We believe that the future of the planet depends upon our making shifts in perspective and changes in our understanding of our interdependence as a global village – both individually and collectively. Our common home, Earth, and all who inhabit it suffer from the impact of racism, forced migration and the climate crisis. As bearers of hope, we commit to live compassion, communion and non-violence as one global community.
As we continue to increase our understanding of the root causes of these injustices, we commit ourselves to work toward a transformation of consciousness that will bring about a more loving society and justice for the world. To that end, we will use our collective voice, resources and influence- in collaboration with others – to work for a transformation of consciousness within ourselves and society.
RATIONALE
Our work to continue to examine the deep connections among racism, forced migration, and the climate crisis parallel the call from Pope Francis for an integral ecology approach that sees that “today’s problems call for a vision capable of taking into account every aspect of the global crisis.” LCWR believes it must continue its decades-long work of addressing these global crises via direct service, systemic change, and advocacy. Any strategies developed demand an integrated approach to combatting poverty, restoring dignity to the excluded, and at the same time, protecting nature.
(LS 139).
SUGGESTED ACTIONS
1. LCWR members are encouraged to use the Transforming Grace materials on the LCWR public website to help their members and partners in mission grow in the transformation of consciousness needed to bring about a just world.
2. Congregations are encouraged to use their human and financial resources to help address the root causes of racism, climate crisis, and forced migration, including migration caused by environmental destruction, through advocacy, service, impact investing, and other collaborative projects.
3. Regions and/or congregations are encouraged to identify groups and actively partner with them in responding to issues rooted in the intersection of racism, forced migration, and climate crisis. LCWR regions and the national office will work collaboratively to report on strategic initiatives and partnerships taken in pursuit of justice at the intersection of these issues and use many forms of media to publicize this work.
For the next four years the Global Concerns Committee will provide implementation tools to the regions to facilitate the implementation of this resolution
