA positioned to lead change, address racism

We share the grief and outrage felt by the country in the wake of George Floyd’s death. We stand with others in saying, “We must do better.”

Atrocities like this remind us all of our need to champion efforts that protect human dignity and call us to appreciate our shared journey as friends, neighbors and fellow citizens. Let us not remain silent in words or actions as we work to create a more equitable community where all of our children can learn, grow and thrive.

At the Capital District YMCA, diversity and inclusion are values to be nurtured and cherished. These are values we cherish in the children we care for, in the youth we nurture, and in the families and individuals we welcome to the Y.

We help our youth with support such as our Black & Latino Achievers program, which gives youth a voice and the tools to use that voice for positive change. Our Youth & Government program helps our youth discover the power of their collective, collaborative voice.

We invite you to step forward and add your voice to the chorus of Y and community leaders who are denouncing actions of racism, hatred and violence against communities of color and insist on a tomorrow that is better than today — one that is more equitable, inclusive, compassionate and just.

In these unprecedented

times, the Y is uniquely positioned to address our social challenges. We are ready to answer the call to lead.

Nurses ensure patients are not left to die alone

The Front Page article “Albany Med will permit some visitors,” May 20, about hospital