alana_loves_books 's review for:

Dear White Peacemakers: Dismantling Racism with Grit and Grace by Osheta Moore

4.0

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Osheta Moore is passionate about the Hebrew concept of ‘Shalom,” a multi-directional, relational wholeness between us and the earth, each other, and God. And shalom cannot hope to be achieved until Christians start talking about race. In this epistolary book, Moore writes to the Christian who has watched the events of the last year unfold and found themselves with lots of questions. She writes as a Black American, as a wife and mother, as a pastor and ultimately, as one who deeply yearns for unity. Moore shares her wisdom and stories in an honest and gracious way. She tackles subjects such as peacemaking vs. peacekeeping, White supremacy, Black hair, Black joy, and Black grief. Her underlying theme is God’s great love for us, that we are all Beloved in his sight. And as we begin to recognized that belovedness in each other, we can start to work toward unity and reconciliation. This book is vulnerable, raw, emotional and instructive. I read an early copy of the book and thought that it could have used some editing for clarity, but overall the message of the book came through. I found her thoughtful commentary and wise words inspiring. A must-read for anyone interested in becoming an ally and advocate.