We, the elders of First Presbyterian Church, are writing to express our anger and sadness at the recent vandalism of the mural at Kendall Perkins Park. The use of racist words and symbols to deface a mural meant to celebrate Black history highlights the need to address racism in our community.
As Christians, working for justice is central to our faith. We are compelled to speak out against this expression of hatred.
When the new mural project was brought to our attention, the Northwest Neighborhood Alliance inspired us to come alongside them as a partner and supporter. As the sponsors of the Owensboro Multicultural Festival for over 20 years, First Presbyterian Church has long understood the positive impact of people coming together to learn more about other cultures. We believe that diversity is a gift from God and is something we should embrace rather than fear. We were created to live in relationship with each other and that the fundamental basis of this is compassion, hospitality, justice, and love of others.
This mural project is a significant one and it deserves support from Owensboro. We call on other organizations, religious congregations, as well as our city and county governments to join us in supporting this effort to celebrate the history and beauty of our city’s Black community.
— Submitted by The Session of First Presbyterian Church
