By Timothy Hilk, President & CEO, YMCA of Greater Cleveland
As we prepare to commemorate Juneteenth—a day marking the end of slavery in the United States—we are reminded that freedom is not a finish line, but a journey. It’s a journey toward dignity, opportunity and Inclusion for all. At the YMCA of Greater Cleveland, this journey is one we walk with purpose, rooted in both reflection and responsibility.
The Y has not always lived up to the ideals it now upholds. While founded on Christian principles of inclusion and community, the YMCA—like many American institutions—once mirrored the broader society’s racial and religious divides. There were times in our history when Black individuals were excluded from membership, and Jewish individuals were discouraged from full participation. This is a truth we do not shy away from. It is part of our story, and acknowledging it is part of our growth.
But the power of history is not in where we began—it’s in how we change.
In the decades since, the YMCA has undergone a profound transformation. From integrating our branches during the Civil Rights era to expanding our programs into historically underserved neighborhoods, we have worked intentionally to become a more inclusive, equitable and welcoming organization. Today, our commitment is clear: the YMCA of Greater Cleveland welcomes all people, of all backgrounds, without exception. We are stronger for the journey we’ve taken—and for the diversity of those who now walk with us.
Inclusion is not an abstract concept at the Y. It is lived and expressed every day in programs like Y-Haven, which helps individuals recovering from addiction and homelessness build new lives. It is visible in our expanding youth development work, which provides mentorship, safe spaces and opportunity for children and teens—many of whom face systemic barriers. It is embedded in our vision for a new Eastside Cleveland YMCA, where health, education, and workforce resources will be available in a community long overlooked.
And it’s in our culture: in our staff training, our leadership development, our community partnerships and our commitment to creating a sense of belonging at every branch.
Juneteenth is a reminder of what freedom means—and how unfinished the work remains. But it is also a celebration of progress. Of resilience. Of communities that refused to be left behind and institutions that chose to grow rather than remain stagnant.
We believe that community is not built through sameness but through solidarity. That when we recognize our differences as strengths, we become more compassionate, more capable and more connected.
So as we mark Juneteenth this year, we do so with humility and hope. We honor the past not just with remembrance, but with action. And we rededicate ourselves to a future where the YMCA continues to be a place where everyone—every race, every religion, every identity—is not only welcome, but truly belongs.
Because we know, more than ever, that we’re better together.