AAPI Heritage Month Spotlights

Anti-racism
Written By Chris Groza

May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Check out our profiles of figures in Asian American history below.


Vincent Chin (1955-1982)

 
 

Vincent Chin was a Chinese-American man who was brutally beaten to death in a racially motivated attack in 1982. His death sparked outrage in the Asian-American community and led to a movement for justice and civil rights. The two men responsible for Chin's death received only probation and a fine, which was widely criticized as a miscarriage of justice. Chin's legacy is that his tragic death raised awareness about anti-Asian racism and galvanized Asian-Americans to fight for their rights and recognition as a marginalized group in American society. His case is still cited today as an example of the ongoing struggle for racial justice in the United States. Click here to learn more.

See Also
They Were All in One Place Together
They Were All in One Place Together

This Pentecost, CRS humbly shares the prophetic message of a bold and unafraid Palestinian people resisting genocide with resilient hope. Please join us in reflecting and read ‘They Were All in One Place Together’ from theologian, peace activist, and humanitarian Omar Haramy of Sabeel Ecumenical Liberation Theology Center.

Our Footsteps Are the Future
Our Footsteps Are the Future

Following busy weeks of mission-driven action, CRS reflects on what justice and liberation mean to us and those across the globe. We remember that we are our ancestors’ wildest dreams and that even in the present, we are the future.

“Killing the Flowers Will Not Delay Spring”
“Killing the Flowers Will Not Delay Spring”

CRS hosted a peace sojourn to Jerusalem in solidarity with Palestinians who are suffering under Israel’s illegal occupation and dispossession of their land. It is important for us to be in the margins and be a prophetic voice in the wilderness, as our faith-based platforms can raise awareness and be a tool to dismantle oppression in our city, nation, and world.

Centering Collective Belonging
Centering Collective Belonging

CRS affirms our commitment to building Beloved Community. We acknowledge the unique oppression and shared struggles of our LGBTQIA+ neighbors that have persisted throughout history, and uplift their underrepresented stories, brave protests against intolerance, and movements of love over time and in the present.

Be Not Afraid
Be Not Afraid

Easter blessings from CRS! Read our Executive Director Rev. Dr. Waltrina Middleton’s 2025 message here. God assures us that we do not have to be afraid of the confusion, chaos, or the crimes against humanity. Instead, embrace the covenant, charge, and command to Believe in the unfailing love, grace, and faithfulness of God. 

Toward True Light
Toward True Light

CRS highlights our member congregation, University Church Chicago (UChurch), and Senior Pastor Rev. Julian DeShazier for actively protesting anti-DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) efforts during the 2025 Lenten season. Learn about UChurch’s stewardship of material resources and access a list of companies to both boycott and support in this blog article.   

Member Congregation Spotlight: University Church Chicago
Member Congregation Spotlight: University Church Chicago

CRS spotlights our member congregation, University Church Chicago (UChurch), and Senior Pastor Rev. Julian DeShazier. Located in Hyde Park, UChurch is a multi-ethnic, open and affirming Christian congregation. Their continuous mission in global solidarity affirms all persons regardless of their race, abilities, and sexual orientations.  

2025 WHM Spotlights
2025 WHM Spotlights

Women’s History Month (WHM) begins with a focus on five inspiring women who are making a lasting impact in their fields and within CRS’s mission to abolish racism and poverty. Check out our WHM spotlights here!

Member Congregation Spotlight: The Congregational Church of Park Manor UCC
Member Congregation Spotlight: The Congregational Church of Park Manor UCC

CRS recently visited The Congregational Church of Park Manor UCC to witness its dynamic legacy firsthand. Founded in 1953 through the efforts of six organizations, including the City Missionary Society (now CRS), Park Manor has remained a pillar of faith and resilience. In a conversation with Rev. Dr. Janice E. Spraggins, we explored the church’s deep spiritual roots, music traditions, and ongoing transformation, including its growing partnership with Advocate UCC. Read the full story here.

Watch, Witness, Work
Watch, Witness, Work

This blog article tracks executive orders issued by the current administration that limit affordable healthcare for low-income individuals, target refugees, roll back environmental protections, deepen disparities among marginalized communities, reinforce inequality, and more.

The World As We Want It
The World As We Want It

CRS responds to President Trump’s Executive Order and attack on our transgender siblings entitled ‘Keeping Men Out of Women’s Sports.’

 

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