Open Wide Our Hearts: How Can We Become More Informed About Racism?
Learning about racism can be a difficult journey. It needs to be guided by faith and listening to one’s conscience. The list below provides resources that may make the journey easier.
Learn About Black History
America’s Black Holocaust Museum MKE
This museum was founded in 1987 by Dr. James Cameron who was the only known survivor of a lynching. The economic downturn in 2008 forced it to close. It currently provides virtual tours and is in the final stage of opening a new Milwaukee site at 401 W. North Ave.
Wisconsin Black Historical Society/Museum
This museum, founded in 1987 by Clayborn Benson III, is open to the public. It documents historical, social, and economic events that affected African Americans in Wisconsin over the years. It is located on 27th and Center in Milwaukee.
Resources/Information About Racism
National Catholic Reporter (www.ncronline.org)
This is an “independent voice in Catholic journalism” since 1964.
Milwaukee Archdiocese Anti-Racism Resources (www.archmil.org)
America Magazine (www.americamagazine.org)
Georgetown University (https://catholicsocialthought.georgetown.edu/)
“Promotes dialogue on Catholic social thought and national and global issues.”
Prayer to End Racism
Lord of All Love,
As I step out the door, show me my neighbor.
As I read the news, show me my neighbor.
As I pray, show me my neighbor.
On my left, on my right now
Show me my neighbor.
Where my eyes have passed before and then turned away
Show me my neighbor.
Where my ears have heard cries that I have ignored
Show me my neighbor.
As they share a story that is different from my story
Help me to listen as if it is my own.
Show me my neighbor.
And then let me love them
In their joy and in their distress
That their delight be mine
And their pain be mine too.
Let me love them
As completely and mercifully as you love me.
In true solidarity
Singing our songs together until a new song emerges,
Let me love them.
I look up now, Lord.
Show me my neighbor.
Amen.