Last month my blog focused on the name change from Faith Development to Faith Formation. This month, another name change, the Anti-Racism Immigration Justice Action Group or A-RIJAG is now the Liberation Collective. Group members discussed the importance of collective action in disrupting white supremacy culture and how it is liberatory for people of all identities. The name Liberation Collective made sense (and is shorter).
UU Asheville began the journey of disrupting white supremacy culture with the goal of becoming an anti-racist congregation. Our efforts led us to widen the circle of concern for the freedom of all people recognizing that oppression is intersectional. Multiple oppressions exist simultaneously. We all have a stake in ending them and engaging for collective liberation, freedom for all to thrive. Sometimes we lose focus comparing whose suffering is more significant (often described as the “oppression olympics”). It is a distraction from finding common ground and acting in solidarity. We can use our collective power to disrupt racism and oppression, and contribute to co-creating the Beloved Community we dream about. Moving toward collective liberation is relational, challenging, messy and joyous. The following quote embodies the concept of collective liberation:
“If you have come to help me, you are wasting your time.
But if you have come because your liberation is bound up with mine,
Then let us work together.”
-Lilla Watson, Aboriginal elder
The Liberation Collective invites the entire congregation to join in their efforts . It will involve both learning and reflection, as well as collective action in solidarity with siblings who have marginalized identities.. At our monthly meetings we are discussing our congregational read “How We Ended Racism,” by Justin Michael William & Shelly Tielgiski. It has led to rich and vulnerable conversations. We hope other teams and committees will explore ways to reflect on the book together. There will be copies in the UU Avl library for you to borrow.
Rev. Audette and I will be launching a 3rd Wednesday series October 16 “Collective Liberation in Action” to discuss the book, share opportunities for further learning and connect it to our UU theology and values. We will also explore actions we can take to build relationships and connect in solidarity with groups seeking justice in our community. Stay tuned for more information in the e-News.
A few quotes from members of our team:
“Being part of the Liberation Collective means a commitment to work on myself and share my journey, its successes and failures. It also means taking action to dismantle racism and other oppressions, to support healing and reconnection in our community.” -Jensen
Here I can learn and take action in a myriad of ways and join with others who have a similar bent… – Bernise they/them/theirs
“For me, being a part of the Liberation Collective is a responsibility I feel deep within my soul. As a white woman, who has led a privileged life, I must work within my community to undo oppressions and bring justice, in all its forms, for everyone.” – Fredda
In faith,
Rev. Claudia Jiménez
Minister of Faith Formation