Rejecting Racism, Pursuing Peace

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“The plague of racism is insidious, entering into our minds as smoothly and quietly and invisibly as floating airborne microbes enter into our bodies to find lifelong purchase in our bloodstreams.” ~ Maya Angelou

Our Felician values call for the pursuit of justice and peace, respecting the dignity of all persons, and solidarity with the poor. We are called to act with compassion and support positive transformation. There is no room for prejudice in our mission.

The world is hurting. Our cities bleed from age old wounds, clumsily bandaged, and reopened by fresh injury. Pain is heaped upon pain, until the citizens cry out, “Stop! No more! We cannot endure it any longer.” As protests have swept across our nation, and throughout the world, many hearts have felt anger, sadness, and frustration.

“In these days of unrest, where do you find possibility?
In these days of fury, where do you find grace?
In these days of blame, where do you find mercy?”
~ Rev. Diane Smith

Here are some resources that can help you take steps to combat prejudice in your community:

SPEAK UP
Responding to Everyday Bigotry, from the Southern Poverty Law Center

WATCH
Racism in Our Streets and Structures, a dialogue from the Initiative on Catholic Social Thought and Public Life, Georgetown University

LEARN
What Is White Privilege, Really?

DISCOVER
Implicit Bias Test from Harvard University

DISCUSS
Ethical Reflection Guide: Peace in our Hearts, Ministries, Communities and theWorld, from Felician Services, Inc.

For additional resources, visit Catalysts for Peace compiled by Felician Services, Inc.

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