State of Belief
King's Non-Violence Trumps Christian Nationalism
In this week’s episode of The State of Belief, we dive into the jarring overlap of Donald Trump’s inauguration and Martin Luther King Jr. Day on January 20th. Host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush takes a deep look at the contrast between these two defining moments in America’s history. On one hand, you’ve got Dr. King’s vision of justice, equality, and liberation; on the other, we’ve got the rise of Christian Nationalism, which often centers on privilege, power, and exclusion. Paul shares some thoughts on how we can respond to these times, particularly by stepping up and taking action in our own communities.
Paul is then joined by Jeanné Lewis, the CEO of Faith in Public Life, for an important conversation about the need for moral clarity and compassion when facing division—especially as we reflect on Dr. King’s legacy. They talk about the role of faith in social justice, the importance of interfaith collaboration, and how we can take care of ourselves while continuing the fight for racial and economic equality.
In this insightful discussion, Jeanné shares some powerful thoughts about how to engage with people who might seem to be on the opposite side of the political spectrum. Jeanné Lewis is a nonprofit leader, faith-based organizer, and expert on building stronger, more equitable communities. Her work is all about closing gaps, creating opportunities, and making sure everyone has the chance to thrive.
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Ray Kirstein is the Producer of the State of Belief podcast.
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On Diversity and Democracy With Wajahat Ali
This week on The State of Belief, Host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush talks with author, commentator and attorney Wajahat Ali, who maintains that everybody has a superpower. Waj lists some of them, and stresses how important it is not to throw up our hands in the face of massive challenges and threats from the current administration and its supporters.
A Pastor Reports from the Frontlines In Los Angeles: Faith and Immigration
This week on The State of Belief, an inspiring conversation with Rev. Noel Andersen, the National Field Director for Church World Service and a dedicated advocate for immigrant rights. In this episode, he joins host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush to delve into the pressing issues surrounding immigration enforcement, the role of faith communities, and the ongoing fight for justice in the face of adversity. Here are three key takeaways that stand out:
Leah Greenberg, Indivisible, and No Kings: "You do not need permission to get started"
This week on The State of Belief – getting ready for No Kings Day on June 14th, an initiative of the national grassroots organization Indivisible. Co-founder Leah Greenberg explains that No Kings Day is a forceful nationwide response to the royal pretensions on display in Donald Trump's demand for a multi-million dollar military parade on his 79th birthday. Leah joins Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush to discuss the importance of getting involved rather than discouraged, share past Indivisible successes and lessons learned, and the essential role faith leaders and communities play in giving credibility to public actions like this.