Antiracism Task Force
Following exploration of the Episcopal Church's vision of Becoming Beloved Community several years ago and the events of 2020, St. Lawrence formed the Antiracism Task Force to oppose racism and work toward social justice and equality. Our antiracism efforts center prayer, learning, and action, following the lead of antiracism programs and leaders in our Diocese and the national church.
The Task Force pursues a multi-level approach to increasing the congregation’s awareness of systemic racism and white supremacy in a prayerful, inclusive, and empowering way. Members of St. Lawrence have gone beyond reading and reflection to take action against racism in many different ways, including:
- Contributing to Lake County United's efforts to bring attainable housing to Libertyville and Lake County
- Volunteering with Hope Food Pantry
- Participating in the Gun Violence Prevention work of the Episcopal Peace Fellowship
The Task Force is planning another offering of Sacred Ground in 2023-2024. Please email to receive information when details are finalized.
HISTORY
In January 2021 each member of the task force told their own story about when they first became aware of race. In February, which is Black History Month, there were brief “Did You Know” stories about the history of Blacks in the church. During Lent 2021 we used the Conversations that Matter format to read and discuss Me and White Supremacy by Layla Saad. In November St. Lawrence welcomed the community for viewing and discussion of the film Traces of the Trade: A Story from the Deep North. During the spring of 2022, St. Lawrence Episcopal Church and First Presbyterian Church of Libertyville partnered in a new program called Sacred Ground.
