Faith Leaders Rally for Justice and Peace
United Methodists attending the April 4-6 Peace Conference at Lake Junaluska joined a nationwide protest on April 5. The Waynesville, North Carolina, rally was one of more than 1,200 “Hands Off!” demonstrations held across all 50 states. Protesters demanded that the Trump administration reverse policies cutting government services and targeting marginalized communities—around 1,000 people gathered outside the Haywood County Courthouse, uniting to support federal workers and vulnerable populations.
Mounting Concerns Over Federal Program Cuts
Demonstrators criticized sweeping cuts, including dismantling entire agencies, reductions to Medicaid and veterans’ care, and threats to Social Security offices. Immigrant deportations and attacks on transgender rights also sparked outrage. Protesters said these actions harm everyday Americans, particularly those on society’s margins. Western North Carolina Conference Bishop Ken Carter emphasized the event was nonpartisan, calling attention to policy impacts rather than political figures.
Peace Conference Inspires Civic Engagement
The rally coincided with a break in the Peace Conference schedule, enabling attendees to participate. Rev. Beth Crissman encouraged United Methodists to use the opportunity to act on their values. Speakers at the rally included Kristen Wall, a former U.S. Institute of Peace employee, whose job was eliminated by recent government changes. Wall decried the shrinking commitment to international peace efforts and urged Americans to support democracy and justice for all.
Rural Voices Speak Up for Government Accountability
Attendees included pastors, teachers, veterans, and families who traveled from nearby communities. Many stressed that proposed cuts would directly affect local programs, from nutrition assistance to education. Rev. Cole Altizer noted the significance of advocating for those often forgotten. John Lusk, a participant from Chapel Hill, emphasized that taking a stand transcends political labels.
Love and Justice as Christian Witness
The rally’s themes of compassion and advocacy were echoed throughout the Peace Conference. Bishop Robin Dease concluded the event by reminding attendees that justice must be rooted in love. “Justice without love is just merely self-righteousness,” she said, calling for transformed hearts and ongoing action in faith.
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Churchgoers rally against government overreach
Image: Pamela Reynoso
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