Race Against Hate
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Ricky Byrdsong Memorial Race Against Hate
The Ricky Byrdsong Memorial Race Against Hate is an annual run and walk organized by YWCA Evanston/North Shore that gathers thousands of participants from Chicagoland and beyond to oppose racial hatred and violence. The 2026 event is scheduled for Sunday, June 21, 2026, at Floyd Long Field in Evanston, Illinois.
Event distances include:
- 10K run/walk
- 5K run/walk
- Youth mile
- Half mile fun run
Proceeds support YWCA Evanston/North Shore programs in racial justice, violence prevention, and survivor support. Funds are used for school and youth programs that address prejudice and promote healthy, nonviolent peer relationships, for teen education on constructive conflict handling, and for adult programming that fosters dialogue and community action around racial justice and violence prevention.
The race was launched in 2000 to honor Ricky Byrdsong and his community work and was entrusted to YWCA Evanston/North Shore in 2007. The event and its mission have received local and national media coverage and have drawn large participant numbers in recent years. A free 13 week 0 to 5K training program offered by the Evanston Running Club begins March 22 and meets Sundays at Dawes Park. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
