State of Belief
Navigating the Narrow Bridge: Congressman Eric Swalwell and the Fight for Democracy
On a particularly timely edition of The State of Belief host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Congressman Eric Swalwell (D-CA). Congressman Swalwell shares his insights on the current state of American democracy, the importance of courage in the face of adversity, and the role of faith communities in promoting compassion and kindness during challenging times. Inspired by the example of his strictly-by-the-book Republican police officer father, the legislator describes the courage each of us needs right now in the face of lies and fearful self-preservation so many of our leaders are choosing right now.
You'll hear about the significance of showing up for one another in moments of crisis; the impact of recent political events, including the January 6th Capitol attack; communicating authentically in an age of scripted messaging; and how each of us can take action and engage more deeply in our communities.
Paul also takes a few minutes to share the words he spoke at a recent Multifaith Monday gathering in New York City on the power of love and courage as essential components of democracy, and the mandate to be the change we wish to see.
Congressman Eric Swalwell is a seven-term member of Congress, representing California’s 14th District. A former prosecutor who led the Hate Crimes Unit in Alameda County, Swalwell's experience in local government prepared him for his Congressional role, where he served on the House Intelligence Committee and played a key role in the investigations into Russian interference and President Trump's impeachments. Rep. Swalwell currently sits on the House Committee on the Judiciary and the House Committee on Homeland Security. He founded the Congressional Future Forum, focused on issues and opportunities for millennial Americans.
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Ray Kirstein is the producer of The State of Belief podcast.
Whither America? July 4th with Dr. Robert P. Jones
On the Independence Day edition of The State of Belief, Host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush checks in with Public Religion Research Institute President Dr. Robert P. Jones about the state of our democracy - and society - on the nation's 249th birthday.
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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: