Conference theme is “Berlin 1884–1885 and Anti-Black Racism: In Search of a Shared Anti-Racist Ecumenical Vision”
In 1884–1885, European powers met in Berlin to essentially carve up the continent of Africa as a way to regulate colonization and trade on the continent. This was done without input or consultation with any African representatives, and it laid the groundwork for colonization, exploitation and anti-Black racism that continues to have an impact on people of African descent worldwide.
In a word, the Berlin Conference 1884–1885 “scrambled” Africa.
From May 17–21, an ecumenical gathering in Berlin seeks to “unscramble” the legacy of that 19th century event.
Under the theme “Berlin 1884–1885 and Anti-Black Racism: In Search of a Shared Anti-Racist Ecumenical Vision,” this conference confronts the consequences—historic and continuing—of colonialism, racism, and the religious complicity in these systems through keynote addresses, deep theological reflection, pilgrimage encounters, and ecumenical dialogue.
Keynote speakers include Adele Halliday, Anti-Racism and Equity Lead in the General Council Office. Halliday is the co-moderator of the World Council of Churches (WCC) reference group on Overcoming Racism, Xenophobia, Casteism, and all other forms of Discrimination.
“The forms of injustices facing Black peoples are persistent. Anti-Black racism is still systemic and shaped by colonialism,” says Halliday, whose presentation is called The State of Racism and Anti-Black Racism in the World Today. “Recognizing that the patterns of racial inequity persist globally, this is not a conversation that names Black peoples solely as victims. Even with the realities of injustice, Black people have agency and resistance!”
Also featured as keynote presenters are: Prof. Hulisani Ramantswana, University of South Africa; Prof. Joerg Rieger, Vanderbilt University; and Ms. Yvonne Apiyo Brändle-Amolo, Swiss Parliamentarian.
As Moderator of the WCC Commission on World Mission and Evangelism, the General Secretary, Rev. Michael Blair, will moderate one of three streams:
- exploring the Berlin Conference and anti-Black racism;
- mission, theology and racism; and
- decolonization and reparative justice.
On May 18, a special pilgrimage to historic sites in Berlin will add context to the conference.
Registration is free.