Black History Month is observed in February in the U.S. The observance matters to Christians because it provides an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the significant contributions of African Americans to the faith. It is also an opportunity to lament and repent of the Church’s history with racism and injustice. By the observance, we demonstrate solidarity with the Black community, acknowledging their experiences and struggles within the context of Christian teachings. We do this all while highlighting the unifying power of God in the face of racial divisions.
See more information on GCI’s National Advisory Council for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion – GCI Equipper.
The words of U.S. Director Jeff Broadnax in the June 2023 Update remain timely. Read an excerpt below and the entire letter here.
We continue seeking the Lord’s discernment for ways GCI can reflect the unity and diversity of the triune God in a fractured nation. In the U.S., the racial, religious, socio-political divisions have metastasized both in our citizens and within the Body of Christ to the point that even the terms diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) create inner conflict for many. Some in GCI have wondered if the denomination has become political or taken our eyes off Christ to embrace a secular agenda by using DEI language.
The answer to all those concerns is a resounding NO! The Council has only one agenda, his name is Jesus! But Scripture does charge believers to be awake and have the eyes of their hearts spiritually enlightened (Eph. 1:17-19).
God’s desire in Jesus’ reconciling work is to end the hostility of “us vs them” thinking and be committed to making this message known through the church (Eph. 2:15b-16, 3:10).
