YWCA’s Stand Against Racism Luncheon at the Kravis Center
Coach Herman Boone, portrayed by Denzel Washington in the film Remember the Titans, will be the featured speaker at the YWCA of Palm Beach County’s annual “Stand Against Racism” Luncheon to be held on Thursday, April 28, 2016, 11:30 a.m. at the Kravis Center’s Cohen Pavilion. Honorary Chair of the event is Clarence D. Williams, III, Chief of the Riviera Beach Police Department and President of the Kappa Upsilon Chapter of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. The Presenting Sponsor of the luncheon is FPL, and the Benefactor is the Varughese Family of Delray Beach. The luncheon will include the presentation of the YWCA’s Annual Racial Justice Award.
In 1971, racial tensions ran high in Alexandria, Virginia, as three schools were integrated to form T.C. Williams High School. Herman Boone faced the challenge of a lifetime in uniting black and white players from previously rival schools in the newly-created Titan football team.
Tensions only escalated when Boone, assistant coach of the former T.C. Williams High School, was named head coach of the Titans, passing over Bill Yoast, the local favorite and successful head coach of the former (and white) Hammond High.
Remarkably, the two coaches were able to put aside their prejudices and, in doing so, united their players to form a team whose common vision was to respect each other and win football games. At the same time, through the game of football, Boone and Yoast were able to help their small Virginia community put aside their intolerance and join together to support their children. The Titans became one of the best teams in Virginia, compiling a 13-0 record and going on to win the state championship.
Though retired from coaching, Boone still travels throughout the country motivating and inspiring audiences of all ages and colors. Boone earned both a BS and MA from North Carolina Central University where he became a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.
“We are thrilled to have Coach Boone as our guest for this event,” said Suzanne Turner, CEO of the YWCA. She added, “His presentation is certain to be a fascinating view of a challenging time in our history.”
“Stand Against Racism” is a national program of the YWCA with the goal of bringing together people across the country to raise awareness about racism, take steps to eliminate it, and celebrate diversity. Organizations that share the YWCA’s vision can participate as a partner agency; to get additional information and register, please visit www.standagainstracism.org.
Tickets for the luncheon are $50 for YWCA Members and $60 for non-members, with tables of 10 available for $500 for YWCA members and $600 for non-members. Reservations can be made by calling 561-640-0050, Ext. 134.