Religion and Race Equity

Fostering Change

A Conversation about Religion and Racism

I recently had a warm welcome warm at St. John the Baptist Church in Barnet where I recently had the privilege of sitting down with Cyril Awere to discuss the crucial topic of religion and racism. It was groundbreaking that a topic such as this replaced the traditional homily, the Sunday sermon. This served as a powerful reminder that addressing racism is an essential part of the religion’s collective journey towards a more inclusive and equitable society.

Acknowledging Past Injustices

I shared examples of everyday manifestations of racism in the UK and what steps can be taken to combat the same. I highlighted that the church must make a profound acknowledgement of its role in fostering racism and eroding African culture and spirituality during and post colonisation.Confronting this painful history is a necessary step towards healing and progress.

Moving Beyond the Surface:

The conversation revealed an important truth - the continued "whitewashing" of religion perpetuates the cycle of racism. The church, which serves as a sanctuary for many, must not shy away from confronting its own history and present reality. It's not enough to pay lip service to the ideals of race equity and inclusion; genuine change requires an active, anti-racist agenda.

Embracing Awareness and Activism:

St. John the Baptist Church in Barnet has embarked on a journey of awareness, acknowledging the need for change within its own walls. This is a commendable first step, but it should not end there. The church community must now venture into a new phase, one that emphasises proactive engagement and tangible activism. By taking these courageous steps, they become catalysts for transformation beyond the confines of their congregation.

Reflection:

The conversation was a powerful demonstration of the importance of open dialogue on matters of race and religion within our communities. It serves as a reminder that we all have a role to play in dismantling the structures of racism and fostering genuine equity. May this conversation inspire and encourage other institutions to embark on a similar path, forging a future that is inclusive, just, and free from the shackles of discrimination.

Together, let us embrace these baby steps, knowing that our collective efforts can lead to an impactful journey towards race equity, a more equitable future.

You can watch the video of the conversation here:

https://youtu.be/fM0M0z5YqTc?si=4wlOrvmMKALQtest