The first of a series of events aimed at looking at and discussing racial justice and the role of faith in troubled times, took place in Weston-super-Mare this week. Led by Anira Khokhar Bath and Wells Racial Justice Adviser and Revd Narinder Tegally the event was organised in conjunction with Racial Equality North Somerset (RENS) to explore how faith communities can respond to racism and division in practical and hopeful ways.
The session, 'Christianity and Racial Justice in Troubled Times', was designed to support churches on a shared journey of learning, reflection and action. Working collaboratively with other organisations such as RENS to work towards building more welcoming and inclusive communities.
Emmanuel Church in Weston provided a welcoming space for the event in which those who attended took part in open conversation, shared learning and reflection. Speaking to the group Anira shared how she is passionate about systemic change and explained how the Racial Justice Audit undertaken by her on behalf of the diocese is already bringing about that change. “Anira encouraged everyone to start their racial justice journey in the simplest way, by having an open and honest conversation. “We can all play our part.” And she asked everyone to consider, “How do we learn to love one another, how are we empathetic to one another, how are we going to accept the differences and celebrate the similarities we have?”
Addressing those gathered Revd Narinder Tegally, Bath and Wells Interfaith Adviser said, "Racism is not an abstract issue for the Church of England; it is a lived reality that touches parish life, leadership, history, and witness. For me, this is not simply something I observe or analyse; it is something I have known, lived and experienced known personally.
"As an Indian woman, born into the Sikh faith and later my conversion to the Christian faith in my twenties, my journey into ordained ministry has been shaped by both grace and struggle. The question Jesus asks “Who do you say I am? has not been answered from a place of comfort, but in the midst of experiences of racism, of not fully belonging in society, and many times, not fully belonging in the very Church I am called to serve.
"There have been moments when I have felt unseen or misjudged, when my identity as an Indian woman, and as someone who came to faith from a Sikh background, has set me apart in ways that were not always welcomed." You can read Narinder's talk in full by downloading the document from the bottom of this page.
During the session participants reflected on lived realities of racism and division within their communities and considered how churches can play an active role in fostering inclusion, understanding and justice. There was also time for questions and discussions.
Speaking afterwards, one participant said, “I thought it was really good. I enjoyed hearing the different perspectives. This is that opportunity to think about the lived experience of racism and what each of us as Christians can do to make a difference.” Another reflected, “It was amazing. It was so good to have so many people come forward and have a discussion about racial justice.” Lots of different opinions but everyone was very respectful.” Others said, “It was really encouraging, to churches in particular, but to people of other faiths and communities coming together and actually having those difficult conversations.” You can see more reflections from the day in the video below.
More events are planned for the future we will share the dates on the website and on social media shortly.