Annual Interfaith Poverty Conference aims to inspire action

The Donovan Dining Center at Rhode Island College was crowded May 11 as faith leaders, advocates, service providers and community members gathered for the ninth annual Interfaith Poverty Conference.

Sponsored by the Rhode Island Interfaith Coalition to Reduce Poverty, the program featured a keynote speech by the Rev. Dr. James Forbes Jr. followed by four workshops on poverty-related issues.

Forbes, a nationally known preacher, pastor and author, gave an inspiring speech to the more than 300 in attendance. He characterized the interfaith audience as “God’s dream team,” capable of making radical transformations in the fight against poverty.

At 81 years old, Forbes, the senior minister emeritus of The Riverside Church, in New York City, bounced around the stage and into the crowd like a young man. He spoke of inspiring, encouraging and empowering Rhode Island to turn “things” around in the war again poverty, which he characterized as “God’s war.”

Forbes advocated for electing leaders who will honor the call to fight poverty and he suggested to the crowd that everyone practice random acts of kindness daily.

Those attending the conference were encouraged to complete postcards, to be sent to lawmakers, in support of no-fare bus passes for low-income seniors and people with disabilities.

In addition to advocating to restore the free bus passes, the coalition’s priorities include expanding early learning for children, raising the state minimum wage and providing access to driver’s licenses for undocumented Rhode Islanders.

The workshops focused on immigration issues, fair pay, racial and economic disparities in housing, and the challenges facing low-income seniors as they grow older in the community. 

FRAN OSTENDORF is the editor of The Jewish Voice.