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#reddressday #reconciliation #may5th #sfu #simonfraseruniversity #ucc #unitedchurchofcanada #campusministry #campusunited

TGIF -- Thank GOD it's Friday! Let's take a moment to pause and reflect where we might have seen the Holy this week in our lives... Hmmmm... I think I noticed the Holy in: 🗣 conversations with coworkers and family ❤ connecting with others with a vulnerability that leads us to deep relationship with each other ☀ sunny days that make the 🌳 and 🌊 pop! 🏫 quiet campuses w stunning architectural features (like the one in the photo!) 🛒 the AMAZING work of the SFU Food Pantry @foodcommunitysfu 🍰 delicious food 💵 a weird one, but seeing God in program funding coming through Where did you see God this week? Let us know! #tgif #thankgoditsfriday #godmoments #holyintheordinary #sfu #simonfraseruniversity #ucc #unitedchurchofcanada #faith #spirituality #campusministry #campusunited #christian

Need a creative outlet? Join us Tuesday, May 28th for an Art Studio time and learn the spiritual practice of Collage! An awesome and unexpected way of connecting with yourself and the Divine. All supplies provide and drop-ins welcome! 🌈❤😊 #sfu #simonfraseruniversity #ucc #unitedchurchofcanada #faith #spirituality #campusministry #campusunited #christian #progressivechristianity #god #art #creativity #collage #soulcollage #spiritualpractices #artstudio

Our first event of the summer! Mark your calendars!!! Thursday, May 23rd 1pm to 2:25pm, join us for some snacks and socializing! We'll be hanging out, catching up, and getting to know on another. All are welcome! 🌈❤😊 #sfu #simonfraseruniversity #ucc #unitedchurchofcanada #faith #spirituality #campusministry #campusunited #christian #progressivechristianity #fun #food #snacks #community #free

Sehen uns heute Abend ab 23 Uhr im @pendo.club 😎🙌🎉 Tickets gibt’s im Vorverkauf via Tix4Gigs oder heute Abend direkt an der Abendkasse‼️ CAMPUS UNITED ist zurück! 🥳 #leipzig #pendo #campusunited #heute #abend #vorfeiertag #party

PENDO calling! 🙌🎉 Nächsten Dienstag (30.04.) ist Vorfeiertagsparty von & mit CAMPUS UNITED im @pendo.club Leipzig! Tickets gibt’s jetzt schon unter www.tixforgigs.com 👈👈 Los geht’s am 30.04. um 23 Uhr‼️ Ausschlafen garantiert - Der 1.Mai ist frei! #leipzig #pendo #pendoleipzig #leipzigpendo #vorfeiertag #party #campusunited #leipziger

TGIF -- Thank GOD it's Friday! And thank God for the end of the term!!! Congratulations to all of you who made it through another term of school!!! And Congratulations to all the graduates, what a huge accomplishment to finish a degree and embark on whatever is next! Like we do most Fridays, let's take a moment, pause, and reflect on our weeks. Where have you noticed or felt love/God? I saw/felt the love/God in: 🏠 being at home with family, especially being taken care of while sick 🍲 comfort food and soups 🌬 windy weather that made me smile 💻 work with wonderful colleagues, amazing students, and kind bosses 🎨 creative outlets Post below 👇 where you saw the Holy this week! #tgif #thankgoditsfriday #godmoments #holyintheordinary #sfu #simonfraseruniversity #ucc #unitedchurchofcanada #faith #spirituality #campusministry #campusunited #christian

In our last Lyrics for Life (our Bible Study that focuses on our favourite songs and how they connect with scripture), we listened to the song "I'll Stay" by Isabela Moner and read these words from Isaiah (among a few others too)! We found these words comforting in there reminder that we don't have to do things on our own, it's not all up to us -- we can lean on God/the Holy/Christ (as well as friends and loved ones too) in our lives and we can be assured that we are not alone. We can find strength, help, and peace in the God who chooses us again and again and never leaves our side. Maybe you can find some hope in the words of Isaiah as you finish exams, term papers, and look towards what's next 😊 And, just want to say a big thank you to Rev. Jenn Swanson from @inletunitedchurch who leads Lyrics for Life every month for us. We have absolutely loved having you join us and thank you for sharing with us your incredible knowledge of Scripture! #sfu #simonfraseruniversity #ucc #unitedchurchofcanada #faith #spirituality #campusministry #campusunited #christian #motivation #god #godiswithyou #bible

Save The Date! 😎💫 Am Dienstag, den 30.04. erwartet Euch Leipzigs bekannteste Studentenparty CAMPUS UNITED im @pendo.club zur großen Vorfeiertagsparty! 🙌🎉 Ausschlafen garantiert….am 1.Mai ist frei! 😉 Tickets ab sofort bei www.tixforgigs.com 👈👈 #leipzig #campusunited #pendo #pendoleipzig #vorfeiertag #tixforgigs

CAMPUS UNITED! What a beautiful time of worship and prayer as we came united as one under the name of Jesus. A Warriors x MetByLove x 24-Hour mashup and a Grove City x Slippery Rock event! Harbison Chapel was filled with songs of praise Sunday night as we magnified the LORD together! Psalm 34:3 “Glorify the Lord with me; let us exalt his name together.” God wants MORE on our college campuses! What would He do with your YES to obey Him? #grovecitycollege #campusunited #unitedunderChrist #slipperyrock

We value... Community!!! As always, take a look at our upcoming events for different community-focused gatherings you might be interested in (fyi, all our events are pretty much community-focused 😉). We hope you can join us, and as always, EVERYONE is welcome!!! 🌈❤💛💚💙💜 #sfu #simonfraseruniversity #ucc #unitedchurchofcanada #faith #spirituality #campusministry #campusunited #christian #community #welcoming #affirming

TGIF -- Thank GOD it's Friday! Hard to believe another week has gone by! In the busyness of life and school, where did you notice the Holy this week? I saw the Holy in: 💒 multilingual worship and vibrant music 🤝 the hard work of anti-racism at the conference hosted by @firstthirdministrycwpm 🌱 in blue skies and gorgeous weather 🌸 in blossoms blooming 🍰 in homemade cupcakes and surprise pastries 🐝 in meetings with colleagues who are the bees knees 🎥 in movie nights with wonderful students who are kind, generous, and thoughtful (and funny!) 🍕 in pizza that brings a surprising amount of joy Post below 👇 where you saw the Holy this week! #tgif #thankgoditsfriday #godmoments #holyintheordinary #sfu #simonfraseruniversity #ucc #unitedchurchofcanada #faith #spirituality #campusministry #campusunited #Christianity

Thank you to everyone who joined us for our end of term movie and pizza night! It was fabulous to spend time together watching Dune, eating pizza, and having some cinnamon rolls 😋 a perfect night! #sfu #simonfraseruniversity #ucc #unitedchurchofcanada #faith #spirituality #campusministry #campusunited #christian #community #movienight

We are here in the ISCC Chapel space 7-210 for our World Day of Prayer service. All are welcome to join in the worship created by the Christian Women in Palestine WDP Committee. Let us lift up their voices, and lift up our prayers for life for the Palestinian people, and for justice and peace in their lands. #worlddayofprayer #worlddayofprayerpalestine #campusunited #campusunitedunbc #unbcinterfaithspiritualcarecentre

Join us on March 27th for a World Day of Prayer service at the ISCC Chapel space! This year’s liturgy was written by Christian women in Palestine, with songs, prayers, blessings and laments to join us all together in the work and hope for justice and peace. Come as you are, all are welcome. #worlddayofprayer2024 #worlddayofprayer #worlddayofprayerpalestine #campusunited #campusunitedunbc #unbcinterfaithspiritualcarecentre

Tomorrow night! We are partnering with @unbc_nisa and @unbc_msairc to offer a warm welcoming space to celebrate Ramadan with an interfaith Iftar meal. All are welcome! Bring your curiosity, an open heart and a halal dish or beverage to share. The UNBC Interfaith Spiritual Care Centre is providing dates to break your fast. #unbcinterfaithspiritualcarecentre #interfaithramadan #interfaithramadandinner #campusunited #campusunitedunbc

Wanna come work with us?! #campusunited #uccan #ubc

Hey friends! Just a friendly reminder about our weekly event! 🎶✨ This time, we’re diving deep into the heart of music and lyrics at our ‘Lyrics for Life’. Get ready for an afternoon of soulful tunes, heartfelt stories, and maybe even a surprising connection to the Bible! Join us for the beats, the laughs, and the good vibes! 🎤📖 Here are the details: 📍 Location: AQ3210 🗓️ Date: Wednesday, April 03, 2024 🕰️ Time: 1:30 - 2:30 PM See you there! 😆 #LyricsForLife #uccan #sfu #campusunitedsfu #campusunited

Day 40 of 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism for Lent: Music and the Power to Harm or Heal by Pat Mayberry   I’m 72 as I write now, and I like to think that my music has matured both melodically and lyrically, and can reflect both the world as it is and the world that we are working to create. My journey with anti-racism has had similar qualities, from a naïve sense of comfort with the world to what I hope is a more conscious and intentional way of living. The notion of calling has been an important part of my faith journey. When I have asked myself over many years about what calling I might have, the answer has always been the same: music. Over time, my songs and now hymns have moved more and more toward social justice and healing, to a more critical look at the use of language, and to anti-racism.   Words are important and can have the power to either harm or heal. For me, an essential aspect of writing music is that language is inclusive and pushes the boundaries of our understanding of what it is to be human and a part of Creation. A simple awareness of how words like “darkness” and “Black” have been used to portray what is evil and bad remains one of many filters that challenge me to write lyrics that don’t perpetuate racism.   It’s an ongoing journey, with many pitfalls, especially for those of us raised and steeped in racial privilege. Making the commitment to anti-racism is a life’s work.   Pat Mayberry’s invitation into understanding ethnocultural diversity continues our Lenten journey. You can find Pat’s full resource at the link in our bio. Where might you find places, situations, people in your life that you can share these invitations with?   #antiracistchurch #antiracism #antiracismforlent #40days #campusunited #Campusunitedunbc #Lent

Day 39 of 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism for Lent: Ethnocultural Diversity by Michael Lee   People from different ethnocultural backgrounds have made Canada their home. Many people continue to work towards anti-racism in Canada and have talked about the experiences of racialized communities. However, ethnocultural discrimination still is not completely visible or fully recognized in Canada. People from Hong Kong, Taiwan, and mainland China have distinct cultures, languages, and backgrounds—they would not just say they are Chinese. There are many differences and similarities between Chinese from different parts of Asia and between Chinese Canadians.   Discrimination also occurs among ethnocultural groups who are aware of their distinct cultures, languages, and backgrounds. There can be preferential treatment of individuals who belong to a given group as well as negative and biased prejudgments.   People can take several steps to address ethnocultural diversity and discrimination. First, people could engage in educational programs and awareness campaigns to highlight diverse cultural backgrounds. Include workshops, seminars, and resources that aim to raise awareness about the unique cultural identities and experiences of different ethnocultural groups. It would be great to support art and cultural initiatives, such as art exhibitions that I’ve mentioned. These actions will help create a more inclusive and harmonious community that values and respects the unique cultural identities of its members and the broader Canadian population.   Michael Lee’s invitation into understanding ethnocultural diversity continues our Lenten journey. You can find Michael’s full resource at the link in our bio. Where might you find places, situations, people in your life that you can share these invitations with?   #antiracistchurch #antiracism #antiracismforlent #40days #campusunited #Campusunitedunbc #Lent

Day 38 of 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism for Lent: Understanding Internalized Racism by Innocent Karuhanga   Race is a social and political construct grounded in a history of oppressor/oppressed relationships based on physical characteristics. It leaves people of colour with a very limited sense of self, which can undermine our belief in our full humanity and disrupt our understanding of our inner life.   Experiences of racism make weapons of our own minds. In particular, internalized racism manifests in a few ways, but especially in: ·      always seeing ourselves as victims and denying our own power to transform a situation or failing to take responsibility for our own roles as victimizer or colluder with oppression ·      being overwhelmed and drained by the emotions we must navigate because of having this limited identity thrust upon us ·      focusing on “reading” and trying to change White people, thus leaving less time, energy, and resources for self-development   To understand and address internalized racism, we need to be aware of other factors at play: ·      As people of colour are victimized by racism, we are faced with mental health issues that are not approached appropriately in minority communities. We develop ideas, beliefs, actions, and behaviours that support or collude with racism. ·      This system of oppression often coerces us to let go of or compromise our own better judgment, thus diminishing everyone as the diversity of human experience and wisdom is excluded. ·      Equally harmful, the system can trap people and communities of colour in an oppositional stance that undermines creativity.     Innocent Karuhanga’s invitation into understanding internalized racism continues our Lenten journey. You can find Innocent’s full resource at the link in our bio. Where might you find places, situations, people in your life that you can share these invitations with?   #antiracistchurch #antiracism #antiracismforlent #40days #campusunited #Campusunitedunbc #Lent

Are you interested in getting involved in community building on campus, and in the wider area of PG? Do you like planning events and come with people? We are hiring for our Community Connector position for the 2024-2025 year. Go to campusunited.ca to apply! #campusunited #campusunitedunbc #summerjobs #unbc

You are invited to our UNBC Interfaith Iftar Potluck on March 27, from 7:00-9:00pm. Bring your favourite halal-friendly dish, learn about Ramadan and break fast with your neighbours and some delicious dates. We are so excited to present this meal in partnership with UNBC Northern Ismaili Students Association, and with the broader interfaith community. #campusunited #campusunitedunbc #interfaith #ramadan #neighboursinworship #unbcnisa

Day 37 of 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism for Lent: Indigenous Peoples back in the Picture by Darlene Brewer   While growing up and attending school in Newfoundland, I was taught a lot about the Vikings, the Norse peoples from Scandinavia. I do not remember much being taught about the Maritime Archaic peoples, the Beothuk, or any Indigenous Peoples. I learned the Vikings had been there for only 5‒10 years.   What?! Why did we pay so much attention to them in school, and so relatively little to the Indigenous Peoples who lived here, from Maritime Archaic and Paleo-Inuit people, present in Newfoundland about 3,200 years ago, to the Beothuk, who inhabited what is now called Newfoundland in the 1500s, when Europeans arrived, and who are believed to have all been killed by violence, disease, and displacement by the 1820s? What about the Innu of Labrador, the Inuit of Nunatsiavut, and the Mi’kmaq of the island part of the province?   This gap in information is a result of Eurocentric and White-centred bias, which downplays the presence of Indigenous Peoples in our culture, history, and education. The religious organizations that operated the schools over centuries in Newfoundland would have seen only White Europeans as capable of holding the image of God.   One of the commitments my congregation made to learn more about Indigenous history and culture in Canada, to acknowledge our own racism and bias while committing to continue learning. This commitment is lifelong and worthy of our attention.   Darlene Brewer’s invitation into committing to learning about Indigenous cultures and history continues our Lenten journey. You can find Darlene’s full resource at the link in our bio. Where might you find places, situations, people in your life that you can share these invitations with?   #antiracistchurch #antiracism #antiracismforlent #40days #campusunited #Campusunitedunbc #Lent

Day 36 of 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism for Lent: Jumping the Line by Kathy Yamashita   I am a little Japanese woman with greying hair, and I hold the privilege of a university education and 41 years as a practising family doctor. I realize this gives me a certain kind of gravity that encourages me to be outspoken with the expectation of being heard. But I also see things from the point of view of an ethnocultural group that had been hated in Canada.   41 years ago, in another registry in Ontario when my fellow new interns and I were turning in our Alberta driver’s licences for Ontario ones. My two White male colleagues had no problems with the exchange. When it came to my turn, the clerk asked me for my passport— I asked her why I was asked for a passport and not my friends. I firmly said that I wanted to speak to her supervisor. Why should I have to prove that I was Canadian when one of my friends was American? The supervisor came, assessed the situation, and told her to give me the licence.   Some of my White friends say that they do not understand the concept of White privilege. My experiences illustrate the invisible extra power one holds when they are White, speak English with a westernized accent, and have a postsecondary education. It makes me think of Jeremiah 22:3 where the Lord says: “Do justice and righteousness, and deliver from the hand of the oppressor him who has been robbed. And do no wrong or violence to the resident....” We who hold the privilege of living in our comfort zone should be mindful of those who experience unjust and unfair treatment because of their colour.   Kathy Yamashita’s invitation into examining privilege continues our Lenten journey. You can find Kathy’s full resource at the link in our bio. Where might you find places, situations, people in your life that you can share these invitations with?   #antiracistchurch #antiracism #antiracismforlent #40days #campusunited #Campusunitedunbc #Lent

Day 35 of 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism for Lent: Reflections on a Visit to the Apartheid Museum by Magdalena Vanderkooy   The Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg, South Africa, tells the story of apartheid, arguably the world’s most egregious example of White supremacy. The system of apartheid, in force in South Africa from 1948 to 1994, stripped non-Whites of political, economic, and social rights and dictated where they could live and work and study, all with the aim of ensuring the continued dominance of the White minority.   One thing the museum shows well is that an evil system like apartheid does not appear overnight. Its roots are complex, and they grow incrementally. It starts with the mentality of colonialism and its implicit belief in White supremacy. The strand that hits frighteningly close to home for me is the role of the church which sanctioned apartheid and gave it a theological basis.   That’s one of the things I have learned about religion: how it’s all too easy to use it to justify behaviour. The language of Christianity is used, but its essence is distorted. Historically, this was how apartheid, enslavement, and other heinous racial systemic injustices like our own Canadian residential school system were justified.   Black churches in South Africa, particularly the ones that have lived through apartheid, have much to teach the worldwide church about countering and working toward dismantling racism. Many of the Black churches in South Africa developed the Belhar Confession in 1982, which is a statement of faith that confronts racism and suffering. The statement also invites the church to denounce all forms or racism and injustice.   Magdalena Vanderkooy’s invitation into allyship continues our Lenten journey. You can find Magdalena’s full resource at the link in our bio. Where might you find places, situations, people in your life that you can share these invitations with?   #antiracistchurch #antiracism #antiracismforlent #40days #campusunited #Campusunitedunbc #Lent

Day 34 of 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism for Lent: Healing Our Communities Through the Power of Allyship by Heather Beamish 
In its most evolved and embodied expression, allyship is the joyful celebration of difference. And as we pour the subversive medicine of celebration over the weary hearts of people who are oppressed, we are embodying love and living out our faith.   Celebration centres the receiver. It creates space for them to show up as their full self, acknowledging the resilience, experience, and work they had to do to get where they are.   Celebration looks like something. It invites us to give the gift of our energy and thoughtfully consider the needs and strengths of the people we are celebrating in practical ways.   Celebration has a voice. It recognizes that our words are a powerful and creative force and takes the opportunity to esteem, endorse, and empower others through what we say. It validates what sets each person apart and declares their possibility and power to everyone listening.   Allyship looks like something. It’s not just a nice feeling or idea; allyship is a verb.   Allyship centres the receiver. It’s not about making you look good, kind, or woke. Rather, allyship puts aside any guilt, discomfort, or justification and decentres our experience. In our places of influence, it’s the practice of making more space and building bigger tables.   Allyship has a voice. It’s the relational commitment to journey alongside marginalized communities through word and deed until they can access the dignity and power that are the birthright of all humans made in the image of God.   Heather Beamish’s invitation into allyship continues our Lenten journey. You can find Heather’s full resource at the link in our bio. Where might you find places, situations, people in your life that you can share these invitations with?   #antiracistchurch #antiracism #antiracismforlent #40days #campusunited #Campusunitedunbc #Lent

Day 33 of 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism for Lent: Do You Smell Racism? by Mini Choi   “We fill the season with the smell of summer,” I wrote in the worship documents. Someone at the meeting corrected me: “It should be the smells of summer. We usually write ‘smells’ instead of ‘smell.’”   The word “we” referred to White Canadians. As a Hong Kong Canadian, I always experience racial microaggressions. What’s the problem with using the word “smell” instead of “smells”? It ended up that all the rest of the attendees agreed with my word choice. However, the interruption of pointing out minor “errors”—and most of the time they were not even errors—would make conversations very uncomfortable. They could be categorized as a kind of racial microaggression, an act meant to demean minoritized people by editing or revising their work.   In predominantly White communities, biases are often unconscious. While overt racism is usually easier to notice, microaggressions are in the languages, expectations, and communities. To combat microaggressions, it is important to directly express your values and disapprove of what is being said . Be bold in speaking out and letting people know that you do not agree with them. This may directly stop the microaggressions from continuing.   Put anti-racism into action and address the issue of racial microaggressions in your community of faith. ·      Develop a workshop to raise awareness of racism and microaggressions. ·      Address racism directly on your intercultural Sunday or another appropriate day. ·      Create anti-racism messages to share on your faith community’s Facebook page or other social media. ·      Consider other ways you could create a culture of care for all people. Mini Choi’s invitation into addressing microagressions continues our Lenten journey. You can find Mini’s full resource at the link in our bio. Where might you find places, situations, people in your life that you can share these invitations with?   #antiracistchurch #antiracism #antiracismforlent #40days #campusunited #Campusunitedunbc #Lent

Day 32 of 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism for Lent: The Knapsack: Carrying Anti-Palestinian Racism by Jennifer Hompoth   My friend is wearing a woven scarf—a keffiyeh—which is a symbol of unity and pride in Palestinian heritage. I am keenly wary of the gaze of others—the shoppers in the plastic Christmas tree section and the security guard, whose gaze shifts to us as we make our way past.   I turn back from the washroom and say to my friend, “Let me carry your backpack for you.” Between the police lines of today and the people chanting “Deport them all!” as they pass us sitting in the streets, I am fearful beneath my outer courage.   In a now-famous work on White privilege, Peggy McIntosh details the contents of the “invisible knapsack” that White people have at their disposal, a collection of advantages for White people (McIntosh, 1989). This privilege is not only unearned but is also dependent as a system on the reciprocal oppression of Indigenous and racialized people. The privilege to be an individual, and to not have to represent one’s group, for example, is one of the items in this structure of White privilege that racialized people are denied.   My friend’s knapsack carried layers of meaning imposed by others. Too often, he has to worry about representing all Arabs or all Palestinians or all Muslims.   My Palestinian friend’s knapsack could be lighter on my back.   Jennifer Hompoth’s invitation into examining privileges continues our Lenten journey. You can find Jennifer’s full resource at the link in our bio. Where might you find places, situations, people in your life that you can share these invitations with?   #antiracistchurch #antiracism #antiracismforlent #40days #campusunited #Campusunitedunbc #Lent

Day 30 of 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism for Lent: Why Should Christians Care About Ongoing Anti-Semitism? By Alan Lai   I write as a person of colour of Chinese background. There is a myth among many ethnic Chinese Christians that says we had nothing to do with the Holocaust.   The moment we claim to be Christians, our hands are not clean. By claiming to be Christians, we inherit all the tradition’s past glories and mistakes. Every mistake the church has made that justified the mistreatment of Jews has been glorified in centuries of teaching and learning and has been passed down to us as truth. Some of this misunderstanding has become embedded in how to think theologically and how to conduct biblical interpretation. Without intentionally addressing those areas of concern, the church is not better off when it works against racism and discrimination. In fact, we may unknowingly be continuing those mistakes, thinking such beliefs and practices are integral parts of the Christian faith. Purging antisemitism should concern all of us because Christianity provided the theological seedbed for the Holocaust. Conventional Christianity—the kind of Christianity that most people come to know—was built upon certain erroneous assumptions that say Judaism is obsolete, Jews collectively are Christ-killers, Judaism is an inferior religion, and Jews shouldn’t be respected in the same way as Christians. The seedbed of exclusivist Christian thinking was laid long ago.   The Holocaust was not an accident but a scaffolding of religious ideas that had deep Christian roots. The ongoing antisemitism in the world can be traced to the ancient Christian establishments that contributed to antisemitic attitudes.   Alan Lai’s invitation into conversation continues our Lenten journey. You can find Alan’s full resource at the link in our bio. Where might you find places, situations, people in your life that you can share these invitations with?   #antiracistchurch #antiracism #antiracismforlent #40days #campusunited #Campusunitedunbc #Lent

Day 30 of 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism for Lent: It’s Not Personal Unless You Make it Personal by Carmen Lansdowne   I didn’t know that passing was a thing until I was training for ministry and was part of a church book club. In this particular book club, we read a novel about a Black woman who passed for White in Montreal, and all of the ways in which that resulted in her experiences of racism and a lack of understanding of who she was. Someone in the book club didn’t understand the concept of passing, so I said, “It’s like me—I am Indigenous and I pass for White.” The person responded, “I don’t care what you say—until you show up to church in a buckskin dress with a feather in your hair, you’re always going to be a little White girl.” And that was the end of the discussion. I know that some might think what was said to me was horrible—and it was. But it was also a teachable moment. Except that there was no teaching. The problematic part of that story, for me, was that was the end of the discussion. There absolutely was personal prejudice in what was said to me. There was institutional racism in the silence that followed—no one wanted to go there. It didn’t have to stay personal if we had discussed it, but there was no conversation.   That is a big part of the work of anti-racism: the willingness to have a discussion. It’s about being brave and seeking to understand. Sometimes the fear of being perceived as a racist blocks really healthy and important conversations about racism. But it’s not personal unless you make it personal by refusing to have a conversation. The teachable moments are where we can say, “Wow—that kind of prejudice is not OK, and here’s why,” and then dive into how in Canada Whiteness is normalized, and we can talk about racism. If we don’t have that conversation, then experiences like mine become about that one awful thing that caused silence in the room and the work of anti-racism gets stalled. #antiracistchurch #antiracism #antiracismforlent #40days #campusunited #Campusunitedunbc #Lent

Day 29 of 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism for Lent: Grief Comes in Waves by Kim Uyede-Kai   My father was a Canadian child of World War II internment of Japanese Canadians, dispossession, and forced expulsion. Fingerprinted and registered, they were issued ID cards to restrict their movements. His family was incarcerated in Tashme, the largest of eight internment camps of uninsulated tarpaper shacks, hastily built specifically to contain over 2,600 British Columbians of Japanese ancestry. Isolated in a narrow, heavily forested valley and surrounded by the high Cascade Mountains, Tashme was as good as a prison. White rice was rationed during the war, and when a supply arrived in Tashme, it was mixed with rough barley to make it go further. To my father, this unpleasant grain mixture was the taste and texture of internment. Short-grain rice is supposed to stick together, not fall apart, its texture smooth and even. Short-grain rice sticks together, especially when hot and pressed together. “Sticky rice” is a powerful metaphor for a targeted and exiled community forced together under the pressure of fear mongering, race hatred, and abusive political power. God’s gift of life is not just for one community or one moment in time but for all people, all the time: refugees fleeing wars, displaced persons, asylum seekers, immigrants leaving political oppression, and persecuted 2SLGBTQIA+ people.   Twenty-two thousand began the exile journey. My father is no longer among the 6,000 or so internment survivors still living. And yet, the wave continues, a community lives on. Kim Uyede-Kai’s invitation to remember the journeys of our families continues our Lenten journey. You can find Kim’s full resource at the link in our bio. Where might you find places, situations, people in your life that you can share these invitations with?   #antiracistchurch #antiracism #antiracismforlent #40days #campusunited #Campusunitedunbc #Lent

Day 28 of 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism for Lent: Learning to Love My Chinese Self by Julie Ng   I believe no one is born racist. Behaviour is shaped and formed through upbringing, influence, and education, despite where people come from and what race they belong to. I was born in Hong Kong when the city was under British rule. (Hong Kong was a British colony and later a dependent territory of the United Kingdom from 1841 to 1997.) My nationality on my passport was listed as British Subject. I was educated and raised admiring Whiteness and White cultures—because everything British was better. My admiration of Whiteness and White cultures became a reason for me to keep a distance from everything too traditionally Chinese. Later I moved to Regina where I spent a decade of my life weaving between the local culture and the lives of immigrants. I learned how Canada supports multiculturalism. I met many immigrants, and it was interesting to learn about their home countries and how they adjusted to the local culture. I was fascinated by the differences and intrigued by the stories and lifestyles within such a small community. The acceptance of diversity in that community led me to look into my own cultural background. I realized my love for White culture was still strong for its liberation and acceptance of possibilities; however, I also learned to discern the inner qualities of individuals who make up a culture. Reflect. Accept yourself and others as they are. Make friends with someone in your congregation who looks different from you, who sits alone; invite them to share their stories, and you share yours. If you are comfortable, talk about racism together. The more you listen to and share stories, the more you will understand your community and develop an open mind to understand that no one is a foreigner.   Julie Ng’s invitation to reflect on our own journeys continues our Lenten journey. You can find M’s full resource at the link in our bio. Where might you find places, situations, people in your life that you can share these invitations with?   #antiracistchurch #antiracism #antiracismforlent #40days #campusunited #Campusunitedunbc #Lent

Day 27 of 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism for Lent: The Small Things Matter by M Chorney   Many White people think that since they have “decided” that they are not racist, that they aren’t. That’s not really how it works. Since White supremacy and colonialism have baked themselves into our lives, our culture, and our communities, we need to decide, daily and in every situation, that we are actively anti-racist. Being anti-racist isn’t just the big, visible, public actions that need to happen to fight against racism. As the United Church, we are called to make large statements of anti-racism, including writing to the premier of Manitoba to search the landfills for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. These large actions are important and can be public displays of how we are living out our commitment to becoming an anti-racist church. But anti-racism is also the small things, the everyday combatting of prejudices and discrimination. The smaller acts are where our foundation is built. The small conversations advocating against microaggressions, and counteracting the talking points of White supremacy. This would include correcting your grandmother when she uses a racist term. Asking your co-worker to explain the racist joke that they just told, asking them to tell you why it was funny. And taking courses and learning about anti-racism so that you can be a better ally.   M Chorney’s invitation to educate ourselves and to commit to daily anti-racist actions even in small ways, continues our Lenten journey. You can find M’s full resource at the link in our bio. Where might you find places, situations, people in your life that you can share these invitations with?   #antiracistchurch #antiracism #antiracismforlent #40days #campusunited #Campusunitedunbc #Lent

Happy PIE Day!!! What is PIE Day? PIE Day (on March 14th, aka 3.14 day) is a day we celebrate being Public, Intentional, and Explicit about being affirming, welcoming, and inclusive of LGBTQIA2S+ people in the world, especially (for us) in faith communities where that hasn't and still isn't always the case. God loves everyone!!! And every person matters, no matter who you love or how you identify ❤🌈 #pie #pieday #affirming #inclusive #UCC #unitedchurchofcanada #campusunited #SFU

Words from our Lyrics for Life event last week with Rev. Jenn from Inlet United Church 🤗🎶 We listened to "Homeward Bound" by Simon & Garfunkel (an oldie but a goodie) and discussed how these words from Philippians might be related. They're timely words too with the end of term fast approaching and final assignments and papers being due. Don't fret and worry! God's got you and you aren't alone 😊🙌🙏 And if you do feel alone, come to one of our events and meet some awesome people 😃 Or, reach out to our Campus Minister and the United Church Chaplain at SFU, Rev. Lydia. She'd be happy to meet with you too ❤ And, as always, all are always welcome! 🌈 #SFU #simonfraseruniversity #MFC #multifaithcentre #UCC #campusunited #unitedchurchofcanada #faith #spirituality #god #affirming #inclusive

Day 26 of 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism for Lent: Colonialism and Communicating the Gospel by Dorcas Kanana Muketha   As you may be aware, colonialism impacted the culture and religious beliefs in Africa and the Kenyan community. Similarly, colonialism, aided by different church denominations, also aggressively pushed Indigenous Peoples of the land we now call Canada onto reserves, displacing them from their traditional land and directly affecting their way of life.   In my community, our Sunday worship and Bible study, therefore, is a learning space for us to glimpse how the church, directly and indirectly, tried to destroy the cultures of Indigenous Peoples.   Missionaries used Christianity as an indirect approach to influence and dominate the Kenyan people, especially when the Kenyan people resisted colonial supremacy. However, African Independent Churches were set up in opposition to Europeans’ imposed values and practices. African leaders defected to form their churches, which combined Christian practices with Kenyan Indigenous traditional practices to meet their existential needs and to fight against the imposed Western values and practices. Having lived in a country that was under colonial rule, I learned how detrimental undermining other people’s cultures can be. Valuing the context in which you express the gospel is an opportunity for people to learn from each other without imposing or undermining each other’s culture. We can create a mutual foundation where we borrow from each other’s culture for the greater good of insiders’ and outsiders’ perspectives.   Dorcas Kanana Muketha’s invitation to examine white privilege continues our Lenten journey. You can find Dorcas’s full resource at the link in our bio. Where might you find places, situations, people in your life that you can share these invitations with?   #antiracistchurch #antiracism #antiracismforlent #40days #campusunited #Campusunitedunbc #Lent

Day 25 of 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism for Lent: Is My White Privilege Showing? by Chelsea Masterman   White privilege isn’t solely a matter of skin colour. Rather, it is all the ways that skin colour mixes with, influences, and is influenced by many other life factors, systemically. White privilege prepared and cast me in a role for which I had never intended to audition. If you are a White person (particularly an extroverted White person), the next time you are in a group of people (especially if there is racial and cultural diversity within that group), take time to notice when and how much you speak compared to the others.   If you tend to be the first one to speak in an open discussion, when a question is asked of the group and you already know what you want to say, count slowly to 10 in your head. Notice if there is silence and how you feel about that. If you are uncomfortable, consider that for some, silence is a polite way of allowing others to speak first. Remember that God is with you in the silence. You might wish to ask God to help turn your discomfort into a quietly active anticipation of receiving the gift of another’s insights. Listen with curiosity.   This can be a subtle yet powerful way of disrupting privilege, while also entering more deeply into relationship with God, others, and yourself.   Chelsea Masterman’s invitation to examine white privilege continues our Lenten journey. You can find Chelsea’s full resource at the link in our bio. Where might you find places, situations, people in your life that you can share these invitations with?   #antiracistchurch #antiracism #antiracismforlent #40days #campusunited #Campusunitedunbc #Lent

Day 22 of 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism for Lent: Unlearning Colonial Whiteness by Becca Whitla   I am haunted by my own Whiteness and the privilege it gives me. How can I help to make more space for racialized leadership in the classroom, in church leadership, in musical collaboration, and in other settings? How can I model behaviour and leadership that will help White students and leaders in their own commitments to anti-racism work? I have come to understand that racism and colonialism are intertwined. That means that unless we confront racism (along with capitalism, patriarchy, and Eurocentrism—the belief that European cultures are superior) as a social construction that was used to facilitate colonial expansion, we are not really getting at the root causes. There is a direct connection between my privilege and historical realities like the Transatlantic Slave Trade, the conquering of the Americas, and the settling of Turtle Island. Even today, Whiteness continues to be a key factor that determines access to education, employment, wealth, social status, and much more.   The more I learn about the complexity of anti-racism work and its connections to (de)coloniality, the more I realize how much more there is to learn! I am learning that the tentacles of the system of White supremacy run deep in me; it is hard to admit it. But there’s also a relief in saying I can’t ever overcome them fully. At the same time, I can and want to continue with my commitments to work against them for the rest of my life. I make these commitments as a member of multiple communities who share these struggles for a vision in which every creature in every place is cherished.   Becca Whitla’s invitation to be honest with ourselves, make intentional space, and to build relationships in our anti-racism work continues our Lenten journey. You can find Becca’s full resource at the link in our bio. Where might you find places, situations, people in your life that you can share these invitations with?   #antiracistchurch #antiracism #antiracismforlent #40days #campusunited #Campusunitedunbc #Lent

Day 21 of 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism for Lent: Finding Other Paths to Racial Justice by Michiko Bown-Kai   Not too long ago, I decided to move away from Toronto when I had an opportunity to become a minister at a rural congregation. These days I live in a small village with three stop signs. I have been forced to imagine new ways that I can remain committed to the ongoing work of racial justice. It was important for me to recognize that rural communities are both impacted by racism and have the capacity to work for racial justice. Different approaches may be needed to organize, but the conversation remains just as topical and important. In my own life, I am learning to slow down and find healing by reconnecting to the land I live on. One of the lessons I am unlearning is the way White supremacy and settler colonialism taught me that I am separate from the land. I learn to listen to creation in ways that are guided by respect instead of extraction. I let my time with the plants help me uproot the ideas White supremacy thrives on, like perfectionism, anthropocentric individualism, and a constant sense of urgency, as I see the garden reveal its magic through patient and imperfect acts of caretaking. I let go of the need to “master” my knowledge of nature and give thanks for the opportunity to be a humble beginner that is seeking relationships that are based in reciprocity. These lessons being taught to me by the land help me heal and grow and impact how I’m able to engage in anti-racism work.   Learn more about and support advocacy for racial justice issues that are local, and about Indigenous history and treaties, and support current justice work happening in the area. Share resources on how White people can help address racism they are witnessing in their communities and workplaces. Michiko Bown-Kai’s invitation to find new pathways to anti-racism work continues our Lenten journey. You can find Michiko’s full resource at the link in our bio. Where might you find places, situations, people in your life that you can share these invitations with?   #antiracistchurch #antiracism #antiracismforlent #40days #campusunited #Campusunitedunbc #Lent

Day 20 of 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism for Lent: A White Teenager’s Anti-Racism Exposure and Education by Matthew Tyhurst   As a White person, I grew up sheltered from and unaware of racism. The majority of my town’s residents at that time were also White, creating a false persona for myself and sheltering me from exposure to different races, cultures, and ethnocultural heritages. As I grew, I have watched my town transform. There are now residents from different backgrounds, and schools now educate students about racism and rights for 2SLGBTQIA+ people. I know that my journey with anti-racism exposure and education is far from over. I still have many things to learn and be exposed to. What I have learned and what the United Church has taught me is that it is important to understand everyone’s perspectives, no matter how different they are from my own. It is particularly important for me to listen and try to understand perspectives from underrepresented cultures and communities.   I believe that I can still find my place in making the world a better place and continue to work to challenge racism. I also know that my Whiteness has power and privilege, giving me the ability as an individual to make a difference to help stop racial discrimination.   Educate yourself: Take the time to learn about people’s different cultures, histories, and experiences. Take the time to read books, watch documentaries, and engage in conversation with individuals from all backgrounds. Knowledge is the first step toward dismantling racism.   Amplify voices: Share the voices of the ignored and marginalized. Share stories and experiences that show the struggles that marginalized communities are facing.   Matthew Tyhurst’s invitation to educate ourselves and amplify voices continues our Lenten journey. You can find Matthew’s full resource at the link in our bio. Where might you find places, situations, people in your life that you can share these invitations with?   #antiracistchurch #antiracism #antiracismforlent #40days #campusunited #Campusunitedunbc #Lent

Day 19 of 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism for Lent: Learning to be Fluent in Two Cultures by Sarah Yang   Growing up in Canada, I often clashed with my immigrant parents and our Korean culture. These frustrations were felt in my family as well, and they weakened my ties to my Korean culture. As I got older and more insightful, the need to be fluent in both cultures—Korean and Canadian—has stayed with me.   Since my elementary years, peers and teachers perpetuated racism at every school I attended. Microaggressions heavily contributed to my culmination of hurt and anger. Other forms of racism were blatant as people commented on my facial features, hollered slurs, and assumed Asian stereotypes. I experienced this prejudice from multiple cultures. Much of the racism I experienced was due to a lack of education that heavily impacted my daily living and how I perceived myself. I internalized this ignorance and began inflicting lateral violence within my Korean and greater pan-Asian community.   Morbidly, this internalized racism served as an unspoken but mutual bonding experience between us all. I felt a sense of belonging and solidarity. However, this confidence and feeling of solidarity did not last long. It was fleeting and temporary—the result of avoiding the main issue.   Though I do not displace my hurt anymore, the racism I experienced when I was younger has stuck with me to this day, affecting my self-image and sense of identity.   Sarah Yang’s invitation to push against our cultural biases continues our Lenten journey. You can find Sarah’s full resource at the link in our bio. Where might you find places, situations, people in your life that you can share these invitations with?   #antiracistchurch #antiracism #antiracismforlent #40days #campusunited #Campusunitedunbc #Lent

Day 18 of 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism for Lent: The Only Brown Person in the Room by Diane Dwarka   I immigrated to Canada from the island of Trinidad in the Caribbean about 50 years ago and first settled in Ottawa. In Ottawa at that time, people used derogatory words to describe me, and others, as a Brown person. The comments bothered me and I tried to ignore them. Deep down, though, I think I was starting to internalize most of this racism without even realizing what I was doing.   With some encouragement from my sister, we later moved to Winnipeg to be closer to my family. I attended a new United Church congregation. Even though I felt immediately welcomed there, I still continued to encounter racism in the church and in the community. I am aware that some people think that racism is not an issue within the United Church, but I have several personal experiences of racism. I was involved with my local United Church congregation almost from its inception. I taught Sunday school, chaired many committees, and sat on some significant committees such as the building committee. I also headed search committees over the years, but when I became Chair of the Board a few White men from the former Winnipeg Presbytery questioned the fact that a woman of colour was chair of the church’s board. Over the years, as a member of the congregation, I have been generally well accepted and thanked many times for my contribution not just to our local church but to the wider church as well. I have also endured much discrimination and some painful moments. I hope that as time moves on that many of us of colour who choose to be members of this church will be fully accepted and not treated as guests or visitors. Diane Dwarka’s invitation to learn and share about race and racism in our communities continues our Lenten journey. You can find Diane’s full resource at the link in our bio. Are there opportunities for you to learn and share about race and racism with your community of faith?   #antiracistchurch #antiracism #antiracismforlent #40days #campusunited #Campusunitedunbc #Lent

Day 17 of 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism for Lent: The Way You Use Language Is the Way of Your Life by Ibi Soqluman   As an Indigenous person from Taiwan now living in Canada, I remember a lesson about power and balance that my grandmother taught us. We were taught to use our language wisely, for the words we express always carry our energy and part of our soul. When we misuse words, the spiritual balance and harmony will be broken and unbalanced but will recover on their own time.   One observation I’ve made since moving to Canada is about the comedy culture of Western countries and its impact on our society. Comedians’ best shots often come from making fun of other people and their experiences. It’s easy to see these comedy performances as entertainment: “It’s just a joke—don’t take it so seriously.” But people should not accept racist language—it’s important to notice its negative impact. Truth is, we do not need this kind of humour if it is pointing at someone’s life, culture, or situation, and with sugar-coated discrimination. Racism is in fact a systemic issue, rooted deep in Canadian culture. You have the option of not promoting those values that are damaging to people’s dignity and soul. Ibi Soqluman’s invitation to pay attention to anti-racist language and humour continues our Lenten journey. You can find Ibi’s full resource at the link in our bio. Where might you find places, situations, people in your life that you can share these invitations with?   #antiracistchurch #antiracism #antiracismforlent #40days #campusunited #Campusunitedunbc #Lent

Day 16 of 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism for Lent: Carving Out a Space in the Church by Shane Goldie   Wearing both a minister’s hat and the hat of a Two-Spirit Indigenous person in the world today is not a journey for the faint of heart. Every step is laden with trials, sometimes even within the sacred spaces where one hopes for solace and acceptance. The reality is that I have faced discrimination, been judged, questioned, and sometimes made to feel unwelcome. The hetero cisgender White male standard cast by the colonial lens of our society often fails to acknowledge the rich tapestry of diverse identities that form our community.   Despite the light hue of my skin that often shrouds me in the mantle of privilege, I know the jagged edges of discrimination, the dissonance of not fitting into neatly packaged norms/boxes.   If you are wondering what you can do to help support our mission and goal of becoming an anti-racist denomination, to support those who are marginalized and suppressed, one thing you can do is to say something, to stand firm and call out discrimination when you notice it. To give opportunities to invite people like myself to share their stories and experiences with others. One way we will learn, grow, and change is by creating and giving space to those voices that have been silenced for too long. Reach out, ask questions, and come from a place of love and acceptance, eagerness and compassion. These are ways to continue to learn and grow. Shane Goldie’s invitation to engage actively in anti-racism work with the Indigenous church continues our Lenten journey. You can find Shane’s full resource at the link in our bio. Where might you find places, situations, people in your life that you can share these invitations with?   #antiracistchurch #antiracism #antiracismforlent #40days #campusunited #Campusunitedunbc #Lent

Day 15 of 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism for Lent: Learning to Challenge my White Privilege by Katherine Brittain   I never got completely comfortable with leading a Black History Month service. How do I, a White person, speak with integrity about the racial experiences I’ve never had? I firmly believe that I need to make space and do way more listening—because I get lots of opportunities to talk, while others are not listened to as much as I am. I have named and spoken out against obvious racism when I’ve witnessed it. But I still struggle with how and when to speak when I’m afraid of offending or saying the wrong thing, and to do so even when I don’t feel I have the right to be the one speaking. What I’ve learned most of all is that I have an obligation and a calling to keep trying. To keep showing up. To sit in that discomfort without trying to make things “better.” To keep listening and participating in the conversations no matter how tough they are. To keep discerning when it’s my turn to listen and when it’s important that I speak. I know that I’ll make lots of mistakes, and I will always be grateful to the congregation of St. Matthew’s who loved me through a lot of those mistakes! I have lots of privilege because of my skin colour—among other things—and this comes from an institution and a society built on racism and White-supremacy. Acknowledging that is really only the beginning. But it is the beginning of real, mutual, and transformational conversations. Katherine Brittain’s invitation to discern when to speak, when to listen, and when to hold discomfort as sacred, continues our Lenten journey. You can find Katherine’s full resource at the link in our bio. Where do you have the opportunities to “show up” to conversations that challenge and stretch you? Where might you find places, situations, people in your life that you can share these invitations with?   #antiracistchurch #antiracism #antiracismforlent #40days #campusunited #Campusunitedunbc #Lent

It's back! Come refuel at Nelson United Church this Saturday from 1-3! Make friends, eat free soup, and find your own space. #campusunited #uccan #soup #outerspace #studentlife

✨ Dive into the world of therapeutic creation at our Club’s Art Therapy: Air Dry Clay Event! 🌈 Mold, shape, and express yourself through the soothing medium of clay. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a first-time sculptor, this is your space to unwind and let your imagination take form. Join us for an evening of mindful crafting and discover the joy of bringing your ideas to life. 🌿🌟 Room: AQ 3210 Date: March 13th 2024 Time: 1:30-2:30PM #sfu #campuslife #uccan #sfumultifaithcentre #campusunited

Join us for another Community Dinner! An evening of FREE food and connection🫶 Excited to reconnect and see you there😇💙🤍 🔗 in the bio to RSVP When: Monday, March 4th @ 4:30pm Where: Chapel of Epiphany, 6030 Chancellor Blvd. 🏳️‍⚧️As always, ALL are welcome🏳️‍🌈 . . . #ubcvancouver #universityofbritishcolumbia #ubcstudentlife #communitydinner #uccan #campusunited #ubcstudents #studentlifevancouver

Join us today for contemplative worship in the David Douglas Botanical Gardens at UNBC. Find some quiet in the snowy and welcoming paths. Connect with Spirit and with nature to heal and refresh. #campusunitedunbc #campusunited #wildchurch #wildchurchnetwork #unbcinterfaithspiritualcarecentre

Day 14 of 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism for Lent: Proud of Being African and Black by Inzwirashe Munikwa   In 2014 I realized l was Black. To many this may sound strange as l was 10 years old at the time and this should have been a fact l knew about myself. However, I had no idea. The year 2014 was the one in which my family and l immigrated to Canada from Zimbabwe, our home, where all l knew was that I was African and was not categorized and valued based on a specific race. This [being Black] also meant smiling and disregarding any racism that ranged from microaggressions about how tan someone was, especially considering they were so close to my skin tone (they never were), how bouncy and rough my afro felt under someone’s uninvited fingers, to classmates using the n word without understanding the implications and meaning behind it. It was during Black History Month I learned that these experiences were beyond unacceptable, and although Black people did/do go through these experiences, it does not warrant or justify the perpetrators and enablers of racist behaviour.   Not only during Black History Month but also every month, it is time to reflect on the struggles Black people have faced and are still facing to this day, the strength our ancestors had to endure enslavement and colonialism, and the implications that these actions had and have, as we see systematic racism and intergenerational trauma within Black and African communities. It is also time to acknowledge the achievements that have been accomplished by historical figures that are often forgotten or left out of history books, and the achievements to come from all the beautiful, bright Black and African individuals everywhere in the world. Inzwirashe Munikwa’s invitations to reflect on struggles and acknowledge achievements within the Black and African communities continues this Lenten journey. You can find Inzwirashe’s full resource at the link in our bio. Where might you find places, situations, people in your life that you can share these invitations with?   #antiracistchurch #antiracism #antiracismforlent #40days #campusunited #Campusunitedunbc #Lent

Day 12 of 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism for Lent: The Stories We Tell to Young Minds by Jeffrey Dale   I grew up on stories.
      Stories told through books and family.
      Stories that delighted my soul and fed my mind.
      Stories of adventure and fear.   As a child, I fell in love with the musical Big River based on the book The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. It was in my 20s that I discovered that the book was a story of White saviourism. It shook my core. How could I see this musical and read this book as something other than what it was? So often, we as White people centre ourselves in the stories of others.   I grew up on stories.
      Stories told in quiet spaces where I was left to listen and wonder.
      Stories that were presented from one side.
      Stories that gave insight into deep-seated beliefs.   I grew up on stories.
      Stories that presented images of who we are.
      Stories that formed how I was to think and feel.
      Stories that were made up to appease the hearts and minds of those in power.   Consider the books you read as a child or young adult. How did these books present Indigenous or racialized experiences? If you were to revisit these books today, how would you approach them? Consider how the media presents stories of Indigenous or racialized experiences. How do you discern what is presented with biases? The experiences I shared in this reflection occurred when I was a child. How do you talk with young people in your life about race? What biases might you present, consciously or unconsciously? Jeffrey Dale’s invitations to reflect on stories as formative in our childhood years is an important part of our Anti-Racism journey this Lent. You can find Jeffrey’s resources at the link in our bio. Where might you find places, situations, people in your life that you can share these invitations with?   #antiracistchurch #antiracism #antiracismforlent #40days #campusunited #Campusunitedunbc #Lent

Day 12 of 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism for Lent: Difficult Conversations on Race Among Friends by Emo Yango   I was having dinner with friends when the table conversation turned to the colonial oppression of and racial discrimination against Indigenous Peoples of Turtle Island. Then one of my racialized friends made a remark that caused the conversation to take a different turn: “I understand and certainly sympathize with the oppressive experiences of Indigenous people, but what about the discrimination and racism I have experienced as a racialized person since I came to Canada?” It was definitely a question that many immigrants from countries previously colonized by Western countries ask silently. How does one honestly reflect on the different colonial and racist experiences among Indigenous and racialized peoples? For those among us who are not White settlers on Turtle Island, how do we avoid comparing our experiences and creating a hierarchy of oppression? It reminded me that being a social justice advocate does not give licence to be part of all social justice conversations. Advocacy also needs to be an expression of mercy. This means, at times, intentionally leaving a conversation to those affected by the subject and accompanying them with however or whatever is concluded. For Racialized People: How are the experiences of colonial oppression of and racial discrimination against the Indigenous Peoples of Turtle Island different from your own experiences of racial discrimination as a racialized settler? For White People: For one week, consciously identify the times when you intentionally remain silent during a conversation in which you have no experience of the subject. Remember not to congratulate yourself for the learning you gained during your silence. Instead, reflect on silence as an act of mercy.   Emo Yango’s invitations remind us that anti-racism work is complex and best done with support. You can find Emo’s resources at the link in our bio. Where might you find places, situations, people in your life that you can share these invitations with?   #antiracistchurch #antiracism #antiracismforlent #40days #campusunited #Campusunitedunbc #Lent

Hey friends! Just dropping a friendly reminder about our weekly event! 🎶✨ This time, we’re diving deep into the heart of music and lyrics at our ‘Lyrics for Life’. Get ready for an afternoon of soulful tunes, heartfelt stories, and maybe even a surprising connection to the Bible! Join us for the beats, the laughs, and the good vibes! 🎤📖 Here are the details: 📍 Location: AQ3210 🗓️ Date: Wednesday, March, 2024 🕰️ Time: 1:30 - 2:30 PM See you there! 😆 #LyricsForLife #uccan #sfu #campusunitedsfu #campusunited

Day 11 of 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism for Lent: Music and the Universal Language Myth by Deborah Bradley   Some among us may have heard the saying “Music is a universal language.” If you love many kinds of music, as I do, your initial reaction to the statement might be something like “Yes, of course!” After all, beautiful melodies and infectious rhythms cross borders and can penetrate barriers of language and culture.   Unfortunately, some among us may have only come to this realization relatively recently, and it bumps up against the strong cultural indoctrination that European-based music is somehow superior to all else. The myth of music as a universal language came to mean that European music was universal, overlooking the fact that music is a product of the culture from which it emerges. Rhythms and melodies represent culture, and lyrics may embody cultural beliefs, biases, and notions of cultural superiority. How might we avoid reproducing racial trauma through the church’s songs? ·      Technology today makes it easy to learn about the history of a hymn text or its composer. With this knowledge, worship leaders can begin to understand the racial and colonial imagery embedded in lyrics, and with this knowledge, prayerfully choose worship music that upholds the work of anti-racism and reconciliation. ·      Some hymn tunes written during the colonial era may speak powerfully in worship, but their associated texts are problematic. In these cases, worship leaders can seek out alternate texts to replace triggering imagery, keeping in mind that there may be some resistance to new texts set to favourite tunes. Some hymns may need to be retired altogether. ·      Singing a song in its original language helps us get a sense—even if imperfect–of how that song feels to the people who first sang it.    Deborah Bradley’s invitation into an anti-racist exploration of music, continues our Lenten journey. You can find Deborah’s resources at the link in our bio. Where might you find places, situations, people in your life that you can share this invitation with?   #antiracistchurch #antiracism #antiracismforlent #40days #campusunited #Campusunitedunbc #Lent

Today is the day! We are officially a few hourss away from the Coldest Night of the Year fundraising walk! We are excited, and hope you are too. Would you like to walk? Register to join the UNBC Interfaith Spiritual Care Centre team at the link in our bio. Would you like to donate? Find our fundraising page at the same link! #CNOY #CNY2024 #coldestnightoftheyear #unbcinterfaithspiritualcarecentre #campusunited #campusunitedunbc #

Day 10 of 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism for Lent: I Have Called You by Your Name by Deborah Richards   Names and their meanings have social, cultural, biblical, and personal importance to each person. In some societies, naming a child is an honour given to a particular family member. At other times, naming people or changing their name implied a relationship between parties reflecting harm and power. My own family names—both Richards and Walling—likely reflect the fact that people who were enslaved were often given the last names of their enslavers. Renaming Indigenous children in residential institutions was a deliberate move that was designed to erase traditional names, cut ties between the child and their family, and destroy the ability to pass those names on. This erasure of a child’s identity was harmful, and it caused trauma. This cultural assimilation tactic made it challenging for Indigenous peoples to reclaim their names and use those names on legal documents. Identity is fundamental to our existence. Social identity is about creating a sense of community or belonging. Personal identity comprises our personal experiences, which shape who we are. Erasing identity and erasing culture are vestiges of colonialism that we should continue to be aware of and dismantle in a more plural society.   How do we move forward respectfully and intentionally to honour the names that people have been gifted or that they have chosen? How can we take an active role in dismantling the erasure of identity and culture that remains from our racist and colonial history? Deborah Richard’s invitation is to live into vulnerability and honour people’s names, helping to build community that dismantles racist and colonial structures. You can find Deborah’s resources at the link in our bio. Where might you find places, situations, people in your life that you can share this invitation with? #antiracistchurch #antiracism #antiracismforlent #40days #campusunited #Campusunitedunbc #Lent

Day 9 of 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism for Lent: Grieving the Loss of My First Language by Ronni Beharry   My great-grandfather taught my dad a Christian bhajan, a lullaby, entitled “Mera Chhota Baba.” Even though we have a copy of the words of the song in English and Hindi, because my parents were not formally instructed in Hindi or were discouraged from teaching me Hindi, I don’t know the song. Colonialism has stripped me of the language of my origin, and I grieve that I cannot sing a worship song that has the potential to bring comfort to my sometimes anxious spirit today. I will know that church is radically welcoming when my current congregation is invited to pray the Lord’s Prayer in their respective first languages. Radical belonging will be actualized when a favourite scripture passage is read in more than one first language. I will know that I belong when South Asian music is included in public worship. I can still hear in my heart an Elder from my home church in Trinidad singing a bhajan each Sunday, at times stopping to recall words and persevering through the song so that the next generation might not forget the practice of their faith in their language of origin. I am grateful that I have not forgotten the value of preserving and passing on one’s first language. I will persevere.   My heart felt hopeful when a Brazilian member of the church publicly sang one verse of a popular worship song in her first language, Portuguese. If Portuguese was my first language, I would have felt authentically welcomed. Could it be that the walls of White privilege are slowly being deconstructed and channels for connection and intercultural exchange are being formed? Ronni Beharry’s invitation is to live into our worship and praise traditions using first languages is important to decolonizing church and Christianity. You can find Ronni’s resources at the link in our bio. Where might you find places, situations, people in your life that you can share this invitation with?   #antiracistchurch #antiracism #antiracismforlent #40days #campusunited #Campusunitedunbc #Lent

The Coldest Night of the Year fundraising walk is tomorrow! We are excited, and hope you are too. Would you like to walk? Register to join the UNBC Interfaith Spiritual Care Centre team at the link in our bio. Would you like to donate? Find our fundraising page at the same link! #CNOY #CNY2024 #coldestnightoftheyear #unbcinterfaithspiritualcarecentre #campusunited #campusunitedunbc #

We are officially two days away from the Coldest Night of the Year fundraising walk! We are excited, and hope you are too. Would you like to walk? Register to join the UNBC Interfaith Spiritual Care Centre team at the link in our bio. Would you like to donate? Find our fundraising page at the same link! #CNOY #CNY2024 #coldestnightoftheyear #unbcinterfaithspiritualcarecentre #campusunited #campusunitedunbc #awac

Day 8 of 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism for Lent: Reflections of a Successful Fox and Dog Hybrid on Humiliation Day by Chris Mah Poy   Saturday, July 1, 2023—Canada Day—marked the 100th anniversary of the Chinese Immigration Act of 1923, commonly known as the “Chinese Exclusion Act,” that banned the immigration of Chinese people to Canada until 1948, when Canada became a signatory to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which resulted in the act’s repeal. July 1st is marked by some Chinese Canadians as “Humiliation Day.” The original 1885 legislation was enacted by John A. Macdonald. He told the House of Commons that, if the Chinese were not excluded from Canada, “the Aryan character of the future of British America should be destroyed….” This was the exact moment in the histories of Canada and the British Dominions when Macdonald personally introduced race as a defining legal principle of the state.   Canada is the only home I’ve ever known. It’s a great country, and I consider to myself to be a patriot in the sense that I love my country and want to see it succeed. Patriotism on Canada Day has been virtually impossible for me to muster, though, as I continue to learn more about Canada’s history of colonialism, genocide, and racist policy championed by its founding prime minister. On this 100th anniversary of the passage of the Chinese Exclusion Act, I am arguing that reckoning with the truth of history is an authentic and defiant act of patriotism, an exercise in civics and nation building. Understanding the terrors and triumphs of your country’s history is an act of loyalty. Learning from that history to ensure that all people can live, thrive, and be free to be their best selves in Canada is an act of love.   But I won’t be waving a flag.   Chris Mah Poy’s invitation is to consider this question on July 1: What does defiant, disrespectful, and honest patriotism mean to you? You can find Chris’s resources at the link in our bio. Where might you find places, situations, people in your life that you can share this invitation with?   #antiracistchurch #antiracism #antiracismforlent #40days #campusunited #Campusunitedunbc #Lent

We only have 3 days until Campus United walks with the UNBC Interfaith Spiritual Care Centre in the Coldest Night of the Year fundraising walk for AWAC. If you would like to walk with us or sponsor our team, you can find our fundraising page at the link in our bio. Let’s show AWAC and all that they serve that we are with them, and help PG continue to be a place where all are cared for in community. #CNOY #cnoy24 #coldestnightoftheyear #campusunited #campusunitedunbc #unbcinterfaithspiritualcarecentre

We are here! Come and find your quiet centre today, in the midst of reading week. Give your spirit and your mind a rest from the demands of the daily grind by walking the Labyrinth. This ancient practice calls peace and calm into your life, and helps people to connect with spirit and with their inner light. We are here in the NUSC Event Space from 12:00-2:00. Come by and say hi! #campusunited #campusunitedunbc #interfaithlabyrinth #labyrinthmeditation #spiritualcare #unbcinterfaithspiritualcarecentre

Come and find your quiet centre during reading week. Give your spirit and your mind a rest from the demands of the daily grind by walking the Labyrinth. This ancient practice calls peace and calm into your life, and helps people to connect with spirit and with their inner light. We will be in the NUSC Event Space from 12:00-2:00. See you there! #campusunited #campusunitedunbc #interfaithlabyrinth #labyrinthmeditation #spiritualcare #unbcinterfaithspiritualcarecentre

Day 6 of 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism for Lent: If They Look Like Me by Alexa Gilmour   In the summer of 2023, Toronto experienced a refugee funding crisis that disproportionately affected Black African asylum seekers. Canada has been criticized before for the way its asylum process treats individuals from the Global South differently. When the news broke, a coalition of Black community leaders descended on the refugee encampment. Some of them stayed 10‒14 hours per day, phoning city officials and holding press conferences that decried the blatant racism and demanded dignity and shelter for these asylum seekers. Finally, six weeks into the funding standoff, four Black churches opened their doors to shelter over 400 Black refugees. A coalition of Black-led organizations and businesses called Our African Champions rallied to support them.   As the weeks went on, more White volunteers and congregations got involved and I began to wonder how race factored into our response to this crisis. When asked why a coalition of Black leaders, Black churches, and Black-serving organizations mobilized so quickly to provide shelter for hundreds of people, the co-chair for Black Community Housing Advisory Table, Diane Walters, said, “These are folks that look like us.”   Advocating for fair treatment and welcome is something we can do individually and as a church. This may take the form of calling, writing to, or meeting with your elected officials to discuss and ask for a change in policies that unfairly privilege some newcomers over others. Understanding how our own biases affect us is part of the healing journey. Reaching past the boundaries of the culture we grew up in makes us more likely to see siblings instead of strangers.   Alexa Gilmour’s invitation to reach past the boundaries of the culture we grew up in urges us to look at our own biases. You can find Alexa’s resource at the link in our bio. Where might you find places, situations, people in your life that you can share this invitation with?   #antiracistchurch #antiracism #antiracismforlent #40days #campusunited #Campusunitedunbc #Lent

Day 5 of 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism for Lent: Magpie, You Bring the Good News by MiYeon Kim   Mi Yeon Kim writes: “You can see magpies everywhere in Alberta. And I am so grateful for this. The magpie is a bird that is so much loved by Koreans. For example, in 1964, a Korean newspaper surveyed which bird should be the national bird of Korea, and the magpie took first place. It’s because it is considered a lucky bird in Korea. Koreans believe that when a magpie cries in the morning, good news or a good guest will come. Living in Canada, magpies have been a great comfort whenever I miss my country. However, they are often regarded as loud and nuisance birds in Canada. If you google the magpie, the following question comes up: How do I get rid of magpies in my yard?   Koreans experience being treated as invisible or non-present in Canada. And Koreans in the United Church have had similar experiences of feeling non-present. Currently, three new Korean families and one Filipino family have been attending our church since I began serving Fort Macleod-Granum Pastoral Charge. For East Asians, the Lunar New Year is a major holiday. My church has embraced a new tradition of eating Ddeokguk, the traditional New Year Korean rice cake soup after the Sunday service on Lunar New Year. During Asian Heritage Month, we go to a Chinese restaurant, then watch an Asian movie together. We also have had a Korean cooking class, where the White members of my church learn how to make Korean foods. MiYeon Kim’s invitation to be more intentionally intercultural with the various cultures of your neighbours, urges us to start where we are. You can find MiYeon’s resources at the link in our bio. Where might you find places, situations, people in your life that you can share this invitation with?  Do you think your community of faith could adopt similar practices?   #antiracistchurch #antiracism #antiracismforlent #40days #campusunited #Campusunitedunbc #Lent

Our Lheidli T’enneh Family Day ski event was fantastic! We had a beautiful sunny day, with ski lessons, hot chocolate and a ceremony for the special acknowledgment of the relationship with Lheidli T’enneh First Nation with drumming, blessings and a big warm fire. We look forward to next year! #lheidlitennehterritory #lheidlitenneh #otway #otwayskiday #campusunited #campusunitedunbc

🍪✨ Bake up some joy from the comfort of home! You can pick up your FREE cookie jar and join us online via Zoom for a fun-filled baking session. Instructions will be provided for you to follow along! For anyone who’s interested you can DM us ^^ Cookies jar will then be available for you to pick up! No experience required! 🏡💻 #campusunited #uccan #sfu #BakeFromHome #VirtualBaking #cookiejars

Weiter geht’s! Die Party-Fotos der großen CAMPUS UNITED Semesterabschluss-Party vom Freitag Abend (16.02.) im @spizzclub 🎉😎 Hier Teil 3 (der letzte) der Bilder. Folgt uns für mehr Updates unter @studentenpartys.leipzig 🤝 #leipzig #spizz #spizzclub #campusunited #freitag #nacht #semesterabschuss #semesterabschuss #unileipzig #universitätleipzig #htwkleipzig #baleipzig #ibaleipzig #iuleipzig #hgbleipzig #hmtleipzig #hhlleipzig #leipziggram #leipzigcity @jonrenker (Fotos)

Day 4 of 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism for Lent: Anti-Racism Muscle by Julie Graham   If we who are White accept the bubble White privilege offers us every moment of every day, we never engage anti-racism muscle groups. They sit unused, immobilized by denial, defensiveness, or the refusal to really take in the stories that tell us how privilege protects us.   Through it all, I believe, White people are taught to never ask why we’re reacting this way. Instead, we are taught to blame reflexively those naming the truth. We’re taught that overreaction is justified, to never question a lifetime of racist-received “wisdom” that overrules Indigenous and racialized people’s lived experience and social facts.   My Grandmother’s Hands: Racialized Trauma and the Pathway to Mending Our Hearts and Bodies, by Resmaa Menakem, is a powerful body-focused reflection on racism’s impacts on all bodies and lives. The book emerges from and honours Indigenous and racialized, and especially Black, experiences of embodied trauma created by racism.    Julie Graham’s invitation into using our Anti-Racism muscle continues our Lenten journey. You can find Julie’s resources at the link in our bio. Where might you find places, situations, people in your life that you can share this invitation with? How prepared are you to work to build your Anti-Racism Muscle?   #antiracistchurch #antiracism #antiracismforlent #40days #campusunited #Campusunitedunbc #Lent

Day 3 of 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism for Lent: Lots to Say on “Being Black” by Jonisha Lewinson   Jonisha writes “I have a bit of a love/hate relationship with Black History Month. I love that it provides space for Black people like me to express our cultures and highlight important (and many times, tragic) events in our histories. Though, on the other hand, I also recognize that it is viewed as the only time Black people are relevant in society. Many see Black History Month as the one and only time issues and experiences pertaining to Black people should be discussed. When people participate in Black History Month, they oftentimes see it as an “out” on acknowledging Black topics throughout the rest of the year.   I wish those around me, even the Black people, were educated on the robust history of Black people. I wish it was emphasized that “Black” really is just a skin tone, though society (and the effects of colonization) has associated “Blackness” with specific traits. Society has created a staple definition of what a Black person is and has deemed anyone who lies outside of that definition as an outcast. We see this all the time when it comes to biracial people who grow up in environments where they are not accepted by either of their racial identity communities, which honestly is a whole other conversation.”   Jonisha Lewinson’s invitation into listening to Black, Indigenous, and racialized voices continues our Lenten journey. You can find Jonisha’s resources at the link in our bio. Where might you find places, situations, people in your life that you can share this invitation with? How prepared are you to reflect on your own biases and listen to these voices?     #antiracistchurch #antiracism #antiracismforlent #40days #campusunited #Campusunitedunbc #Lent