Addressing Systemic Racism
America's communities of color have been hit hard. The generational systemic racism and inequities in all areas of black American lives are exposed for everyone to see.
Recognizing that as Christians, we are called to be Christ's hands, feet, and voices on earth, the Advocacy Committee recently had a difficult and courageous conversation about race and how we can lend a supportive voice to the African American community. The committee voted to show our support and our commitment to end systemic racism by placing signs in front of the church. One of them is a "Black Lives Matter" sign. Another says "End Systemic Racism" and the last says "We Stand With You."
Friday Black Lives Matter Vigils
Churches Together for Justice have consolidated the Friday evening Black Lives Matter vigils. All individuals from any church wishing to stand vigil, please meet at Peace UCC (Eden Seminary Campus) and Emmanuel Episcopal at the corner of E. Lockwood and N. Bompart on Fridays from 6:00-6:30pm. If you need a sign, please contact Julie Burchett at to make arrangements for one to be brought to you.
About "Black Lives Matter"
Black Lives Matter (BLM) is both a slogan and a straightforward statement of fact. The BLM message is central to the nationwide protests happening right now - speaking out against the police brutality and the systemic racism at the root of inequities for African Americans in the areas of health, housing, economics, education, and so many more. Black Lives Matter does not mean that White Lives don't matter - it just means that Black Lives are the ones that are hurting and need attention right now.
These links can be a start to our understanding:
- Why you should stop saying "all lives matter," explained in 9 different ways
- PBS Special: Race Matters: America in Crisis
- information about the Black Lives Matter organization's beliefs
- self paced workshop on race from the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of African American History and Culture.
We, as a church, cannot remain silent. Silence has become complicity. We ask for your grace as we move together through the process of educating ourselves and taking action to support our Black neighbors.
Black Lives Matter Yard Sign
To purchase a Black Lives Matter yard sign for $10 please submit this form then submit payment to WGPC via check or online.
Once your order is received, you will receive a confirmation email and your sign(s) will be delivered to your home.