Activist

"The social activist Dorothy Day raised a penetrating question that motivates me: "Why was so much done in remedying social evils instead of avoiding them in the first place?" As a minister of the Gospel, I am committed to responsible social activism that address the sources-not just the symptoms-of injustice."

"In the pulpit, public square, and published writer, I raised people's awareness of the dangers of exclusionary behaviors that marginalize and oppress people. I have invited people to move beyond divisive differences in the hopeful search for God's beloved community where social differences no longer divide and access to God's abundance is equal. The pursuit of justice and the prospect of peace lead me to put my beliefs in action in grassroots communities and on concrete streets."

"Hatred and violence batter every part of the globe. Environmental toxins poison precious natural resources. Many children in our schools are failing, even as billions of dollars are spent to strengthen the prison system. These dilemmas do not allow leaders to remain locked in "ivory tower" abstractions. Furthermore, activism involves more than simply naming social problems. Constructive, imaginative activism articulates and embodies promising possibilities beyond the problems."

"Nonviolent cooperation can unite war-torn nations and heal gang-infested communities. Regulations to ensure the environment's clean bill of health can be enacted. Children's mind can be liberated to avoid their bodies from being incarcerated. The aim of social activism is abundant life for all forms of life on this marvelously diverse planet!"