On Sunday our friend Ronné Sims led us in a discussion around race and faith. Wherever we come from as we enter in this discussion politically, economically, racially, or theologically, our aim is to be ambassadors of Christ to each other and to our world. That what unifies us is the Gospel of Christ, that we are all sinners in need of mercy. For some of us, Ronné's words were nothing new, and for others, they were really challenging. While we certainly all don't have to agree at Oak Life, we do hope that at the very least we can take a posture of listening and learning. And we're definitely grateful for the chance to learn from our sister this last week.
Below are some further resources that Ronné provided for anyone who wants to engage this conversation further. Also feel free to post comments or questions below.
Books cited and/or helpful for more discussion:
Alexander, Michelle. The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness. The New Press, 2012
Blackmon, Douglas A. Slavery by Another Name: The Re-Enslavement of Black Americans from the Civil War to World War II. Anchor Books, 2008
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To join other faith communities and organizations in providing a social safety net for all citizens of Oakland, contact:
Oakland Community Organizations (OCO)
www.oaklandcommunity.org (510) 639-1444
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CEASEFIRE OAKLAND/LIFELINES TO HEALING
Far too many people in our community have died before their time. Far too many people are wasting their lives in prison. Oakland Ceasefire/Lifelines to Healing is a movement to stop the killings without sending more people to jail.
Across the community-faith leaders, residents, schools, neighborhood organizations, social services, public agencies and law enforcement are uniting to build a culture of peace and healing in our community.
Walk our neighborhoods: Fridays 6:30 pm – 9:00 pm
March 20 - Cosmopolitan – 988 85th Avenue
March 27 – At Thy Word – 8915 International Blvd
April 3 - Allen Temple – 8501 International Blvd
April 10 - First Mt. Sinai-1970 86th Avenue
April 17 - Cosmopolitan – 988 85th Avenue
April 24 – At Thy Word – 8915 International Blvd
For more information on Oakland Ceasefire/Lifelines to Healing
call 510 639-1440 or email fridaycommunitynightwalks@gmail.com