For congregations that are already engaged in ongoing anti-racism work and are ready to tackle more difficult materials and take more concrete steps, Level Three is for you. This level focuses on facing hard truths and moving from education into visible action. Here, we begin to challenge the symbols, language, and structures that have perpetuated white supremacy, even unknowingly, in our faith communities.

Our Goals for Level Three are to:

• Recognize and critically examine the symbols, language, and theologies that perpetuate white supremacy within our church.

• Prepare to move from education into concrete, visible action, including direct community engagement and allyship.

• Become more equipped to offer solidarity, support, and pastoral care to marginalized communities.

Suggested Activities to get you started: (click through to read)

Is your church just beginning to explore the work of decentering whiteness? If so, Level One is the perfect place to start. This level is all about building a shared vocabulary and understanding in a compassionate and supportive environment. We believe that a strong foundation is the key to all subsequent work.

Our Goals for Level One are to:

• Establish a shared understanding of terms like "decentering whiteness," "white supremacy culture," and "racial justice".

• Begin to recognize how whiteness shows up in church traditions, worship, and decision-making.

• Create a safe space where congregants can ask questions and engage in dialogue without fear of judgment.

Suggested Activities to get you started:

Every congregation is on a different part of their spiritual journey. The same is true for their journey toward racial justice. The Decentering Whiteness Task Force recognizes this and has created a structured program plan designed to support congregations at all stages. We want to meet you where you are, not ask you to jump to a place you’re not ready for.

Our approach is designed to be invitational and action-oriented. We offer three "levels" of engagement, providing a clear pathway for congregations to grow in understanding, courage, and commitment. Congregations can start at a level that aligns with their current journey and comfort, knowing that each level builds upon the last.

• Level One provides foundational understanding and language. This is for churches just beginning their work, focusing on education and awareness.

• Level Two encourages more critical self-examination and dialogue for those who have some familiarity with racial justice concepts and are ready to look inward.

• Level Three challenges congregations to directly confront difficult historical and contemporary symbols and practices that uphold whiteness. This is for churches already engaged in ongoing anti-racism work and ready to move into concrete action.

This structured pathway is not a race; it's a pilgrimage. It allows your congregation to grow at a sustainable pace, building the necessary trust and shared vocabulary to tackle more challenging conversations and actions down the road. Our goal is to empower you to become a more inclusive and equitable faith community.

Next Step: Are you ready to find out which level is right for your congregation? Visit the Our Program: Engaging Your Congregation page on our website to learn more, and stay tuned for our next posts where we'll break down each level in more detail.