Working in Solidarity: Anti-Racism Retreat for Faith Communities
- Why is there so much misunderstanding between Black & White folks?
- Is racism the issue? Or is it a matter of economics?
- Will Critical Race Theory help or hinder the call for racial equality?
- What can you do as an individual or as a church to promote racial justice?
The “In Solidarity” – Anti-Racism Retreat addresses these questions & more.
African American culture is distinctively different from European American culture. This reality, along with abridged versions of American history and a lack of truth-telling, has led to varying perspectives on race and racism among Black and White people in this country. When white folks fail to connect racism to white supremacy; when they fail to see the residual and generational impact of systemic oppression; and when they fail to rightly acknowledge Black aesthetics and cultural distinctives, they contribute – though often inadvertently – to ongoing misunderstandings, miscommunication and, missed opportunities to effectively collaborate with Black folk when addressing racial injustice.
In this workshop, participants will learn how to avoid making false assumptions and unintentional microaggressions toward Black people. They will learn how African Americans have relied on their spiritual strength and their creative spirit to survive centuries of oppression. Participants will be encouraged to engage spiritually and emotionally while connecting historical and cultural insights to establish or strengthen relationships with African Americans. Emphasis is placed on being in right relationship with God and with all of God’s people.
Many of the guidelines provided in the retreat will help you to work in solidarity with people from other oppressed communities. It is important to note, however, that this retreat focuses on the African American experience. Together we will call upon God to bring justice and mercy to all.
Check-in begins at 3pm and the retreat will begin at 5pm, prior to dinner. Guided by Rev. Joan Crawford. If you are interested in a double occupancy option, please email Jennifer Murphy, Manager of Retreats & Events, at Jennifer_Murphy@nullBonSecoursRCC.com. There is also an overnight option that includes Monday’s “The Life & Legacy of Howard Thurman” retreat, checking out on Monday, May 15.
The Reverend Joan Crawford is a Spiritual Director, Deacon and Benedictine Oblate. Joan has an ecumenical background and inclusive vision. She received a Master of Theology from Northern Baptist Theological Seminary in Lombard Illinois; and a Certificate in Spiritual Guidance from the Siena Dominican Center in Racine Wisconsin. Her ministry now includes workshops to promote interracial healing and dialogue. Joan brings spiritual awareness, insightful humor, and tender seriousness to her presentations. Her candor, sensitivity, and deep listening will help instill the building blocks for better understanding between the African American and Anglo-American communities.
Testimonials:
“Joan is an educator and minister who serves from a heart of hope while sitting comfortably with the complex set of issues facing our world. She values and recognizes the importance of engaging across differences.”
“… deeply emotional material. Hard to walk away without being touched.”
“It was great. Thank you…for opening your heart and life to us. I never realized the depth of fear,
pain, death and danger in the history of African Americans.”
“Joan was an excellent presenter and engaged people…you could feel the energy in the room
open up.”
“…participants felt a personal connection and warmth while hearing challenging things…”
“I especially liked the integration of music and the arts!”
“Marvelous, meaty, intelligent and fearless.”