National Council of Churches’ President and General Secretary Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie gathered with other faith leaders from several faith traditions for the Interfaith Democracy Roundtable Breakfast to honor the legacy of Congressman John Lewis and reaffirm their shared commitment to protecting and expanding voting rights for all Americans.
During the event, which was hosted by Faithful Democracy and Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA), representatives from a variety of faith traditions and organizations shared how their respective communities are working to promote civic engagement, educate voters, and ensure equitable access to the ballot box.
Recognizing Congressman John Lewis
Faith leaders joined elected officials in recognizing the enduring impact of Congressman Lewis’s lifelong advocacy for voting rights. Speakers reflected on the progress that has been made while emphasizing that the work is far from complete. Many highlighted the important role of people of faith in educating their communities, encouraging civic participation, and defending the fundamental right to vote.
Highlighting the National Council of Churches’ historic role in advancing voting rights, Bishop McKenzie connected today’s advocacy efforts to decades of faith-based engagement in the nation’s democratic process. “We held vigils at the dawn of the Civil Rights era. We sent clergy into the South to teach voter empowerment,” she shared. “We sent students to register people to vote; and yes, our various denominations marched in the March on Washington.”
Bishop McKenzie emphasized the enduring nature of that commitment, noting that the NCC “stood in the gap by providing bail bond funds when peaceful protesters were arrested,” and that faith communities “sat in and spoke out then, and now.”
The gathering underscored the ongoing need for voting rights protections and reforms while showcasing the efforts faith-based organizations are undertaking to strengthen democracy and ensure every eligible voter has an opportunity to make their voice heard.
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story by Amanda Dowd, National Council of Churches Communications Officer
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