Press Release: Religion and Race Releases New “What Is?” Resource Series
November 1, 2022
Contact:
Jeehye Kim Pak, Senior Director of Communications and Marketing
General Commission on Religion and Race
202-495-2949
jpak@gcorr.org
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Religion and Race Releases New “What Is?” Resource Series
WASHINGTON – In this new “What Is?” series, the General Commission on Religion and Race offers this compilation of concise definitions, examples, and Biblical/theological foundations to create common vocabulary for Christians to engage in antiracism work. Each term’s resource includes reflection questions for small groups as well as additional resources for further study. The first round of terms (launched in October 2022) includes: ableism, antiracism, BIPOC, cultural bias, gaslighting, and LGBTQIA+. More terms will be added through the end of 2022.
As humanity’s understanding and discussion of the concepts of race, racism, and antiracism have evolved over generations, so have the words and phrases we use as we continue the work of obeying God and advancing racial justice. Our hope, as readers engage this series, is that the learning equips people to move into deeper waters in antiracism work in their respective context.
Rev. Enger Muteteke, Senior Director of Programs and Education Strategies for GCORR, had the following to say in regards to the new resource: “ ‘What Is?’ is a great first step towards helping Christians build common ground for these ideas and terms that are often thrown around with the assumption that everyone understands them. This series will help Christians new to antiracism work and those who have been at it for a while, whether someone just needs an introduction or some resources to dig deeper, there’s something for everyone.”
Visit the series homepage at www.r2hub.org/what-is-series for more information.
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The General Commission on Religion and Race is one of 13 church-wide agencies of The United Methodist Church. The Commission offers teaching resources, training, and networking for Christians seeking to bring their faith to the task of dismantling racism, tribalism, and xenophobia in all forms. More information available at www.gcorr.org.
