What a powerful Interfaith evening!
Tonight, we had the incredible honor of co-sponsoring the event "People, Power, Change: A Conversation About Powerful Faith-Based Organizing," featuring none other than the renowned Marshall Ganz, a pivotal figure in the field of community organizing, and Dr. Sarah Sayeed, Chair of the NYC Civic Engagement Commission. Held at 49 Elizabeth Street in New York City, this evening was a remarkable gathering of hearts and minds united by a shared commitment to justice, solidarity, and social transformation.
Marshall Ganz, whose work has been instrumental in movements across the globe, shared his profound insights into the art of organizing—an art that weaves together the stories, skills, and strategies that empower communities to rise and make their voices heard. Dr. Sarah Sayeed, with her deep understanding of civic engagement and interfaith collaboration, enriched the discussion by drawing connections between grassroots efforts and institutional change, offering a vision of how communities can partner with government to create real, lasting impact.
The event was much more than a discussion; it was a vibrant exchange of stories and strategies, a space where ideas blossomed, and the energy of collective action filled the room. Attendees from diverse backgrounds came together to reflect on the transformative power of faith-based organizing, highlighting the ways in which spirituality and activism intersect to inspire hope and resilience in the face of systemic challenges.
As co-sponsors, we were deeply moved by the conversations that unfolded throughout the evening. From the importance of narrative in building movements to the practical steps for organizing across lines of difference, the discussion touched on the very essence of what it means to build people power. Marshall Ganz reminded us of the enduring truth that "organizing is rooted in relationships," and the room was a testament to that idea—a tapestry of individuals and organizations committed to building a better world together.
We are immensely grateful to our partners who made this event possible: Muslims for Progressive Values, IfNotNow NYC, Jews for Racial and Economic Justice (JFREJ), Churches United for Fair Housing (CUFFH), and the Interfaith Center of New York (ICNY). Each of these organizations brings invaluable perspectives and dedication to the table, demonstrating the strength of interfaith and cross-movement solidarity in addressing the pressing issues of our time.
For those who attended, we hope you left the event as inspired and energized as we did. And for those who couldn't make it, the insights shared tonight will undoubtedly continue to ripple outward, informing and inspiring our collective work. Events like this remind us of the power of community—how, by coming together, we can harness our shared values and diverse strengths to bring about justice and renewal.
As we move forward, let us carry the lessons of this evening with us: the importance of storytelling as a tool for change, the necessity of organizing rooted in relationships, and the enduring power of faith as a force for justice. Together, we can continue to build the world we envision—one that is inclusive, equitable, and deeply connected.
To all who joined us tonight: thank you for sharing your time, your insights, and your hope. Let’s keep organizing, let’s keep learning, and let’s keep changing the world—together.
#PeoplePowerChange #FaithInAction #CommunityOrganizing #InterfaithSolidarity #MarshallGanz #SocialJustice
. @mpvnewyork @ifnotnow.nyc @jfrejnyc @cuffh @interfaithcenterny
