Northern California Faith Leaders Rally for Unity, Justice, and the Power of the Vote”
BLACK FAITH LEADERS FROM NORTHERN CALIFORNIA ISSUE OPEN LETTER CALLING FOR UNITY, JUSTICE, AND VOTER PARTICIPATION ACROSS CALIFORNIA
Oakland, CA (October 29, 2025) — Today, Black clergy and faith leaders across California released an Open Letter to the Community calling for unity, civic engagement, and moral leadership as the state approaches a pivotal election season.
Organized by the Black Women Organized for Political Action (BWOPA) Faith Leader Engagement Network, the letter urges congregations and communities to stand together in prayer, participation, and purpose to protect democracy and ensure that every eligible voter is informed, registered, and empowered to vote.
LaNiece Jones, State President of BWOPA said. “We know the nation is watching. Black women and communities of faith have always been the moral compass of our time — guiding movements for justice, equity, and the common good. As we mobilize together, we are once again leading with conviction, courage, and love for our people and our democracy.”
“Our faith calls us to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God,” the letter reads. “We vote not out of fear, but out of faith — believing that our collective voice can heal, restore, and build a more just California.”
The statewide initiative includes clergy, interfaith leaders, and community advocates from the Bay Area, Los Angeles, Central Valley, and beyond. It also launches a social media toolkit with shareable graphics, scriptures, and sample messages to help churches and leaders spread awareness and encourage early voting and civic participation through November 4, 2025.
“Throughout history, the Black Church has stood at the forefront of movements for justice, freedom, and equality,” said Pastor VaShone Huff, Co-Director of BWOPA’s Black Faith Leader Engagement initiative. “This open letter continues that tradition — reminding us that faith and democracy are intertwined, and that participation in civic life is part of our moral responsibility.”
Faith leaders emphasized the importance of ensuring every community — particularly those historically marginalized or underrepresented — has access to information, resources, and opportunities to make their voices heard at the ballot box.
“Prop 50 is a moral call to defend every voter’s dignity, especially those long pushed to the margins, so equality, justice, and freedom can truly belong to us all.” Said Bishop Yvette Flunder, Presiding Bishop; The Fellowship of Affirming Ministries & Senior Pastor, City of Refuge UCC. “We can not allow intimidation or discrimination to choose our leaders. We the people will have the final say.”
Dr. Charley Hames, Presiding Prelate, 9th Episcopal District of the CME Church also reminds us that, “Our collective communities carry collective power — power strong enough to transform both policies and hearts. Now is the time to show up, speak out, and vote. There is too much at stake to sit on the sidelines. Change won’t come by chance; it comes by participation.”
For interviews, media inquiries, or event information, please contact VaShone Huff at [email protected].
About BWOPA: Founded in 1968, Black Women Organized for Political Action (BWOPA) is a statewide organization dedicated to empowering, educating, and supporting Black women and communities to engage in civic life, influence policy, and lead change. Through leadership development, advocacy, and partnerships, BWOPA continues to advance equity and representation for all Californians. www.bwopatileleads.org
BLACK CLERGY + FAITH LEADERS OPEN LETTER SUPPORT FOR PROP 50