Resources for Anti-Racism
As we seize this moment for transformation in our nation, our church, and our personal lives…
the following resources, several from United Methodist Agencies, are tools for learning and growth.
UMC Dismantling Racism Series continues
Theological roots of racism & colonialism
Recording of Sept. 16 Panel is available at
https://www.umc.org/en/content/town-hall-theological-roots-of-racism-and-colonialism-9-16-2020
The Church is unique in that it has the ability to theologically interpret our current realities, naming where God is present and where humanity is called to help bring about the kingdom on earth as it is in heaven. The realities of racism in our communities brings about challenging questions: If we are the people who are called to “love our neighbors,” why do we see such racism within our religious communities and structures? Why does racism abound within the United States and across the world? How can we as Christians partner with God to help bring about liberation and the beloved community?
Online Course for White Christians on Race and Racism
The United Methodist Commission on Religion and Race offers “You Are Here: First Steps for White Christians on Race and Racism,” an online course for Christians who want to acquire a fundamental understanding of race and racism from a biblical perspective. The four-part self-directed course offers videos featuring Robin DiAngelo and Rev. Dr. Anderson Hooker, reflections, and activities to help people of faith to recognize racism and begin to challenge it in their lives. More information and registration is available at: https://www.gcorr.org/
Dismantling Racism Town Hall recorded July 1, 2010 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bxfVfh42cMk&feature=emb_title
Unsnarling US and church racial history article
https://www.umnews.org/en/news/unsnarling-us-and-church-racial-history
Oprah special, "Where do we go from here?" in two parts, is suggested by John Creager as the best thing he has seen regarding this moment in time. These are available until July 31.
http://www.oprah.com/app/where-do-we-go-from-here-full-episodes.html
Statement by the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
including a request that for at least the next 30 days, every United Methodist everywhere join in prayer at 8:46 a.m. and p.m. for 8 minutes and 46 seconds, the time the officer held his knee on George Floyd’s neck. Pray for all persons of color who suffer at the hands of injustice and oppression. Pray for our church as we take a stand against racism. Imagine the power of a concert of prayer heard around the world. An article and statement are found at
https://www.unitedmethodistbishops.org/newsdetail/united-methodist-bishops-act-now-to-end-racism-and-white-supremacy-14018643
Other Resources
Resources in the Cultural Vibrancy Toolbox https://michiganumc.org/cultural-vibrancy-toolbox-2/
The 21-Day Racial Equity Challenge https://mlpp.org/21-day-racial-equity-challenge/
Implicit Bias Workbook, by GCORR (General Commission on Religion & Race of the UMC) https://www.gcorr.org/implicit-bias-workbook/
Implicit Bias Online Course by GCORR https://www.gcorr.org/online-course-implicit-bias/
Discussion Guide on White Privilege by GCORR https://www.gcorr.org/deconstruction-white-privilege-a-discussion-guide/
Recording of “Systemic Racism and Discrimination during COVID-19” General Board of Church and Society, UMC https://youtu.be/om48LerW11A?t=310
Link to Take Action: Systemic Racism and Discrimination during COVID-19 https://www.umcjustice.org/what-you-can-do/advocacy/take-action/week-1
United Methodist Resources
We, the people of The United Methodist Church, recognize racism as a sin. With that recognition, we commit to challenging unjust systems of power and access. For more suggestions on action and study, go to umc.org/endracism.