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Jan 03, 2013

New Chapter for Union of Black Episcopalians Forms in Austin

A new chapter of the Union of Black Episcopalians in Austin will focus its efforts on breaking the school-to-prison pipeline for youth, help to facilitate ethnic and cultural reconciliation  and assist historically Black churches with evangelism efforts, according to Ora Houston, a member of St. James' and president of the new chapter. 

 

The chapter, named in memory of Myra McDaniel, former state politician, member of St. James’ and active lay leader, was founded at St. James’, Austin, and will serve the western part of the Diocese of Texas. Barbara Calvin, a member of St. Philips’, San Antonio will serve as vice president. Meetings will be held at various Episcopal churches on the fourth Saturday of every month. Houston said the new chapter anticipates receiving their charter at the UBE’s annual conference in Jacksonville, FL, June 30 – July 3, 2013.

 

"In 1909 Bostonians--Black and White, Jews and Christians--gathered to form the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) because they realized that the ‘voice of the collective’ has the opportunity to change the culture of our society or a system more than an ‘individual voice’," Houston said.

 

"That model continues to be operative in our communities, our state and our Church in this day and time. The Union of Black Episcopalians welcomes allies who support the mission, purposes and goals of the organization and who want to work for the eradication of racist systems and practices," she said, adding, " The membership of the Union, like the NAACP, is made up of 'all sorts and conditions of God's people.' All are welcome to join the work of the new Chapter."  For further information, contact Teresa Chang at  .