In this episode of "It's Kairos Time," the hosts discuss the role of religious nationalism in relation to militarism and the war on the poor. Rev. West McNeill, explains that religious nationalism is a tool used by actors to manipulate society, often promoting a fear of scarcity and justifying exclusionary beliefs. The conversation highlights how this ideology influences U.S. foreign policy and police behavior, and how it scapegoats marginalized groups. The hosts emphasize the importance of truth-telling, organizing, and movement building to combat these forces and promote a vision of abundance and justice.

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The discussion centered on the interconnected struggles for demilitarization, ceasefire, and human rights. Thapelo Mohapi from Abahlali baseMjondolo highlighted their movement's fight for adequate housing and basic services in South Africa, noting 25 members killed since 2005. Chris Grove from ESCR-Net emphasized the global war economy's impact, citing increased repression and militarization. Both speakers stressed the importance of solidarity, collective action, and the need for a peaceful, inclusive society. They also discussed the distortion of self-determination, particularly in the context of Palestine, and the necessity of community-led struggles for genuine human rights and justice.

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Building a movement to end poverty, led by the poor.

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This conversation focuses on the cultural and economic costs of war, highlighting the U.S. military budget's impact on domestic programs. Lindsay Kosharian notes that the military budget is approaching a trillion dollars leaving little for social services. Kareem Sariahmed discusses the relationship between U.S. military spending and global conflicts, such as in Gaza, and its impact on domestic issues like poverty and healthcare. Both emphasize the need for a shift from a culture of violence to one of care, advocating for redirecting military spending to address social needs and promote peace.

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Building a movement to end poverty, led by the poor.

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Part 2 of our Building Systems of Care Episode focuses on the work of West Virginia Can't Wait, an organization aiming to replace those in power with pro-democracy candidates. Founded in 2018, the group has seen significant success, with 29 of their candidates now in office. They face backlash, including threats and internet trolling, but have developed a Community Defender program to support mental health and physical safety. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they implemented a neighborhood defense program, combining voter outreach with mutual aid, which increased voter turnout by up to 20%. The organization emphasizes self-governance and direct action, highlighting the power of community-led initiatives over traditional political systems.

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Building a movement to end poverty, led by the poor.

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On this installment of It's Kairos Time! Building Systems Of Care (Part 1), Fahd Ahmed, Director of DRUM NYC (Desis Rising Up and Moving), discusses the organization's mission to empower low-wage South Asian and Indo-Caribbean immigrants in New York City. DRUM emphasizes community building, narrative power, and political clarity, using member-led storytelling to advocate for systemic change. They also discuss the challenges of engaging with political parties and the importance of building independent power and community connections.

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Building a movement to end poverty, led by the poor.

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Our first Episode of It's Kairos Time! Season 2 "War At Home, War Abroad" highlights the impact of the war economy on U.S. communities, particularly immigrants and the homeless. Gabriela Viera from Detention Watch Network and Eric Tars from the National Homelessness Law Center explain how militarized spending has led to increased immigration detention and surveillance, causing harm and terror in border regions. Eric links the rise of homelessness to Reagan-era policies and the shift towards military spending. Both emphasize the need for a shift from a war economy to one rooted in care and dignity, advocating for policies that address housing, healthcare, and economic security.

Additional Resources: https://www.thenation.com/article/society/the-moral-failure-of-the-grants-pass-decision/

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Building a movement to end poverty, led by the poor.

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The first Matthew 25 Summit with the Presbyterian Church USA was held January 16-18, 2024 at New Life Presbyterian Church in Atlanta, GA. Rev Dr Liz Theoharis gave the keynote.

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Building a movement to end poverty, led by the poor.

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A special discussion in honor of Rev Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

What it means to honor Dr King by continuing his work of building a multiracial, interfaith, movement to end poverty and its interlocking injustices. We are be joined by Dr. Colleen Wessel-McCoy and Dr. Tejai Beulah Howard. Tony Eskidge is our moderator.

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Building a movement to end poverty, led by the poor.

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To support our work visit kairoscenter.org/donate
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