'Stand against far-right extremism' 

Two networks that advocate for Black and Brown Christians and Black and Minority Ethnic communities have urged the Government to take a stand against far-right extremism - and for Christian leaders to stand with them

The Racial Justice Advocacy Forum (RJAF) and The National Church Leaders Forum (NCLF) have appealed to the Government 'as a matter of urgency, for the protection and support of those in Britain who once again are made to feel scared, unwelcome and are experiencing threat and intimidation on account of their ethnicity.'

'The current Anti-migrant hostility enacted by the far right threatens the safety of asylum seekers, refugees and Black and Brown people alike,' they stated. 

The RJAF is an ecumenical coalition of Black and Brown Christians and is committed to promoting racial justice and challenging racial injustice in both the church and society. 

'Our concern is specific and urgent,' it states, 'the preaching of hate and the vilification of asylum seekers and refugees, often under the banner of “Christian nationalism”. Such rhetoric distorts the Christian faith, undermines social cohesion, and fuels intimidation and potential violence.'

The NCLF is an alliance representing church leaders from diverse backgrounds, committed to advocating for equality and social cohesion. Through its initiatives, the NCLF works to amplify the voices of Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) communities within the UK, addressing pressing social and political issues while promoting constructive engagement with political leaders and policymakers. 

'We appreciate that the recent debates around immigration and the challenges surrounding those seeking asylum have left many British people feeling disenfranchised and concerned about the future of our nation. We support free speech, the right to personal political views and the right to peaceful protest; however, we are seeing the rise of the far-right preach a message of Christian nationalism that is steeped in white supremacy at the behest of influential social and political leaders in the UK and the US. This is deeply concerning. 

'The true Christian message is in distinct opposition to that of white Christian nationalism that espouses ethnic selection and superiority, hate, violence and rejection of the ‘other’. The teachings of Christ are those of love, mercy, peace, grace and justice. Much of His work was done among the poor and the disenfranchised, and His teachings inspire followers to be witnesses to justice, to speak truth to power, and to pray for their governments, which have the responsibility to make difficult choices and navigate complex issues for the improvement of their society. 

'Using Christian symbols, scripture, hymns and the Lord’s prayer amid anti-migrant protests saturated in racism, xenophobia, and islamophobia is an offence. Such so-called-Christian protests defame the Christianity of Jesus Christ, the son of God, who extended His grace and mercy to all, despite their nationality, status, ethnicity and creed. This rightfully provokes an open rebuke. 

'The RJAF and NCLF stand against such false representations of Christianity where racism, discrimination, hateful, fear-fuelled rhetoric have no place. Hate and the resulting violence and discrimination have no place among those who call themselves Christian.'

RJAF and NCLF have also called upon 'all Christian leaders to stand with us to denounce the hatred, fear, intolerance and lies that are influencing Christians across the nation.'

As part of its ongoing commitment, RJAF and NCLF stated they will convene a national Christian dialogue among churches on racism, faith and the rise of nationalism later this year. This will bring together church leaders, theologians, and community representatives to 'confront false narratives, affirm the true values of Christianity, and strengthen solidarity with migrants and refugees. 

'We would welcome the participation of a Government representative and Christian church bodies across the nation in this important national conversation.'