In a time of setbacks in the struggle to overcome racism, we hope this conversation will allow deeper consideration of the role of religion and the faith community in promoting racial justice and unity in this country. Because religion has historically shown an unrivaled capacity to unite disparate peoples in a shared sense of identity and purpose as well as to divide them from one another with disastrous consequences, the role of faith communities in society is critical. What is more, the faith-based voice may offer distinctive insights and resources for overcoming the gridlock of a national conversation on race that is increasingly characterized by mistrust, entrenchment, and talking past one another.

This faith-based conversation aims to foster open, honest, and inspired reflections on the role of the faith community in promoting a search for truth and understanding on the path of racial healing and reconciliation in the United States. It is an intimate gathering which does not involve traditional or social media. The discussion will be on a not-for-attribution basis, which we hope will help to foster candor and understanding. It will also be interactive and participatory. We hope that this distinctive space will allow us to take a step back from the current political moment to examine the underlying dynamics of a challenge that long predates — and will no doubt outlast — the circumstances and developments of the present.

We hope for a rich variety of viewpoints in a robust and fruitful exchange. We also hope that this opportunity to exchange thought and experience will contribute to building relationships and stimulating further discussions in the future. As it has with others who have engaged in this conversation, we hope the experience will enrich the work participants do in their own communities and in the wider society.