Decentering Whiteness: Our Journey Together
Understanding Decentering Whiteness
Our Program: Engaging Your Congregation
Level One: Introduction & Foundational Learning
Level Two: Engaging in Self-Reflection & Critical Dialogue
Level Three: Facing Hard Truths & Beginning to Engage More Directly
Taking Action: Practical Ways to Decenter Whiteness in Church
Reflection and Getting Started
Who This Is For:
Churches just beginning their journey of decentering whiteness or those needing basic foundational education.
Goals:
Establish a shared understanding of terms like “decentering whiteness,” “white supremacy culture,” “racial justice,” and “allyship.”
Begin to recognize how whiteness shows up in church traditions, worship, and decision-making.
Suggested Activities:
Basic Educational Series:
Host a 4-6 week study group exploring the history and impact of white supremacy on the church.
Use accessible resources:
The Cross and the Lynching Tree (James Cone) for historical context.
A relevant documentary such as 13th to understand systemic issues.
Offer a weekly discussion guide that includes a scripture or faith tradition reflection and prompts related to race and faith.
Introduction to Key Concepts:
Invite a guest speaker or facilitator to give a basic presentation on what “decentering whiteness” means in a church context.
Provide an overview of common terms: “white fragility,” “settler-colonialism,” “racial equity,” “DEI backlash,” etc., to build a shared language.
Safe & Compassionate Spaces for Conversation:
Host small group discussions that encourage open, non-judgmental conversation.
Emphasize listening, empathy, and the importance of being okay with discomfort.
Provide simple guidelines on how to give and receive honest feedback about racially charged speech or behavior in a compassionate manner.