The Archbishop of Panama calls to combat racism, heal wounds, and recognize Afro-descendant contributions

On commemorating this August 31, the Day of Afro-descendants, Monsignor José Domingo Ulloa, president of the Episcopal Conference of Panama Mendieta sent a message where he called to reclaim the contribution of these communities to the identity and development of Panama and urged to work for a society free of racism and exclusion.

The also archbishop of Panama highlighted that the history of Panama cannot be understood without the contribution of Afro-descendant communities, whose faith, work, culture, and capacity for resistance have left a deep mark on national life. “Their presence is an essential part of our identity,” he assured.

The archbishop warned that the commemoration cannot be limited to valuing the Afro-descendant legacy, but must confront the forms of racism that remain present. “The structures of systemic racism” continue to provoke discrimination, inequality, and exclusion, he pointed out, even within the Church.

The executive linked the recognition of racism with the need for renewal within the Church. In his opinion, “admitting this reality does not weaken our faith,” but rather demands “a sincere conversion” and actions consistent with the Gospel.

Ulloa suggested that recognizing the historical responsibility of the Church must translate into reparative actions in the present. In embracing Pope Leo XIV's call in Magnificent Humanity to ask for forgiveness for the Church's responsibility in the transatlantic slave trade, he stated: “It is not enough to lament the past. We must repair what still excludes, renders invisible, or limits the opportunities of people and Afro-descendant communities”.

Photo: Tours Panama

More than a symbolic gesture, the prelate proposed reparations as a commitment that must generate changes in various areas of society. Listening to Afro-descendant communities, valuing their contributions, and ensuring their participation are tasks that must reach “schools, sports fields, workplaces, temples, and all spaces of social life.”

On the other hand, he also focused on the educational sphere as a key space to combat prejudices and strengthen the recognition of diversity. Incorporating the history and contributions of Afro-descendants into teaching, he noted, will help to understand national identity and to educate new generations “for coexistence and respect.”

The archbishop he also highlighted the journey of Afro-descendant generations who have preserved their faith in the midst of adversity and found in it a source of strength to face suffering and fight for justice.

Additionally, he placed the future of new generations at the center of his message and encouraged them to reclaim their identity without allowing prejudices to condition their aspirations. “Know your history, honor your roots, and do not let any prejudice diminish the gifts that God has placed in you,” he stated, emphasizing that their voices, abilities, and dreams “are necessary for the Church and for Panama.”

In conclusion, Ulloa insisted that fraternity requires combating racism and modifying the structures that continue to produce exclusion. “Only then will we build a truly fraternal society and Church,” he affirmed, before expressing his gratitude and closeness to the Afro-descendant people of Panama and offering them his blessing.

Panama-ARCHBISHOP MESSAGE - DAY OF AFRO-DESCENDENTS IN PANAMA.pdf

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