As our nation observes Black History Month, we pause to honor the faith, history, and leadership of our Black siblings—a journey that has too often been ignored, minimized, or erased. For Christians, remembering is a spiritual practice. Scripture continually calls God’s people to remember where we have been, to tell the truth about suffering and deliverance, and to honor the lives and witness of those who shaped our shared story.
The history of the Black Church and of Black Christians in this country is a testimony of deep faith in the midst of injustice, resilience in the face of violence and marginalization, and hope rooted in God’s promises. When we listen to these stories, we do more than learn history—we allow the Body of Christ to be made more whole.
Here in Milwaukee, historical records show that African Americans have been an important part of Milwaukee’s story since the 1700s. In more recent history, the city experienced significant growth in its Black population during the Great Migration of the 1940s through the 1960s; families moved north seeking manufacturing jobs and new possibilities for their lives. Studies show that housing practices like redlining guided the development of Milwaukee’s neighborhoods, resulting in patterns of segregation and uneven access to resources and opportunities that remain today.
The contributions of Black residents to Milwaukee’s business community, cultural life, and faith community cannot be overstated. The work of building a more just and equitable city continues through the leadership, creativity, and faith of our Black neighbors and our partnership in this work.
One meaningful way we can support our Black siblings is by intentionally supporting Black-owned businesses and community institutions. We can also deepen our historical understanding by visiting America’s Black Holocaust Museum and the Wisconsin Black Historical Society and Museum here in Milwaukee. Or by participating in civil rights tours, either in person or virtually, in our city and across the country. These are simple, tangible ways to move from awareness to relationships and action.
Supporting and honoring our Black siblings is not simply an act of kindness; it is an expression of our commitment to live as one people in Christ, where every voice and every story matters.
“If one member suffers, all suffer together with it; if one member is honored, all rejoice together with it.” —1 Corinthians 12:26
Peace,
Pastor Beth
