More Light Presbyterians is taking a courageous step forward in our programming to help congregations and communities live in to LGBTQ inclusion. We are proud to announce an online Teach-In and Conversation series to equip individuals and congregations to address important topics impacting LGBTQ people and our communities.
Each Teach-In webinar will be presented by an expert in the topic we’ll be studying. A few days later we will host a facilitated online conversation where participants can share challenges and opportunities encountered when working for justice on these topics. Our goal is to offer MLP members and leaders the opportunity to learn together, share their ideas and experiences working for social justice in their congregations and communities, and explore opportunities for peer coaching.
Today we are thrilled to announce the first Teach-In series:
Racial Justice, Power, and Privilege
Our Teach-Ins on this series will further our ability to see and name racism, white privilege, and to take action for racial justice as individuals and with our congregations. We believe this is a crucial conversation our church needs to be having for such a time as this. As More Light Presbyterians we are called to show that there is “yet more light” to shine forth on LGBTQ inclusion. Without addressing the impact of racism on ourselves and in our communities we cannot fully live into the abundant inclusion we seek to share. We hope you’ll join us!
Learn more about the Teach In series here: http://www.mlp.org/mlp-teach-ins/
I. Racism and Racial Justice
Teach In October 26 3:30-4:3opm EST.
Conversation: October 28 3:30-4:30pm EST.
Register here: http://tinyurl.com/MLPteachIn
What will we learn?
Too often we talk in terms of interpersonal kindness or rudeness when we discuss racism. This session will make the distinction between structural racism and interpersonal conflicts related to race. We will also learn a common vocabulary for talking about racism and developing a shared understand of what Racism is and how Racial Justice can counter it.
Trainer: Jessica Vasquez Torres
Jessica Vazquez Torres is a proven leader with 15 years experience in anti-racism, anti-oppression, and cultural competency workshop development and facilitation. She is active in peace and justice concerns, including worker justice, immigration reform and anti-racism. Jessica is deeply committed to addressing social structures and cultural dynamics that marginalize and minoritize communities and limit their access to resources. Jessica, a 1.5-Generation ESL Queer Latina of Puerto Rican descent, holds a Bachelors degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Central Florida, a Master of Divinity from Christian Theological Seminary, and a Master of Theological Studies from the Candler School of Theology at Emory University.
II. White Privilege and Internalized Dominance (dates TBA)
What will we learn?
This session will zoom in on the particular ways that white people and people with light skin privilege enjoy certain privileges in our USA culture and society. Join us for a workshop about what internalized dominance is and how we as whites can work on deepening our self awareness and the understanding of others.
II. Skills for Taking Action for Racial Justice (dates TBA)
What will we learn?
Making choices to dismantle racism in our schools, congregations, workplaces and communities takes skill. We will present strategies and tools for working together and across race to integrate racial justice measures into our work.