CAPTION: Protests, like this one in New York, have been taking place across America
Taking a stand against racism and tackling injustice
The Diocese of Exeter says it stands against racism in all its forms and wants its churches to be at the forefront of creating a more just society and tackling socio-economic inequalities.
The Bishop of Exeter, Bishop of Plymouth, Bishop of Crediton and the Reverend Tanya Hockley-Still, the BAME Advisor for the Diocese of Exeter, have issued a joint statement in response to the protests in America over the killing of African-American George Floyd in police custody.
It also references new research which shows people from ethnic minorities in the UK are more likely to die from coronavirus.
Here is the statement in full:
The Diocese of Exeter stands against racism in all its forms. We are shocked and saddened by the events in USA and support the joint statement from the Archbishops of Canterbury and York.
We believe that God created us all equal and are disturbed at the disproportionately high number of people from ethnic minorities who are dying from Covid-19 in our own country.
We want our churches to be at the forefront of creating a more just society, working with local government, charities and community groups to tackle socio-economic injustices both at home and abroad.
We pray that our leaders will make wise decisions that build social cohesion.
We pray that our eyes may be opened so that together we can each play our part in transforming society and bringing God’s Kingdom here on earth.
Bishop Robert Atwell, Bishop Nick McKinnel, Bishop Jackie Searle and The Reverend Tanya Hockley-Still (BAME Advisor for the Diocese of Exeter)