Hello Rainbow Circle Friends,
It’s Saturday morning (as I’m writing this blog) and—weather permitting—I’m making my way back home to Cleveland. I’m confident I’ll get as far as Chicago; whether I make it all the way home will depend on flight availability. Time will tell.
Before the rhythms of travel fully take over, I wanted to reach out to you. As this trip comes to an end—the days spent with AWAB friends, clergy from across the country, and tens of thousands of Minnesotans—I am deeply aware that the unjust and inhumane realities being carried out by federal agents are far from over. Even as I was leaving this morning, word began spreading about yet another shooting by ICE agents just blocks from the coffee shop where I stopped.
I want you to know that your faithful, monthly support through the Rainbow Circle makes it possible for AWAB to be present in moments like these—to show up, to accompany, to bear witness, and to offer care. Because of you, AWAB was not only present this week in Minnesota, but able to stand in solidarity with siblings who are living under extraordinary fear and pressure. Your generosity matters more than you may ever fully see.
As we carry what we witnessed this week, AWAB’s staff and Board will soon be gathering on retreat for prayerful reflection—holding together where our work has been, where it is now, and where love may be calling us next. If there are hopes, burdens, or stirrings on your heart about the work that needs tending in the days ahead, I would be honored to receive them. Please feel free to reach out to me directly. Your wisdom and your care are gifts to this community.
Right now, the darker side of our political context feels overwhelming—because it is. For those of us who live in places where the scourge of ICE has not yet been fully felt, it’s important to remember that our siblings in faith who do live in those communities are experiencing levels of fear and anxiety that many of us have yet to fully understand. Your continued support helps ensure that they are not alone—and that AWAB can respond with courage, compassion, and clarity.
Thank you for the privilege of representing you, and for representing AWAB alongside you, through your steadfast generosity. I know it meant a great deal to our AWAB siblings in Minnesota, as well as to those visiting from across the country, to know that AWAB was officially present, grounded in care, and supported by a community that believes this work matters.
Not to be an alarmist, but we must be ready for the cruelty being administered by ICE to impact far more people than those currently being targeted. We must also continue to stand firmly with our LGBTQ+ siblings. Your commitment as Rainbow Circle donors helps make that readiness—and that resolve—possible.
More to come. Please stay safe and warm wherever you are as this winter storm front moves through. May love’s own front move us as well, helping us bring warmth and hope to others in these cold, cold days.
With deep gratitude and love,
Brian