Faithful Resistance Podcast

What does real grassroots organizing look like in Colorado today?In today's Faithful Resistance podcast from Jefferson Unitarian Church, we explore how Together Colorado is building people-powered change—from local congregations in Jefferson County to the state legislature. With over 200 community members showing up at the Capitol for their largest lobby day yet, this movement is gaining momentum across Denver, Boulder, Colorado Springs, Pueblo, and beyond.We dive into key issues shaping the state right now:* Climate & Energy Justice (SB-002) — Efforts to make electricity more affordable for low-income households* Affordable Housing & Mobile Home Protections — Giving residents more power and protection in the face of corporate sales* Immigration Rights (SB-005) — A groundbreaking bill to hold agencies accountable for constitutional violations* Grassroots Power vs. Political Power — How everyday people can influence policy at the state levelThis is a powerful look at what happens when communities organize, show up, and push for change.

Music isn’t just something we listen to—it’s something that connects, heals, and transforms us.In this powerful conversation with Dr. Baker Purdon,Jefferson Unitarian Church's Director of Music Ministry, we explore how singing together impacts the human body, mind, and spirit.From civil rights anthems to modern protest spaces, music continues to be one of the most powerful tools we have to build community, sustain hope, and carry emotional weight together.If this conversation resonates, like, subscribe, and share it with someone who needs a reminder of the power of community

Do justice work and joy really go together? Is it okay – is it even necessary – to find joy in the midst of the struggle? Reverend Jen Simon at Jefferson Unitarian Church says, “Yes!!!” As another No Kings rally looms across the country on March 28th, episode 31 of the Faithful Resistance podcast focuses on a different variation of justice work called Joyful Resistance. There should be no guilt in taking the time to sing and dance and connect, even when -- especially when -- we know that the struggle is far from over.

Jeanette Vizguerra is undoubtedly the best known immigration activist in Colorado. She spent most of 2025 in federal detention in Aurora, Colorado, but she refuses to be silenced. In this conversation, she speaks from the heart not only about her passion to educate, train and motivate immigration activists, but also how she personally finds the strength to keep up the fight.

What do you do when you believe it’s not if, but when?As cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, Indianapolis, and Charleston face Department of Homeland Security raids, volunteers in Denver are preparing. In this episode of Faithful Resistance, community activist, Linda Nabours, explains the purpose of Whistle Kits, community defense training, and how everyday citizens are standing with vulnerable immigrant neighbors.Inside each Whistle Kit:• A whistle to alert the community• Know Your Rights cards• A zine developed with national partners• QR codes linking to trusted organizations• The Colorado Rapid Response Network hotlineWe talk about safety, risk, training, privilege, fear, hope — and the deeply personal relationships that transform “issues” into human connection.This is not abstract politics. It’s neighbors protecting neighbors.If you’ve ever wondered how faith communities prepare for ICE activity…If you’ve asked what you can actually do…If you believe hope requires action…This episode is for you.

Although immigration and ICE tend to be at the forefront of justice concerns these days, they aren’t the only challenges facing people on the margins. In this episode of Faithful Resistance, hear from two activist volunteers at Jefferson Unitarian Church whose passion is social justice for queer folks. 

If you could use a little inspiration… a little nudge to pursue your social justice passions, this is the Faithful Resistance episode for you. Inspiration number one: portions of a January 18th sermon by renowned Colorado labor and immigrant activist Jeanette Vizguerra. She is determined to keep fighting for her community. And inspiration number two: a conversation with a member of Jefferson Unitarian Church who volunteers for the Colorado Rapid Response Network, which documents ICE activity in Colorado. Maria Rosa Galter is also determined to make a difference in the resistance movement, and she lists ways for volunteers to get training this weekend so they can keep safe while monitoring ICE actions.

As 2026 begins, Faithful Resistance turns its focus close to home.In this episode, we speak with Gretchen May and June LeCrone of Jefferson Unitarian Church about local, hands-on work supporting immigrants and other vulnerable people across Colorado. From vigils at the GEO detention center in Aurora to Know Your Rights education and emerging community defense initiatives, this conversation explores what faithful, ethical solidarity looks like in practice.We discuss: • What “support for the vulnerable” really means • Immigrant accompaniment, detention-center vigils, and spiritual witness • Know Your Rights trainings for individuals and businesses • Community defense and allyship without “white savior” harm • Partnering with impacted communities rather than acting for them • How people of faith can move from concern to meaningful actionGrounded in Unitarian Universalist values, this episode reminds us that faithful resistance isn’t abstract—it’s local, relational, and rooted in dignity, courage, and partnership.Have ideas for future guests or justice work we should highlight?Email: [email protected] for more conversations on faith, justice, and courageous community.

How do we stay informed without being consumed? How do we hold grief, anger, and fear without shutting down—or passing that pain on to others?In this replay of an earlier episode of Faithful Resistance, Rev. Wendy Williams explores spiritual resilience in overwhelming times: setting healthy boundaries with the news, honoring tears and anger as part of faithful living, and choosing to place love at the center of our lives and values.This conversation reflects on: • Healthy ways to engage the news without harming the spirit • Why tears and anger are not weaknesses—but part of faithful resistance • The wisdom that “pain that is not transformed is transmitted” • Centering something larger than ourselves—family, love, community, and shared humanity • Why love defies logic, economics, and fear • Finding teachers in poetry, neighbors, scripture, and everyday courageGrounded in Unitarian Universalist values, this episode reminds us that while the world can feel like it’s ending, we still have choices—about how we live, how we love, and what we center.

In this powerful episode of Jefferson Unitarian Church's podcast, Faithful Resistance, host Chris Sealy speaks with longtime immigration-justice advocate Dana Miller about the hidden world of ICE charter flights, the airlines profiting from detainee transfers, and the dangerous conditions occurring behind closed airplane doors.Dana exposes the safety risks inside these flights—shackling practices, lack of evacuation procedures, and airlines like Key Lime Air and Denver Air Connection now operating ICE charters out of Colorado. The conversation sheds light on: • How ICE uses private airlines to move detainees across the country • What flight attendants have reported about safety violations • Why Key Lime Air’s relationship with CU is drawing protest • Upcoming coordinated airport actions • “We Keep Us Safe,” a new Colorado-based community defense model using whistle kits • How local groups—including immigrant partnership teams, Court Watch, Ice Watch, and Shut Down GEO organizers—are building rapid-response networksDana shares what keeps her energized in this complex and often challenging work, offers insight into upcoming Colorado legislation, and reflects on how local activism intersects with national immigration politics heading into 2026.

In this powerful conversation, Jefferson Unitarian Church's Rev. Jen Simon joins host Chris Sealy to talk about how we stay grounded, compassionate, and courageous in a time of fear, division, and political tension.Jen shares wisdom on:• Listening to family across political divides• Naming fears without affirming harmful narratives• Using Unitarian Universalist values to build bridges• Understanding our Christian roots and reclaiming spiritual language• Treating every person—even those doing harm—as having inherent worth• Protecting immigrants, BIPOC communities, and LGBTQ+ siblings• Why rest is part of resistance• The holiday message that sustains us into the coming yearTogether, they explore what “faithful resistance” looks like when the world feels heavy, how we stay present without burning out, and why love is still the most subversive force we have.If this conversation speaks to you, please like, subscribe, and share to support the ongoing work of JUC’s Faithful Resistance community.

In episode 22 of Faithful Resistance podcast from Jefferson Unitarian Church, host Chris Sealy welcomes Anne Kleinkopf from the Interfaith Immigration Network (IIN) for a heartfelt conversation about communities coming together to support migrant and immigrant rights. Discover how IIN started in response to migrants arriving in Denver, and how faith groups are building a strong, loving voice in public discourse to counter hate and exclusion.Anne shares powerful stories about advocacy at the Aurora Geo Detention Center, describes the moving meditation vigils, and offers insight into how love and community fuel this work even when change seems slow. If you're interested in volunteering or supporting immigrant neighbors, learn how you can get involved via the IIN website.Want to help or learn more? Visit: interfaithimmigrationnetwork.org✉️ Email: interfaithimmigrationnetworkmail.comFor more action opportunities, follow Faithful Resistance at jeffersonunitarian.org.Subscribe, share, and join us to do the next right thing.

Weeks and months of trying to survive the current administration can be exhausting, even when you're committed to faithful resistance. This episode with Jefferson Unitarian Church Senior Minister Rev. Wendy Williams examines how we keep moving and resisting by keeping love at the center.

In this episode of Faithful Resistance, host Chris Sealy sits down with Daniel Mondragon, director of Embracing Nonviolence, to discuss the power of nonviolent protest and its relevance today. They highlight upcoming rallies, the roots of nonviolence, and practical advice for getting involved.• Details on upcoming protests in Colorado, including "No King 2" and the Immigrant Rights Now rally• Daniel Mondragon’s background and the founding of Embracing Nonviolence• The core principles of nonviolence inspired by Gandhi and Dr. King• Practical steps for applying nonviolent tactics in modern movements and protests• How to connect with Embracing Nonviolence and deepen your involvement in community action

In this episode of Faithful Resistance, host Chris Sealy talks with Rev. Mary Katherine Morn, President and CEO of the Unitarian Universalist Service Committee (UUSC), about resistance, hope, and solidarity during turbulent times. They dive into the origins of UUSC, the realities of political threats today, and practical actions for those feeling overwhelmed.• The powerful World War II roots and ongoing mission of the UUSC• How UUSC and its partners are responding to escalating threats against marginalized groups in the U.S. and globally• Formation and action steps of the UUSC Resistance Network for collective resistance• Anticipated restrictions on free speech, philanthropy, and human rights organizations—and how to push back• Finding hope, grounding, and ways to faithfully resist in the face of political violence and uncertainty

Get an inside look at the current immigration landscape in Colorado with expert voices from academia and advocacy. This episode dives into the emotional, legal, and societal impacts of recent immigration policies and what you can do to help.• The mental health toll of increased immigration enforcement on immigrant communities• Common misconceptions about the U.S. immigration system and the myth of a “legal” path for most• How attacks on immigrant rights affect everyone’s rights and due process• Real-world efforts by the Colorado Immigrant Rights Coalition to advocate, empower, and protect immigrants• Concrete ways you can get involved—like joining the Colorado Rapid Response Network and supporting court watch initiativesTune in to learn the facts, bust some myths, and discover practical ways to make a difference.

Explore how communities in Colorado are standing up for immigrant rights and practicing "faithful resistance." This episode features practical insights from a grassroots leader and a minister involved in justice work.• The mission and methods of Colorado's Immigrant Protection Teams (IPTs)• Strategies volunteers use to respond to ICE raids and support immigrant communities• Addressing media misconceptions about immigrants and spreading accurate information• The role of faith and moral obligation in activism, featuring insights from Reverend Mike Morran• How to get involved, stay motivated, and the importance of organized, collective actionSubscribe and join the conversation on building a stronger, more just community!

In Episode 16 of the Jefferson Unitarian’s Faithful Resistance podcast, we meet remarkable volunteers making a real difference in Jefferson County. Carol Wilsey shares her experiences supporting immigrants through court accompaniment, offering comfort in stressful situations, while Mindy Moore discusses her decade-long fight for affordable housing and the challenges facing local communities. Discover how grassroots activism and local engagement are creating change in immigration support and housing justice.

Jefferson Unitarian Church, Faithful Resistance Episode 15.Six months into a chaotic political climate, local activism and meaningful conversations are more important than ever. In this episode, we dive into how communities and families can respond thoughtfully and effectively.The top concerns identified in local Jefferson County house meetings—affordable housing and immigration.How grassroots groups like Together Colorado are organizing research meetings with local officials.The emotional climate among community members, from anxiety to determination to fight back.Strategies for talking to children about politics and anxiety in today’s world from a faith perspective.Practical ways for families and kids to get involved in acts of “faithful resistance” and community service.

Are you passionate about social justice, nonviolent resistance, or feeling burnt out in the struggle for change? In this compelling episode of Faithful Resistance, we connect with Jordan Garcia from the American Friends Service Committee to discuss upcoming Nonviolent Direct Action Training in Colorado. Then, Reverend Jen Simon of Jefferson Unitarian Church shares powerful insights on sustaining your activism, nurturing community connection, and finding spiritual grounding amid turmoil. Whether you’re a seasoned advocate or heading to your first protest, this episode offers actionable steps, self-care guidance, and uplifting community stories.

Discover how Unitarian Universalists are mobilizing for justice through the UUSC and grassroots action at Jefferson Unitarian Church in Golden, Colorado. This episode explores national and local resistance strategies in the face of changing policies impacting vulnerable communities.• The history and mission of the Unitarian Universalist Service Committee (UUSC)• How the UUSC’s new Resistance Network rapidly responds to threats against civil liberties and human rights• The specific areas of focus for UUSC advocacy, including migration, LGBTQ+ rights, and climate justice• Personal motivations and challenges faced by advocates like Salote Sango and Gretchen May• Practical ways individuals can get involved locally and nationally to support immigrants and other vulnerable groupsWatch to find out how you can join the movement and take action in your own community.

What happens when our conscience collides with the law? In this episode of Faithful Resistance from Jefferson Unitarian Church in Golden, Colorado, we uncover the real-life practice of court watching at Denver’s federal courthouse—where ICE detentions transform lives in an instant. Hear firsthand from Mary McEwen of the American Friends Service Committee about practical resistance, and delve into the spiritual roots of compassionate justice with Rev. Wendy Williams. Together, we wrestle with what it means to courageously love our neighbors, even when the law falls short.Subscribe for more honest conversations where faith meets action.

In this episode of Faithful Resistance, host Chris Sealy explores how faith and advocacy intersect in the ongoing fight for justice and equality. Hear from Reverend Wendy Williams and Joy Iwancio as they share insights on community resilience, the power of support networks, and the importance of compassionate resistance.• Reverend Wendy Williams discusses the core values behind "faithful resistance" and how anger can be transformed into constructive action.• Strategies for managing exhaustion and finding balance in social justice work.• The Center on Colfax’s vital role as a safe space and resource hub for Colorado's LGBTQ community.• Joy Iwancio details the support groups, resources, and advocacy initiatives available at the Center.• Ways for both the LGBTQ community and allies to get involved, find hope, and foster positive change.

In this episode of Faithful Resistance, we sit down with Jordan Garcia from the American Friends Service Committee to discuss the climate for immigrants in Colorado and ways to be an effective ally. • Discover the challenges and triumphs within the immigrant justice movement and how you can contribute.• Understand the current climate for immigrants in Colorado, marked by fear and rising support.• Learn effective techniques for bystander intervention to support the immigrant community.• Discover the role of the Colorado Rapid Response Network in verifying ICE activities.• Explore the unique partnership between immigrants and allies in fighting deportations.• Find out how you can join and support immigrant rights initiatives and training opportunities.

In this episode of Jefferson Unitarian Church's Faithful Resistance podcast, host Chris Sealy and guest Dana Miller discuss the vital work of immigrant protection teams and how individuals can get involved. Activist, Dana Miller, shares her personal experiences in supporting immigration rights.The concept and formation of immigrant protection teams in Colorado.How these teams operate through various local working groups.Ways the public can get involved in immigrant protection efforts.Personal stories highlighting the challenges faced by immigrants.Current legislative actions and community events supporting immigrant rights.

Learn about a rock solid way to get into community organizing with Together Colorado -- so you can faithfully resist!

In this episode of "Faithful Resistance," we hear from community leaders making a difference in social justice and civic engagement. From impactful tips on activism to protest safety training, this episode is packed with valuable insights.Joel Newton discusses the mission and evolution of the Edgewater Collective and its focus on supporting Latino communities in Jefferson County.Learn about the power of phone calls to Congress from Robin Koberneck, a local leader of Indivisible.Discover strategic ways to resist and support immigrant communities without attending protests.Piper Perry talks about the importance of protest safety and shares lessons learned from personal experiences.Get a glimpse into upcoming events and workshops aimed at empowering communities and fostering social change.Tune in to be inspired and informed!00:00 "Faithful Resistance Highlights"05:49 "Know and Advocate for Immigrant Rights"08:29 "Influencing Congress from Colorado"12:27 College Journalist Faces SWAT at Protest15:49 JUC Events & Activism Schedule16:39 "Rally Against Trump's Power Grab"

So, what is resistance exactly? Is it more than protests and rallies? Absolutely. It could include signing a petition to demand the release of an immigrant activist in Denver: https://secure.afsc.org/a/freejeanetteThis episode also examines other ways to resist. Meet a woman who resists every day of her life through community building and helping the unhoused at Arvada Rising.

In this upside down world, learn what you can do this week to Faithfully Resist! See brief interviews on local community organizing training and two events at Jefferson Unitarian Church to advocate for trans rights and gender affirming care. A calendar of opportunities for action is also included.https://jeffersonunitarian.org/serve/social-justice/faithful-resistance/

During these difficult times emanating from Washington, get a little inspiration and a lot of ideas for how to faithfully resist. Episode Two features the Jeffco coordinator for Together Colorado. Maki Somosot describes upcoming community organizing training on March 8, 2025.Produced by Jefferson Unitarian Church, Golden, Colorado

In these turbulent times created by the new administration in Washington, why and how do people with liberal religious values resist? This weekly podcast begins with an interview with the assistant minister at Jefferson Unitarian Church in Golden, Colorado,. It also includes a calendar of events to attend to learn more about community organizing.