Racial Justice Sunday will take place this year on 12 February 2017. It will be an opportunity for all of us to reflect on the many complex challenges facing us in a troubled world.
The Brexit Referendum has highlighted some of the serious divisions in our society. These divisions are set against the background of continuing turmoil in the middle east and other parts of the world, with many seeking refuge or simply a better life in Europe and the UK. Here at home, the gap between the rich and the poor is increasing, many feel left behind, minorities continue to experience discrimination and disadvantage, and there is a recent spike in hate crime. In the face of such a complex global and local challenge, we in CARJ feel it is an appropriate time for reflection and discernment, and Racial Justice Sunday is an appropriate time to begin that process.
On Racial Justice Sunday, there will be a collection in parishes across England & Wales to support the Church’s work for racial justice. We are writing to encourage you to remind your parishes, and we hope you will especially remember The Catholic Association for Racial Justice (CARJ). For more than 30 years, CARJ has been working with others to bring about a more just, more equal, more cooperative society. Their work includes families, schools and young people in marginalised communities, vulnerable groups like Gypsies, Roma and Travellers and support for those working in poor urban areas.
For further information relating to Racial Justice Sunday, please go to the CARJ website at www.carj.org.uk or email at info@carj.org.uk or ring the office on 0208 802 8080.
Finally, please don’t hesitate to contact CARJ at any time with your questions, requests, suggestions and offers of support.
Please see Racial Justice Sunday resources booklet 2017 for more information
