Our Statement on Anti-Asian Racism

As North Americans become more aware of aggression toward Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI), including the recent attack in Atlanta, killing six Asian women, committed by a white man brought up in the church, World Renew in the U.S. and Canada reemphasizes our biblical standing on the value and dignity of all people. In addition, we recognize the rich diversity that we share as we each reflect the image of our creator God.

To that end, we stand against the white supremacy and patriarchy that have spread through North American society, including churches. This racism and sexism needs to be confronted, addressed, and rooted out immediately, and all individuals and organizations including World Renew share responsibility for that work.

We reject racism, gender-based violence, and other forms of oppression and injustice that overtly or covertly subjugate people or devalue their God-given dignity and worth. We also seek to protect people’s human rights, promote healthy relationships, and work toward healing for those who experience trauma and loss.

We lament the presence of anti-AAPI and anti-Asian Canadian rhetoric in our communities and churches.

We lament the history of microaggressions that have built into moments of violence such as the killing in Atlanta.

We lament that race and gender work together to systemically and specifically harm people of colour.

Our lament is based on God’s intention for his creation: God did not intend for us to live in communities of division. Christians are called into a different way of “being” in Galatians 3:28, where diversity of race and gender are to be embraced to demonstrate that we are all one in unity in Christ.

We extend compassion to those who are grieving, who feel vulnerable, unsafe, and alone. We see you, and we grieve with you. We commit to stand in solidarity with the AAPI and Asian Canadian community. By speaking up against this racism, uplifting AAPI and Asian Canadian voices, and making space for honest dialogue about the intersecting elements of this incident, we seek to demonstrate our ongoing anti-racism commitments and work. This includes learning about the history and structures that contribute to inequity for Asian and Pacific Islanders in Canada and the United States.