Becoming Antiracist
In response to the recent deaths of Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and George Floyd, members of our congregation have renewed their determination to act in ways to end the structural racism that infects our nation. While there is a collective responsibility for congregations who seek to follow in the way of Jesus, we recognize that the each one of us is called to discern the personal work required of us.
For some, the journey will begin in their painful awareness of how racism corrupts their thoughts and actions. They know they participate in ways that do not value and honor the lives of all.
For others, the work will be to recognize that while they have not been racist, they have been passive in the face of unjust structures and systems. Their journey will be from not-racist to antiracist.
The main point is not where you are now, but what you hope to become.
Will you make the commitment to do the work you need to do to become antiracist?
With help from our denomination, along with wonderful examples from other congregations who are making the same commitments, we have compiled some resources to assist you on your journey. While the journey belongs to you, you are not alone.
Here’s what we are inviting you to do:
- Commit to do the work you discern you need to do.
- With others from the congregation, commit to read How to Be an Antiracist by Ibram X. Kendi. (We plan to offer some conversations about this. More details will be announced as they are finalized.)
- From the resources provided, or that you find elsewhere, commit to read, watch, listen, notice, or engage with things you might otherwise miss.
- Take note of what you learn and share your discoveries with someone.
