A detailed report sharing the findings of Racial Justice Consultant Anira Khokhar, who carried out a series of in-depth interviews and listening sessions with people across the diocese to explore racial justice issues has been published.
Funded by the Church of England’s Racial Justice Unit, Anira carried out a series of in-depth interviews and listening sessions with people across the diocese. Participants included clergy, lay leaders, and parish volunteers, among others, to explore issues around racial justice.
Reflecting on the reasons why the diocese sought to undertake the audit and the need to undertake the recommendations made in the Racial Justice report, Bishop Michael said, “As Christian we believe that every human being is made in the image of God. That’s a fundamental tenet of our belief and we believe that’s true of every human life; whoever they are and wherever they have come from.
“Because we’re all made in God’s image that means that it takes the whole world to know Christ. Here in Somerset the makeup of our population is changing all the time. So, if we’re to know Christ here, we need to listen to everyone who is around us. When we do that, we benefit from the insights and understanding of the rich diversity of all the people that live in our county.”
The report draws attention to concerns around visibility and representation, the confidence of individuals to raise concerns, access to leadership pathways, and the pressing need for increased cultural awareness. Whilst it points to several areas where good practice is already evident the report also identifies systemic challenges that prevent our diocese from moving toward greater equity and inclusion.
Through the conversations, the audit sought to look at both the strengths and challenges in how our diocese approaches belonging, representation and participation. It also aimed to understand the structural and cultural barriers that may prevent people of Global Majority Heritage from flourishing or fully participating in the life of the Church.
Speaking about her work Anira said, “The picture that emerged from the audit was honest, hopeful, with strengths to build on and challenges to face. My hope is that it provides a strong foundation for the Diocese of Bath and Wells to undertake work that, with hope, love and vision, can be sustained.”
Alongside the findings, the report sets out a series of recommendations, covering:
- Leadership, representation and visibility
- Training and theological education
- Governance and anti-racism infrastructure
- Community culture and belonging
- Theology and teaching
The diocesan Lament to Action Group will be reviewing the report’s recommendations and working with diocesan leadership to make changes.