National Call to Action for Faith Communities
State of Belief

National Call to Action for Faith Communities

April 5, 2025

On a special edition of The State of Belief, Interfaith Alliance’s weekly radio program and podcast, host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush brings together an incredible crew of faith leaders, organizers, and activists for a powerful National Call to Action for Faith Communities, bringing together religious and civic leaders at a critical moment in our nation’s history.

The conversation was recorded as everyone was getting ready for the Hands Off 2025 national day of action on Saturday, April 5. We’re talking real talk about where things stand in America right now — the attacks on our democracy, the marginalization of so many communities, and what we can actually do about it. It’s urgent, yes — but it’s also full of hope.

You’ll hear from bold voices like Maria J. Stephan (co-lead & chief organizer, The Horizons Project) on how faith communities have always been on the frontlines of justice work. Plus powerful insights from Rahna Epting (Executive Director, MoveOn), Leah Greenberg (Co-director, Indivisible), Bishop Duane Royster (Executive Director, Faith in Action), Wa’el Alzayat (CEO, Emgage), Jamie Bieran (CEO, Bend the Arc: Jewish Action), and Rev. Dr. Liz Theoharis (Director, Kairos Center for Religions, Rights, & Social Justice; Co-Founder, Poor Peoples’ Campaign).

These folks are fired up — and they’re reminding us that we’re not in this alone.  If you're wondering what role faith and community can play in pushing back against authoritarianism — this is for you.

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!

Transcript

“Nauseously Optimistic”: The 2026 Vote Through A Legal Lens
State of Belief
October 24, 2026

“Nauseously Optimistic”: The 2026 Vote Through A Legal Lens

American Bar Association Election Law Committee Chair attorney Jerry H. Goldfeder joins Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush to discuss how lawyers, faith leaders, and many others are poised to defend the midterm election against all threats, foreign and domestic

These Military Leaders Are Protecting Democracy with Admiral Michael E. Smith
State of Belief
October 17, 2026

These Military Leaders Are Protecting Democracy with Admiral Michael E. Smith

Retired Rear Adm. Michael E. Smith, founder and president of National Security Leaders for America, talks military integrity and voter protection with host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush

Party At The Polls, plus Otis' Dream as The Vote Is Sacred Launches!
State of Belief
October 10, 2026

Party At The Polls, plus Otis' Dream as The Vote Is Sacred Launches!

Host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush talks voting despite any obstacles with Civic Nation CEO Kyle Lierman and "Otis' Dream" filmmaker Rev. Dr. Otis Moss III