Because we recognize that the church often perpetuates racism, bigotry and injustice; and because we have seen how some have used religion and faith as a way to oppose this initiative, we want to be clear in our support of the Ames Community School District Black Lives Matter at School Week initiative.
Collegiate/Wesley Statement of Support for the ACSD Black Lives Matter at School Week
“The United Methodist Church proclaims the value of each person as a unique child of God and commits itself to the healing and wholeness of all persons.
The United Methodist Church recognizes that the sin of racism has been destructive to its unity throughout its history. Racism continues to cause painful division and marginalization.
The United Methodist Church shall confront and seek to eliminate racism, whether in organizations or in individuals, in every facet of its life and in society at large.
The United Methodist Church shall work collaboratively with others to address concerns that threaten the cause of racial justice at all times and in all places.”
–The United Methodist Book of Discipline, paragraph 5
Collegiate/Wesley affirms our commitment and our duty to continue the work to eliminate racism and bigotry “at all times and in all places.” We support and applaud the ACSD for creating an initiative and program to more thoroughly address racism and bigotry in our schools. We believe that any opposition to this initiative is rooted in racism and bigotry which are diametrically opposed to Christian teachings. We affirm the sacred worth of BBIPOC and all queer persons and their right to be safe, loved, supported and educated in a just and equitable environment. The initiative takes valuable steps in not only introducing this to students in developmentally appropriate ways but also to educate teachers, staff and administration so that they can continue to foster equality and inclusion in all aspects of their work. This is in keeping with the work that God calls us to do in all facets of our community.
We commit ourselves to continue to examine our own racism and bigotry in ourselves, our systems, structures and policies with the help of God. We support the staff, teachers, administrators and school board as they do this sacred work and offer ourselves in partnership for the good of all in our community; and all means ALL.