Alumna, pastor calls for action on racism in Charlotte
by Gregg Brekke | Presbyterian News Service
LOUISVILLE – Although the streets of Charlotte, North Carolina are now quiet following protests in response to the September 20 shooting death of Keith Lamont Scott by police, area Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) pastors say the historic and deep-seated sentiment that fostered unrest after this killing remains.
“Charlotte is a southern city,” says the Rev. Amantha Barbee, pastor of Statesville Avenue Presbyterian Church in Charlotte (and an alumna of Union Presbyterian Seminary). “I’m a Charlottean, so I can talk about my city. Charlotte is a pretty city with pretty people… This has been the mindset my entire 50 years—the highly educated people who live in the right neighborhoods and go to the right church have a wonderful, marvelous life. Those that don’t tend to be ignored or pushed aside.”
(above alumna Amantha Barbee, third from right, gathered with other clergywomen Friday evening, September 23, 2106, to support protesters on the streets of Charlotte.)
