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Adam Russell Taylor, with contributions from: Jim Simpson, Terrance R. McKinley, Melody Zhang, Paola Fuentes Gleghorn, Rose Marie Berger Yesterday’s inauguration felt like a hopeful and dramatic reset: President Joe Biden’s inaugural address called for an end to “this uncivil war pitting red-versus-blue, urban-versus-rural, liberal-versus-conservative;” Kamala Harris became the first woman, the first Black person, and the first Indian American to be sworn in as vice president; and Amanda Gorman, the brilliant young poet, reminded us that “ being American is more than a pride we inherit, it’s the past we step into and how we repair it.” And before his first day in office ended, Biden signed 15 executive actions (and two additional directives), including orders to expand coronavirus relief, rejoin the Paris climate agreement, and reverse the travel ban from several Muslim-majority countries, among others. It was a stunning preview of how character, honor, and integrity matter immensely for presidential leadership. I pray that in the days ahead, the Biden administration will demonstrate that good governance, sound management, and bold policy change also matter. I believe fervently in the words of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who said that “the church is not called to be the master or servant of the state, but to be the conscience of the state.” In that vein, we will be neither chaplain nor sycophant to our new political leaders. Instead, we seek to be a faithful conscience, serving as a bridge-builder and offering prophetic critique (and pressure) when necessary. Below are some of our hopes for the new Congress and presidential administration. This is not an exhaustive wish list; it’s a list of what we believe is both possible and necessary in the days and years to come.
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Our Latest The ‘People's Inauguration’ Swears Allegiance to Dignity, Justice, Joy (by Cassie M. Chew) Valarie Kaur, Simran Jeet Singh, Rev. Dr. William J. Barber II, and other interfaith leaders team up to heal their communities. Muslim Leaders in U.S. Are ‘Cautiously Optimistic’ About Biden (by Dalia Faheid) After four years fighting Trump's travel ban, Muslims want to focus on other issues affecting their communities. Rejoining Climate Agreement Is ‘First Step of Repentance,’ Say Faith Leaders (by Lexi McMenamin) On his first day in office, President Joe Biden issued an executive order for the U.S. to rejoin the Paris climate agreement. Religious Freedom in India Is Deteriorating. Will Biden Help? (by Makepeace Sitlhou) Prime Minister Narendra Modi found a great ally in President Donald Trump. |
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From the Magazine Ruby Sales: “So What Is It They're Asking You To Do?” (by Da'Shawn Mosley) The civil rights activist talks with Da'Shawn Mosley about technology, history, and finding one's voice. |
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JVC matches young leaders in roles providing vital service for 1-2 years with an organization serving people in need in the U.S. or internationally. JVs live in an intentional community, build deep relationships, and gain valuable professional experience while fostering personal growth. Sojourners' Fellowship Program Interested in combining your faith and passion for social justice? Apply to Sojourners' yearlong fellowship program! The holistic program offers an entry-level position in our office and shared life in intentional Christian community. The program begins in August 2021. Application deadline is February 15, 2021. Apply now! |
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