Indy organization addressing racial justice announces expansion
An Indianapolis nonprofit that addresses racial justice and policing issues is expanding.
On Monday, the Black Church Coalition announced a new partnership with Live Free USA, a national organization dedicated to reducing gun violence and mass incarceration.
“This collaboration marks a significant step forward in the (Black Church Coalition’s) journey and growth,” a news release about the partnership stated.
The move will allow the coalition to expand its organizing powers, develop leadership and expand political power. In recent years, the organization has rallied for better mental health responses in the city, particularly in the aftermath of the death of Herman Whitfield III in police custody during an apparent mental crisis. The group also supported legislation last year that delivered more resources to community mental health centers and established the 988 crisis response hotline.
"This partnership with the Black Church Coalition is an exciting step towards building safer and more equitable communities,” Pastor Michael McBride, the Executive Director of Live Free USA. “The (coalition’s) deep-rooted commitment to power building and advocacy will undoubtedly amplify the impact of Black organizing in the Midwest."
The Black Church Coalition was previously housed under the state-based nonprofit Faith in Indiana. In a statement, the coalition said members felt it was time to expand and have a greater reach.
"This partnership with the Black Church Coalition is an exciting step towards building safer and more equitable communities. The (coalition's) deep-rooted commitment to power building and advocacy will undoubtedly amplify the impact of Black organizing in the Midwest,” Pastor Michael McBride, the executive director of Live Free USA, said in a prepared statement.
Contact reporter Sarah Nelson at sarah.nelson@indystar.com
This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Indy organization addressing racial justice announces expansion
