Arizona Tribune - Washington, D.C. Non-Profit to Host Historic Interfaith Dialogue Despite Presidential Rollbacks on DEI

WASHINGTON, DC / ACCESS Newswire / January 29, 2025 / On February 4th, 2025, GOODProjects will host a private interfaith dialogue between Rabbi Stuart Weinblatt and Imam, Dr. Talib Shareef at the soft-launch to the 10-city, Purpose Tour 2025. The summit, held in Washington, D.C. at a secure location, will be closed to the public and exclusively attended by tour funders, press, and Black Justice Fund stakeholders.

This timely conversation takes place against the backdrop of President Trump's announcement of significant rollbacks to DEI initiatives and federal funding for social and racial equity programs. Additionally, a ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel has been reached, further underscoring the importance of fostering dialogue across different religious and ideological communities. The conversation will focus on the intersection of race, religion, and social justice, exploring how diverse communities can come together to address systemic inequality and create positive change. Rabbi Weinblatt, a prominent leader within the Jewish community, and Imam, Dr. Shareef, a national figure in the Muslim community, will share their perspectives on how faith and community engagement can bridge divides and promote healing in these challenging times.

The summit signals the launch of Purpose Tour 2025, a nationwide series of closed-door conversations focused on equity, social justice, and community leadership. These gatherings are a key component of the tour, uniting thought leaders, activists, and community organizers in open dialogues designed to ignite radical change. The upcoming summit serves as the tour's pre-kickoff, with the official launch scheduled for February 11th at Hill Prince in Washington, D.C. This event also coincides with the opening of a grant opportunity, offering up to $150,000 for emerging grassroots leaders, further amplifying the tour's overall impact. With stops planned in cities across the country like Atlanta, New York, and Pittsburg, and notable guests like Daphne Maxwell Reid and Melissa C. Potter, Purpose Tour 2025 aims to inspire action and support long-term social justice initiatives.

"We are thrilled to have Rabbi Stuart Weinblatt and Imam, Dr. Talib Shareef lead this important interfaith dialogue," said Darius Baxter, Chief Engagement Officer at GOODProjects. "Their collective wisdom and commitment to community building will be invaluable as we explore how religious communities can collaborate in pursuit of racial justice, peace, and collective empowerment."

GOODProjects invites the press to register and attend this exclusive dialogue as a precursor to the full Purpose Tour, which officially kicks off on February 11th, 2025. The event provides a unique opportunity for members of the media to cover important issues related to social justice and community leadership, and to witness the start of a national response to the attack on equity initiatives and grassroots work in America.

About GOODProjects

GOODProjects is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering grassroots leadership and driving social justice. Their work creates initiatives and programs that amplify the voices of marginalized communities, with a focus on eradicating generational poverty and promoting equity. Through the Black Justice Fund and Purpose Tour, GOODProjects aims to elevate the next generation of grassroots leaders, providing them with the tools and platforms needed to address systemic challenges and create sustainable, radical change.

About Black Justice Fund

The Black Justice Fund is an initiative of GOODProjects that supports the work of grassroots organizations and community leaders who are working to combat systemic oppression and create equitable opportunities for historically marginalized communities. The fund invests in direct service efforts to address social justice and economic equity while providing mentorship and training to ensure long-term sustainability and impact.

About Rabbi Stauart Weinblatt

Rabbi Stuart Weinblatt is the Senior Rabbi of Congregation B'nai Tzedek in Potomac, Maryland, and a nationally recognized leader in interfaith dialogue and social justice. With a deep commitment to bridging divides between communities, Rabbi Weinblatt has played a pivotal role in fostering understanding and collaboration between Jewish and Muslim leaders, particularly in the context of racial justice and community empowerment. He is a passionate advocate for ethical leadership, reconciliation, and the responsibility of faith communities in confronting systemic inequality. His work has earned him respect across faith communities and has made him a sought-after voice on issues of justice, peace, and societal healing.

About Imam, Dr. Talib Shareef

Imam, Dr. Talib Shareef is a distinguished religious leader, community organizer, and educator. As the Imam of the Nation's Mosque in Washington, D.C., Imam, Dr. Shareef plays a vital role in fostering interfaith dialogue and community engagement. As a former U.S. Army officer who served as chaplain, he has provided spiritual support to military personnel, an experience that has shaped his perspective on national security and the importance of community. His leadership in both the military and religious communities gives him a unique voice in discussions about faith, social justice, and racial equity. Dr. Shareef's work, particularly in empowering young people and advocating for justice, positions him as a critical figure in conversations around faith, leadership, and societal change on a national scale.

For more information or to attend, please contact:

Adam Hickson, Communications Coordinator
ahickson@goodprojects.org | ‭202.270.1278

SOURCE: GOODProjects

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

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