The National Council of Catholic Women mourns the death of George Floyd and the long list of victims that have gone before him. Racism takes many forms and can happen in many places. It includes prejudice, discrimination or hatred directed at someone because of their color, ethnicity, or national origin.

We ask our members to read the USCCB pastoral letter against racism "Open Wide Our Hearts: the Enduring Call to Love,"  and engage each other in dialogue and reflection during this time of unrest and sadness. This could be a daunting task, one that will bring a feeling of discomfort and anxiety and because of this we are suggesting several tools that may assist you. The pastoral letter above as well as a study guide to this letter is available by clicking here. In addition, the National Museum of African American History and Culture has created a web portal “Talking About Race” with many free resources and reflections for you to use in this process of discernment and reflection. It can be easily accessed by clicking here.

Racism is alive in our country, although many would like to think that it is a thing of the past, events of this past month have proved it is not. We are all created in the image and likeness of God bringing to light that no one person regardless of race, ethnicity, or national origin is better than another.

We remain in prayer for the victims of racism and violence and continue to reflect on aspects of peace and justice.

Jean Kelly

NCCW President

National Council Of Catholic Women

200 N. Glebe Road, Suite 725

Arlington , VA 22203