This is part 3 in a series, as it appeared in the General Board of Discipleship's "Young Adult Forums" in March.
The elimination of racism begins with education. By remaining ignorant of the current problems of racism, we can often act as though racism does not exist. We must do our best to make ourselves aware of the issues of racism present in our community, country, and world.
As
Christians, the problems of racism are relevant to our faith. Jesus’
call to love our neighbor as ourself necessitates our involvement in
the battle against racism. Staying informed about current issues of
racism and discrimination are vital to participating in the struggle
for justice and equality. Experiencing other cultures through their
writing and theology also educates us about different perspectives. By
opening our eyes to various problems in the world as well as diverse
viewpoints, we can begin to eliminate the ignorance that leads to
discrimination.
I must admit that I am often unaware of the news stories that are not
the most highly publicized. I find myself becoming disillusioned and
upset by watching the news chronicle one tragedy after another.
Unfortunately, by avoiding the news, I am also neglecting to be
informed about the situations of oppression and discrimination in the
world. Instances of discrimination and racism are not always
highlighted by the media. I then wonder if I should rely on the media
to tell me when to become involved in an issue.
If people from
around the country and world had not become aware of the conflict in
Jena, La., this past year, would I have even known about the situation?
It is my responsibility to become educated about oppression and
injustice. I must remain attentive to problems such as racially
unbalanced city or state governments or the unequal education standards
in my area. I cannot excuse myself for lack of knowledge; the
responsibility for obtaining information lies on my own shoulders.
Until I become educated about the problems facing those around me, how
can I respond?
Another way we as Christians can become educated about other views and
perspectives is to read the theologies of those from other races and
ethnicities. Theologies such as Black Liberation Theology, Latin
American Liberation Theology, Womanist Theology, and numerous others
offer perspectives perhaps different from our own. Reading theological
works of other races allows us to encounter the Biblical text as well
as Christian faith from a different view. As a white female, my
readings in Womanist Theology have enabled me to consider the Christian
faith from the experiences of a black female. By intentionally
considering the interpretations and experiences of those from other
races and cultures, we can all begin the journey toward greater
diversity, openness, and understanding within Christianity.
Isolating ourselves in our own understandings leads to breakdowns in
communication often resulting in discrimination and racism. By first
alerting ourselves to the racism present throughout the world, we can
begin to be aware of the serious problems which need attention. Then,
by actively seeking the voices of traditionally silenced groups, we can
open dialogue and seek equality both inside and outside the church.
Ignorance
of the problems and views of others, of any race or ethnicity, does not
excuse us from being involved in the solution. Christians must take the
initiative to educate ourselves about these important issues and then
seek to be a part of moving toward eradication of racism and all
oppression and discrimination.
Question: How could the reading of different theologies find a place in my faith community?
Anna Maynard Lee, age 24, enters her second year at Vanderbilt University Divinity School this fall.