Georgians deserve better than today’s divisive political discourse    

As Georgia enters the general election season, a broad coalition of faith communities has come together to plant a stake in the ground. While our religious traditions and political leanings may differ, we are united by a firm commitment to the dignity of every person, the importance of civic responsibility, and the belief that respectful dialogue strengthens both our communities and our democracy.

By hosting a series of activities that support the shared values of our coalition of faith organizations, we seek to foster a different tone—one rooted in listening rather than scoring points, understanding rather than division, and service rather than spectacle. We recognize that people of good faith and good will may reach different conclusions on public policy. Yet we also believe that leadership is measured not only by the positions one holds, but by the values that guide decision-making, the character one demonstrates, and the respect one shows to those with differing perspectives.

Georgia deserves better than coarsened political discourse  

We believe democracy is strongest when people of different backgrounds, beliefs, and political viewpoints come together with humility, disagree with true respect, listen generously, and work toward solutions that serve the whole community. 

We insist on public conversations that are less focused on the “gotcha” moment, but instead the “I’ve got you” moment – one in which we can all say in a spirit of good faith and without cynicism – we must all work together to have each other’s backs in this pivotal moment in our country’s history, for the common good of our state.

To our candidates, thank you for your willingness to make the significant personal and professional sacrifices required to seek this office and, if elected, to serve the people of Georgia.  We ask you to share that respect by centering the humans whom you serve and the values that inform your position on various topics. 

Lead by example

Use your “pulpit” to nuance your positions so that the public will emulate your approach, and refrain from the kind of dehumanizing rhetoric that has become all too common in political life today.

To our fellow faith communities: Join us in insisting our elected officials and public servants rise above today’s roughened discourse and lead with integrity, compassion, and respect. Campaigns should be filled with vigorous argument, but that argument should stop short of demonization. Help us insist on this stance. Know that you will hear perspectives during this campaign with which you may wholeheartedly agree and some with which you very passionately disagree. This is not a flaw of political life. It is a normal feature of living in a democracy. 

As people of faith, we must demand that the next Governor of Georgia centers the lives of our citizens – their shelter and sustenance, their jobs and health, and their hopes and dreams. We must engage with efforts to support a strong and healthy democracy. We must stand with those who care about the public’s safety – knowing that when all of us have what we need, we are all safer. 

Together, we will continue to fulfill the promise of our great state of Georgia – by ensuring we see within each other the image of God, we can and will be on our way to the promised land.

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