Faith Action Network speakers find hope working together

For the Faith Action Network's Annual Dinner, 340 were in Renton, 70 in Spokane and 60 online, raising funds to empower the statewide, multifaith advocacy effort.

Several quotes marked the occasion.

"We work together so justice and equality can be realized in our communities," said Elise DeGooyer, FAN executive director.

"Hang on to the relationships we have built to care for one another especially when we disagree and especially as demagogery is a rising threat," said FAN chair Carol Jensen.

"Don't give in to cynicism as we work to defeat injustice," said Rabbi Jason Levine.

"Amplify your voices to create power to change. We are stronger together," Kristin Ang, policy engagement director for FAN, telling of wins with gun responsibility, health equity and repealing the death penalty. "When challenges seem insurmountable, with shared values we can build a brighter, more hopeful future for all."

Brianna Dilts, new Eastern Washington organizer, spoke of FAN's message of hope and solidarity in facing injustice.

Jess Ingman, North Central Washington organizer, is energized by faith-based organizing and relationships connecting justice and spirituality.

My-Linh Thai, 41st district representative in the Washington State Legislature, came to the U.S. from Vietnam in 1983 speaking no English. She spoke of her Buddhist upbringing and appreciation for multifaith cooperation. She said: "Hope requires willpower to create pathways to achieve the goal. Hope is a gift we give each other. Hope is action that requires work. When we work together, we bring change for all."