March 2015
After both services, as we celebrate Selma Sunday this week, Peace and Justice Committee members will be at a table in the back of the sanctuary with “Black Lives Matter” yard signs. You may wonder why the signs affirm that Black Lives Matter, why they don’t read “All Lives Matter,” or how this issue affects our church members. Don’t worry — you’re not alone! Most UCE members have not found ourselves in the center of the Black Lives Matter movement. We may not be close to anyone who risks violence simply because of the color of their skin. We sincerely may not understand why youth continue public protests as the cold Chicago weather goes on, or why it matters to Unitarian Universalists.
A national group of UUs addressing racial justice, Are UU Awake, asked churches nationwide to show support for the Black Lives Matter movement by displaying banners and signs. It means a great deal to them that UU churches show our neighbors, and especially the African American community, that we care about what’s happening.
Of course all lives matter, but Black youth are losing their lives to police and vigilante violence at a stunning rate. The Department of Justice report this week sheds light on the racial disparities of Ferguson’s court system, and the blatant racism in local law enforcement emails. The deaths of Black youth and the systemic lack of accountability for these killings will not change unless people who are not directly affected care, and speak out for change.
Our UCE mission, “Nurturing the Human Spirit for a World Made Whole”, and our UU principles, call us to care about the lives of people whose circumstances are vastly different from our own. Check out the UU World March 2015 for a great article by Kenny Wiley on efforts to raise awareness in Denver. Read UU Minister Daniel Schatz’s response to a community member’s demand that he change his church banner to say “All Lives Matter.” Take a moment to consider this New York Times Op-Ed, What’s Wrong with Black Lives Matter? Ultimately the conversation, as difficult as it is, helps us move closer to a world of less hatred and mistrust, greater solidarity and justice.
We have sold 44 yard signs so far. If you would like to purchase one for $5 for your yard or your window, we welcome you to check with us at the back of the sanctuary after either service on March 8. We expect to take some criticism from neighbors, family, and friends. These conversations are well worth having, and richly reward us in building understanding, compassion, and justice in our community.