MLK Day Reflections
I’m a list maker. I stay organized by making lists and crossing items off when they are completed. I sometimes break tasks down into small segments so I can cross off each one as it gets finished. Those of you who are also list-makers will understand this way of functioning. Those who are not list-makers are probably shaking their heads right now and wondering why they should keep reading.
I have learned that not everything can go on a list; not everything can be completed so it can be marked off as done. Building relationships and staying connected with people is not a one-time task. It is a way of being. Seeking justice is not a one-time task. It is a way of being. Ending systemic racism is not a one- time task. It is a way of being over a lifetime.
Methodist Federation for Social Action came to my attention while I was still a layperson within the UMC. And I knew that I needed to connect with this organization because seeking justice happens best in community – when each of us helps to uphold those around us. My involvement with my local chapter of MFSA led to involvement at the national level and eventually to serving on the national MFSA board.
Over the past several years, the MFSA board has examined its own racist tendencies and begun the work to change them. In 2019 the board decided a deep dive was needed if it was going to make significant changes. The board approved working with Crossroads on an Anti-Racism Audit of the entire organization. As a board member, I expressed my interest in being one of the audit team members. Not only did I see this action as being important for the board but also for me personally as I recognized my own racist background and actions.
Little did I know how complex and painful this work can be. I have learned a lot about unintended consequences and the pain that I (both personally and as part of an organization) have caused to others. Our audit team is in the final phase of our work. We recently sent out a survey to a diverse group of people – constituents, supporters, those who have some knowledge/connection with MFSA. As we compile the survey results, we are beginning to write what we have learned over the past two years. The final step will be making recommendations to the board about changes that are needed in the organization.
It is not easy examining the inadequacies of an organization that I believe has a purpose of working for justice in our church and our world. It is necessary work. And in many ways it is exciting work – to look at MFSA through a variety of lenses and work to strengthen the organization so it can be better and do better. I find hope in that work. It is work that allows us to move into 2022 seeking ways to continue to shine God’s light into the world.
As we celebrate MLK Day, it is important to remember that it is not a day to check off a list. It is not a day to take one action and say I have done my work for this year. It is a time to reflect on who we are and how we relate to the rest of the world around us. It is a day to work with others. It is a day to ask ourselves if we are truly seeking justice for everyone. It is a day to take off our blinders and see a larger world. And as MFSA continues to work toward being a better and stronger organization to support and work for justice for everyone, it is also a time to support this organization. Won’t you make a donation today so that we might journey together, in relationship, as we seek to become the people God has called us to be?
-Rev. Karen Nelson, member of MFSA's Racial Audit Team
MFSA does not receive any financial support from the United Methodist Church's giving channels. 100% of our work is funded through your generosity.