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At this year’s Tachmindji Event for Interfaith Dialogue and Peacemaking, made possible by the vision of Diane Tachmindji, we will welcome Paul Brandeis Raushenbush, President & CEO of Interfaith Alliance to speak on the topic “Faith in Authoritarian Times.” 

In a time of unparalleled peril for free and inclusive democracies, people of faith are being invited to mobilize as never before. When religious and political movements seek to hoard and abuse power, silence dissent, and impose a narrow religious agenda, it is not just democracy that is at risk—it is the spiritual integrity of our nation. Increasingly, it is a vital act of faith to speak out and act in defense of democracy and our country’s spiritual integrity. 

The event will take place Sunday, October 26, 2025 at the School of International Service (Founders’ Room) on the campus of American University, 4400 Massachusetts Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20016.  

Free parking is available beneath the SIS building. Enter the garage driveway at the corner of Nebraska Ave. NW and New Mexico Ave. NW for easiest access.

The evening will include Raushenbush’s presentation, audience Q&A, and a reception. The event is free and open to the public, but RSVPs are required. This event is in-person only.

About our Speaker

Paul Raushenbush is a longtime interfaith leader and advocate for civil rights, religious freedom, and democracy. He is ordained in a progressive Baptist tradition. He works with affiliates, networks and leaders across the country to forge powerful alliances among people of diverse faiths and beliefs to build a resilient, inclusive multi-faith democracy.‍

Raushenbush speaks regularly at colleges, faith communities and institutes around the country – including The Chautauqua Institute, the Center for American Progress, Council on Foreign Relations, the New America Foundation and the Aspen Institute. He is a frequent commentator on issues of religion, civil rights and social justice in national media outlets. He has published two books and contributed essays to several volumes on faith in public life.‍

Raushenbush also hosts the weekly podcast and radio show “The State of Belief,” in partnership with Religion News Service. Notable guests have included Timothy Snyder, Skye Perryman, Rep. Jamie Raskin, Rep. Eric Swalwell, Katherine Stewart, Bishop William Barber, Rabbi Sharon Brous, Najeeba Sayeed, E.J. Dionne and Rob Reiner.

View media release for this event.

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