Let’s Talk About It Again (and again)

I recently listened to an interview on racial reconciliation.  When the African American man was asked about the way to reconciliation by his European American interviewer and self- described “white ally,” he started the conversation with American slavery.  I was immediately struck by the fact that he felt the need to start there, that reconciliation […]

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Don’t Wait for Donald Trump

It is no surprise to most Americans that Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump has made yet another political misstep and refuses to take a step back to examine himself.  Trump recently said that federal judge Gonzalo Curiel, a Mexican American born in Chicago and a graduate of Indiana University, is biased against him.  Trump believes that he would […]

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Muhammad Ali on a White Christ

On this past Friday, the world lost a boxing champion who referred to himself as “the greatest of all time.”  While known for his physical quickness, Muhammad Ali was also possessed a sharp intellect and quick wit.  As we continue to think about race, its privileges and oppressions, I thought it fitting to hear his reflections during […]

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“The Racial Context of Christian Churches in the United States”

  This is the title of a chapter of Rev. James Ellis III’s newest book Tell the Truth, Shame the Devil: Stories about the Challenges of Young Pastors, where he served as the editor.  It is a book that includes a number of true stories from clergy who may differ in denominational affiliation but all […]

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10 Overused Words in Our Fight for Racial Justice

Naming is an essential task when telling a story as it allows us to examine behavior, motivations, character traits, historical significance and to make personal connections for healing and growth.  It allows us to connect the dots and to point out patterns.  Properly identifying persons, naming the problems and putting our finger on our reality is paramount. However, it is not […]

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