Leaders and communities of faith and conscience play critical roles in building pluralism, protecting religious liberty, and advancing American democracy. These leaders bring to the table well-organized constituencies, deep credibility, and values-based passion, commitment, and care.

As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, polarization and the prevalence of “us-versus-them narratives” both within and between identity communities create a feeling of threat that lead many to build walls rather than bridges. Communities and leaders of faith and conscience are needed now more than ever to leverage their strengths and capacities for the good of all. But in these difficult times, many are struggling to find the inspiration and tools needed to keep going and to respond effectively. America’s 250th provides a needed opportunity for leaders to re-examine their capabilities and values for building pluralism and strengthening democracy, and to re-energize themselves and their constituencies to find needed inspiration and strength.

This process looks different for each community. Each community experiences and understands the concepts of pluralism, religious liberty, and democracy differently; has unique internal and external challenges and opportunities; and needs different messages and tools. A community or leader cannot come to the potluck with their identity if they have not had the chance to wrestle with their identity internally. It is thus critical to provide chances for each community to meet privately, to understand within what they need to make change without.