The summer of 2020 was defined with social upheaval flaring up across the United States over systemic racism and the need for police reform. During this time of reckoning for racial justice, CTS remains committed to equipping leaders who combat white privilege and racism.

As a reflection of this commitment, CTS founded the Center for the Study of Black Faith and Life (CSBFL) back in 2007. Today, the Center is well underway seeking connection with the larger Black Faith Community to inspire and encourage religious leaders committed to addressing the forces of oppression and dehumanization of the African American community and the world. CSBFL offers both degree and non-degree concentrations, along with the annual C. Shelby Rooks lecture that brings together the community to engage in religious and theological reflection on issues relevant to African American faith, freedom, and justice.

CTS is excited to announce Bree Newsome Bass as our 2020 Rooks lecturer. Newsome Bass rose to national prominence after being arrested for taking down the confederate flag at the South Carolina State Capitol in 2015. Recently she was profiled on Democracy Now! and in the New York Times speaking about the significance of that moment in the wake of the murder of George Floyd. The 2020 Rooks Lecture will take place on Thursday Oct. 22 at 5:00 p.m. RSVP for the event at: ctschicago.edu/rooks.

We hope you can give and help us spread the message about CTS, our work in the CSBFL, and the 2020 Rooks Lecture by sharing this campaign to your social media page. Your support will help the center continue nurturing and mentoring a new generation of activists that will engage in ministries of liberation and justice wold-wide.