You have what it takes to counter authoritarianism.
Learn more at our webinar on 6/23 at 8 pm ET
State of Belief
Jeff Sharlet: The Slow Civil War Is Speeding Up
This week, host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush speaks with writer Jeff Sharlet about the alarming acceleration of what he describes as a fascist movement in the United States. Jeff distinguishes between a fascist regime and a movement, discussing the signs of fascism and the concerning rise of Christian Nationalism and authoritarian actions - like a chilling propaganda video from the White House celebrating the deportation of immigrants. Jeff connects what he describes as the cruelty and joy of this movement with a militant Christian Nationalism that is anti-institutional but leans into a cultural Christianity paradigm under which to organize and consolidate power.
They also touch on the roles of influential figures like Elon Musk and the impact of far-right ideologies. Jeff soberly emphasizes the importance of telling truthful stories and acknowledging the human cost of these policies, while advocating for solidarity and resilience to navigate these challenging times. While acknowledging that not all of us will get through this, he places the responsibility on each of us to try.
To get The State of Belief delivered to you every week, please be sure to subscribe at https://www.stateofbelief.com/subscribe, and share The State of Belief with someone who needs to hear this conversation!
You can also hear this week’s episode below:
Ray Kirstein is the Producer of The State of Belief podcast.
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.
Jim Wallis and a Moral Budget: The June 10th Procession at the Capitol
A powerful conversation with Rev. Jim Wallis. We dive deep into his upcoming event on June 10th at the Capitol, A Pentecost Witness for a Moral Budget, which aims to address critical issues surrounding the Reconciliation Bill and its potential cuts to vital programs like Medicaid and SNAP.