We believe racism—the unique enterprise of denigrating persons based on the color of their skin for cultural domination and economic exploitation which has persisted since the age of exploration and colonization—is one of the greatest evils in human history. We hope this page will bring clarity to where we stand on the topic and provide some useful resources and action steps.
Statement on Race
The Bible clearly states the equal worth and dignity of all people made in God’s image and likeness. God’s ultimate plan is a Gospel reaching to every nation and bringing men and women equally around the throne of his son—from every tongue and tribe and nation.
Violence, prejudice, and bias against persons based on any generalization or categorization of class, race, ethnicity, language, or culture is clearly antithetical to the teachings and example of Jesus. Love of neighbor (as exemplified with the Good Samaritan) is Jesus’s command to his followers.
We believe racism—the unique enterprise of denigrating persons based on the color of their skin for cultural domination and economic exploitation which has persisted since the age of exploration and colonization—is one of the greatest evils in human history. We also believe the patterns, systems and structures set up to promote this exploitation and dehumanization and the worldview thinking underneath it was one of the most egregious forms of the church historically losing its prophetic voice and allowing itself to be wedded to the kingdoms of this world rather than the narrow way of Jesus and the Kingdom of God he inaugurated.
Take Action
Like, share, and amplify PAALF’s demands on social media.
Support, follow, and invest in Black-led organizations in Portland including (but not limited to):
Books & Articles
The Myth of Equality, Ken Wytsma
The Color of Compromise, Jemar Tisby
I’m Still Here, Austin Channing Brown