R. Skyler Oberst

There is value in Trump’s words: they were proof that we all actually can agree on something— that he’s totally and completely wrong.

What catches my attention is the fact that propel aren’t abandoning their belief in a higher power, just the brick-and-mortar institutions they grew up in.

For me, it was incredible to sit and hear from world leaders and Nobel laureates about the importance of faith in discussions on issues like climate change, women’s rights and the preservation of indigenous peoples. But something was missing: Action.

across the planet this Saturday, people have been encourage to protest Muslims by picketing outside mosques, masjids, Muslim schools, community centers.

it was startling to see that groups claiming to be defending the “American way of life” have organized a rally to protest City Council’s recognition of this ally and supporter of interfaith dialogue.

Further still, there is even a distrust—even blatant intimidation of minority populations in Spokane. While these incidents may all be disconnected, I can’t help but think that we all need to have a serious talk in Spokane about our town. We can all admit that this isn’t who we are. How do we break this cycle of insulation from the other, and embrace pluralism?

After hearing about the tragedy at the Knox Presbyterian church, the Spokane Interfaith Council has started a GoFundMe to help their congregation get back on its feet. We believe that all houses of worship are sacred, and that the congregation of Knox Presbyterian should continue its work in revitalizing its neighborhood. If one member of our community is attacked, we all are attacked.