Event coincides with Juneteenth observances and explores the intersection of faith, freedom, democracy, and community in America today.
FORT LAUDERDALE, FL. — As the nation reflects on the meaning of freedom during the Juneteenth season, community members, faith leaders, and advocates from across South Florida will gather on Saturday, June 20, for a timely conversation about faith, justice, democracy, and the call to build beloved community in an increasingly divided society.
Hosted by the South East District of United Women in Faith, the event is centered around the book Building Beloved Community: The Courage to Love in the Face of Tyranny, published by the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church. The gathering will feature reflection, discussion, and dialogue among participants and invited guests representing faith, academic, and community perspectives.
The event seeks to explore how people of faith can respond to rising polarization, threats to democratic institutions, racial division, Christian Nationalism, and the ongoing struggle for justice and human dignity.
“At a moment when many Americans are asking difficult questions about truth, freedom, belonging, and the role of faith in public life, we believe it is important to create space for thoughtful conversation grounded in love, justice, and the teachings of Jesus Christ,” said H. Leigh Toney, President of the South East District of United Women in Faith.
The event is open to the public, and participants are welcome whether or not they have read the book.
EVENT DETAILS
Building Beloved Community: Community Read & Reflect Gathering
Date: Saturday, June 20, 2026
Time: 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Location: Christ Church United Methodist Church
4845 NE 25th Avenue
Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33308
Admission: Free and open to the public
MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES
Media representatives are invited to attend and cover the event. Interview opportunities will be available with:
United Women in Faith leadership
Faith leaders and clergy
Featured discussion participants and respondents
Community members participating in the initiative
Visual opportunities include community dialogue sessions, participant interaction, book discussions, and faith-based engagement around issues of justice and public life.
ABOUT UNITED WOMEN IN FAITH
United Women in Faith is a national organization of approximately half a million women whose purpose is to know God, experience freedom as whole persons through Jesus Christ, develop a creative and supportive fellowship, and expand concepts of mission through participation in the global ministries of the church.