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I am a participant in the Working Group to Counter Christian Nationalism, a project of Multi-Faith Justice Maine. We are a group of faith leaders in central, northern and Down East Maine who care about democracy and pluralism, human rights and human dignity, and the right to vote safely. Because of the times we live in, it is important for us to express these values loudly and clearly, contributing to participation that is positive for the community, while many extremists are drawing on religious discourse to divide families and neighbors.
Our working group came together with the intention of countering white Christian nationalism — that set of beliefs and behaviors that masquerades as a loving faith expression, but which tears down the community by promoting supremacy, intimidation, and violence.
The best election would feature informed and educated participation by the most people, face no barriers or suppression based on historic race or class, value the input of all, and seek the common good. We support groups that keep voting open and safe, encourage dialogue and forbearance, affirm the values of participation and leadership in and through government, and clarify the contexts of injustice that make continued work toward democracy necessary.
In the weeks leading up to Election Day, we are training as poll chaplains to be a peaceful presence and bear witness to the spark of dignity in everyone at election sites across Maine. We know that many Mainers use voting by mail, not just their local polling place. When political signs go missing, stolen, or vandalized, the perceived message is to “stay home — don’t vote.” We want to support all people in voting, to protect civic spaces for engagement with empathy and persuasion, and to show up for one another as human beings.
Rev. Malcolm Himschoot
Co-Pastor
Church of Universal Fellowship
Orono
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