The Uprooting Racism Task Force addresses issues of racism. Its goal is to become better aware of and eliminate racism "in ourselves, in our communities, and in our churches." It has held retreats offering participants the opportunity to better understand their own racism and the institutional racism of our churches and communities. It also funds training and materials for local church use in raising the awareness and understanding of racism. While this Task Force has a number of DOM members, and former members on it, it also includes others from the wider church and community whose interest is Uprooting Racism.
WHITE PRIVILEGE
Helen MacLam, URTF (Nov. 15, 2007)
Those of us who are of European descent are the beneficiaries of many privileges derived from the color of our skin alone. We take for granted our ability to carry out routine activities without hindrance. We are often unaware that people who are visibly darker are frequently targets of a racial stereotyping we do not experience.
We are usually able to live where we choose, enter stores without being closely watched, drive through any neighborhood without being stopped by police for no apparent reason. We see images and life styles like our own in the media. Our children's school texts reflect our history. We are not called "a credit to our race" and are not expected to be a spokesperson for everyone of our color. We can, if we choose, be oblivious to the language and customs of people of color, who constitute the world's majority, without penalty for such lack of awareness.
As a multiracial, multicultural church, the UCC, and the URTF, strive to make us conscious of our privilege so that we may become a truly inclusive church and society.
Brochure Available!
The Uprooting Racism Task Force has a brochure which describes the important work they are about. You can view or download and print the brochure by clicking here.
Stewardship
