I am excited that PTU and the Faith Action Network are deepening their partnership though our new online course about faith-based advocacy, entitled How to Advocate for Change. As participants in a democracy, it is our responsibility to use our voices to help shape policy. A government of, for, and by the people cannot function without the people’s active participation.
Some feel resistance to this active participation. The concerns of every day life, the complexity of the issues we face, and a sense that somehow policy and politics are dirty keep many from participating. We also experience those who use their wisdom tradition like a weapon instead of a guide, who claim their voice and only their voice has divine inspiration. This is a kind of bullying, of course. Our often unconscious response to bullies is to withdraw for our own safety or to avoid the whole scene to keep from looking like a bully ourselves.
Responsibilities are often difficult, but we still must do them.
The reality is
- Our daily life is often shaped by policies that make life more difficult
- Our voice and our capacity to listen can create clarity
- Our capacity to value those with whom we differ can help heal the democratic process
- Our willingness to partner with people of diverse wisdom traditions to lift up common values can overcome the bullying we often see
This course will help you learn how to begin, who to talk to, how to partner with others and be a part of a larger multi-faith movement.
As a practicing Christian, I believe that God cares about the real condition of human beings and the ecosystem. That doesn’t mean I leave it up to God. It means I am called to do my small part.
The beauty is, when we all do our small part big things, good things, happen.
Learn more about our partnership with the Faith Action Network: