The Brown Initiative
Rethinking Race
This is one of the most unique and challenging topic I’ve faced. It confronts the way we’ve historically defined race, and how that language has shaped our culture—and our hearts. The truth is, the traditional ways we talk about race haven’t been healthy or effective. Division persists, tensions remain high, and cycles of misunderstanding continue to repeat.
The word “race” itself is part of the problem. Terms like black and white reinforce division, creating categories that don’t actually exist biologically, scientifically, or spiritually.
The Brown Initiative: A New Lens
The Brown Initiative challenges us to adopt a new language and perspective:
There are no races. Science confirms it; the Bible confirms it. Humanity is one family, one race, expressed in shades of brown.
Racism is taught. Therefore, if racism is learned, unity and shared humanity can also be taught—starting with our children.
Language shapes thought. How we speak to and about each other reinforces culture. If we change our words, we can begin to change our society.
Imagine describing people as lighter brown, medium brown, or darker brown instead of black or white. It’s not about erasing history—it’s about refusing to perpetuate division through language that has been misused for generations.
Teaching the Next Generation
Research shows that by ages three to five, children are learning concepts of race and difference. This is a critical window to guide them toward truth: that all humans are part of one family, created equally and loved fully by God.
As parents, educators, and cultural participants, we have the opportunity—and the responsibility—to model unity in our language, conversations, and interactions. This approach doesn’t rely on legislation, protests, or surface-level solutions. It begins in the heart, with the mind, and through the words we choose.
Faith and Science Align
Both the Bible and scientific research, including the Human Genome Project, affirm that humans are one race. Genetic diversity exists, yes—but not in separate “races.” Every variation in skin color, height, or hair texture is part of the rich, natural diversity of one human family. This truth challenges cultural norms and misconceptions, and it provides a foundation for authentic reconciliation.
A Call to Action
The Brown Initiative isn’t just an idea—it’s a practice. For 30 days, try speaking about people in shades of brown. Notice the impact on how you perceive differences, how you approach conflict, and how your children internalize identity and belonging.
This is a small but powerful step toward changing the narrative. It’s about shifting hearts and minds, not just changing laws. If we can teach children to see humanity as one color, we can begin to dismantle the cycles of division that have held culture captive for centuries.
Join the Movement
This is just the start. I challenge you to share this perspective, try the language experiment, and bring the conversation into your home and community. Let’s lead by example—changing the way we speak, think, and understand.
Culture doesn’t shift overnight, but it begins with intentional action. The Brown Initiative is our first step toward a society that truly reflects unity, equality, and love for every person.
