On Sunday, September 27, Social Justice Intersections (SJI) gathered a parent panel to discuss how to protect our children from injustice. The session, titled Beyond Good Intentions: Radical Hospitality, Protection and Justice, was prompted by an article by Kimberly Seals-Allers, a Black mother and maternal health expert.
After some encouragement from Joe Agne, Chris Nieuwsma agreed to organize an SJI session. She sought counsel from Henry Pleas, who leads FUMC’s Racial Justice Committee. Henry agreed it was an important conversation, and the stellar panel of Cherie Asante, Christian Farr, Jason Lewis, and Dan Owens was formed.
The session, attended by 35 FUMC members and friends, included a grounding in scripture (Galatians 6:2), Nolan Wells’ tragic death during a July 4th boating excursion, and how that tragedy impacted Ms. Seals-Allers when her Black child was invited on a weekend trip to a white friend’s home in a wealthy area of Florida. We discussed how to share the responsibility for keeping all of our children safe, especially when they are the “only one.”
Moderated by Henry, the panelists reflected on their experiences growing up through their particular racial lens and shared how those experiences impact how they are raising their children in the Evanston community. Although the panel and their children represented a diverse mix, their shared experiences highlighted common themes. In their remarks, panelists addressed modeling and coaching their children in respectful behavior toward others, as well as the expectations of respectful behavior they should expect from communities where they have become resident. They also mentioned the importance of becoming known in the community and connecting with allies who support the inclusion of their families into communities where other members might choose not to be welcoming.
The discussion was rich, and the time was short. Because many requested an opportunity to continue the dialogue, we are exploring dates for part two. Stay tuned to Enews for a confirmed date.