Students and community members from the Eugene/Springfield area met early Saturday to support the YWCA’s mission to empower women and eliminate racism in the community.
Participants ran or walked in the YWCA’s annual 5K Race Against Racism in Alton Baker Park to show their support.
University basketball and track athlete Jordan Kent volunteered at the event.
“I heard about the great message they’re promoting … and it was definitely a pleasure to come out and support them,” Kent said.
Mason Quiroz, racial justice coordinator at the YWCA, participated in the event last year and said it was a great opportunity to address the issue of racism.
“Race, in general, in this community is hard to talk about,” Quiroz said. “I want to encourage people to not be afraid, to grow and open up your minds. Express yourself and let
others express themselves to learn from each other. Nobody wins when you turn down a chance to talk to different people.”
Drawing participants of all ages and backgrounds, the race was an opportunity to promote diversity and to share and learn from area residents.
University graduate Edwin Vega finished first in the race and said he was excited to be part of the event this year.
“I had always heard about the race, but this was my first year running,” Vega said. “It’s always good to do benefit runs.”
Eugene resident Sandy Pashkin race-walked the five kilometers, and finished the race in just over half
an hour.
“This is my first year participating in the race,” Pashkin said. “If I’m going to give my money for a race, I want to do it for a good cause. I was glad to be a part of this race.”
Shane Humphrey, a sophomore at Springfield High School, said he enjoyed participating and hopes to do it again next year.
“I got involved because my dad’s Hispanic and I like to run,” Humphrey said. “I agree with the message of the race.”
YWCA Public Relations Director Allison Wehrley said she was pleased with all the volunteers and participants who came to support the event.
“We’re trying to raise awareness that we need to eliminate racism and empower women,” Wehrley said. “Seeing all of the volunteers and participants shows that people are becoming more aware of the issue and that’s a big accomplishment.”
Money raised from the event helps pay for the race and goes toward the YWCA’s budget for next year.

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