BHA Statement
for Solidarity

At Brethren Housing Association, we stand in solidarity with our Black brothers and sisters today and every day. The recent murders have again cast a spotlight on a pervasive issue – the systemic racism impacting our society.

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People are losing their lives because of what they look like; and we must discuss the social injustices of the people whose daily reality is uncertain solely because of their skin color.

As a ministry of God's word serving families experiencing homelessness, BHA stands against racism, oppression, intolerance, injustice and inequality, as our vision is building a future with hope. We were built upon the foundation of the Church of the Brethren, who have long recognized the inherent worth of all human beings while also recognizing that they too are not free from racism.

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It is not enough to recognize that racism is a sin and acknowledge that BIPOC are disproportionally suffering. We need prayers AND action. So, what can you do to help?

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1. Pray. Pray for our brothers and sisters of color. Pray for their babies. Pray for organizations, like BHA, that help to provide a holistic approach to addressing poverty. Pray that our religious leaders can provide comfort and support to their churches. Pray for our legislators to make real changes to better the lives of all of God’s children.
    

2. Speak up. Have the difficult conversations at home. Educate yourself.
    

3. Support. Volunteer. Learn about ways we can make Central Pennsylvania safer for our black and brown brothers and sisters. BHA is proud to serve in Allison Hill and journey and learn alongside those most impacted by police brutality and other forms of racism. This is something we take seriously. Your ongoing contributions help us do that work.

 

Our prayer for the African American community is that your voices are heard. That the social injustices, inequality, as well as the structural barriers faced by the African American community are knocked down and eliminated. That you are seen as individuals who matter, because you do. To our African American staff/board members, supporters, and families served, we stand with you and will continue to be the change as we serve our community with love, tolerance, and equality.

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With that being said, it is important for all of us to reflect. To be transparent to the BHA supporters, we should also revisit where we can heighten our awareness as an organization. We will work with the community to amplify the voice of our BIPOC brother and sisters. As a trauma-informed organization, we also need to further educate our staff and volunteers on effects of systemic racism. We desire to be the change needed to heal and grow as a society. In this process we welcome any and all feedback.

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#BLACKLIVESMATTER.