Join us for Race Against Hate 2026!
Sunday, June 21, 2026
Father's Day
starting at 7:30am
Floyd Long Field, Evanston, IL
2436 Sheridan Rd, Evanston, IL 60208
10K & 5K Run/Walk
Youth Mile/Half Mile Fun Run
Now in its 26th year, the Ricky Byrdsong Memorial Race Against Hate is more than a run/walk—it’s a movement and a cherished community tradition. Held annually on Father’s Day, this family-friendly event brings together thousands from across Chicagoland and beyond in solidarity, proving that change happens when communities unite. It is a day filled with love, joy, and a shared commitment to justice.
Founded in memory of Ricky Byrdsong, Race Against Hate honors those who have lost their lives or been harmed by racially motivated violence. As the largest event of its kind in the country, it transforms grief into action. Every step taken and every dollar raised supports YWCA Evanston/North Shore’s mission to eliminate racism and empower women, funding critical racial equity, violence prevention, and domestic violence programs. Together, we race for healing, equity, and justice—and for a future where all people are safe, valued, and free.
Click to learn more about the Race and Ricky Byrdsong
Questions about this year's Race?
Click here to check out our FAQ page
or contact us at via email or phone at 847-864-8445
Help us reach our fundraising goal by making a donation in addition to registering
$1,133.00
achieved
$50,000.00
goal
of your goal reached
Please note: The fundraising goal is for donations only and does not include registration fees.
Make an Even Bigger Impact! Fundraise & Earn Exclusive Swag
Raise $150-$349 over your registration fee and select one prize of your choice. Raise $350 or more and select two prizes! Learn more to get started!
Fundraising Leaderboard
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1
Candace Ramirez $515.00 raised
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2
Dana Deane $103.00 raised
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3
Diana Marquez $51.50 raised
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4
Laura Lackner $51.50 raised
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5
Candace Ramirez $51.50 raised
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1
Not Fast or Furious $103.00 raised
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2
Unitarian Church of Evanston $103.00 raised
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3
The Running Buffers $51.50 raised
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4
Cherry Preschool $0.00 raised
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1 James Thorpe $257.50
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2 Dana Deane $103.00
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3 Laura Lackner $51.50
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4 Diana Marquez $51.50
All proceeds benefit YWCA's racial equity and violence prevention programs
Learn about YWCA Evanston/North ShoreOur Supporters
- Diana Marquez 10 hours ago $51.50
- Laura Lackner 22 hours ago $51.50
- Robert Holton 3 days ago
- James Thorpe You’re doing great work ! 4 days ago $257.50
- Dana Deane 4 days ago $103.00
- James Thorpe You’re doing great work ! 4 days ago $257.50
- Dana Deane 4 days ago $103.00
- Diana Marquez 10 hours ago $51.50
- Laura Lackner 22 hours ago $51.50
Our Newest Fundraisers
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Diana Marquez $51.50 raised
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Jason Casler $0.00 raised
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Elizabeth Trzupek $0.00 raised
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Laura Lackner $51.50 raised
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Amy Statton $0.00 raised
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Lynn Fiedler $0.00 raised
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Dana Deane $103.00 raised
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Candace Ramirez $51.50 raised
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Candace Ramirez $515.00 raised
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Lisa Mitten $0.00 raised
Race Against Hate in the News:
WGN Daytime Chicago, June 4, 2024
Thousands to participate in 25th annual Ricky Byrdsong Memorial Race Against Hate: ABC 7 Chicago Eyewitness News, June 9, 2024
Ricky Byrdsong's widow Sherialyn says 25th annual Race Against Hate matters now more than ever, ABC7 Chicago Eyewitness News, June 14, 2024
