Monday night, dozens of you, including some of you with your children, joined several of the ministers and staff at the 4th Precinct to deliver food and wood, to collect blankets to wash, and to stand in solidarity with those demanding racial justice. We sang and talked with those who were there. It was a peaceful gathering, though there is deep anger and grief being expressed as well.

 

Later that night after we left, three men allegedly shot and injured five black protesters, one block from the Precinct. This is terrorism, and it is clear that the people of color connected to this movement are in real danger. For several days now, white supremacists and others have been gathering to oppose, taunt, and threaten peaceful protesters. The point of terrorism is to frighten people, silence people, to create such fear that people no longer have the courage to gather or act for justice. We must continue to stand together.

 

Showing up to stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters of color is an act of love, compassion, and justice. The situation Monday night was frightening and the way forward is not always clear, but as people of faith, we are compelled to stand on the side of love, justice, and hope, in whatever form and whatever expression that takes. For information about church members gathering for upcoming rallies, please pay attention to the church's Facebook page. For the latest information about what is happening at the 4th Precinct, see the Black Lives Matter Minneapolis Facebook page.

 

Moments like this can feel hopeless; the antidote to hopelessness and despair is action. What conversations about racial justice might you have around the Thanksgiving table? Could you drop off supplies at the Precinct or make a donation to an organization doing racial justice work? Perhaps talk to a trusted friend and share your anger, confusion, or grief. Then, figure out what you can do together. As always, come to church. We are here for one another.

 

Know that we love each and every one of you, and we, like you, long for a day when our community might be at peace with itself, when all might thrive.

 

May we continue to work toward that day.

 

In love,

Justin and Jen