It was exactly fifteen years ago that State of Belief, Interfaith Alliance’s weekly radio show and podcast, debuted on the Air America Network. In the intervening years, we’ve shared thousands of interviews and conversations from the intersection of religion, government and politics. Whether you’ve been with us the whole time, or are a newer listener, thank you for being part of this project!

As we brace for what may be the most dangerous inauguration in our lifetimes – and see how instrumental the political religious right has been in creating the crisis of confidence we face – it is clear that questions of faith, freedom, and belonging are perhaps more pressing than they have ever been. This week on State of Belief, Interfaith Alliance’s weekly radio show and podcast, will look into how religion can play a role in attempts to (re)build a more just, more inclusive democracy for everyone.

From QAnon to false allegations of election fraud, the spread of disinformation on social media has played a tremendous role in the radicalization of Americans. And when public officials begin to peddle these lies as well, our democracy is put at risk. Louis Clark, CEO of the Government Accountability Project, will join Rev. Welton Gaddy, host of State of Belief, to discuss his organization’s new project “Bearing Witness,” providing a framework for faith leaders and communities to support whistleblowers – truth-tellers who often turn to religious leaders first.

For the past four years, the Trump administration has leveled a coordinated attack against LGBTQ+ persons, usually under the guise of defending religious freedom. But true religious freedom means that all people – regardless of gender or sexual orientation – can live, love, and believe without fear of discrimination. Welton welcomes the Rev. Elder Pat Bumgardner, senior pastor of the Metropolitan Community Church of New York and executive director of the Global Justice Institute, to discuss her ministry to LGBTQ+ persons of faith in a time of multiple crises.

On Thursday, Interfaith Alliance hosted a timely online panel discussion titled, Insurrection and Religious Extremism: How Did We Get Here and Where Do We Go?, Moderated by Alliance President Rabbi Jack Moline. We’ll hear some excerpts from the discussion to wrap up this week’s show. You can view the full event at https://interfaithalliance.org

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. Details can be found at www.stateofbelief.com.

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