The purpose of this initiative is to renew the Church's commitment to address racism, to heighten awareness that it continues to be a problem, and to take practical steps to address it. Within the diocese we have made the fight against racism a priority in our programs for this year and have responded with a new series of convenings to address institutional and individual racism. These diocesan gatherings are conducted under the direction of Ms. Margretta Stokes Tucker, director of the diocesan Office for Black Catholic Ministries, and Mr. John Hannigan, director of the Department of Social Programs. The Sunday Eucharist offers a wealth of opportunities to reflect on this issue. The prayers of the faithful can promote social justice and urge the elimination of racism.
Homilies can deal with the implications of the Christian faith for prejudice and racist behavior.
We need to be alert to and articulate in addressing racism wherever we meet it. In housing, citizens need to insist that the government enforce fair housing statues. In the workplace, recruitment, hiring, and promotion policies need to reflect true opportunity. In public education, we can support the teaching of tolerance and appreciation for each culture. In the public debate on the illnesses of our age, we ought also to insist on the place of religious faith.