Conference 2021: Presentations

Reframing with Truth and Self Examination

Ogechi Akalegbere

The framing and messaging of racial inequity in the Catholic Church and this country has been at the forefront of minds and hearts over the past year. As the country grappled with the COVID 19 pandemic, we also grappled with the consequences of racial injustice brought to to the forefront of the minds of parishioners. The result of this was a series of statements and messaging from major institutions. These session will dive deep into the history of anti racism in the Catholic Church and how the people of the church have played both active and passive roles in perpetuating racism in this country and the after affects of these actions. Later Ogechi will share practical ways women religious can better recognize implicit bias to provide justice focused messaging in their communities. Hands on activities will give attendees tools to move messaging around racial, socioeconomic and other injustices with grace.

Ogechi Akalegbere is a Nigerian-American who is a Christian Service Coordinator, public speaker, competitive powerlifter, and fitness instructor. Ogechi grew up in and lives in Gaithersburg, Maryland and when she is not at work or creating digital content she is either enjoying quality time with her husband of three years or at the gym lifting weights. She has a passion for social justice, empowering women to find their inner and outer strength and service to those in the margins. She serves as a catechist, lector, and pastoral council co-chair at her parish and is involved as a community organizer and diversity practitioner in her community. Ogechi uses her training as an equity facilitator and co-practitioner to help parishes, organizations, and small groups digest what equity means to them and those they encounter.

 

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