We always keep an eye out for inspiring grassroots efforts that find new ways to challenge what all too often seems to be a never-ending torrent of bigotry and intimidation. This week on State of Belief, Interfaith Alliance’s radio show and podcast, we’ll look at one creative response to anti-LGBT activism within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and explore how faith communities are taking action to save health care access.
But first, a descendant of Confederate General Robert E. Lee, an ordained pastor, who lost his job after speaking out against white supremacy. The Rev. Robert Lee IV did so while introducing the mother of Heather Heyer, the woman killed while protesting the KKK and Nazis in Charlottesville, during this year’s MTV Video Music Awards. Rev. Lee will join host Rev. Welton Gaddy to share his thoughts about Christianity and racism, and why he feels speaking out was worth losing everything.
Senate Republicans are again trying to repeal the Affordable Care Act. The health insurance industry, medical associations, charities, a bipartisan group of governors and even celebrities like late-night comedian Jimmy Kimmel are speaking out strongly against the bill. Faith communities are also playing an important role in challenging the latest attempt to repeal Obamacare. Welton will be joined by Rev. Paul Raushenbush, senior vice president of Public Engagement at Auburn Seminary and former religion editor at the Huffington Post, to get more insights into these efforts.
After the LDS Church joined a Supreme Court amicus brief in support of an anti-LGBT baker who refused to bake a wedding cake for a same-sex couple, activists sprang into action to support the LGBT community in Utah. Hillary McDaniel, one of the organizers of the Gayest Bake Sale Ever, will be on State of Belief to share how they cooked up the event and explain the serious side of their initiative.
