Breakout Sessions
Raising Race-Wise Christian Kids | Nikki Ace
This session is designed to facilitate a greater understanding on how to cultivate a healthy awareness of racial differences and help to foster an appreciation of diversity for children. As a result of taking this session, you will (1) become more mindful of your own implicit bias, (2) learn how the social construct of race continues to be impactful in our society, (3) learn the importance of why you need to be intentional about teaching about race, racism, and anti-racism to your children, and (4) discover practical action steps you can take in order to develop a more Christ-centered perspective and response to race for children.
All Things to All Men | Mary Parker
This workshop will specifically explore stress, coping, and proactively navigate interracial relationships, as they relate to the unique experiences of African Americans within the Christian church. It will also offer practical techniques to more effectively minister to this population and explore these issues in light of the tumultuous 2020 political, racial, and pandemic climate. Prayerfully, this workshop will better equip ministries to address the potential, actual, or perceived inequities that may jeopardize the success of culturally diverse congregations.
Revelation. Repentance. Renewal. - A Process of Change to Overcome a White Supremacy Past | Reverend Dr. Damali Najuma Smith Pollard
In order for the church to overcome its white supremacist past, an intentional process of change requires a long term spiritual renewal to include: clear Revelation, Repentance (Accountability), Renewal.
Love First: Catalyzing Courageous Conversations | Don McLaughlin
Reconciling our narratives often starts out like cousins telling the same story at a family reunion: They may be talking about the same memory, but they don't sound anything alike! Reconciling our narratives calls for listening without withdrawing, presence without pretense, agency without assimilation. In this breakout session we will co-discover postures and practices that encourage courageous conversations that create cohesive communities.