Since the tragic and horrific events of Charlottesville Va., just one year ago, the country has seen the effect and impact that racism has had on society. The Bishops of the United States have formed a committee to focus and address the sin of racism.

In the Diocese of Brooklyn and Queens, Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio has also formed a Commission on Racism and Social Justice. The goal of this commission is to deal with the social and religious problems presented by racism in all of its forms.

To that end, the commission will host two open listening sessions – one in Brooklyn and one in Queens – for all the faithful of the diocese to attend. The sessions are scheduled as follows:

Saturday, June 16: St. Francis of Assisi-St. Blaise Parish Center in Crown Heights, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Saturday, June 23: St. Clare School Auditorium in Rosedale, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

These sessions are meant to be an opportunity to share how racism has impacted local parishes and the Church as a whole. All are invited and encouraged to attend.

For more information, call Father Alonzo Cox, who serves as secretary for the diocesan commission, at 718-574-5772.