Interfaiths: Discovering the Inner Light: Quakerism, Social Justice, and the Art of Dialogue with Prof. Jeanette Smith
Interfaiths · Iqbal Akhtar
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Show Notes
In this episode of the Interfaiths podcast, we are honored to sit down with Professor Jeanette Smith, a dedicated social justice advocate and moral exemplar in the South Florida community. Jeanette takes us through her fascinating journey—from growing up in a small town in Northern Maryland and her adult confirmation in the Catholic Church, to her realization that her values naturally aligned with the Quaker tradition while applying to the American Friends Service Committee.
We dive deep into the tenets of Quakerism, including the concept of the "inner light," the challenging discipline of pacifism, and the importance of silence in worship. Jeanette also shares invaluable lessons from her decades of experience in interfaith organizing, particularly regarding workers' rights and wage theft. She discusses the nuances of building coalitions without "watering down" one's faith and offers inspiring advice for young people looking to live out their values in a turbulent world.
Key Topics:
- From Catholicism to Quakerism: A spiritual evolution.
- The American Friends Service Committee and social justice.
- Misconceptions about pacifism and non-violence.
- The "Miami Model" of diverse interfaith cooperation.
- Practical advice for organizing faith communities for social change.