DFEMA

Who we are

The Diocesan Forum for Ethnic Minority Anglican (DFEMA) is a committee of Bishop’s Council and operates under the direction of a chair assisted by an executive committee. Its main function is to mobilise and organise BAME people and communities within the Diocese of Leicester.

DFEMA seeks to offer a platform for mutual support, to encourage diversity and inclusion, and to affirm local action relating to people from the global majority, as well as to look at ways to help nurture and encourage potential leaders. It also seeks to help those who struggle to feel part of the church. 

Members of the executive committee will be appointed by the Bishop’s Council, on the nomination of the Bishop of Loughborough. They will serve a two year term (renewable once). Given its stated aims, DFEMA will work in close collaboration with the Bishop of Loughborough, through the BAME Enabler and the BAME Programme Board. DFEMA will also work closely with the diocesan Vocations team.

What we do

Our role is primarily to gather, encourage and support Anglicans from the global diaspora. In conjunction with the diocesan BAME Programme Board, we will help to identify, monitor and take forward concerns of BAME Anglicans across the diocese and make recommendations for change to relevant structures or individuals. 

We do this by:

• Acting as a support and resource group for BAME members of our parishes, schools, and congregations (in partnership with relevant institutions).

• Encouraging the Diocese of Leicester to take positive action to increase the inclusion and representation of BAME people across the Church, especially in its governance structures.

• Encouraging involvement of BAME people in wider church activities.

• Organising opportunities for networking for BAME Anglicans within Leicester diocese.

• Encouraging all BAME people to pursue their call to discipleship and help those who work with them to understand issues relating to BAME experience of life and faith.

• Promoting understanding of racism and issues around ethnic and cultural diversity.

• Supporting Social responsibility initiatives across the diocese.

• Working with faith and other organisations committed to the elimination of racism and supporting cultural understanding.

• Engage with the wider conversation within the Church of England, sharing learning and participating in regional and national learning communities -The bulk of this will be done through two appointed Diocesan Link Persons (DLP)*, one for each Archdeaconry.

Our Commitment

We believe that ethnic and cultural diversity are an integral part of our shared identity and help us deepen our understanding of God’s love in creation. We acknowledge that racism disfigures the image of God in each other. We acknowledge that we are all part of the body of Christ made in the image of God, fully human. 

• We are committed to promote values and a diocesan culture that foster healthy relationships with across ethnic and cultural divides.  In this way the contribution of every part of the body is valued, recognized and celebrated.

• We are committed to promoting racial justice within the Diocese of Leicester. 

• We are committed to including historically under represented people and communities in the life, worship, mission and ministry of the Diocese and the wider church. 

• We are committed to ensuring that the Diocese has policies, procedures, practices, and programmes in place to encourage and support the inclusion and active participation of members of minority ethnic groups in its life and structures.

Membership

• Chrispal Anand (Chair)

• Pauline Cummins (Deputy Chair)

• Riffat Zamurad

• Eliam Ngoma

• Poppy Obokoh

• Christian Obokoh

• Jaroslav (Jarek) Switala 

• Rupahli Ilyas

• BAME Enabler

Staffed by: BAME Project Administrator

What you can do?

Help us to promote and celebrate ethnic and cultural diversity. You can encourage members of your parish and deanery to participate and be involved in all aspects of our diocesan life and help us become a church that reflects the rich tapestry of God’s creation.

Contact us:

The Chair

Chrispal Anand

DFEMA

St Martins House

7 Peacock Lane

Leicester

LE1 5PZ

Administrator BAME Project

Aletta van Barthold