Due to the lack of engagement, concern, and action by Christian churches in America, Black Lives Matter Savannah (IP) has created a C.O.C.A. Agreement. The Contract of Concern and Action provides 9 marks for a church to show engagement, concern, and action as it relates to the well being of African Americans in all areas of life, but especially as it relates to their treatment by law enforcement.

We believe that these 9 marks are now essential for a church to possess to retain African American members, and a failure to agree to these 9 marks should constitute the exodus of African American Christians from such churches. The immediate concern of the C.O.C.A. is correct Christian practice concerning blacks and minorities.

Signing the C.O.C.A is not an endorsement of BLM or its guiding principles. Nor does it represent any affiliation with the organization. This document comes solely from the Religious committee of the BLM Savannah branch. Signing the C.O.C.A. is an endorsement of the care and concern of blacks in America in their struggle against racial discrimination of all areas of life.

 

9 Marks of the C.O.C.A.

1. To faithfully educate all members of the atrocity of antebellum slavery and systemic racial injustice that it has caused in this country through Sunday School, Sunday Preaching, and special discipleship classes.

2. To discuss and to condemn acts of blatant police injustice against black and minorities from the pulpit, social media, and to local media.

3. To create ministries and hire ministers that are Black or minority descent. To interview at least one qualified African American for each staff or ministerial position if possible.

4. To educate police officers who are members, both publicly and privately, as to the need to racial sensitivity, fair and equal treatment, and how all souls reflect the image of God.

5. For white congregations to engage their local police departments by prayer, service, and private expression of concern.

6. To publicly (via press, social media, and website) to speak on each act of injustice that their black members have expressed.

7. To publicly and privately agree to the C.O.C.A. and communicate its importance to their congregations.

8. To foster a relationship with at least one African American Church in their city regardless of denominational affiliation.

9. To create a financial support fund to help and assist the families of those affected by police injustice, racial violence, or other discrimination.

CONCLUSION:

For if any church would not agree to the previous 9 marks, we would strongly encourage African Americans to end their membership and attendance of such particular church while seeking a church that does agree to these or similar tenants.