10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division
Starting on September 2, 2024 and continuing every Monday for ten weeks through November 4, Faith Commons is offering ten 10-minute reflections on topics related to the upcoming election through the lens of religion.
Our premise is that religion should be used to unite people and groups of people rather than to divide them, and that the founders of our country shared our view.
10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division | On Labor
In this inaugural episode of “10 for 10: Voting Vision Not Division,” Rev. Dr. George Mason is joined by Rabbi Nancy Kasten and Mara Richards Bim to explore the significance of labor through the lens of faith. As we reflect on Labor Day, the discussion delves into how religious traditions emphasize the dignity of work, the necessity of rest, and the importance of fair labor practices.
This episode challenges listeners to think critically about how their beliefs can shape their voting decisions on issues related to labor and employment. Join us as we kick off this series with a conversation that invites you to see voting as a powerful way to live out your values and contribute to a just and compassionate society.
10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division | On Education
In this episode of “10 for 10: Voting Vision Not Division,” Rabbi Nancy Kasten, Rev. Dr. George Mason, and Mara Richards Bim examine the vital role education plays in shaping our values and beliefs, both as individuals and as a society. They reflect on the importance of public education, the separation of church and state, and the influence of faith on education policy.
As the election approaches, this episode encourages voters to consider how their religious convictions can inform their decisions about educational equity, government oversight, and the protection of diverse perspectives in our schools.
10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division | On Healthcare
In this episode of “10 for 10: Voting Vision Not Division,” Rev. Dr. George Mason, Rabbi Nancy Kasten, and Mara Richards Bim reflect on the role of healthcare in a faith-driven society. From the holistic healing ministry of Jesus to the ethical teachings of Maimonides, the discussion highlights the importance of universal healthcare access and the intersection of faith, medicine, and policy.
As Election Day approaches, this episode invites voters to consider healthcare policies through the lens of compassion and justice, addressing issues like prescription drug costs, maternal health, and public safety.
10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division | On Family
In this episode of “10 for 10: Voting Vision Not Division,” Rev. Dr. George Mason, Rabbi Nancy Kasten, and Mara Richards Bim dive into the complexities of family and what it means to support families in today’s world. From the diverse family structures seen in religious texts to the modern policies needed to uplift all families, they discuss how faith calls for a broader, more inclusive understanding of family.
The conversation covers essential topics like childcare assistance, paid leave, and family unity, urging voters to reflect on how public policies can strengthen families in all forms.
10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division | On Climate
In this episode of “10 for 10: Voting Vision Not Division,” Rev. Dr. George Mason, Rabbi Nancy Kasten, and Mara Richards Bim reflect on the role of healthcare in a faith-driven society. From the holistic healing ministry of Jesus to the ethical teachings of Maimonides, the discussion highlights the importance of universal healthcare access and the intersection of faith, medicine, and policy.
As Election Day approaches, this episode invites voters to consider healthcare policies through the lens of compassion and justice, addressing issues like prescription drug costs, maternal health, and public safety.
10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division | On War
In this special episode, the Faith Commons team reflects on the one-year anniversary of the war between Israel and Hamas. Drawing from their own experiences in the region and their faith traditions, Rev. Dr. George Mason, Rabbi Nancy Kasten, and Mara Richards Bim grapple with the complexities of ongoing violence and the pursuit of peace. They discuss the difficulties of peacemaking, the limits of our understanding, and the importance of solidarity and compassion in a world divided by conflict.
As they consider the impact of faith on public policy and voting, they challenge listeners to reflect on what makes a land holy and how to work toward a future rooted in justice and peace.
10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division | On Immigration
This episode reflects on immigration through the lens of faith, with the Faith Commons team exploring how religious stories emphasize compassion for migrants.
Drawing on biblical narratives and personal experiences, the conversation addresses the realities of an unknown future and the complexities of immigration policy today, urging voters to consider the values of hospitality, justice, and care for the vulnerable as they head to the polls.
10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division | On The Economy
In this episode, the Faith Commons team discusses how faith shapes our understanding of economic systems. From fair treatment of workers to addressing inequality, the conversation highlights how public policy can uphold dignity and fairness, encouraging voters to reflect on the ethical impact of economic choices as they head to the polls.
The team emphasizes the importance of creating an economy that serves everyone, not just the privileged few.
10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division | On Freedom
The Faith Commons team unpacks what freedom means in a society bound by shared values and responsibilities. Reflecting on individual conscience, faith-based values, and the role of community, they discuss how freedom is shaped by both personal and collective responsibility, urging voters to consider the delicate balance between rights and obligations.
Together, they explore how true freedom involves respecting others’ autonomy while living by example and fostering a spirit of connection.
10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division | On Character
In the final episode of our “10 for 10: Voting Vision, Not Division” series, Faith Commons reflects on the importance of character in leadership as we approach Election Day. Through a lens of faith, George, Mara, and Nancy explore how integrity, responsibility, and truthfulness in our leaders shape our collective identity and influence our values. From local offices to the highest levels of government, this conversation underscores the impact of character on policies that affect our communities.
As you head to the polls, consider how each candidate’s character reflects the future you envision for our nation, grounded in shared moral principles. And as we move past this election, consider the role you can play in shaping that future.
From the Ballot to Action: Building Unity After the Election
In this special post-election episode of the “10 for 10: Voting Vision, Not Division” series, Rabbi Nancy Kasten and Rev. Dr. George Mason reflect on the surprises and challenges of the election results.
They discuss how faith values can guide responses to shifting political landscapes, the importance of addressing local issues like housing and food access, and why advocating for good governance remains essential. Together, they emphasize the need for persistence and collaboration to create meaningful change, even when political winds shift.
As the dust settles, this conversation invites listeners to stay engaged, persevere, and work toward unity and justice in their communities.