YWCA to Honor Women with Racial Justice Awards

The awards ceremonies, which are open to the public, begin at 5 p.m. at the IU Civil Rights Heritage Center, 1040 W. Washington St. Each year, the YWCA recognizes those in the community who are working to achieve racial and social justice.

The winner of the Sojourner Truth Award is Marla Godette, a mental health professional and certified life purpose coach. She is considered a passionate advocate for social justice in education, anti-bullying in schools, birth equality and other issues that disproportionately affect people of color.

The nonprofit organization Mamas Against Violence will be honored for raising awareness and preventing violence in the community. It was founded more than two decades ago in response to high rates of gun violence and homicide in the black community, especially among young black men.