At the Inner City Christian Federation (ICCF) we are committed to the pursuit of wholeness and justice. We want our neighborhoods to be marked by shalom, a state of being in which nothing is missing and nothing is broken. The events of this last week and the peaceful protests have shined a light on how far we have to go to reach that goal.

WE LAMENT.

The persistent brokenness of our systems was laid bare by the recent murders of Ahmaud Arbery, George Floyd, and others who died at the hands of neighbors and police. We lament and condemn these senseless homicides. We mourn their deaths and pray for a swift end to this kind of oppression.

WE STAND WITH THOSE WHO PROTEST RACIAL INJUSTICE.

We are listening. The protests in our community have rung out loud and clear. We have heard from our neighbors of color that they are tired of the status quo dominated systems that have protected white supremacy. We see this not only in the mistreatment of people of color by some in law enforcement, but also in the racial injustice evidenced by disparate health, educational, economic and housing outcomes for those same neighbors. We will continue to listen to and stand with those who stand against this reality.

WE ARE COMMITTED TO ACTION.

Institutional statements are important, but action that brings about justice is better. Since 1974, ICCF’s focus in this pursuit of shalom has been working for housing justice. In this moment we renew that commitment and our commitment to partnering with those who work for justice in other spheres of our society. 

WE PRAY.

We face discouraging times. When things are as bleak as they are now, we hold on to a hope that is rooted in our belief that God stands on the side of the oppressed. When we join him as agents of peace in the world we can be confident that he will help us to overcome evil with good.

To our partners and friends, we ask that you join us in these commitments. Do not stay silent or inactive in the face of oppression. Let’s work together to seek the peace and prosperity of this city.