by Judith Pierre-Okerson

I grew up in Haiti, a country where a person's skin color did not determine whether one "belongs." When I moved to the United States, it was at first difficult for me to understand the importance of Black History Month. In time I understood why it was necessary to celebrate the achievements of black people in a society where higher education and political, economical, and (I dare add) religious power are considered entitlements for white people, the privileged ethnic group.

My involvement in The United Methodist Church has helped me appreciate and understand the significance of Black History Month. (As I heard and read about the Methodist Church's Central Jurisdiction, I wondered if I would still be a United Methodist today if I had to endure such a painful experience!) The more involved I get in The United Methodist Church leadership, the more I appreciate the sacrifices US black Methodists made so that, as a black woman, I can make my voice heard today.

Since the official desegregation of the Methodist Church with the historical dissolution of the Central Jurisdiction, The United Methodist Church as a denomination has made great strides toward fully including black people in church decision-making at all levels. It has combated and helped dismantle racism in the church and in society. Early on, after the desegregation of the church, the newly formed denomination was intentional in building up its leadership to mirror the Kingdom of God. It strengthened and revitalized African American congregations and embraced and nurtured other ethnic black congregations.

However, progress has not been without complacency or setbacks. For each step that The United Methodist Church made in the early '80s and '90s, today there are two steps backward as annual conferences are closing and merging African American churches and failing to create opportunities for young minority persons.

As we celebrate Black History month this year, let us honor what our country and denomination have done in the past. But most of all, let us focus our energy to become the church that Christ has called us to be. May we be a church that offers equal opportunities for all congregations and individuals to be in mission with the Triune God. For in Christ there is no east or west, no ethnic majority or minority, no white, black, Native American, Asian, Hispanic, or Pacific Islander.

Judith Pierre-Okerson is a member of the General Board of Global Ministries and a Women's Division Director. She holds an MS in Special Education and an MA in Religion. Judith teaches early elementary school-age children with special needs in a public school in Hialeah, Florida.

	See Also... Topic: Human rights |  Race |  United Methodist Church |  Methodism |  Geographic Region: United States |  Source: GBGM Mission News
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Date posted: Jan 30, 2009