As the year comes to a close, it can be demoralizing to reflect on the challenges to religious freedom that we have faced over the past ten years, particularly under the current administration. However, while it is imperative to remain informed on injustices so that we may be better equipped to combat them, it is also important to remember the victories we have celebrated throughout the decade as well.
From achieving marriage equality, to organizing against hate, to amplifying the voices of transgender and gender non-conforming individuals, progressive activists and faith leaders have successfully fought for true religious freedom for all. This week on State of Belief, Interfaith Alliance’s weekly radio show and podcast, we’ll highlight those on the frontlines against religious bigotry.
Many of the strongest agents of faithful change work behind the scenes, rarely speaking directly to those who benefit from their work. Macky Alston, activist, documentarian and former Vice President at Auburn Seminary, is one of these people. He will join Rev. Welton Gaddy, host of State of Belief, to discuss his work amplifying the voices of diverse, progressive faith leaders, and how to communicate a message of inclusivity in a time of divisiveness.
For many, the political religious right is viewed as a domestic threat. However, members of this movement are increasingly exporting hate across the world. Welton will sit down with the Rev. Elder Pat Bumgardner, senior pastor at the Metropolitan Community Church of New York and executive director of the Global Justice Institute, to discuss how the Institute is combating attempts by the religious right to promote Christian supremacy abroad.
