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UNITED METHODISTS STAND AGAINST RACISM

We recognize that racism and injustice are deeply embedded and vexing issues within our Church and our communities. We will take action, we will learn together, and we will continue to press forward in transforming our Church, our communities, and our world into the “beloved community.” How can we be silent and stand by when those whom Christ loves are killed by those who are supposed to serve and protect them? How can we further empower our clergy and members to “accept the freedom and power God gives you to resist evil, injustice, and oppression in whatever forms they present themselves?” Will we be among those who recognize Christ saying, “I can’t breathe” (Matthew 25:31-46)? We do not have all of the answers but we commit to take these next steps together. - from the Anti-Racism Commitment signed by the Bishop and the Extended Cabinet in 2020.

• Read the full Anti-Racism Commitment signed by the Bishop and the Extended Cabinet
  
• Read the Covenant to Resist Racism signed by EOC Laity and Clergy
  
• Read about the 2020 EOC Peace With Justice Walk
• Read the Board of Multicultural Vitality statement celebrating two momentous announcements that highlight the importance of standing against racism and promoting equality and opportunity for all.
• Read the Board of Multicultural Vitality statement encouraging clergy and laity to prayerfully and consciously seek ways to respond to racism and violence against Asians and Asian Americans.
• Read the full article about Black Theologian Day 2022. Black Theologian Day is an annual learning opportunity in the EOC for pastors, congregations, and faith communities to hear from a Black theological perspective.

Upcoming Events

Our Hearts Were Strangely Lukewarm | September 21 from 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Ashland First UMC, 220 Sandusky St., Ashland, OH 44805

Join the East Ohio Conference Anti-Racism Team in welcoming John Elford, the author of Our Hearts Were Strangely Lukewarm: The American Methodist Church and the Struggle with White Supremacy. The book explores the history of Methodism in the United States and will help our conference understand our past. We will explore our Methodist story and tell our own stories of pain, struggle, and success in standing against racism.

Registration and Details | Flyer

Micah 6:8 Love Your Neighbor Tour to Montgomery, AL | September 24-27
The Micah 6:8 Love Your Neighbor Tour is designed to promote the humanity and embrace the dignity and divinity of all God’s children. We will journey to Montgomery, Alabama, and immerse ourselves in the sights, sounds, and stories of racial injustices at the three sites of the Legacy Museum. The Legacy Museum is a history lesson, from the first European ships that landed on US soil through the Civil Rights Movement and beyond. This tour exposes participants to narratives about race and racial injustices that are often under-represented in our efforts to do justice in West Ohio. It will expand participants’ limited exposure to anyone who is from a culture that is different from their own – promoting understanding, empathy, and humility. Cost is $380-$550 depending on transportation option.