ACTS has launched a program called "Transformation Reading Groups."  Peter Sarver, ACTS Interim Co-Executive, cites the need for white congregations and other groups to examine institutional racism and specifically white privilege as a first step toward racial healing.  The expectation of the ACTS initiative is that two dozen or more small groups will convene in congregations to have a shared reading experience throughout the community this Fall. Participants will read America’s Original Sin- Racism, White Privilege, and the Bridge to a New America, by Jim Wallis. On November 21st, ACTS will host a prominent keynote speaker to conclude what readers discovered through their two-month journey with America’s Original Sin. The November gathering will present an opportunity for continuing growth and a platform for future social justice actions.

When it comes to addressing White Privilege, a clear and courageous voice is needed to shine through the fog of our nation’s confusion. Sarah McTyre, Parish Associate for Education at Park Central, has read America’s Original Sin in a similar reading- program. She lauds Wallis’ theological and factual discussion of America’s most neglected racial injustice.  

“Jim Wallis invites us into this ongoing work of repentance for the sake of our sisters and brothers. We need to get uncomfortable as we learn about White Privilege, and allow our hearts to broken open—not just once, but over and again,” said Sarah.

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The tragedies that transpired in Charlottesville demonstrated clearly that America’s wound of racism is far from healed. Less conspicuous than the outpour of white supremacy in Charlottesville, however, are the murky institutions which nourish the oppression of minorities. These racist institutions have existed for centuries, and persist today beneath the surface of American society. An especially subversive tool of institutional racism is “White Privilege.”

“White privilege is the assumption of racial entitlement and normality of whiteness, something most of those who are white still fail to recognize or resist,” writes Wallis. 

“Those of us who are white are being called on a journey towards anti-racism. It is time for us to wake up and see anew,” said Sarah. 

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Group facilitators will meet on September 6th to collaborate on the community-wide Transformation Reading Groups. In the meantime, ACTS encourages Syracusans of all faiths and organizations to commit to this opportunity. America’s Original Sin, by Jim Wallis, may be the catalyst to a compassionate conversation across Syracuse.

“Talk about America’s Original Sin with other members of your congregation. It can open the way for truth telling…and the transformative work of grace in the world,” concluded Sarah.

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When New York State approved funds for the I-81 overpass in 1956, they were likely warned of the suffering it could cause. Political rhetoric and slick promises, however, helped Syracuse City officials and development firms latch on. They demolished the 15th Ward, a close-knit and vibrant black community, and built the highway that would divide Syracuse for over 60 years. I-81 has been the monolithic cause of concentrated poverty in Syracuse, which is now the worst in the nation among Blacks and Latinos. As I-81 reaches the end of its functional life-span, we have a chance to rectify a historic blunder. The New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU) has taken center stage in this debate, and is hosting a public event to raise awareness. 

On August 27th, 2017 the New York Civil Liberties Union will host a community picnic and exhibition of the 15th Ward's history, the impact I-81 had on the 15th ward and the Syracuse community, and what DOT is considering as replacement to the current viaduct/highway. This community picnic is free and open to the public. There will be a discussion of the of the advocacy work that the New York Civil Liberties Union has undertaken regarding the response to the I-81 challenge, including what Syracuse Housing Authority's Master Plan and vision is.

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Join Moms Demand Action NY to #DisarmHate! They'll be marching in the NY State Fair parade on Pride Day. Click the button below to view the Facebook event and learn more. 

From the CNY Solidarity Coaltion: Call John Katko and ask him to have the Homeland Security Committee on which he sits hold hearings on White Supremacist terrorism. Also write letters to the editor asking for this action. In the years since 9/11, white nationalists have caused more violent deaths than Islamic terrorists in the United States. Katko’s numbers are 315-423-5657 (Syracuse),315-253-4068 (Auburn), and 202-225-3701 (DC).

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Follow this link to read general information about this issue:

http://www.politico.com/story/2017/08/14/white-supremacy-democrats-republicans-congressional-hearings-241627