03/13/2016: The Spirituality of Racial Justice

Julie Brock

Racism affects all of us. It hurts those of us who experience violence and isolation due to systemic racism. It hurts those of us who attempt to stand in solidarity with people of color as we witness wounding, mess up ourselves, and strive to figure out our place in the struggle. It also deeply harms those who intentionally perpetuate racism. Whose soul can be healthy while harboring hate? 

But how does racism form in our spirit? Can the strength of religious connection, spiritual growth, and the redemptive power of community tend to our spirits while living in a world where some lives matter more than others?

Julie Brock is a candidate for ministry and the Unitarian Universalist intern minister at First Unitarian Universalist Society of Madison, Wisconsin. Julie has deep roots in her hometown of Detroit, Michigan and has been a leader in young adult ministry across the country. Her faith is rooted in love, compassion and radical acceptance. Her ministry is rooted in social justice and the nurturing of community.