Anti-Racism and Power in International Development: A Catholic Theological Approach (2023-25)
Researcher: Dr Charlotte Bray
Issues of race and power are embedded in the international development sector's history and ways of working. The theological principles underlying Christian commitments to charity, international development and aid, while seemingly well-intentioned, have historically perpetuated the white colonial gaze and contributed to white saviour narratives. There is a need for Catholic organisations within the sector to decolonise their ways of working and commit to equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) initiatives. This project aims to develop a theological basis for anti-racism, EDI, and 'decolonising development' work within the UK’s international development and humanitarian aid sector. Through dialogue with Catholic practitioners, grassroots leaders, and communities with lived experience, this project seeks to better resource Catholic organisations to make connections between the practical realities of EDI and anti-racism work and their values and identities as faith-based organisations. It will critically engage with Catholic social teaching and various political and liberation theologies to constructively develop a theological response to structural racism and the inequitable power dynamics present within the sector.
This projects starts in September 2023 and extends LTI's ecumenical interests in the interactions between religion and society. Further information on the project's development, findings and significance will be posted here after that date.