The May 2016 Pacifica Synod Assembly adopted a “Resolution to Confront Racism and White Privilege.” This work was initiated with the formation of the “Pacifica Synod Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Working Group” (later renamed the “Anti-Racism Team”) to: “Identify and share high quality educational tools and events to raise awareness of racism, white privilege, and Christ-centered paths to liberation of oneself, church and society”; Guide “the Pacifica Synod of the ELCA to offer support for multicultural and multilingual ministry to engage and integrate congregations and leaders with nearby populations and to commit itself to provide accessible and affordable synod assembly and education events to less affluent leaders and congregations”;

Support the Pacifica Synod to “bear persistent public witness in solidarity with oppressed people in this and other countries for the transformation of society toward the domination-free reign of God in Christ.” Since then, we have held workshops at synod assembly and half-day seminars for church leaders to hear first-hand stories of our synod and regions and to grow awareness of racism and white privilege among the unique populations whom we serve.

During 2020 and 2021, several of our conferences held online book studies of the book Dialogues on Race. In October 2021, a multi-day, anti-racism training event was held at Luther Glen for both rostered and lay leaders. Currently, members of our team host a monthly hybrid event called the “People’s Roundtable on Anti-Racism” on the fourth Sunday of the month, from 2-4 p.m. PDT at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Fullerton AND over Zoom. This discussion group is led by Jim Tyler and Sarah Tees. To receive the Zoom link to join, please email Sarah Tees at sarahtees@hotmail.com.