“The racial justice reckoning happening across the United States gives us an opportunity to revisit our commitment to be a pro-reconciling/anti-racist church; that is, to be the church we say we are.” —Reverend Terri Hord Owens, General Minister and President of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ – letter to the church Jan 2021
Our FCC church leaders are committed to making this a reality. In order to be a pro-reconciling / anti-racist church, we must start with having an honest conversation. To listen, learn and speak the language of reconciliation, we must broaden our vocabulary and understanding. In this space each week, you will find a word from a glossary of common terms in anti-racism work. Along with the definition, an example and opportunities to “dig deeper” in understanding are provided. You are encouraged to learn and incorporate the language of anti-racism as we do the work together in love to become the beloved community. We will include the same information for two weeks each to make sure everyone has an opportunity to see it. Below is our first installment:
Common Term in Anti-Racism Work:
Ally: Someone who makes the commitment and effort to recognize their privilege (based on gender, class, race, sexual identity, etc.) and work in solidarity with oppressed groups in the struggle for justice. Allies understand that it is in their own interest to end all forms of oppression, even those from which they may benefit in concrete ways.(OpenSource Leadership Strategies, “The Dynamic System of Power, Privilege and Oppressions.”).
Digging Deeper:
Short 4 min video: How to Be a Good Ally:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?
2 1 hour web seminars: How To Be a Co-Conspirator Parts 1 and 2:
https://www.facebook.com/
https://www.facebook.com/