Given the history of the Presbyterian Church and Chicago’s North Shore communities, the Racial Justice Committee is committed to thoroughly, intentionally, and continuously leading First Presbyterian Church of Wilmette and the surrounding communities to root out and dismantle the evils of racism and white supremacy embedded in our social structures. Further, we aspire to have First Pres and the surrounding communities become models for inclusive, anti-racist, and multicultural places of worship and living. Nothing is more central to Christian beliefs than the sharing of Christ’s love among all people regardless of their backgrounds or circumstances. Love, in turn, seeks justice for all of God’s children.
During the summer of 2020, our nation watched the news footage of the brutal killing of George Floyd on the streets of Minneapolis. First Pres Wilmette joined the worldwide outcry of disbelief and horror about the event and, as a church, we felt strongly that God was calling us to respond. The Racial Justice Committee was formed and inspired by the very first words of Scripture which teach us that we are all created in the image of God, of every race and people, to live as one community (Genesis 1:26-27). We aim to follow the ministry of Jesus, in word and deed, to embody the ways of love, break down the dividing walls of hostility between people, and let the kingdom of God emerge in the most unlikely places.
This group meets regularly, working to build awareness, develop relationships, and commit to dismantling racist structures, laws, and policies. If you would like to know more please, contact Pastor Jeff Lehn.
We welcome you to read our 2021 report and 2022 report. An archive of our news and announcements appears below.