Tag: inclusion
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From Darkness to Light

Why Discussing Hard History Matters Recently, I had the opportunity to speak about the story of Pruitt-Igoe in St. Louis; a housing project once seen as a symbol of hope, but ultimately a tragic example of racial discrimination, economic neglect, and broken promises. The story of Pruitt-Igoe isn’t just local history; it reflects a much…
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I am Not the “Black Friend”

It’s a complicated thing to help friends work through and discuss issues of race. This can be especially true for Black people. Some days, it feels like a sacred calling. I know from experience the feeling of being in a board room or planning meeting and someone turns to me saying, “well Herman, you’re Black.…
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Selfless and Steadfast: Transformative Leadership

Dynamic Leadership Series Pt. 4 “ Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. ” (John 15:13). In this verse, Jesus defines the highest form of leadership: sacrificial, selfless, and steadfast. As organizational leaders, embracing humility and extending grace can transform our teams and cultures—just as Christ’s ultimate sacrifice reshaped humanity.…
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Freedom to Forgive: Corrie Ten Boom

Dynamic Leadership Series Part 3 When have you needed to extend or receive forgiveness through a cross-cultural offense—and what did it teach you? Real leaders know the importance of maintaining healthy relationships. And all relationships require continual forgiveness. Corrie Ten Boom, a Dutch Christian who helped Jews escape the Nazis during World War II, is…
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Don’t Let Go: Attitudes for Reconciliation

In today’s world, the need for racial reconciliation is as urgent as ever. Yet, there are still many who fail to see the importance of it or actively resist the effort. As individuals committed to making a difference, we have a responsibility to not only advocate for change but also help carry others toward understanding…
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How Do We Work Toward Racial Equity?

Race is a social construct—but that doesn’t mean it isn’t real. While race has no biological basis, it has shaped policies, institutions, and everyday experiences in ways that continue to impact our society. From voting rights to housing access, from healthcare disparities to education outcomes, the consequences of racial division are woven into the fabric…
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Politics, Religion, and…

“A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.“ Proverbs 15:1-2 ESV In a recent experience teaching on how to engage and discuss politics at my church, I’ve seen firsthand how difficult—and rewarding—these conversations can be. While the topics are complex, I’ve also discovered three essential qualities that make discussing them much easier:…
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Talking With Children About Racism

I recently had the opportunity to speak with a group of middle schoolers about the history of race in America, its implications today, and the power of words. Grounding our discussion in Proverbs 18:21—”The tongue has the power of life and death”—we explored how language shapes our world and relationships. Conversations like these matter because…
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Why I’m Teaching A Politics Class at Church

Politics and church don’t always mix well—or at least that’s what we’re often told. But at our intentionally multiethnic church, we believe engaging political issues can actually strengthen our unity rather than threaten it. That’s why I’m leading a class on politics, not to divide, but to bring us together. When another pastor asked me…
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Embracing Our Differences (Podcast)

In a world that often divides along lines of race, culture, and background, the gospel calls us to something radically different—unity through Christ. Recently, I had the privilege of discussing this on the Unity in Christ podcast. Our conversation centered on the idea that true Christian harmony isn’t about erasing differences but embracing them as…