Black Clergy of Lincoln opposes the recall of Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird because of the mask mandate. The group issued this release Tuesday afternoon.
Lincoln, NE – November 17, 2020
We, the Black Clergy of Lincoln, are opposed to the proposed recall of Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird because of her call for a mask mandate for the citizens of Lincoln. Though we have had our differences with the Mayor regarding policing in our city; we do not believe that she should be recalled because of her desire to keep our city safe.
As members of the Christian community, we are commanded to love God with all of our hearts, our souls, and our minds and to love our neighbors as ourselves (Matthew 22:37, 39). We believe that wearing a mask is a demonstration of love for our neighbor.
As faith leaders, we believe that mandating that our citizens do what is required to address the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic is a proper use of the Mayor’s authority. Finally, we believe that her actions are both ethical and moral.
In His Service,
Pastor Marcus I. Larivaux Allon Chapel SDA Church
Pastor Renee Massie Zion Restoration International Ministries
Pastor Brandee Jasmine Mimitzraeim Quinn Chapel A.M.E. Church
Pastor Jessie Myles No Greater Love Christian Fellowship
Pastor Tremaine Combs Mount Zion Baptist Church
Pastor Janet Goodman-Banks
Pastor John Leonard Harris Encouragement Kingdom Outreach
Minister Lillian Hekl Glory of Christ International Ministries