What is Racial Justice Sunday?
Racial Justice Sunday takes place on the second Sunday of February each year. It is an opportunity for all churches to reflect on the importance of racial justice, to give thanks for the gifts and beauty of human diversity, and to make a commitment to combat racism and acts of discrimination.
This year, Racial Justice Sunday will be on Sunday 8th February 2026. The theme for this year is “Love Your Neighbour”. Loving our neighbour means affirming the full humanity of every person, transforming harmful structures, and building communities where all can flourish.
Why it matters
Racism damages lives and communities. As followers of Christ, we are called to challenge injustice and build a society where everyone is valued.
We commit to the Church of England’s Pastoral Principles for Living Well Together, which calls communities to:
- commit to action
- acknowledge prejudice
- speak into silence
- address ignorance
- name fear
- admit vulnerability
- pay attention to power
How you can take part
We invite every church in the diocese to mark this day. Here are three simple steps:
- Pray for racial justice in our churches, communities, and world
- Learn about the impact of racism and how we can challenge it
- Act by speaking out and supporting those who face discrimination
You might also want to reflect on:
- How you welcome and include everyone in your community
- How you listen and respond to those voices that are marginalised or ignored
- How you challenge racism when you encounter it
- How you model Christ’s compassion in worship, leadership, and daily life
Resources for your church
Pray Together
Use the prayers, liturgies, and reflections from Churches Together in Britain and Ireland (CTBI) and the Church of England to guide worship from lament to hope, and from repentance to renewed commitment.
Preach the gospel of love and justice
Explore Scriptures such as:
- The Great Commandment to love our neighbour (Mark 12:31)
- The radically inclusive early church (Acts 2)
- The vision of a multi-ethnic kingdom (Revelation 7)
These passages help us see why racism contradicts the Gospel and violates Christian love.
Celebrate diversity in worship
Incorporate music, voices, liturgical expressions, and stories from different cultures reflecting the “coat of many colours” God has gifted to His people.
Commit to practical action
Churches could:
- Review policies and reporting pathways for racism.
- Promote representation in leadership and ministry.
- Offer workshops or training to deepen understanding and strengthen allyship.
On Racial Justice Sunday 2026, may we proclaim together:
Racism is a sin.
Love is our calling.
Justice is our witness.
As we embrace the theme “Love Your Neighbour,” may our churches be places where every person is welcomed, valued, and cherished, where Christ’s love is made visible through justice, courage, and compassion.
If you would like further help or support, please contact the diocesan Racial Justice Education Advisor, Gerald Fox at gerald.fox@yorkdiocese.org