Statement from YWCA CEO Margaret Mitchell in Response to SPLC Indictment

On Monday, April 21, 2026, the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) announced that a grand jury in Montgomery, Alabama, returned an indictment against the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC).

In response, YWCA USA CEO Margaret Mitchell issued the following statement:

“YWCA USA stands firmly with the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC).

For more than 50 years, SPLC has tracked hate, defended the vulnerable in court, and helped build the legal infrastructure that protects civil rights in this country. Their work has saved lives.

An attack on one civil rights organization is an attack on the entire movement -- and on everyone who believes that all people deserve dignity, equality, and safety.

This indictment comes at a moment when communities of color, immigrants, LGBTQ+ people, women, workers, people with disabilities, and Arab, Muslim, and South Asian communities are losing protections that took generations of sacrifice to win. We must ask ourselves what kind of country we want to be. YWCA's answer has not changed in 167 years, and it will not change now.

Today, we stand in solidarity with SPLC and reaffirm our commitment to our mission and all those who do the work to pursue truth and justice.

For 167 years, YWCA USA has worked to eliminate racism and empower women. Our work – alongside civil rights partners across the nation – is at its best when we rise in partnership.”