Black Lives Matter

Recent events have shone a light on some of the structural inequalities and racism that exist in our world today.  The tragic death of George Floyd was deeply shocking and emphasises how important it is that we all take a stand against racism.

The Catholic Children’s Society condemns all forms of racism and we work hard to ensure our organisation is open, inclusive and diverse.  Through our services we also seek to be a positive force for addressing racism and inequality and helping those impacted by these issues.

We wholeheartedly support the statement made by Bishop Paul McAleenan (Lead Bishop for Racial Justice and a Bishop in our Diocese of Westminster) and Bishop Declan Lang (Lead Bishop for International Affairs):

“We stand in solidarity with our sisters and brothers in the USA as they challenge the evil of racism and the brutal killing of George Floyd. As the US Bishops made clear: “we cannot turn a blind eye to these atrocities and yet still try to profess to respect every human life. We serve a God of love, mercy, and justice.

“Systemic racism is embedded in our own society. The disproportionate harm suffered by BAME people throughout the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted profound inequalities, marginalisation and injustice here in the UK. The peaceful Black Lives Matter protests taking place in our towns and cities this week reflect the understandable anger that so many people feel about this.

“As Catholics we recognise that racism is an evil which must be opposed; we all have a responsibility for actively promoting racial justice. Whenever we ignore racism or dismiss BAME people’s experience of it, we are complicit in violations of human dignity. We pray for God’s help to overcome racism in all its forms and that we might protect everyone who suffers its consequences. We are all made in God’s image.”