The 21-Day Equity Challenge is a powerful opportunity to learn about the barriers to opportunity that many Iowans face.
In these tumultuous times, the term “equity” might inspire feelings of confusion, discomfort, or anxiety. But it’s actually a concept that Iowans have always held dear, even if we didn’t use the modern term.
The 21-Day Equity Challenge is here to put your fears to rest. You’ll get the chance to join thousands of other Iowans in a journey of discovery, learning, and growth. You’ll come to understand the barriers are keeping fellow community members from success and what small steps you can take to help create a more equitable Iowa for everyone.
What is the 21-Day Equity Challenge?
United Ways across Iowa have come together to create a 
21-Day Equity Challenge to raise awareness about the particular ways racism, discrimination, and inequities affect our state.
The self-guided online journey runs from September 1 - 30, 2021, and is completely free and open to anyone.
What topics will the challenge cover?
No matter where you are in your personal journey of understanding — the content and activities will inspire you to reflect more deeply about your personal attitudes and behavior, the experiences of other Iowans, and powerful opportunities for change.
The content for each topic was curated by a curriculum committee composed of representatives from multiple United Ways in Iowa who are equity experts or have lived experience with prejudice and discrimination.
Daily topics include:
- Implicit Bias
- Privilege
- Systemic (or Institutional) Racism
- Learning Disparities
- Foster Youth
- Childcare
- ACES
- Physical and Maternal Health
- Mental Health
- History of Experimentation/Impact of COVID-19
- Legacy of Redlining
- Housing Disparities & Discrimination
- Generational Wealth
- Workplace
- Justice System
- Issues Unique to Marginalized Communities
How does the challenge work?
From September 1 - 30, participants will receive an email each weekday about a specific topic, with links to videos, articles, podcasts, and more. You should plan to spend 15 - 30 minutes on each daily topic.
We’ve worked hard to provide a range of content from multiple perspectives, designed for different learning styles. Consider engaging with at least one piece of content each day, and use the journaling questions to reflect on what you’ve learned — or discuss it with others.
What does equity mean?
According to Angelica Vannatta, a member of our curriculum committee, equity strives to give people what they need, when they need it, and how they need it — in order to achieve their best possible lives. Equity is different from equality, which involves treating everyone the same way, regardless of their circumstances, needs, or abilities.
At United Way, we know that equity is critical to ensuring that all Iowans have a chance at an education, a good job, a healthy life, and a secure future.
Join us for the 21-Day Equity Challenge to learn how we can get there together.
