The election of the first black President of the United States was an historic event in our nation’s history, but this singular occasion, although a celebration of equality, does not eliminate racism. In a way, it exposed just how deeply the issue of race is still ingrained in the country and that racism still exists in our society. Because it has existed for centuries, many of us are unaware how the history of racism affects how we all think, live and behave even today. In order to become more aware of our actions—personally, interpersonally and institutionally—and move toward a church without racism that openly welcomes all races, The General Convention of the Episcopal Church named racism a sin and has mandated anti-racism training for all church leaders, both ordained and lay.

If your parish, diocese, seminary, commission, committee, agency or board is actively seeking to join the Gospel work of working against racism as well as other related oppressions, the Advocacy Center will work with you in achieving that goal. We’re offering to facilitate training events, train members of your group to become certified anti-racism trainers, and provide relevant and motivational materials and resources for conventions and other events. We also have an expansive list of recommended books, articles, videos and websites that can be used to learn more about how we can all join together to eliminate racism in our church and society.