After the April 5 conference keynote address by Donna Lieberman, she will be joined by two leaders of different faith communities for their response, and to explore together how civil rights and diverse faith-based collaboration can better occur.
Donna Lieberman, Esq. (pictured above, left), Executive Director of the New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU). Under Ms. Lieberman’s leadership, NYCLU has been widely recognized as one of New York state’s, and indeed, the nation’s, leading voices for freedom, justice, and equality for all. Their advocating for those whose rights and liberties have been denied, has made NYCLU a powerful force on the American rights landscape. During her tenure, Ms. Lieberman has led NYCLU to numerous victories in diverse areas including: religious freedom, criminal justice reform, marriage equality and in other areas.
Rev. Dr. Peter G. Heltzel (pictured above, center) is the Director of The Micah Institute. He is also Associate Professor of Theology at the New York Theological Seminary. An ordained minister in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), he currently serves as Assistant Pastor of Evangelism at The Park Avenue Christian Church. An activist and theologian, Dr. Heltzel serves on the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) Northeastern Region, as a participant on the Anti-Racism and Pro-Reconciliation sub-committee.
Dr. Debbie Almontaser (pictured above, right) is the President of the Muslim Community Network. A leading, nationwide voice on Muslim-related matters, Dr. Almontaser is a 25-year veteran teacher in the NYC Public School System. She currently sits on Public Advocate, Tish James’, Interfaith Jewish, Muslim, and Sikh Task Force to Combat Hate and has received numerous awards for her interfaith public service work.
This discussion will be part of the upcoming April 5 conference “Hospitality in a Time of Hate: Religious Leadership for an Inclusive City under the Trump Administration.” The conference is a professional development and capacity building opportunity for religious leaders, allowing faith leaders to learn about social issues, create networks for mutual support, and meet civic leaders and service providers. We invite all concerned New York City faith leaders to attend this retreat to share your actions and ideas, and explore opportunities to work together to address the concerns of your communities.
