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Anti Racism Team
For the past five years, the St. Matthew’s Anti-Racism Team (SMART) has been a faithful and courageous presence, creating space for the congregation to grow in awareness, compassion, and action. Rooted in the belief that equity and inclusion are spiritual practices that reflect the very heart of God, the team offers opportunities to learn about anti-racism, intersectionality, and justice in community.
Their work has included book studies, interactive classes, educational field trips, and workshops in partnership with How to Talk to Your Racist Uncle. They’ve also curated a lending library filled with diverse voices and stories that invite deeper engagement and transformation. The team led a powerful congregational study on the Doctrine of Discovery, and developed a robust Land and Labor Acknowledgement that grounds our worship in truth and accountability.
In addition, the team played a key role in updating St. Matthew’s welcome statement to be in full alignment with ReconcilingWorks, helping us live more fully into our commitment to be an explicitly anti-racist, LGBTQIA+ affirming church. With each offering, the team invites the congregation to live more deeply into God’s call to love boldly, seek justice, and walk humbly.
The Summer of 2025, the team is taking a much needed Sabbatical to rest and reflect, so that they can hear God's voice for the up coming year.
Looking for Resources?
The holy work of anti-racism is central to our faith—a lifelong journey of learning and unlearning that draws us closer to God's justice, mercy, and beloved community. Through education, experience, empathy, and exposure, we are invited to grow in spirit and truth, with many ways to enter the journey: books, podcasts, movies, cultural events, partnerships, and the sacred practice of listening to others’ stories. Here are some places to find resources.
EXPLANATION OF THE DECLARATION OF THE ELCA
- To begin your anti-racism journey: WADE IN THE WATER
- Deepen your learning: LIFT EVERY VOICE AND SING
- Raising the stakes: MUST JESUS BEAR THE CROSS ALONE
All lists curated by the ELCA Northest Synod's
