This week we pause for Juneteenth, a day of profound significance in our nation’s history. The Presbyterian Foundation, alongside the PCUSA, observes Juneteenth as a day of remembrance and reflection, a day of rejoicing yet also repentance. Juneteenth honors the historical end of slavery in the United States but also stands as a reminder that there is more still to do in our ongoing commitment to justice and equality.

Our recognition of Juneteenth is not just a nod to the past but also a dedication to the future. As we remember the struggles and victories of those who came before us, we reaffirm our commitment to building a community that reflects the love, inclusiveness, and justice that our faith calls us to embody. This is particularly important as we approach our biennial General Assembly, during which we will collectively make decisions that shape the future of our denomination as well as our ecumenical relationships nationally and around the world.

I am deeply proud of the strides we have made towards diversity, equity, and inclusion within the Presbyterian Foundation. Years ago, before any denominational directives were proposed, we established a task force dedicated to creating a culture that loves and values differences. Our efforts have led to significant milestones:

• Our Board has become the most racially and ethnically diverse it has ever been, and board members from historically marginalized groups have served in the highest positions of leadership.
• We have sought and achieved truly helpful ways to serve congregations of all types, including Korean, Hispanic, and African American churches, which often lack the resources of their majority-white counterparts.
• We have empowered Ministers of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion to help us better understand and serve the whole church.

These and many other accomplishments are a testament to our collective commitment to justice and equity. Yet, as we have always said, these efforts need constant refreshing and dedication. There is much more to be done for diversity in areas such as culture, age, gender, sexual orientation, disability, and theology. Our journey continues as we strive to create a culture that mirrors the inclusive and loving nature of our God.

This year, as we observe Juneteenth, our offices will be closed to allow everyone the opportunity to reflect, learn, and participate in local events and activities that commemorate this significant day. We encourage you to take this time to engage with the history and ongoing impact of Juneteenth, and to consider how each of us can contribute to the work of justice in our daily lives.

We know that many of you are also serving congregations and ministries, and we are grateful for your dedication. May the Lord richly bless you and keep you as we continue to serve in the multiplicity of wonderful ways that God has called us.

Thank you for your continued commitment to our mission and for joining us in observing Juneteenth in 2024.

In Christ’s service,

Rev. Tom Taylor, J.D., Ph.D.
President and CEO