June 4, 2020

“In order for us as poor and oppressed people to become part of a society that is meaningful, the system under which we now exist has to be radically changed…it means facing a system that does not lend its self to your needs and devising means by which you change that system.”

-Ella Baker

Right now, we are all hurting. Hurting from the tragic loss of Breonna Taylor and David McAtte. Hurting for our community. Hurting internally. Hurting externally. Hurting from the past, in the present, and for the future. For Black communities, much of this continuous hurt is caused by the harm of local, state, and federal systems and historical policies. The harm experienced for generations is evident in the current call for ACTION and accountability of local leadership to Breonna Taylor’s family and the community at-large.

The Louisville Urban League Young Professionals (LULYP) strives to promote a healthy, viable, and inclusive Metro Louisville community that supports the growth, learning, and development of young professionals. For many of us, it is impossible to see that community because daily, systemic racism shapes how we experience root causes.

In our communities, we experience a void of transportation options, economic opportunities, healthcare access, recreational activities that support high quality of life, all while navigating food deserts and targeted discrimination. As young Black professionals in the workplace we experience microaggressions and macroaggressions, lack of promotional opportunities, hostile work environments, and isolation. Many of us are exhausted in the face of these repeated discriminations.

LULYP provides support to Louisville’s young Black professionals who are navigating systems of oppression through social support and personal and professional development. Though exhausted, the fight must continue. We remain committed to seeing Louisville change to a thriving, harmonious, inclusive community for ALL residents. To actualize that,  we are calling for local and state leadership to acknowledge and create policies that are equitable, sustainable, and address root causes of inequity and hardship. The Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness’ Health Equity Report provides education and recommendations that address root causes grounded in research and evidence.

It is time for action! The community has spoken and we are clear on what we need to move forward.

Join us for our next general body meeting on Tuesday, June 16 at 6 PM for a discussion on what young professionals can do to #bethemovement.

Sincerely,

Billie Castle, PhD, MPH

2020 – 2021 President

What can Louisville Young Professionals do right now?

Increasing awareness and education aligned with our five pillars: Civic Engagement and Advocacy, Financial Literacy and Empowerment, Health and Quality of Life, Personal and Professional Development, and Youth Mentoring and Development – we have provided resources that will keep you connected and supported.

Civic Engagement and Advocacy:

Financial Literacy and Empowerment:

  • Black people account for 15% of the population in the United States. Join the mission to urge retailers, and yourself, to pledge 15% of your shelf space to Black-owned businesses
  • Support local Black owned businesses and restaurants

Health and Quality of Life

Personal and Professional Development:

1245 Catalpa Ct

Louisville, KY 40211

                Phone: 502- 776-7608

325 W. Main Street

Suite 2210

Louisville, KY 40202

                Phone 502-581-1181

Youth Mentoring and Development: 

Category:
Louisville Urban League Young Professionals