Black History Month at the YMCA

The history of the YMCA - like the history of the United States - is a story of incremental progress toward greater inclusion and equity for all. As a part of our celebration of #BlackHistoryMonth we are honoring the stories of Black leaders who helped move the Y - and America - forward.

Basketball has a rich history at the YMCA – James Naismith created the game of basketball in 1891 at the Springfield YMCA – well before segregation was abolished. As a part of our continued celebration of Black History Month, we're sharing the stories of some of the unsung Black heroes from the history of basketball and highlighting the impact they made on the sport in helping make it what it is today.

The Harlem Y has been called “the living room of the Harlem Renaissance.” Learn more about icons including Cicely Tyson, Jackie Robinson, and how they connected with the Y.

Spotlighting the Harlem YMCA, its bai initiative, and its trailblazing women leadership.

Building on our history of inclusion and advocacy, the YMCA’s Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) Committee seeks to create an organizational culture and overall sense of awareness that encourages and embraces all forms of diversity.