What We Value / Social Justice / Justice Issues / Racism

Issue: Racism

Archbishop Alfred C. Hughes of New Orleans wrote in his 2006 pastoral letter on racial harmony, Made in the Image and Likeness of God, "I have always been uneasy about using the term racism. It has an emotionally charged meaning for many people. The Church, however, is not hesitant to define racism as both a personal sin and a social disorder rooted in the belief that one race is superior to another. Hence, it involves not only individual prejudice but also the use of religious, social, political, economic or historical power to keep one race privileged."

The Las Casas Committee (named for Dominican Bartolomé de Las Casas) is a justice committee of the Dominican Sisters that works to highlight the issue of racism through educational programs and activities. The committee's mission statement professes, "We, Dominicans of St. Mary of the Springs, call each other to overcome our prejudices, ignorance and racism. We challenge ourselves to boldly live our commitment to understand, respect, and appreciate the God-given dignity of all people. As preachers of the Word, we will promote and engage in mutual dialogue that will give birth to a climate of welcome and acceptance, thus healing the wounds of division and alienation."

Las Casas Committee member, Godwin Duru, writes about his experiences of racism. To read his reflections, click here