Religious leaders made an appeal to all Americans to exercise their right to vote as well as keeping in mind the rights of those who are less fortunate in American society. Leaders from various faiths had gathered at the steps of the US Supreme Court to speak with unified stand on upcoming American elections in November.
They also made a call on the nation to pray, participate, and proclaim a commitment to an agenda that lifts from the bottom rather than insults and division. Dr. Rajwant Singh, Chairman of the Sikh Council on Religion and Education, recited a Sikh prayer. Congressman Ro Khanna also joined and reiterated the call for more civility as the nation is gearing to choose next leaders.
Bishop William J. Barber, II, President and Senior Lecturer of Repairers of the Breach, convened a coalition of religious leaders in front of the United States Supreme Court to hold a prayer vigil and press conference. This gathering will call the nation to prayer for a campaign season carried out in truth, justice, love, and equity.
Monday’s vigil launched a season of prayer to continue with gatherings on the last Monday of the month until the presidential election in November. This will also include prayer on the steps of the Capitol. Bishop Barber said, "Our prayers will focus on candidates seeking to serve as political leaders and the issues we should debate in a moral society. We seek discernment to choose leaders who transcend partisan divides to uphold the higher moral values of justice, truth, love, peace, and compassion for all.
He added, "we come as faith leaders, staying true to the highest ideals of our faith traditions and urging the nation to adhere to its best moral and constitutional principles. We are not endorsing specific candidates but advocating for critical issues".
We gather in the shadow of the U.S. Capitol, not as an act of insurrection but as a moral resurrection.
Dr. Rajwant Singh, President of EcoSikh, recited a hymn by Guru Nanak, the founder of the Sikh faith, to convey the message of unity and dignity of all humans. He recited a prayer "O Divine Creator, the Source of all existence, we come to You in this time of division and unrest. Grant us the wisdom to see beyond our differences and recognize the shared humanity in every soul.”
He added, "We pray for the well-being of everyone, especially those who have been left behind, ignored, or marginalized. Help us to care for those in poverty, those without resources, and those who face prejudice because of their religion, color, or ethnicity.”
Guide us in choosing leaders who are committed to healing the divisions within our nation. May they lead with integrity, wisdom, and compassion, prioritizing the common good over personal gain. Let them be voices of unity rather than division, builders of bridges rather than walls."