After Roe v. Wade was overturned earlier this year, the states became the battleground in the struggle for both reproductive freedom and other critical civil rights. At the state level, for instance, rampant voter suppression targeting Black voters is eroding our democracy further. While national politics are important, state and local politics are often where communities feel the most impact. This week on State of Belief, Interfaith Alliance’s weekly radio show and podcast, we’ll discuss the importance of taking action at the local level in the ongoing fight against religious extremism.

As the midterms loom and the future of our democracy hangs in the balance, voters will soon be heading to the polls to cast their ballots. Across the country we are seeing candidates running for office on bigoted and anti-democratic platforms – but people of faith and conscience have a crucial role to play in resisting extremist politics. Maureen O’Leary, director of field & organizing at Interfaith Alliance, will join Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush, host of State of Belief, to discuss the organization’s affiliate program and the urgent need for grassroots mobilization.

Heading into November, each region of the country is facing its own unique challenges. The fight for equality cannot happen in a bubble and will require solidarity between communities across the nation. This week, we’re delighted to have the leaders of three of Interfaith Alliance’s affiliates join Paul to discuss what’s taking place on the ground in their states, how voters are reacting, and their own personal experiences working in interfaith advocacy. You’ll meet Connie Ryan, longtime executive director of Interfaith Alliance of Iowa; Rev. Paul Naamon, President of Interfaith Alliance of Upstate New York; and Rabbi Carl Choper, President of Interfaith Alliance of Pennsylvania.