[UUA-L:713] UUA hosts invitational consultation on Theology and Racism

[Deborah Weiner]

As part of the Unitarian Universalist Association's effort to deepen our
theological reflection on racism, the UUA is hosting an invitational
consultation on Theology and Racism.  The meeting began on January 28th and
concludes at noon on January 30th, and is being held at UUA headquarters in
Boston.

A small group of scholars, ministers, and activists from within and outside
Untiarian Universalism have been invited to participate in the event.  The
opening presentation on Jan. 28 was given by Dr. James Cone, Charles A.
Briggs Distinguished Professor of Systematic Theology at Union Theological
Seminary.  UUA President John A. Buehrens responded to Dr. Cone's
presentation.  

January 29 was focused on seven essays (already been read by participants)
presented by the Rev. Dr. Paul Rasor, Rev. Rosemary Bray McNatt, Rev. Dr.
William R. Jones, Rev. Patricia Jiminez, Rev. Gary Smith, Dr. Thandeka, and
Iliff School of Theology professor, the Rev. Dr. George Tinker.

Responses were offered by the Rev. Marjorie Bowens-Wheatley, Rev. Tom
Schade, Rev. Dianne Arakawa, Rev.Tracey Robinson-Harris, Rev. Jose
Ballester, Rev. JoEllen Willis, Rev. Peter Morales, Rev. Ken Olliff, Rev.
Elizabeth Ellis, Rev. Fred Muir, Rev. George Kimmich Beach, Rev. Anita
Farber-Robertson, Rev. Danielle Di Bona, and Dr. Leon Spencer.

On January 30, the Rev. Dr. Rebecca Parker, president of Starr King School
for the Ministry, will offer the final presentation, which will be followed
by responses from the Rev. Susan Suchocki Brown and the Rev. Melvin Hoover.
Following the morning presentation and responses, a two-hour open dialogue
is planned.  The event is co-facilitated by the Rev. John Buehrens, who is
serving as consultation chair, and the Rev. Marjorie Bowens-Wheatley, who is
the convener.

The meeting will be recorded, and it is expected that the essays and a
summary of the proceedings will be published by the UUA in as a reflection
and study guide for clergy and laity.  This volume (working title: Spiritual
Resources for the Journey: Unitarian Universalist Theologies for the
Struggle Against Racism) will be a vital resource as the UUA continues to
support individuals and congregations engaged in anti-racism work.  

Deborah J. Weiner
Director of Electronic Communication
Unitarian Universalist Association
25 Beacon Street
Boston, MA  02108

dweiner at uua.org
voice - direct:  617-948-6104
FAX - 617-742-7025

http://www.uua.org
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