THE diocese of London has been awarded £730,000 from the Church of England’s Racial Justice Unit to “expand and deepen” its racial-justice work over the subsequent three years.
A diocesan press release last week said that the cash would enable it to construct on work already under way: “Honest and hope-filled spaces for education will likely be expanded, including anti-racism and cultural competency training, alongside the event of recent curriculum resources for Church schools. Clearer and more accessible pathways into leadership and participation will emerge through listening circles and practical motion to remove barriers and support people of their calling.
“Governance will proceed to be strengthened in order that lived experience is heard and revered, and decision-making reflects integrity and shared responsibility. Compassionate and clear advocacy will likely be advanced through collaboration with trusted partners on issues affecting our communities, including youth safety, health inequalities, and the rights and welfare of refugees and asylum seekers.”
The diocese would collaborate with its Area Deans of Racial Justice, “helping to resource parishes, schools, and communities as they proceed this journey”.
Since 2021, two area bishops with global-majority heritage have been appointed: to Edmonton, Dr Anderson Jeremiah, and to Willesden, the Rt Revd Lusa Nsenga-Ngoy.
Welcoming the funding, Dr Jeremiah said: “At the center of our vision for each Londoner to come across God’s love is the essential work of racial justice. Pursuing justice is greater than a priority; it’s the sensible expression of our Christian discipleship. This funding is a superb investment in our shared calling to be people of mercy and equity. Our hope is that it would act as a significant catalyst, empowering our parishes and chaplaincies to turn into places where every individual can truly flourish.”
