Anti-Racism
Our faith in Jesus Christ leads us to address racism as a theological issue, not a political one, by actively addressing structures, policies, ideas, and practices that create inequities because of the color of one’s skin. It compels us, both individually and as a congregation, to actively eliminate racism in ourselves, our church, our community, and the world around us.
At the same time that the sanctuary was renovated, a task force was formed to delve into our church’s racial history. Their work resulted in the creation of the History Hallway. The Anti-racism subcommittee is now using that historical display to draw attention to FPC’s role in inequities in the past, and to help discern the church’s role going forward. In addition, the Anti-racism subcommittee has developed an “Advancing Racial Equity Framework” for teams to use in assessing their areas for improvement.
The History Hallway
Within the hallway and linked below, you can find a photograph and brief biographical information for each senior minister. The biographies include both positive actions as well as – truthfully – those that show human failings, particularly in the area of race. The Hallway also contains a Repentance and Resurrection statement in the context of scripture and a dedication conveyed and brought to life by a work of art. The statement references our church’s history, rooted in our faith and the history of our city, and our hope for the future.
Featured Resources
What Kind of Christianity: A History of Slavery and Anti-Black Racism in the Presbyterian Church
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Take Action
Here you will find ways to begin working toward being anti-racist.
Attend the Committee's forum after the Civil Rights trip
Date TBD – Late April/early May
Be on the lookout for and join a debriefing with the Anti-Racism Committee after the trip to civil rights sites in Alabama in April.
Attend a Racial Equity Workshop
Next workshop: April 4-5, 2024
Race Matters for Juvenile Justice holds 2-day workshops at Hope Haven several times a year. They are designed for people “who are interested in understanding and eliminating racial inequities, disparities, and disproportionality within the Mecklenburg community. ” A number of churchmembers have taken this workshop and gained invaluable insight and perspective. | More info