from the Founder
The events in our world, our nation and right here in our own community have brought to the forefront the undeniable effects of systemic racism. The murder of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and Manual Ellis and countless other black lives that have been lost at the hands of police brutality are horrific and unacceptable.
The systemic racism that enables and perpetuates this cycle is everywhere and needs to be addressed and action must be taken. I myself have confronted racism as a privileged Latina woman and can’t possibly imagine what black women confront throughout their lives.
Grit City Women was founded to empower women in Tacoma by offering community and support. We welcome all WOMXN. We also invite men to take a seat at our table as champions for our vision and as allies. Respect and inclusivity are non-negotiable values in our spaces.
The last 10 years of my life have been focused on countless hours of volunteering and engaging in my community, more specifically in underrepresented communities and communities in crises. This work has shaped my passion to serve on the Citizen Police Advisory Committee (CPAC) and provide opportunities for underrepresented youth to participate in outdoor activities through the Liz Rocks Foundation.
Today my focus has turned to creating positive changes to rid systemic racism. I stand in support of the our black community through my work with the CPAC and everything I do.
I encourage everyone to join the movement to end systemic racism and end police brutality. A great place to start is by supporting the work the CPAC does and engaging with us. The CPAC hosts meetings the 2nd Monday of the month at 6 PM. There is an opportunity for public comment at the end of each meeting. This platform will allow your voice to be heard.
I stand in solidarity with GCW and communities of color in Tacoma. And I want to take a moment to share some of the amazing opportunities I have had to make a difference.
I have mock interviewed medium security inmates prior to release at Sheridan Federal Correctional institution to help inmates avoid recidivism and find gainful employment upon release.
I have interned with the Salvation Army rehab program and helped those struggling with addiction gain access to resources to help them stay clean and lead healthy lives.
I was fortunate to spend two years as a Trauma Intervention volunteer where I provided emotional support and resources to victims of traumatic events and their families.
Immigrant communities are extremely close to my heart and I created a soccer program that helped kids get out and get engaged in sports.
I was a specially trained Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Advocates on behalf of neglected or abused children.
Through the Liz Rocks Foundation we have provided two Latinx students Youth Leadership Mountaineering scholarships and provided over 90 opportunities for underrepresented youth to snowshoe on Mt. Rainier.
As challenging as this time is it also opens incredible opportunities for us to partner as a community to make positive change.
- Krystle Edwards, Founder