THE PRISON POPULATION
While the exact comparison of the Black and White prison population may vary slightly, most studies agree that the Black population is five times more likely to be imprisoned than members of the White population. In some states they are ten times more likely to spend time in prison. This takes place in a country where 64% are White (non-Hispanic) and Blacks make up about 12% of the population.
HOW DO YOU RESPOND?
Now when you hear such statistics, what are your thoughts about why this is true? Let me suggest four possibilities for your consideration.
- The Black population is genetically more inclined to criminal activities.
- Blacks are more likely to live in and be shaped by a culture that tempts them to criminality.
- The arrest rate reflects a White bias in our police and justice system.
- Black criminal behavior is often the result of systemic discrimination and bigotryin society.
- While most Whites are taught to respect police and laws, Blacks are taught by experience to see them as potential threat to their well-being.
SYSTEMIC RACISM
What do your answers to such choices contribute towards your understanding of systemic racism?
If a predominantly Caucasian church wanted to address this aspect of racism, what are some actions they might engage in?
LET JESUS SPEAK TO YOU
If Jesus were to speak to you personally about how you should respond to this reality, what are two or three things he might say?
How might you address your neighbors in the church who resist such church involvement?
What programs of your church might bear witness to Black Christians that your love of neighbor shapes your faith?
How might such activity contribute to your church’s spiritual growth?
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http://bit.ly/HealthyClergyMakeHealthyCongregationsSteve McCutchan www.smccutchan.com
