Clergy Unite to Protect Democracy
Standing Together at Polling Sites
On Election Day 2024, Rev. Dontá McGilvery will stand outside an Arizona polling site to protect democracy.
“Tension rises as election day approaches,” McGilvery said. “As clergy, we’re called to pursue justice and stay present where disorder might arise.”
McGilvery, outreach pastor at Phoenix’s First Institutional Baptist Church, will serve as a “poll chaplain.” He joins hundreds of nonpartisan clergy ensuring voters cast ballots freely.
Clergy stress the urgency of their role. They point to growing threats like voter suppression, disinformation, and potential violence at polling sites.
“Voting rights affect every American,” said Rev. Adam Russell Taylor of Faiths United to Save Democracy. “We confront falsehoods and offer support to ensure fair elections.”
Polling sites have become political battlegrounds, increasing fears of post-election conflict. Clergy aim to de-escalate tensions and counter voter intimidation.
A 2022 poll found only 41% of voters felt safe at polling places. Among Black and Latino voters, that number dropped to 28% and 37%, respectively.
Bridget Moix, a 2022 poll chaplain in Ohio, recalled a moment with a young Black voter. The man feared armed confrontations but later smiled with relief after voting.
“That moment stuck with me,” said Moix, now leader of the Friends Committee on National Legislation. “It underscored the importance of our presence.”
Faith Leaders Mobilize for Voting Rights
Faiths United to Save Democracy has mobilized over 1,000 poll chaplains in battleground states like Arizona, Ohio, Georgia, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Texas.
This effort, supported by Sojourners, the Skinner Leadership Institute, and Georgetown’s Center on Faith and Justice, aims to protect voting rights nationwide.
“Our democracy’s wellbeing is on the line,” said Barbara Williams-Skinner, CEO of the Skinner Leadership Institute. “Voting is sacred, and we must protect it.”
Since January 6, 2021, political violence has surged, with over 300 documented incidents, including protests and threats against officials.
Despite these risks, only 17 states prohibit firearms at polling places. This leaves voters vulnerable to intimidation and fear.
In 2022, McGilvery faced hostility at a Phoenix polling site. A voter confronted him about his faith and voting choices. Despite the tension, McGilvery remained calm and reassured other voters.
“Our goal is to help voters feel safe,” McGilvery said. “Faith-based groups are committed to protecting their rights.”
Faiths United to Save Democracy began as a coalition focused on Black voter rights. Today, it represents 50 denominations working to defend voting rights nationwide.
Voting changed
“Voting has become politicized,” said Taylor. “We’re working to restore trust and highlight voting as a moral cause.”
Poll chaplains are stationed in areas at higher risk for voter suppression or violence. “The civil rights movement’s legacy is our guide,” said Taylor. “We’re continuing that mission.”
Rev. Cynthia Hale of Georgia highlighted the risk of violence at polling sites. “This election is critical, and democracy is at stake,” she said. “We must hold the process accountable.”
In Wisconsin, over 70 chaplains will be stationed to support and protect voters. “We aim to restore trust in the electoral process,” said Rev. Breanna Illéné, director of ecumenical initiatives.
For 2024, Faiths United to Save Democracy has introduced a new phase focused on monitoring vote counting and certification. This initiative extends beyond Election Day with prayer vigils and support for electoral events.
“We’ll stay vigilant through the entire process,” said Taylor. “Protecting democracy requires sustained effort.”
Clergy view their mission as an extension of their spiritual duties. “Voting reflects justice and love for our neighbors,” said Hale.
McGilvery, inspired by civil rights movement leaders, sees this as a continuation of that legacy. “Faith leaders are on the front lines to ensure everyone can vote safely,” he concluded.