Who We Are
We Are Stronger Together
History of
Blount County United had its beginning in “A Clarion Call to Prayer” held on December 17, 2014 under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Willa Estell and Rev. Dr. Richard Gadzekpo. After the deaths of Michael Brown, Trayvon Martin, Eric Garner and other black men and youth who were killed by police officers, we felt it necessary as a community of faith to seek the face of God. In the midst of national racial, social and political unrest, our goal and desire was to bring awareness, healing, unity and understanding to the community of Blount County.
While, we had not experienced the degree of national discontent directly associated with racism as other areas, our hearts were grieved by acts of racism and violence perpetrated on people of color. It was and still is our desire to be proactive rather than reactive.
Our prayer was that the people of Blount County, community organizations, faith communities and public officials could come together to pray about the real issues of race relations.
We also understood the need to pray for Blount County law enforcement and families, believing that it was not “us” against “them”, but the dignity and worth of all human beings created in the image of God. Approximately 150 people were in attendance answering this call to pray including public officials, police officers, community leaders, clergy and concerned citizens.
God answered our prayers because in January of 2015 we were moved into action by becoming “We Are Stronger Together: Blount County United.” We acknowledged and embraced the reality that despite significant strides toward racial equality there was still much to be done not only in the nation but Blount County in particular. We, therefore accepted the challenge to address the systemic racial disparities seen in educational, governmental and other institutions
Our
- Embracing the tenets of a “Beloved Community” where “there is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female, for all are one in Christ Jesus.” (Galatians 3:28)
- To dismantle stereotypes and build relationship of trust and understanding through education and awareness.
- Working with clergy and other faith-based entities to promote cultural and racial awareness – seeking to change hearts and minds one person at a time.
- Building partnerships with government, schools and other community organizations to improve race relations with an end goal of eradication of systemic racism.
- Bridging the gap between youth, community and police departments by working together to build a better Blount County.
"But the end is reconciliation; the end is redemption; the end is the creation of the beloved community. It is this type of spirit and this type of love that can transform opposers into friends. It is this type of understanding goodwill that will transform the deep gloom of the old age into the exuberant gladness of the new age. It is this love which will bring about miracles in the hearts of men."
Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Take a look at our our
Ways to Work Against Racism
One more blog post example that will show on the blog page when published.
Non-Racist vs Anti-Racist
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