Racism is one of humanity’s most persistent injustices, but faith offers powerful tools to confront and dismantle it. Chapter 16 of Divine Conversations explores the intersection of racism and social justice, showing how spiritual teachings inspire and demand action against prejudice and inequality.
Jesus emphasizes the Gospel’s call to love one another, pointing out that faith leaves no room for racism or discrimination. Prophet Muhammad highlights the Quran’s teaching that all people are created equal, urging believers to judge others by their character rather than their ethnicity or social status. Moses reflects on the Torah’s message of justice, reminding us that oppression is a violation of divine will.
The chapter’s narratives illustrate the deep and enduring wounds of racism. A young Black man recounts the pain of racial profiling, an immigrant family struggles to find belonging, and a teacher of color faces systemic bias in her workplace. These stories highlight the urgency of addressing racism as a moral and spiritual imperative.
Guru Nanak draws from Sikhism’s principle of universal equality, advocating for collective action to challenge systemic racism and foster inclusion. Krishna speaks of the Hindu philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—the belief that the world is one family—urging us to break down barriers of race and prejudice. Siddhartha Gautama offers the Buddhist perspective of mindfulness and compassion, encouraging us to confront our biases and work toward harmony.
This chapter challenges us to reflect: How can we use faith as a foundation for anti-racist action? What steps can we take to create systems that reflect equality and justice for all? Through the wisdom of faith, we are reminded that social justice is not just a goal but a sacred obligation to ensure that all people are treated with dignity and respect.
Available on Amazon: Divine Conversations – Six Spiritual Leaders and Everyday Voices on Global Challenges