Meet the Team: Anti-Racism Vision Group
The Anti-Racism group wants you to know who we are! This way you can contact us and know why we all are doing what we are doing. Each group member has provided a summary of why they decided to volunteer for this group and why it is important to drive this continuous change in the church.
Patricia Mize
The events of the last year have led me to confront the realities of racism and my personal culpability in the racism in our community as well as the world in general. The scope of these issues is overwhelming and paralyzing. I joined the anti-racism vision group to serve our community as well as to do my small part to push back the tide. Isaiah 1:17
Florence (Flo) Mathis
I wanted to be one of the voices within our fellowship to address racism that has been overlooked over the years within our churches. My hope is that more diversity and unity will be seen in the difference of culture, race and equality within our fellowship, and try to be a voice for others that have not been heard. 1 Corinthians 12:12
Katelynn Smith
I see being a part of this group as being in the battle with my fellow brothers and sisters who deserve to be lifted up and heard no matter their race, gender or social status. I want to be a support, a safe space and a worker as we continue to carry out God’s call for equality in his kingdom. I hope that we can all work together to have the unity Jesus’s prayed for come true! John 17: 20-23.
Mike Mathis
I volunteered to join the anti-racism group because I want to help to facilitate the ushering out of racism in God's church. There are people that are hurting due to this issue. I feel that PCOC Anti-Racism group will not only open the door for further conversation about racism, with this group we have the opportunity to bring forth practical solutions as to how we can both show equal concern for those who are suffering and work toward removing racism from our fellowship.
Bob and Marcia Bertalot
“I decided to participate in the anti-racism group for a few reasons. First, I felt like I needed to increase my sensitivity and understanding as to what those who aren't white male Americans go through in their life on a regular basis. Secondly, In order to stand up for my fellow Christian brother or sister, neighbor, and friend against oppression, I needed to engage in becoming all things to all men in order that I might understand the challenges people of color face so I can be equipped to talk to my fellow white American friends and neighbors about it.” - Bob Bertalot
"I was drawn to the Anti-Racism topic because, as an older white woman, I figured I had a lot to learn about other people's perspectives. My hope is to be able to help others feel valued, whatever their background." - Marcia Bertalot
Missing from this article are Alan Hess and Leti England which we look forward to adding in the future!
If you are interested in joining our crew please reach out to anyone introduced in this article or to Steve and Lisa Johnson to be connected.