On June 30th, 2009 at the State Capitol, under a clouded sky, students of the Coalition joined hundreds of people dressed in black in an inspirational event, "Called to be Faithful Minnesota: A Witness of Lament." The event sponsored by the Minnesota Council of Churches and Saint Paul Area Council of Churches was held in response to Governor Pawlenty's announcement that as of July 1st, he would use his "unallotment" authority to drastically cut health and human services, which provide education and care for the poor.
However despite such solemn news, spirits were high, as congregations of various faiths gathered together in a ceremony full of powerful expression and a reverence for justice.
Individuals holding signs adorned with spiritual quotes from the Bible, the Torah, and Buddha, listened as the rabbi cried "Enough!", and the Hindu leader gave a moving chant based on Sanskrit texts.
The ceremony included numerous speakers who challenged the divides prevalent in today's society. With extreme conviction they emphasized that regardless of our faith, our race, or our economic status, we are all members of humanity, and it is this humanity that calls on us to help those in need. As Amy Eilberg from the Jay Phillips Center for Interfaith learning commented, "We were reminded yet again that all of our traditions teach devoted care for the disadvantaged of society. All of our religions teach that we are connected to one another, and that our commitment to justice demands attentiveness to the needs of the poor."
The students of the Coalition were privileged enough to be able to attend such an event, and to interact and communicate with members of different faiths, all fighting justice through compassion and determination.
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