The #ChangeTakesAllofUs Campaign reimagines some of the world’s most pressing issues through the perspectives of Seeds of Peace community members.

These three members of our community address ways religion can pave the way forwards towards justice and inclusion.

Miriam (2002 American Seed)

Across the world, places of worship have closed their doors and shut off their lights. They have been deemed inessential businesses. Because if we have learned anything over the last few months, it is in fact that our institutions are not “essential.” What is essential is the core of our belief. As the prophet Micah asks: “What is it that God requires of you? Only to do justice and love goodness.”

Miriam is a rabbi living and working in Washington D.C.

Josh (Interim Executive Director, Seeds of Peace)

Christian communities are finally beginning to reckon with our complicity in racism, violence, and oppression. In the months ahead, we need to stay the course. To confess our failings, and repair the pain we caused. To celebrate courageous leaders who are showing the way to justice. To treat each other with grace and mercy, as we learn and grow. To recommit to a world where every person is equal in dignity. To believe that change is possible, and not lose hope.

Fr. Josh Thomas is an Episcopal priest, interfaith educator, and peacebuilding leader. He studied at Union Theological Seminary, with great theologians like James Cone and Delores Williams, who taught that Christian religion which does not stand with the marginalized in their struggle for life and liberation cannot claim to follow Jesus. He currently serves as Interim Executive Director of Seeds of Peace, Executive Director of Kids4Peace, and as Chair of the Alliance for Middle East Peace.

Sana (2014 Pakistani Delegation Leader)

It is bewildering how some people ignore the basics of humanity. In my opinion, the first step is acceptance and empathy. I believe nothing is possible without that. I’ve worked with people from other religions and it has been a divine experience. Religious and spiritual leaders can and should understand difference of opinion and the concept of multiple perspectives.

Sana is a Program Manager for Lincoln Corners, a communal space where workshops and activities are held for everyone focusing on gender, inclusivity, empathy, critical thinking, and leadership. She’s also part of the core team of The History Project/Beyond the Classroom, an initiative that introduces children to the concepts of identity, history, and critical thinking to foster understanding.