On Saturday, April 25, United Methodists of the Michigan Area have a timely opportunity to build relationships between diverse cultures, religions, races, and generations. It is not too late to register for Beyond the Divide hosted by Big Beaver United Methodist Church, 9:00 am to 2:15 pm. Click here for more information. This event is sponsored by the Detroit Conference Commission on Religion and Race and the Commission on Religious Unity and Interreligious Relationships.
Since the event was originally planned, more police shootings of unarmed Black men have happened across the U.S. Beyond the Divide–its excellent series of speakers and settings for dialogue– provides an immediate opportunity to address this imminent and ongoing public concern.
At the same time, the Rev. Darryl Totty, President of the United Methodist Black Clergy of Michigan has released the following statement … The United Methodist Black Clergy stand in solidarity with those who protest the senseless killing of an unarmed Walter Scott at the hands of Officer Michael Slager, a member of the North Charleston, South Carolina police. We believe it is unconscionable that Officer Michael Slager believed the best course of action for subduing an unarmed, fleeing suspect was to shoot at him eight times in the back. This senseless act of violence, by yet another law enforcement professional, begs for continued scrutiny of the psychological screening and crisis-training officers receive.
We send our heartfelt condolences to the family of Walter Scott and strongly condemn this heinous act of violence. Jesus reminds us of the infinite worth of every human being, regardless of their skin color. Yes, in some urban American cities, crime is rampant. However, this fact does not pardon officers from irresponsible and disrespectful behavior, prejudicial treatment for people of color or blatant criminal acts. As Clergy and Americans, we are infuriated by the on-going and systemic mistreatment of blacks by law enforcement officers that are unable to control their bias. We call on the judicial system to prosecute Mr. Slager to the fullest extent of the law and to give the Scott family whatever justice is left after his murder. We want a society in which all persons are treated equally under the law and law enforcement is seen as the protectors of our community and not as the enemy. May the soul of Walter Scott rest in peace and may our community rally around our common humanity and our highest values.
Last Updated on October 27, 2023