US African American Catholics are actively petitioning the Vatican to canonize the "Saintly Six," a group of Black candidates for sainthood, aiming to address the lack of U.S. Black representation among the 11 American saints. The campaign, which includes letter-writing and a November 2023 Vatican visit, seeks to accelerate the causes of:

 

• Julius Nyerere (Tanzania): The Catholic Archdiocese of Dar es Salaam has initiated the process for the beatification and canonization of Julius Kambarage Nyerere, the former president of Tanzania. In 2023, Archbishop Jude Thaddaeus Ruwa'ichi and the Tanzania Episcopal Conference took steps to constitute a tribunal for the diocesan inquiry into his life, virtues, and reputation of holiness.
   

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  The "Saintly Six" (African American Candidates): A major campaign is underway to expedite the canonization of six African Americans (often referred to as the "Saintly Six," though sometimes seven are listed in broader, related efforts).

  • Mother Mary Lange: Founded the first African American religious congregation in Baltimore; she was declared Venerable by Pope Francis in June 2023.

  • Father Augustus Tolton: The first publicly recognized African American priest, declared Venerable in 2019.

  • Pierre Toussaint: A former enslaved person and philanthropist in New York.

  • Henriette DeLille: Founder of the Sisters of the Holy Family in New Orleans.

  • Julia Greeley: Known as Denver's "Angel of Charity".

  • Sister Thea Bowman: A Franciscan Sister of Perpetual Adoration and educator. 
    
    Key Details on the Movement

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• Purpose: The movement aims to highlight these individuals, many of whom were born into slavery, enduring faith despite facing racism and adversity.

• Advocacy Efforts: These efforts are supported bya grassroots movement. Campaigns, including letter-writing and petitions to Pope Francis, have been organized by various U.S. dioceses, such as the Archdiocese of Baltimore and the Diocese of Austin, to accelerate these causes. Significance: Supporters highlight that these canonization efforts are acts of justice and recognition, ensuring that the church honors the faith and contributions of Black Catholics.

• Significance: Supporters highlight that these canonization efforts are acts of justice and recognition, ensuring that the church honors the faith and contributions of Black Catholics.

• Status: While three are already declared "Venerable" (having lived a life of "heroic virtue"), the campaign seeks to expedite the required miracles for canonization.

• Goal: Advocates hope for a formal recognition from Pope Francis that acknowledges the contributions of Black Catholics to the Church