Social Justice-Oriented Faith Communities are best for individuals seeking local engagement and direct action on specific social justice issues, while Interfaith Dialogue Platforms like URI are better suited for those interested in global interfaith collaboration and a broader range of social impact initiatives.
| Attribute | Social Justice-Oriented Faith Communities (Black Lives Matter-aligned churches, Sanctuary congregations) | Interfaith Dialogue Platforms (Kumbaya, URI.org) |
|---|---|---|
| Name | Social Justice-Oriented Faith Communities (Black Lives Matter-aligned churches, Sanctuary congregations) | Interfaith Dialogue Platforms (Kumbaya, URI.org) |
| Denominational Affiliation | Interdenominational, encompassing various faith traditions. Affiliated with specific denominations like the United Church of Christ (UCC). Circle Sanctuary is a Wiccan church. ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) identifies as a sanctuary denomination. | URI: None. URI is an interfaith network, not a religion, and encourages people of all religions, spiritual expressions, and Indigenous traditions to participate. It also welcomes atheists and agnostics. |
| Primary Social Justice Focus | Racial justice and combating anti-Black violence. Immigration rights, protecting immigrants from deportation, and supporting mixed-status families. LGBTQ+ rights and inclusivity. Addressing economic disparities. Promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion. | URI: Peacebuilding, ending religiously motivated violence, environmental sustainability, human rights, women's empowerment, and youth engagement. URI has 14 action areas, including arts, community building, education, health and social services, and poverty alleviation. |
| Community Demographics | Often include immigrants, refugees, and mixed-status families. Diverse and inclusive, welcoming people of all races, ethnicities, ages, gender identities, sexual orientations, religions, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Some specifically focus on Black communities and issues. | URI: A global network with Cooperation Circles and individual members in 113 countries. Its members come from over 340 different religions, spiritual expressions, and indigenous traditions. |
| Activism Methods | Providing physical sanctuary and shelter. Public advocacy and policy reform. Supporting legal clinics and deportation defense. Organizing protests, rallies, and demonstrations. Offering accompaniment and support to individuals and families facing deportation. Engaging in community organizing and empowerment. Promoting education and awareness through "Know Your Rights" training. | URI: Conflict resolution and reconciliation, environmental sustainability projects, education programs, advocacy for human rights, and various community-based actions. URI leverages sports to unite people of different backgrounds. |
| Interfaith Partners | Frequently collaborate with other faith-based organizations and interfaith networks. Partnerships may include Jewish, Muslim, and Christian communities. Examples of interfaith networks include PICO (People Improving Communities through Organizing), the Industrial Areas Foundation (IAF), and the Gamaliel network. | URI: Works with various local, regional, and global organizations, including the United Nations. |
| Frequency of Interfaith Events | Interfaith events and collaborations appear to be common, but the frequency can vary. Some organizations have annual interfaith meetings or participate in ongoing interfaith coalitions. | URI: Regular events, including those during World Interfaith Harmony Week. URI also holds global community calls and workshops. |
| Platform Accessibility (online/offline) | Many offer a combination of online and offline platforms. Online accessibility includes live-streamed services, virtual meetings, and social media engagement. Offline accessibility includes in-person worship services, community events, and physical spaces for sanctuary. | URI: Both online and offline, through local Cooperation Circles and global events. |
| Dialogue Format | Dialogue is encouraged as a means of healing and reconciliation, especially when addressing discrimination. Formats can include structured discussions, storytelling, and open forums. Some organizations use a synodal approach, emphasizing listening and inclusivity. | URI: Respectful conversations, sharing, and bridge-building activities within Cooperation Circles. |
| Inclusivity Policies | Most have explicit policies that welcome and affirm individuals regardless of various identity factors. These policies often address race, ethnicity, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, disability, and socioeconomic status. They commit to creating safe and respectful environments for all members. | URI: Committed to diversity, inclusivity, and non-violence. It welcomes all individuals, organizations, and associations who subscribe to its Preamble, Purpose, and Principles, and practices equitable participation of women and men. |
| Leadership Structure | Leadership structures can vary. Some have a single leader, such as a pastor or minister. Others operate with a more decentralized or shared leadership model. Decision-making may involve boards, committees, and congregational votes. | URI: Decentralized with Cooperation Circles forming the core. A Global Council comprised of Trustees elected from Cooperation Circles provides governance. An Executive Committee oversees general governance. |
| Financial Transparency | Financial transparency is important, though the level of openness can vary. Some organizations provide annual reports or make financial information available to members. | URI: URI is a registered 501(c)(3) with consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council. It has the highest rating on Charity Navigator. |
| Community Impact Measurement | Impact is measured through various means, including tracking the number of people served, advocacy successes, and community development initiatives. Some organizations use specific models or frameworks to assess their impact. | URI: URI assesses its impact through stories, reports, and partnerships with organizations like Elite Research. It focuses on reducing religiously motivated violence, increasing social resilience, strengthening regenerative communities, and advancing interfaith understanding. |
| Price | Not available | Not available |
| Ratings | Not available | Not available |