Understanding Race: Illusion, Identity, and the Path to Equity, pt. 1 | Tiny Pulpit Talks:029

In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. T. J. FitzGerald welcomes Pamela Ice and Steve Jensen from the First Unitarian Church of Dallas Racial Equity Task Force. Together, they dive into the deeply rooted history of racial injustice and its ongoing impact.

From the uncomfortable truths about how Black Americans built the U.S. economy for no pay, to the systemic structures that continue to perpetuate inequity, this conversation challenges the silence surrounding these issues. Discover the origins of the Racial Equity Task Force, its mission to transform the church, and the profound work being done to foster dialogue, education, and introspection around race and justice.

0:00 – Introduction: Welcome to Tiny Pulpit Talks with Rev. T.J. Fitzgerald
01:33 – Meet the Guests: Pamela Ice and Steve Jensen, Founding Members of the Racial Equity Task Force
02:36 – How the Racial Equity Task Force Was Formed
04:00 – The Mission: Transforming a Church Steeped in White Supremacy
04:36 – Breaking the Silence: Encouraging Conversations About Race
05:26 – Why Pamela and Steve Joined the Task Force
07:22 – Changes and Impact Since 2018
10:16 – Upcoming Event: Race: The Power of an Illusion Screening and Discussion
12:38 – The Role of Film in Understanding Racial Equity
13:49 – The Importance of 13th and Other Critical Media
17:52 – The Reality of Systemic Inequities: Wealth, Housing, and Voting Disparities

Tiny Pulpit Talks is a podcast series from First Unitarian Church of Dallas that takes a behind-the-scenes look at ministry from a Unitarian Universalist perspective. This is a rare opportunity to see what goes into crafting meaningful and inspirational sermons, learn how worship comes together each Sunday, and explore the many facets of spiritual leadership. Subscribe to get updates about new episodes here on YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts.