DALLAS—As the second quarter of 2024 comes to a close, Faith in Texas reflects on the impactful events, collaborations, and initiatives that have defined its ongoing commitment to social justice and community empowerment.
Faith Communities Unite for Justice
One of the quarter’s most significant gatherings brought together North Texas Muslim clergy and Black clergy in a collaborative effort to support local initiatives aimed at ending the war in Gaza. The event showcased the power of interfaith solidarity in advancing peace and justice.
Faith in Texas also had the honor of hosting a distinguished group of speakers and community leaders, including:
- Sen. Raphael Warnock, a longtime advocate for social justice.
- Rev. Dr. Frederick Haynes III, senior pastor at Friendship-West Baptist Church.
- Katherine Godby of the Tarrant County Justice Network.
- Katie Hays of Galileo Church, known for innovative community engagement.
- Dallas County Commissioner Theresa Daniel, a public servant and advocate.
- Marlissa Collier, managing editor of the Dallas Weekly.
- Imam Omar Suleiman, a respected faith leader and social justice advocate.
- Sis Fadya Risheq, a dedicated community activist.
These individuals provided invaluable insights, strengthening discussions on systemic justice issues and guiding attendees toward actionable solutions.
Community Engagement and Organizing
Faith in Texas remained deeply engaged with local communities and stakeholders throughout the quarter, leading a variety of training and strategy sessions designed to drive meaningful change:
- Training Sessions: Equipping community members with the skills and knowledge to organize and mobilize effectively.
- Strategy Sessions: Developing progressive approaches tailored to the needs of North Texas communities.
- Coalition Building: Strengthening partnerships among diverse groups to amplify collective impact.
Collaborations and Key Initiatives
Faith in Texas played a key role in multiple convenings and advocacy efforts, reinforcing its mission to build community power:
- Texas Future Project Convening: Faith in Texas presented at the 10-year celebration of the Texas Future Project, discussing strategies for a more just future.
- Multi-Faith Initiative to End Mass Incarceration “UnConference”: The organization took a central role in the gathering, which featured speakers such as Sen. Raphael Warnock and Rev. Dr. Frederick Haynes III.
- Tarrant County Social Justice Convening: Faith in Texas initiated critical discussions with social justice leaders of faith in Tarrant County, laying the groundwork for long-term collaboration.
- Pen America 2024 Disinformation Resilience Training Series: Marlissa Collier of the Dallas Weekly and I spoke on strengthening relationships between journalists and community organizers to ensure accurate, impactful coverage.
- Planning and Strategy Mini-Retreat: Faith in Texas hosted a half-day retreat with Dallas Black clergy, focusing on issues of safety, equity, and justice.
- Jail and Justice Panel for Dallas Friends Meeting: Dallas County Commissioner Theresa Daniel and I participated in a panel discussion on justice reform and community engagement.
- Press Conference on Juvenile Justice Conditions: Faith in Texas stood in solidarity at a press conference highlighting inhumane conditions at the Henry Wade Juvenile Justice Facility. The organization’s presence helped raise awareness and advocate for the rights of vulnerable youth.
Media Coverage and Public Advocacy
Faith in Texas’ efforts to address the conditions at the Dallas County Juvenile Detention Center were amplified by media coverage from The Dallas Morning News and CBS News. The organization remains committed to advocating for systemic change and ensuring that these issues remain at the forefront of public discourse.
Commitment to Long-Term Change
Faith in Texas continues to align its initiatives with its broader mission of empowering and mobilizing faith-based communities across North Texas. The second quarter of 2024 saw sustained focus in key areas:
- Leadership Development: Investing in community leaders through training and mentorship.
- Strategic Planning: Refining long-term strategies to tackle systemic injustice.
- Community Action: Engaging faith-based communities in Dallas County to drive tangible change.
- Collaborations in Tarrant County: Strengthening relationships with social justice leaders to expand impact.
As Faith in Texas looks ahead to the third quarter, the organization remains dedicated to fostering collaboration, empowering communities, and advancing social justice through faith-driven action. The work continues, and Faith in Texas invites community members to stay engaged and take part in the movement for justice.
