SST Statement in Support of Revd Jarel Robinson-Brown

The Society for the Study of Theology (SST) condemns racist and homophobic attacks on Revd Jarel Robinson-Brown and the campaign seeking to remove him from an offered curacy. SST is proud to count Revd Robinson-Brown as a member and values his courageous theological work highlighting discrimination by the church against those who are Black and gay. We are concerned by the review announced by the Diocese of London and call for the Church of England to defend Revd Robinson-Brown from the campaign being waged against him.

SST is committed to examining how Christian theology in the UK functions to exclude and discriminate against Black people and members of other minority ethnic groups within the Society itself, in the theological academy, in UK churches, and in wider public life. Revd Jarel Robinson-Brown’s tweet called attention to the issue of political rhetoric that appeals to jingoism at the expense of Black and Brown lives. The vocation of the theologian requires freedom of expression and conscience and must include the freedom to name and confront evils that others have not acknowledged. As theologians, we must stand in solidarity with those whose voices are being silenced and vilified because they challenge the association between Christianity, Whiteness, and nationalism.

We call on fellow theologians and UK churches to join us in taking this stand. We note the apology made by the Church of England Synod to the Windrush Generation last year for the racism it has faced. Supporting Revd Jarel Robinson-Brown is essential to demonstrate the sincerity of this apology and to establish trust and confidence with Black Christian communities in London and beyond. All UK churches must value, support, and amplify the voices of their Black members and clergy, especially when they are seeking to call out the operation of systemic racism within and without the church.

5th February 2021