In 2020

This weekend, millions of Americans are celebrating Independence Day – albeit, many of them socially distanced. As we look back on our nation’s history in this tumultuous time, we reflect on the values of justice, equality and freedom this country was founded on, and resolve to continue fighting for a day where everyone in this nation – regardless of faith, race, gender, sexuality – will truly feel safe, equal, and free. This week on State of Belief, Interfaith Alliance’s weekly radio show and podcast, we will hear from thought leaders and activists about the forces threatening freedom and equality today, and how we can forge a path toward justice.

Two more consequential Supreme Court rulings were released this week. Espinoza v. Montana Department of Revenue sided with troubling practice of funding private – and often religious – education with public money. June Medical v. Russo, however, proved a major win for true religious freedom, protecting a pregnant person’s right to make healthcare decisions consistent with their personal beliefs. Glenn Northern, domestic program director for Catholics for Choice, will join Rev. Welton Gaddy, host of State of Belief, to discuss this consequential victory.

In an era rife with division and disinformation, accurate journalism is more important than ever to bring to light the realities within the halls of power. Welton will sit down with Jeff Sharlet – best-selling author and writer on religious nationalism – to discuss his latest Vanity Fair piece: “He’s the chosen one to run America”: Inside the cult of Trump, his rallies are church and he is the gospel.

This July 4 is particularly poignant amid impassioned protests for racial equality. While our constitution was founded on principles of freedom, it was also built on the plight of Black and Indigenous people, the repercussions of which are still deeply felt today. The Rev. Dr. Amos C. Brown, president of the San Francisco NAACP and pastor of the Third Baptist Church of San Francisco, will join Welton to discuss how we should be continuing the fight for justice – for true freedom – 244 years later.

State of Belief is made possible in great part by the generous support of our listeners. Please consider making a donation to help keep us on the air at this critical time.

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