In a stirring display of interfaith solidarity, prominent religious leaders gathered on the steps of the U.S. Supreme Court on Monday to issue a heartfelt appeal to all Americans. Their unified message emphasized the importance of voting and urged citizens to consider the needs of the less fortunate as the nation approaches the pivotal November elections.
Bishop William J. Barber II, President and Senior Lecturer of Repairers of the Breach, spearheaded the event, which featured a prayer vigil and press conference. The gathering was marked by a call for a campaign season characterized by truth, justice, love, and equity. “Our prayers will focus on candidates seeking to serve as political leaders and the issues we should debate in a moral society,” Bishop Barber stated. He emphasized the need for discernment in choosing leaders who transcend partisan divides and uphold higher moral values.
The vigil marked the beginning of a series of monthly gatherings, scheduled to continue on the last Monday of each month until the November election. These events will also include prayer sessions on the steps of the Capitol. Bishop Barber made it clear that the aim of these gatherings is not to endorse specific candidates but to advocate for critical issues that align with the nation’s moral and constitutional principles.
Among the leaders present was Dr. Rajwant Singh, Chairman of the Sikh Council on Religion and Education. Dr. Singh, also President of EcoSikh, recited a hymn by Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, which conveyed a powerful message of unity and respect for all individuals. His prayer called upon the Divine Creator to grant wisdom in overcoming divisions and recognizing the shared humanity in every person. “We pray for the well-being of everyone, especially those who have been left behind, ignored, or marginalized,” Dr. Singh said. He urged leaders to prioritize the common good and to lead with integrity, wisdom, and compassion.
Congressman Ro Khanna also joined the gathering, reiterating the call for civility and respectful discourse as the nation prepares to select its next leaders. His presence underscored the importance of maintaining a respectful and constructive dialogue during this critical time.
The gathering was a poignant reminder that, despite the current climate of division, there is a shared commitment among diverse faith communities to seek healing and unity. As Bishop Barber concluded, “We gather in the shadow of the U.S. Capitol, not as an act of insurrection but as a moral resurrection.”
This collective appeal underscores the urgent need for Americans to engage thoughtfully in the electoral process and to advocate for policies that uplift all members of society.
