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August 9, 2016, Adrian, Michigan – The Adrian Dominican Sisters join with their Black Catholic brothers and sisters – clergy, Sisters, and deacons – in affirming that “Black Lives Matter” and in their message: “Scripture and Catholic social teaching cry out for justice and equality in our relationship with one another.”

The National Black Sisters’ Conference issued a July 15, 2016, statement deploring the violence in the United States and, in particular, the shooting deaths of Anton Sterling and Philando Castile by police. Standing in solidarity with all who seek peace and justice for families of all who are killed, the Sisters’ Conference also formed a “strong and cohesive voice in support of the dignity of all persons,” as well as for criminal justice reform.

Adrian Dominican Sister Jamie Phelps, OP, is on the board of the National Black Sisters’ Conference.

The Black Catholic Joint Conference reiterated much of the Sisters’ statement, and called for all Catholic bishops, clergy, religious, and lay parishioners to “speak out against racism and injustice that perpetuates dysfunctional behaviors.”  They concluded with a prayer for “strength to be forgiving people and understanding people holding on to what we believe is right” and for “perseverance to devote our energies to the task of making peace.”

The Black Catholic Joint Conference is made up of the National Black Sisters’ Conference, the National Black Catholic Clergy Caucus, and the National Association of Black Catholic Deacons.