Why Racism Is A Conversation Leaders Need To Have

Last June, I wrote a post Why Racism Is A Ministry Issue. I remember after I wrote it feeling good as if I had finally taken action to fight this horrific sin. The reality is I have let too much time pass. Racism has not gone away, and it is still relevant in many of the institutions and systems that are a part of our life. As we enter into February, I want to take some time to open up the conversation again.

I know the topic might make some people uncomfortable, but I think that’s okay because the only way to stop the hurt and heal the wound is to address it. With this being Black History Month, I only find it appropriate to engage in this conversation and share a few of my thoughts with you. As leaders, we need to make sure that we bring these difficult conversations to the forefront, and if you aren’t sure where to start:

BEGIN WITH A SELF EXAMINATION AND PRAYER

We need to invite God into all conversations, especially the most difficult ones. Not only do we need the Holy Spirit to guide our conversations, but we need Him to guide a self-examination. While no one wants to be a part of the problem, it’s hard not to be when it comes to racism.

I know I’ve been a part of the problem and not just because I’m white. While I’ve never liked racism, I’ve ignored it. My inaction as being a sign of indifference, which shows a lack of willingness to stop it. I’m not sure where you are on the topic, and maybe you don’t either. But, before we can move forward with any change, it is critical to answering the question, “What’s my role in all of this?”

The answer might lead to some guilt, and that’s normal because if we’re going to fight racism, we need to be able to seek and give forgiveness. Once we start looking at our own participation (or lack thereof), we can claim ownership over the situation and start working towards addressing the problem.

ENGAGE IN AN EDUCATIONAL PROCESS

After the murder of George Floyd, my wife and I spent a large portion of time reading books, watching documentaries, and listening to podcasts that would explain to us why these tragedies kept occurring. There was so much we did not know, so much we had to learn, and we wanted to make sure we gained every perspective possible.

Part of the reason for my inaction was a lack of education. I did not know the opposite of racism is anti-racism. I was unaware of systematic and institutional racism that was a part of my everyday life. Having this knowledge not only impacted my family but the ministries I lead.

At Marathon Youth Ministry, we’ve always believed that leaders are learners. And as leaders, we have to make sure we are challenging our mindset by exploring thoughts, perspectives, and experiences that are different from our own. It can be uncomfortable, but that’s okay because leadership is filled with discomfort. If you are looking for resources that look at the subject of Black History, Racism, and The Church, check out this site from the Archdiocese of Washington: https://adw.org/living-the-faith/our-cultures/anti-racism-initiative/.

BECOME AN ACTIVE ADVOCATE

One of the challenges to fighting a sin, like racism, is not knowing where to start. As my friend Rudy recently taught me, we can take a variety of paths to fighting racism. Areas like a prison ministry, the pro-life movement, environment topics, and healthcare initiatives impact the conversation around race. Unfortunately, racism is interwoven in the fabric of our society in so many ways. If we are going to fight it, we need to promote outreach and missions in our parishes and communities.

In addition to getting involved, we need to ask others to pray. When we invite others into the movement, we are building up the Kingdom of Heaven. Suppose you are not sure where to start, try reaching out to your diocese. And if they do not have anything, you can always contact us at questions@marathonyouthministry.com.

This is a challenging subject to talk about, but one that is so necessary. If you’ve never discussed the topic, I invite you to begin this month. Don’t let time pass before the next situation. When we have these conversations, we can share the love of Jesus Christ to build one another and provide the healing this world so desperately needs.

Please feel free to leave thoughts or comments.

Over the last 10 years, I’ve been involved in a ministry in Baltimore, Maryland, called UnCuffed Ministries. It’s focused on bringing Christ to young men and women who are or have been recently incarcerated. Our prison system is one of the biggest culprits of systematic and institutional racism. The relationships I have formed through this ministry have been so life-giving, which is why at least 10% of our earnings from MYM go towards UnCuffed. If you are interested in learning more and supporting this ministry, click HERE.