AMERICA/UNITED STATES - The Salesians in the face violence: "As Don Bosco never stood by idly, we too can no longer turn a blind eye"

Thursday, 4 June 2020 marginalization   rascism   violence   youth   religious institutes  

San Francisco (Agenzia Fides) - Following the episodes of racism and violence that have hit the United States in recent days, the West United States Province (SUO) of the Salesians of Don Bosco (SDB has published a statement on the matter, released by Ans Agency, in which all forms of racism are condemned.
"We are outraged by the horrific actions, the intolerable violations of human dignity, and the loss of human life that have occurred these past few weeks by yet another African American brother and sister only goes to show the sin of racism still exists in our country".
Therefore they recall that, following the example of their founder, Don Bosco, they educate and accompany young people "who oftentimes find themselves marginalized from society with no voice to be heard", and highlight: "We have seen how racism has ravaged the fabric of our community. As Don Bosco never stood by idly, we too can no longer turn a blind eye. We cannot remain on the sidelines, indifferent and silent. Respect for the lives of all young people, their families, and our colleagues call us to action".
Communities and government leaders are expected "to set aside differences and work to enact laws, policies, and structures that will bring about true healing and systemic change". They affirm their commitment to educate young people to be agents of dialogue and protagonists in creating a more just society. They stand in solidarity "with all people of color who are unjustly persecuted and suffer ethnic and racial discrimination that all too often are expressed through violence". Listening to the cry of frustrated and outraged sisters and brothers, they join in "their prayer and their nonviolent protest".
Finally they reiterate: "We believe that racism is a life issue. Guided by the Gospel and Catholic Social Teaching, we renew our commitment to work tirelessly together in uplifting the voices and the lives of those on the margins". (SL) (Agenzia Fides, 4/6/2020)


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