Racism Exposed: YMCA Involves Police After Black Senior Stands Her Ground Against White Woman

A Boston woman is pursuing justice after her local YMCA staff contacted the police when she declined to relinquish her seat to a white woman during a fitness class, as reported by Atlanta Black Star. The incident involving 72-year-old Maria Spooner, who is Black, occurred at the South Boston YMCA on August 18. Spooner arrived early for a group exercise session and claimed a front-row chair. When a white woman entered after her and requested that seat, the instructor asked Spooner to vacate it, which she refused, citing the lack of assigned seating. Spooner’s son, Steven, emphasized that his mother deserved equal seating. During the confrontation, Spooner live-streamed the exchange on Facebook, documenting the woman's disrespectful gestures and comments. A YMCA staff member eventually accused Spooner of "derailing the class" and called 911, resulting in police intervention. The South Boston Police Department subsequently reported on the incident and Spooner left the YMCA. Her family now demands an official apology and corrective action from the YMCA. The organization acknowledged the situation and promised to improve their policies and training to foster a more inclusive environment.