To the Faith Community
“To the faith community: Mobilize in an ecumenical coalition that’s multiracial and capitalizes on the role of each group. Catholics have powers that the Pentecostals can only dream about. The Salvation Army understands working within resident communities. The black church can say things to black citizens that the rest of the city cannot, without being charged with racism. White congregations and ministers can speak to political leaders in a language and tone and directness and facility that’s not available to the powerless black community. The faith community must elevate itself to become an ‘impartial, non-partisan advocate for the poor—and independent voice of truth and conscience that speaks truth to power.’” Toronto Star reporter Royson James, outlining Rev. Eugene Rivers’ anti-violence address