Here at the YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City, we work hard to not just talk the talk of our “for all” mission, but to walk lockstep with it. We seek to ensure people of all backgrounds can access the Y and feel welcomed, including those in the LGBTQ+ community.

We recognize that there has been tremendous progress since the 1969 Stonewall Riots, like the legalization of same sex marriage and openly LGBTQ+ candidates winning elections to public office. However, violence and discrimination against individuals in this community still takes place. We believe our community is strongest when everyone feels valued, has support to reach their potential with dignity and can fully participate in society.

The thousands of people we reach in central Oklahoma through the hundreds of programs we put on each year reinforces for us the important role we play in helping our neighbors feel safe, welcomed and valued. Time and time again, we’ve seen firsthand that we are greater than the sum of our parts. It’s the people who make the Y — not the other way around. That’s why we do our absolute best to make sure anyone who comes through our doors or participates in our programs has access to the same opportunities and treatment, regardless of their ability, age, cultural background, ethnicity, faith, gender, ideology, income, national origin, race or sexual orientation.

Our core values are caring, honesty, respect and responsibility. We take these to heart as they’re woven through each and every one of our programs, events, meetings and trainings. In essence, they guide everything we do. We care for one another, we tell the truth, we respect everyone, and we take responsibility for our actions and the way we treat people. We’re proud to have such strong values in place at the Y. The peace of mind that comes from knowing we’re acting with integrity and in accordance with our mission makes the hard decisions and tough days a little brighter.

Our mission is to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. In order to make our “for all” mission a reality, we believe we must regularly demonstrate our commitment to supporting and celebrating the individuals who call the Y home. Without them, we wouldn’t be the Y. Though there is still much work to be done, we are proud of YMCA’s firm commitment to being an inclusive and accepting space for all.