CRS shares a powerful message from Zoughbi Zoughbi, president of the International Fellowship of Reconciliation (IFOR), concerning the sanctity of life and the ongoing conflict in Palestine and Israel. His words are a reminder of the fundamental value and dignity of every human being.

Ahead of our 2024 AMA in Jerusalem, CRS Executive Director Rev. Dr. Waltrina Middleton met with Rabbi Brant Rosen and Rev. Dr. Paul McAllister for a panel discussion on April 24 hosted by the Sabeel Ecumenical Liberation Theology Center to amplify injustices around the world. Read our summary from the event here.

Join CRS in the immediate call to action to demand a YES vote on the recognition of Palestine as a member state of the United Nations. The cause of Palestinian sovereignty and security is a matter of justice and rights, and every one of our voices must be uplifted and heard.

As CRS calls on transparent conversations about the Chicago Police Department’s use of excessive force in relationship to Black, Brown, and Indigenous people of our Beloved city, we share a list of traffic stop resources in partnership with the ACLU of Illinois.

In America, policing has almost become synonymous with Black death. The March 21 killing of Dexter Reed (26) in Chicago is yet another horrific example of the ways in which Black bodies are violently and fatally endangered when they come in contact with law enforcement. They can’t keep killing us. The excessive use of force must stop!

CRS remains in solidarity with Palestinians experiencing genocide, ethnic cleansing, and colonialism committed by the Israeli occupation. We urge you to get involved in a new call to action advocating against apartheid and violence in Gaza and demanding a boycott of the 2024 Eurovision Song Contest. Learn more here.

As April ushers in the change of spring, CRS proudly joins the nation in acknowledging Second Chance Month! This designation holds profound significance for us as we champion just reentry and equitable opportunities for all. 

An ID program for migrants was held on March 29, stemming from an initiative to provide Chicago residents with a universally accepted government-issued identification, and serving as a reminder of the transformative power of inclusive policies and the enduring spirit of unity that defines the city’s identity.

Fair Housing Month is observed annually in April to commemorate the passing of the Fair Housing Act in 1968, which prohibits discrimination in housing. CRS fights for fair and equitable housing opportunities through advocacy, education, and resources. Discrimination and inequality still exist in housing, and the fight for fair housing continues.

Haiti has descended into a critical state of violence and chaos. More than one million children are living in areas under the influence of armed groups.

We are reminded of the profound message of hope and healing that lies at the heart of this sacred season, including observations of Ramadan, Passover and Easter — each respectively steeped in Abrahamic traditions. It is a time when we reflect upon the ultimate act of love and redemption — the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

While CRS continues to grieve Rev. Dr. Gay L. Byron’s passing in December 2023, we admire her leadership and celebrate her groundbreaking scholarship, ministry and teaching. Join us in honoring Rev. Byron and keeping her family and friends in our prayers.

CRS shares our deep condolences with the saddening news of another senseless act of cruelty, the unimaginable brutality that stole the life of 11-year-old Jayden Perkins. We extend our heavy hearts to those grieving alongside us.

During an evening worship session of the 2024 Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference, CRS Executive Director Rev. Dr. Waltrina Middleton provided a moving testimony and call to action. She preached the urgency of uplifting disinvested and displaced communities, not only in Chicago, but in Palestine.

On February 15, CRS gathered at the Chicago City Hall to demand City Council members vote ‘no’ to arbitration behind closed doors for police misconduct cases and vote ‘yes’ for a ceasefire in Gaza.

CRS was honored to be a premier co-sponsor of the 2024 Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference from February 19-22 at Palmer House Hilton in the heart of Chicago! Read our event recap here.

CRS held an exclusive conversation and book signing featuring our esteemed former Executive Directors, Rev. Dr. Yvonne V. Delk and Rev. Dr. Curtiss Paul DeYoung, two influential figures! 

Weather-related disasters are becoming more frequent with the advent of extreme weather cycles. This blog article written by Nina Sumner explores how these events impact people from minority ethnic backgrounds to a disproportionate level.

Read this recap to learn about our 2024 MLK Assembly speakers’ memorable messages connecting current social justice issues to the wisdom and work of Dr. King.

Access the recording of our 2024 Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Faith in Action Assembly from January 15 and check out the bios for our assembly’s speakers.