Race Against Racism and Diversity Day

29th Annual Diversity Day and Race Against Racism

Saturday, January 18, 2025 | YWCA Phyllis Wheatley Center

Join us for the 29th Annual YWCA Phyllis Wheatley Diversity Day and Race Against Racism on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at the Phyllis Wheatley Center! This event is more than just a celebration; it’s a powerful movement toward unity and inclusivity, bringing together people from all walks of life to honor diversity and foster meaningful conversations about inclusivity.

The day kicks off with the Race Against Racism 5K at 9 a.m., followed by a 1-mile walk starting around 9:15 a.m. and a Kids Fun Run at 9:30 a.m. The awards ceremony for the 5K will begin around 9:40 a.m. After the race, stick around for Diversity Day activities from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., all free and family-friendly!

For the 2025 event, your registration includes a long-sleeve, 50/50 blend shirt.

Registration is open now for the 5K, 1-mile walk, and Kids Fun Run! Online registration closes at 8:30 a.m. on race day, but you can still register in person until 8:45 a.m.

Rain, snow, or shine, Diversity Day and the Race Against Racism will proceed! Come early to enjoy breakfast treats, entertainment, inspiring speeches, and more as we celebrate our community’s diversity with local cultural and religious organizations. Together, we’ll stand strong against racism and promote a more inclusive society.

Proceeds from the event benefit YWCA Knoxville & the Tennessee Valley, supporting the essential programs offered at the YWCA Phyllis Wheatley Center that equip students with the tools they need to overcome obstacles and achieve success.

Register Today

Sponsorship Opportunities

YWCA 2024 diversity day & race against racism

Event Timeline:

Race check-in: 7:30 am – 8:45 am
Race Start Time: 9 am sharp
Walk Start Time: 9:15-9:20 am
Kids Fun Run Start Time: 9:30 am
Diversity Day Activities: 10:30 am – 12:00 pm

5K Race Course:

START! YWCA Phyllis Wheatley Center
124 S Cruze Street

YWCA Phyllis Wheatley Center 124 South Cruze
Head north on S Cruze St toward McCalla Ave
Cross McCalla Ave and head north to Linden Ave
Turn right onto Linden Ave and continue straight on Linden Ave until you hit the intersection of Linden Ave and N Castle St
Turn around at the intersection and head back (southwest) down Linden Ave
Turn left on N Cruze Street

FINISH! YWCA Phyllis Wheatley Center
124 South Cruze Street

Sponsorship Opportunities

We invite businesses and organizations in the community to partner with us as sponsors for “YWCA Phyllis Wheatley Center’s Diversity Day and Race Against Racism.”

Sponsorship opportunities are available at various levels, offering exposure and recognition to sponsors before, during, and after the event. Sponsorship funds will directly support YWCA’s mission to eliminate racism and empower marginalized voices.

For more information, please email lhubbard@ywcaknox.com or call Lorena Meza Hubbard at (865) 523-6123.