What our program participants are saying

One of the most important things I learned in this series is how much I didn’t know! I am far from alone: Our educational systems in the U.S. have white-washed our base of knowledge about our racial history. The readings, assignments and discussions in this series were constructive, even when difficult. We felt safe sharing our opinions, personal history and beliefs, and left empowered to take a stand against injustice. I cannot recommend this series more highly.

As a Unitarian Universalist residing in the Bible Belt, I've become used to interfaith-based conversations that revolve around all the flavors of Christianity, so this course on Spiritual and Racial Equity surprised me as being true to its promise of welcoming and speaking to people of all faith traditions. My favorite part could be the guided meditations which were effective even over Zoom. I recommend this course for people who recognize that systemic racism in American makes individual relationships messy, complicated and nuanced - yet the participant is prepared to dig in anyway, willing to experience discomfort at times because, ultimately, the pavers on the pathway to justice we are laying down are comprised of joy, prophetic wisdom, empowerment, and good will, all of them being spiritually-centered attributes and pursuits that we may overlook. Engaging in the 'struggle' and the 'work' of anti-racism may be necessary labor but this program prepares participants' hearts and minds to be open to the beauty and transformation that are always within our reach along the way, no matter how distant we may be from the justice we seek.

Our Faith and Racial Equity virtual program (via Zoom) with 12 of us (including co-facilitators) exceeded by expectations! In addition to co-facilitators, 1 group member handled the "tech" transitions - what a blessing! This was a serious commitment for 9 weeks! My co-facilitators ordered materials, emailed group members and set up our weekly planning sessions. My role in sharing presentation duties was infinitely easier because of the detailed script and videos provided. The emphasis on Scripture and the guidance of the Holy Spirit increased our abilities to speak our truth and maintain hope dealing with the monumental task of acknowledging white privilege and the pain of racism.