Major Norma T. Roberts - Order of the Founder Recipient

Описание: Known for her work in the Southern Territory during the era of racial segregation, Major Norma Roberts embodies a trailblazer and pioneer spirit.

From her response to God's Call to Officership and throughout her officership, Major Roberts demonstrated a passionate and persistent determination to restore dignity, guidance and eternal hope for people of color in the southern United States that had suffered from bigotry, poverty and hopelessness. This required Major Roberts to serve sacrificially, even to the point of being vulnerable with her safety, well-being and comfort. Major Roberts endured the same cultural bias and prejudicial behaviors to help advance civil decency in Southern communities and blaze a trail for future generations of black Salvationists to serve as officers and leaders in the South. Major Norma helped liberate the Army from antiquated thought patterns through innovative approaches linking Black communities and Salvation Army ministry through hard, dedicated work.

These and other expressions of ministry by Major Norma Roberts are significant examples of Salvationist service, particularly in an environment of racial tensions and violence throughout the southern United States in the 1950s, 60s and 70s. Therefore, it is an honor for us to bestow the Order of the Founder on Major Roberts, whose work has reinforced The Salvation Army's ongoing commitment to racial diversity and inclusion.