You Are Here
First Steps for White Christians on Race and Racism
The General Commission on Religion and Race offers this four-session curriculum as a first step for white Christians, in particular, who are unsure about what racism is and unclear about its relevance to individuals, the church, and society as a whole. This resource is designed for individuals who are ready to learn about how racism operates, how it affects Christian communities, and how people of faith can recognize and resist racism.
Your Instructor
M. Garlinda Burton is a United Methodist deaconess, writer, editor, and advocate for racial, gender, and LGBTQ justice, who has worked for the denomination’s communications and advocacy agencies for more than 35 years. Director of Resource Development for the General Commission on Religion and Race, she also serves on the Board of Visitors at Vanderbilt Divinity School and the board of directors of the Wesley Foundation at Tennessee State University, in Nashville, Tenn. She is also active with the Nashville Freedom School Partnership©, a summer literacy program for children of color living in poverty. A lifelong United Methodist Christian, She holds degrees from the University of Tennessee and Northwestern University, and has done course work through New York Theological Seminary and Wichita (Kan.) State University.
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"More than simply resenting information, 'You Are Here' balances written content with participant activities designed to lead us into personal reflection about our own history with race and racism. Useful for youth, adults, and with small groups and congregations, this study leads participants into critical conversation and reflection that white Christians must have if we truly believe that all people belong—equally—in God's Kin-dom."
- Rev. Pamela C. Hawkins, clergywoman (retired), Nashville, TN
“Many caring white people have begun to see what people of color have known for a long time about systemic racism, and want to learn more about how to become an ally rather than a bystander. This thoughtful course is a timely and worthy exploration of these issues from a Christian perspective. I can imagine church communities forming study groups around this course. The teachers and resources included are relevant, truthful and provocative in a graceful way. I highly recommend this course as an aligned action for those wanting to learn more.”
- Mary Entrekin Agee, Mindfulness Coordinator, University School of Nashville