Calls to Action: Advocacy and Prayers Online, House Signs, On the Streets, and More

Week of Action - Month of Action - Life of Action:
Speak - Act - Pray to End Racist Violence and Build Racial Justice

Many of us are unsure how to most faithfully protest the egregious atrocities of violence against our black siblings and how to stand up and take action for justice in this tumultuous time. As each of us discerns what we are called to do, let us turn to the best in our own faith tradition that inspires us to be most loving and courageous. Let us learn from others - those in other faith traditions and leaders from the past. And let us remember, and commit, that we are in this struggle for the long haul.

What we do know is this: A time comes when silence is betrayal, and that time has come for us.

Overview of Possibilities
(This is meant to prompt your own imagination!
Send us your ideas to share!)

Online: Join or watch vigils; participate in training and education; advocate via social media; gather virtually for prayer and discernment; write emails to people in power; make donations; stay informed; watch movies and documentaries that help broaden your awareness.
From your Home: Post signs in your yard or own your car; send letters (yes, using the U.S. Mail Service!); call people in power; reach out to neighbors, friends, family and strangers; make sure people of color know they are not alone; educate yourself about how to shop, bank, etc. without supporting white supremacy; read relevant books.
On the Streets: Join peaceful and safe protests if you feel called to do so; work with others on creative and safe ways to publicly show solidarity -- then invite others and do it!

More specific opportunities:

Online:

• Post virtual events (vigils, protests, workshops, etc.) on our calendar so others can join them.
• Click here and scroll down for possible social media posts from the United Church of Christ.
• Look at this list of "75 Things White People Can Do for Racial Justice" - and do some!
• See a variety of statements, sermons and podcasts from diverse faith traditions in this article on our website. 
• Respond to Rev. Kaloma Smith's Call to Action by emailing Palo Alto leaders and speaking up at the Palo Alto City Council meetings. Read article from our website with details here. Work for police reform wherever you live by using the #8cantwait website to advocate for 8 life saving policies in your police department.

From your Home:

• Purchase a SURJ (Standing Up for Racial Justice) Black Lives Matter sign or other sign of solidarity and put it up in your yard.
• Make your own sign or print one from online. If it is small, put it in your window.
• Look at this list of "75 Things White People Can Do for Racial Justice" for ideas on how to support black businesses and shop black (see #9, 10 & 11) -- and more things you can do.