Nurturing the Flame of Liberation: an Interfaith Discussion

The contribution I hope to make as one of the successors to Martin Luther King Jr. is to address myself to the possibility of reconciliation. But reconciliation cannot come without a simultaneous transformation of our society into a caring, humane society. - Rev. Dr. Pauli Murray Moving intentionally in the tradition of civil rights activist Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Pauli Murray used her personal religious convictions to advocate for a more just and equitable world. Murray’s theological framework was rooted in the notion that community and reconciliation are necessary parts of social transformation and healing. During a time when conversations around politics and religion can be polarizing, what can Rev. Dr. Pauli Murray’s theology and overarching legacy of activism teach us about this moment we’re living through? In this moderated panel discussion, contemporary spiritual practitioners will reflect on how Murray’s legacy shows up in their own work and discuss how various spiritual modalities can foster community connection and further our collective liberation through 2026 and beyond. Panelists KeKe Woods (she/her), known professionally as Ms. Twisted Yogi, is the founder of Twisted Yogi, a wellness and education company that helps individuals and organizations reconnect through movement, breath, storytelling, and embodied practice. Rinah Rachel Galper (she/her) is the founder of Joyoushout, supporting youth and adult changemakers at the intersections of justice, healing, creativity, and spirituality. Rev. Phillip Bass (he/him) is the founding priest of The Beloved Community at The Trees in Durham, NC, a community dedicated to providing healing ministries outside of a traditional church setting, especially for those who have experienced religious trauma. Moderator Danielle Buckingham (she/her) is the Public Historian at the Pauli Murray Center for History and Social Justice.