Recreation and Racial Politics in the Young Women's Christian Association of the United States, 1920s–1950s

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Founded in the early twentieth century, the Young Women's Christian Association of the United States of America was one of the country's largest independent organizations for women. Unusually cross-class and multi-racial, the group's members, professional staff and volunteer officers frequently debated the YWCA's principles and programmes before mid-century, especially in relation to its segregated black centres. The most contested sites of discrimination were the gymnasium, swimming pool, and summer camp. This essay examines the arguments of advocates and opponents of interracial recreation between the 1920s and 1950s as well as their practical struggles over local policies and reforms. Based on the archival records of the YWCA National Board and nine representative city associations (white and black), the essay demonstrates the important role of voluntary groups and non-professional women in female recreation. More broadly, it explores the volatile politics of race relations, social justice and active bodies.