“There comes a time when one must take a position that is neither safe, nor politic, nor popular, but he must take it because conscience tells him it is right.” –The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., 1968
For nearly 50 years, the annual observance of Black History Month has been an occasion to mark the achievements and contributions of Black and African Americans throughout U.S. history. These achievements have also contributed to the work of rooting out racism and establishing equality across lines of gender, class, and color. At United Church Funds (UCF), we embrace this month as an opportunity to recommit ourselves to the ongoing work of advancing equity and inclusion in our work and our organization–values that are integral not only to UCF’s vision but also to the work and beliefs of those we serve.
So, it is ironic that this year’s celebration of Black History Month is punctuated by criticism and attacks on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). We are deeply troubled that elected officials have publicly attacked such efforts in business, education, government and society at large. We are similarly dismayed that large companies that once trumpeted DEI programs now loudly declare their rollbacks or elimination of the same. And we are alarmed by a flurry of executive orders that aim to dismantle existing DEI initiatives, restrict efforts to address racial disparities and undermine progress toward a more just and inclusive society.
All of this stands in stark contrast to the very essence of Black History Month. All of these threaten to undo the hard-won progress of generations of Americans that have fought for racial justice and civil rights.
“God has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does God require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God” (Micah 6:8).
UCF remains steadfast in our belief that justice work is integral to our mission—and we know that the pursuit of justice is a mission for many of our clients. Therefore, unlike some businesses, we do not intend to change or adapt our mission because of attack or criticism, nor will we seek advantage and curry favor with public officials. Our mission does not shift with the political winds but remains firmly rooted in biblical principles of God’s extravagant love, unconditional grace and fierce justice for all.
This means that we will maintain our longstanding commitment to diversity and a vision of a just world for all. We will continue to use economic leverage to drive positive change. We will continue with partners to engage companies on critical issues such as fair labor practices, fiduciary oversight and transparency in lobbying. We will continue to address issues of human rights, climate change, environmental racism and more. And we will continue to be prudent and responsible investors, seeking long-term sustainability and maximum shareholder value for our clients.
As we mark this Black History Month, we believe that we best honor the achievements of so many Black Americans by staying true to the faith principles that guide us and maintaining our commitment to equality and justice for all. And now more than ever, it is imperative that we do so.