Bishop Trimble, the Extended Cabinet, and several clergy and laity from the Indiana Conference were present and active during today's A.C.T Now! Rally 2 End Racism events, held in Washington, D.C. The rally was motivated by the 50th anniversary of the death of civil rights leader Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. King was assassinated April 4, 1968. Interfaith leaders along with peace and justice advocates from across the country participated in a series of ceremonial events designed to commemorate Dr. King’s death, the launch of the Truth and Racial Justice Initiative, and make their stand against racial discrimination and injustice visible and resonant.
The “A.C.T. Now!” rally was an opportunity to AWAKEN oneself to the truth that racism is ever-present; CONFRONT racism; and TRANSFORM the hearts, minds, and behaviors of people and institutions. At its best, A.C.T. Now! seek to encourage individuals, across different backgrounds and faith walks, to commit to doing their part to “eradicate the entrenched racism that grips the United States and paralyzes our ability to see every human being as equal.”
The day began with a silent prayer walk from the National Mall to the MLK memorial, followed by an interfaith service, and concluding with a Call to Commitment.