In a powerful address at Birmingham Cathedral on 8 February for Racial Justice Sunday, Canon Dawn Brathwaite – Chair of the West Midlands Racial Justice (WMRJ) Regional Board – called on us to take seriously the hostility and anxiety experienced by racially minoritised communities, and urged the Church to move beyond passive concern into visible, courageous action.

Reflecting on the theme “Love Thy Neighbour,” she challenged us to “See and Be Seen”: to truly recognise what is happening in our cities, churches and communities, and to stand publicly for justice, dignity and equality. Racial justice, she reminded us, is not a political issue but a Gospel imperative rooted in God’s righteousness.

Canon Dawn also highlighted the collaborative work of the West Midlands Racial Justice Initiative and encouraged churches and individuals alike to play their part.