Dear NSUMC Members and Friends:
As United Methodists, we affirmed and/or reaffirmed a commitment to “accept the freedom and power God gives [us] to resist evil, injustice and oppression in whatever forms they present themselves” when we joined the church. The killing of George Floyd and others in 2020 etched the reality of racial injustice vividly in our minds. The unequal fallout of the pandemic on Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color also showcased the injustice, as did the news about the dramatic rise in the number of white nationalist groups in America in recent years. Following Pastor Scott’s invitation to reflect on what this called us to do as a faith community, a seed group was formed to chart a set of strategies for the way forward. The honest conversations we have had as a team have not always been easy but have been a testament to the love we have for one another, which we believe is truly a hallmark of our congregation. This letter is to highlight our strategies with you, invite your comments and contributions, and solicit your participation in making these strategies a reality at NSUMC. We have learned and believe that it is not enough to be non-racist (believing one does not hold racist views). Being anti-racist (being action focused), with the understanding white racial culture/white privilege exists, is foundational to moving forward. Our path forward therefore includes:
Thank you for prayerfully considering the ways our caring congregation can act to help end the sin of racism in our country. Sincerely, NSUMC Racial Justice Team members Kathy Cole (847-687-7464 or colemarketing@comcast.net) Lisa Goodale (847-207-4838 or lcgoodale@sbcglobal.net) Anita Bryant Mauro (anitamauro@me.com) Jim and Judi Simmons (773-262-5984 or jrs1218@aol.com) Sue West (847-835-1001 or sue@westbunch.com) “In the end, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends.” (Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.)
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |