At our recent (June) C&MA Board Meeting we spent significant time and energy discussing the recent events in our nation relating to racial tension and injustice. While The Alliance has made progress in these areas over the years and has responded with helpful resources in this current moment, the Board recognizes the urgent need for further growth, healing, and reconciliation in our nation and within The Alliance. Our posture is one of humility and listening, sharing an unyielding resolve to be faithful to the entirety of Scripture—including its admonition to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God (Micah 6:8).
As a result of these conversations, and after reviewing best practices for organizations related to diversity, the Board has directed these next steps:
- Kelvin Walker, C&MA corporate vice president and superintendent of Metropolitan District, will create and lead the Diversity and Justice Taskforce, which will bring recommendations to the C&MA Board and leadership. This taskforce, by virtue of its composition, will itself bring a diversity of perspectives.
- An official theological statement on racism and justice will be drafted, finalized, and added to our existing denominational position statements (Sanctity of Life, Human Sexuality, Singleness and Marriage, etc.). The Board has long planned to commission such a statement; but the recent events in our nation have heightened the need for immediacy.
- Alliance leadership will maintain and reinforce its ongoing commitment to further the conversation about justice and diversity within the Alliance family, making every effort to maintain the spirit of unity while speaking openly and forthrightly about issues of racial tension and injustice.
Matt Kelly
C&MA Board Chairperson