Our Footsteps Are the Future
Following busy weeks of mission-driven action, Community Renewal Society (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. Our past advocacy and the activism we embark on today guide tomorrow’s youth. CRS unapologetically remains united alongside all in the individual and interconnected struggles for equality.
Most recently, we were represented through CRS Executive Director Rev. Dr. Waltrina Middleton’s words for WTTW’s anniversary broadcast for George Floyd. With other panelists, she urged awareness of American policing traditions, white supremacy, and the current administration’s dangerous abandonment of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies.
We also accompanied the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago for their 2025 Baccalaureate Service and 165th Commencement Ceremony. Rev. Middleton received an award from the seminary faculty on behalf of the CRS Board of Directors and staff. In her acceptance speech, she denounced state-sanctioned violence, called folks to walk humbly with God, and again memorialized Floyd.
CRS looks forward to affirming identities throughout Pride Month and at our 2025 Juneteenth Cookout Celebration. Please register to receive reminders and updates for the fun, faith-based, and food-filled cookout. This June 19, we are excited to continue conversations from our Community Café event held on May 23 with incredible table hosts and Lawndale Community Church.
Weather patterns disproportionately affect people of color and financially disadvantaged populations. To further address racism and poverty, we circulate our list of readiness and recovery resources ahead of the summer season.
We encourage you to explore our latest efforts within the promos below and to get involved in building a righteous, liberated, and Beloved Community.