What does this election mean for FSW?

By Stephen Reeves

Fellowship Southwest does not and will not endorse or oppose any political candidate for office. However, elections have consequences, and we must now face the reality that the winner of the presidential election built his campaign on the backs of those whom we love and serve. More than that, President-elect Trump has made racist, xenophobic, and hateful lies about immigrants the very cornerstone of his political career. The prospect of his administration fills us with dread.

Yet, our call remains the same. We don’t “do justice” and love and welcome our migrant neighbors only when it is politically expedient. We don’t know what the next four years will look like, but we can be sure they will impact our work. Fellowship Southwest will resist and oppose inhumane policies that would endanger the lives of those fleeing persecution and break up families here in the US. We are particularly concerned about campaign promises to enact mass deportations that would have devastating consequences on families and our economy.

What I said before any votes were counted on Tuesday is even more important today: “No matter the outcome, we don't get to quit. We cannot grow so cynical that we wrap ourselves up in privilege, opt out, and stay home. We cannot give in to despair.”

Policies targeting vulnerable and marginalized communities will not impact us all directly. Those insulated by privilege must be willing to stand up, show up, and speak out. We'll help you know when and how to do that.

In the coming days we will need each other and we’ll need you. The work of compassion and justice could not be more vital, nor a more counter-cultural witness. When you’re ready, join us.