Bishops' Juneteenth Dismantling Racism Announcement

 

On Juneteenth (June 19) 2020, bishops of The United Methodist Church announce the launch a multi-level effort to initiate a sustained and coordinated effort to dismantle racism and promote collective action to work toward racial justice. Learn more about this coordinated effort at UMC.org/EndRacism.

 

Holston Conference Stands Against Racism

 

Our Commitments

We will recognize racism as a sin.

We will commit to challenging unjust systems of power and access.

We will work for equal and equitable opportunities in employment and promotion, education and training; in voting, access to public accommodations, and housing; to credit, loans, venture capital, and insurance; to positions of leadership and power in all elements of our life together; and to full participation in the Church and society.

 

What can you do?

 

Pray

We listen for the voice of Jesus in our private acts of devotion and public acts of worship. 

• The Upper Room has collected resources for the spiritual work of overcoming racism.
• Prayers for the Healing of a Nation - Discipleship Ministries
• No justice. No peace: Devotion written in response to George Floyd’s murder
• Turning to God in Days of Trouble is a prayer for difficult days.

 

Connect

We begin our work by joining hands and hearts to journey side by side. 

• Read White Fragility: Why It's So Hard for White People to Talk about Racism by Robin DiAngelo. Or watch her speak here. Other titles at Cokesbury.com.
• A United Methodist Pastor in Ferguson, Missouri, offers helpful tips for talking about race.
• The General Commission on Religion and Race offers several video series to encourage discussion.
• Discipleship Ministries offers some great resources.
• School-to-Prison Pipeline Bible Study by United Methodist Women
• We also have some tips for talking to your children about racism.
• Seek diverse blogs, podcasts, news outlets, and new relationships.

 

Show up

We seek to be present at the rally, to participate in the conversation, to hear the pain of others, and for opportunities to use our voices for change.

• Watch UMC Panel Conversations.
• Watch the Worship Service of Lament.
• Watch the Bishops' Juneteenth Announcement. 

 

Act

Jesus calls us not only to speak, but to join in the work of liberating the oppressed.

• Join Church & Society of the United Methodist Church in their work for civil and human rights.
• Connect with United Methodist Women in their work for racial justice.
• Racial Justice Advocacy Toolkit by United Methodist Women
• Creating Change Together: A Civic Engagement Toolkit from Church & Society
• Suggested Resources for Becoming Anti-Racist: Discipleship Ministries
• Give to The United Methodist Committee on Relief's Community Developers Program.
• Work for justice in your church, community, work and school.