The All Are Neighbors rally on April 22 filled Baylor University’s Cashion Academic Center. The All Are Neighbors event drew more than 450 registered attendees, including media. Organizers framed the gathering as a celebration of democracy, and it lived up to its national billing as a pro-gay moment. It also served as a counterpoint to a closed-door Turning Point USA program in nearby Waco Hall. That TPUSA event required preregistration, but the counter-event was open to all.
Faith and democracy drive the keynote message
Interfaith Alliance president Paul Raushenbush opened the 90-minute program with a personal introduction. He said he is a gay man, a Baptist minister, and a parent, so he sees no conflict in those identities. He argued that loving a neighbor is a moral duty, not a geographic one. Raushenbush warned that politics and faith can become weapons, and vulnerable communities can become targets. He urged a “next great awakening” rooted in love, democracy, and joy.
Human Rights Campaign president Kelley Robinson closed the program and praised student organizing. She said democracy happens daily when people show up for one another. Robinson said the country has noticed Baylor students, and she tied their work to joy. She also said her faith grounds her activism, because she believes all people bear God’s image. Robinson cited “The truth will set you free,” and she added that the truth can first anger people.
Student stories anchor the program
The All Are Neighbors rally gave most of the time to students from varied backgrounds and beliefs. Speakers represented Christian, Muslim, Hindu, and agnostic traditions, and they stressed dignity without erasing difference. Minneapolis pastor Susie Hayward described “neighborism” as courageous solidarity amid raids and intimidation. Baylor English professor Greg Garrett rejected claims of Christian persecution and cited Joshua’s call to choose whom to serve.
Supporters and detractors clash over platform and power
Supporters said the neighbor rally strengthened Baylor’s future through inclusion, faith, and civil rights. They argued that counterspeech matters because closed spaces limit accountability. Detractors on the far right criticized progressive leaders and objected to the counter-message. Robinson also condemned threats against trans people, book bans, silenced voices, and the platform given to Trump-era border czar Tom Homan.
‘All Are Neighbors’ celebrates diversity and inclusion
Photo by Nina Strehl on Unsplash
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