As we journey through the complexities of racial justice, it’s essential to have guidance and support. This is where the Racial Justice Action Group (RJAG) comes in, a dedicated team committed to helping individuals and parishes navigate the path towards a more just and equitable community. Each month, a member of the RJAG will share a section of the anti-racism toolkit, explaining how it can be used and its potential benefits for parishes. The goal is to empower Christians to partner with God in creating a just and inclusive Diocese, where everyone feels valued and respected. In this first video, Revd Canon Karlene Kerr, chair of the RJAG, introduces the anti-racism toolkit, highlighting its purpose and contents.
The anti-racism toolkit is a comprehensive resource that provides a brief history of how we got to where we are today, acknowledging that this history belongs to all of us. It outlines a theological foundation for racial justice, explaining how racism manifests and affects individuals and communities, and offers practical ways to become allies rather than remaining silent or complicit. The toolkit is packed with links to various resources, including films, books, articles, podcasts, and worship materials such as prayers and liturgies. These resources cater to different age groups, including children and young people, and help to clarify complex terms and abbreviations. The toolkit is not a definitive guide, and the RJAG welcomes constructive comments and suggestions for additional information. By using this toolkit, individuals and parishes can become more informed and equipped to address issues of racial justice, ultimately contributing to a more just and loving community.
As Karlene emphasizes, the ultimate goal is to create a church where discussions about racial justice are no longer necessary because it has become an integral part of the church’s life. The toolkit is a significant step towards achieving this vision, and Karlene commends it to everyone. By working together and leveraging the resources provided, we can strive towards a future where the church is a beacon of hope, justice, and equality for all. The RJAG’s commitment to this cause is evident in their dedication to creating a comprehensive and accessible toolkit that can be used by individuals and parishes alike. As we move forward, it’s essential to remember that this journey is not just about the destination but about the relationships we build, the conversations we have, and the actions we take along the way.
The importance of addressing racial justice cannot be overstated. As Christians, we worship a God who is steeped in justice, with no exceptions. This means that we are called to strive for justice in every aspect of our lives, including our relationships, communities, and institutions. The anti-racism toolkit provides a valuable resource for individuals and parishes seeking to live out this calling. By engaging with the toolkit and its resources, we can deepen our understanding of racial justice, challenge our own biases and assumptions, and develop practical ways to promote justice and equality in our communities. This is not a journey that we undertake alone; rather, it’s a collective effort that requires the active participation and engagement of individuals, parishes, and the wider community.
As we explore the anti-racism toolkit and its resources, we are reminded that this is not a one-time event but a continuous process. Racial justice is an ongoing journey that requires commitment, dedication, and perseverance. The RJAG’s commitment to providing regular updates, additional resources, and support is essential in helping individuals and parishes stay on this journey. By working together and leveraging the toolkit, we can create a ripple effect of justice and equality that spreads throughout our communities, ultimately contributing to a more just and loving society. The anti-racism toolkit is not just a resource; it’s a call to action, inviting us to partner with God in creating a world where everyone is valued, respected, and treated with dignity.
In conclusion, the Racial Justice Action Group’s anti-racism toolkit is a valuable resource that provides a comprehensive and accessible guide for individuals and parishes seeking to address issues of racial justice. By engaging with the toolkit and its resources, we can deepen our understanding of racial justice, challenge our own biases and assumptions, and develop practical ways to promote justice and equality in our communities. As we journey together towards a more just and inclusive society, let us remember that this is a collective effort that requires the active participation and engagement of individuals, parishes, and the wider community. The RJAG’s commitment to providing ongoing support and resources is essential in helping us stay on this journey, and we look forward to exploring the anti-racism toolkit and its resources in the months ahead. By working together, we can create a brighter future where justice, equality, and love are the guiding principles of our communities, and where everyone can thrive and reach their full potential.
