11/13/2014
Be an Advocate for Friendship In the Midst of Diversity!
Introduction
Racial reconciliation, racial harmony, racial justice, diversity training, and cultural sensitivity are words used to describe our awareness or lack of awareness of the reality of racial prejudice and institutional racism. There are secular and religious organizations, individuals, and denominations fighting for racial equality. But here is the question I would like to propose: Are we gaining greater understanding and greater acceptance, or are we more confused and more powerless? My quest is to join with you to explore a pathway for real change. Many race initiatives expose white privilege, internal racial oppression, and institutional racism very well. Some walk away racially aware and emotionally abused. I am envisioning a “next step” to diversity trainings that will motivate and inspire us to step to the front line of the battlefield. I believe that the sharing of our stories will tap into the spiritual strength within each one of us and will teach us how to be willing participants to promote unity in the midst of diversity between individuals and communities.
Who Am I?
There were once abolitionists and segregationists, perhaps de-segregationists and, heaven forbid, even racists. I am an integrationist! I am African American, over 50, and a “sold out” believer in the indwelling spiritual power of Jesus Christ. I seek to gather together and to help integrate individuals of different ethnic, cultural, socio-economic environments, and faith beliefs into a circle of safe dialogue for the purpose of developing multiracial friendships, mutual learning, and reconciliation healing and hope. The essence of being an integrationist is persistence, perseverance, and presence.
I am advocating that a movement towards the development of intentional friendships across culture, race, and religion is necessary for reconciliation to begin. Our impetus for change comes from a repentant heart. I choose to believe that we can “undo racism” because racism is learned, and it can be unlearned. As a committed integrationist, I envision a Hearts In Harmony reciprocal community that sees racial and ethnic diversity as central to its existence.
I envision a community that seeks to develop faithful leaders of all peoples and are committed to a cross-cultural covenant that transcends and transforms personal preference. It will be our collaborative effort that enables us to effectively address social and racial injustice.
We are FAT: Faithful, Available, and Teachable. The birthing of this intentional movement towards change is nourished through trust and ongoing dialogue across the boundaries of socio-economics, disability, religion, gender, culture, and race. This movement towards change I boldly claim as: Operation Koinonia.
