Democracy's Good News: When Faith and Civics Meet to Strengthen Democracy

Today we feature interviews with three religious organizations. These organizations share their current programs that promote civic duties and community engagement across the country.  

Harbonim Dror Camp Galil is a summer camp in Ottsville, Pennsylvania. Executive Director David Weiss joins us to discuss their daily programs for campers aged 7-17. These programs include staging protests and holding forums to discussing any topics of their choice, which can range from a later bedtime and more muffins to climate change and gender imbalance.

The Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom has been a part of Reading, Pennsylvania for nearly 160 years. Rabbi Brian Michelson talks about the decision to maintain a polling site on their campus throughout the Passover holiday in Jewish beliefs. He emphasizes the importance of religious observance but also celebrates the American right to express freedom through voting.

The Mormon Women for Ethical Government has a two-part mission, to advocate for ethical governance and empower women to be independent, ethical, and political actors. Co-Executive Director Jennifer Thomas touches on their faith-based values that have guided thousands of members in MWEG’s local chapters across 49 states to serve their local communities one way or another.

These organizations express a commitment to empowering voters, children, and women and encourage involvement in local communities through spiritual values.  

Timestamps:

0:00 Democracy's Good News

1:34 David Weiss, the executive director of Camp Galil

3:52 Rabbi Brian, Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom

7:08 Director Jennifer Thomas, Mormon Women for Ethical Government

Hear more at democracygroup.org