A word about . . . Belonging and the continuing struggle for justice

Abstract

The goal of creating welcoming and inclusive communities within the corporate and higher education sectors has existed for several decades through efforts of diversity, equity, and inclusion. A more recent focus on “belonging,” however, is shifting the conversation toward deeper, more systemic questions. While multiracial and multicultural churches have grown in numbers during this timeframe, a growing realization is that simply having representation within congregations is not sufficient to address the deep inequalities and injustices present in the United States and the world. The important shift of focus to “belonging” can serve to challenge how Christians think about inclusion in the church.