Newman UCC Racial Equity Team Statement of Solidarity with our Asian American Neighbors:

The Racial Equity Team of Newman UCC joins with the national leadership of the United Church of Christ and the National Council of Churches in grief at the death of eight people, six of them of Asian descent, shot by a lone gunman at three Atlanta spas on March 16.

Linking our hearts in prayer for the victims and their families, we issue a call to action against this act of violence. We share this statement of Rev. Dr. John Dorhauer, General Minister and President of the United Church of Christ, with our wholehearted support:

When violent attacks occur and the perpetrators are found to have acted based on a bias against the victim being Asian American or of Asian descent, we call for their prosecution as hate crimes. To end racism in our society, we must name it wherever it emerges and do everything in our power to root it out and replace it with just, safe, and equitable communities for all of God’s people.

We invite you to join us in condemning anti-Asian sentiment and racist attacks. Sup-port the COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act.

At Newman UCC, we are committed to living the love and justice of Jesus. Our Racial Equity Team stands in alliance with all those who are historically marginalized based on race and ethnicity.

We strive to be a leader within our community, exposing, naming and dismantling racism, white supremacy and all forms of prejudice. We envision a community where our relationships, institutions and social systems provide equitable support and re-sources for all.

Newman Congregational Church, United Church of Christ is located at 100 Newman Avenue, Rumford, RI 02916. For more information, contact Rev. Timoth Sylvia at 401-434-4742.