‘Democracy Is Not A State. It Is An Act.’ -Rep. John Lewis

As faith and community organizations representing the diverse mosaic of the Valley of the Sun, we stand together to affirm our state’s democratic process. The bedrock of Arizona is a strong, thriving democracy and an engaged citizenry. Our state’s democratic principles rely on fair and free elections. That is why we urge trust in our resilient electoral system and legal process.

We honor those who won in this last election, regardless of party or affiliation, and commend those whose campaigns came up short. We congratulate all those elected across our city and state, and look forward to working with them on the issues that are important to our communities.  We respect all who ran for public office, and who engaged in the public sphere of ideas. 

We also thank those who staffed campaigns, and the countless volunteers who poured out hours of time and energy for their candidates and causes.

We particularly are grateful for the leadership of the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors for their steady hand managing the election season, as well as Maricopa County Recorder Stephen Richer for his tremendous efforts on behalf of our county’s democratic process. We offer further gratitude to all the election workers and staffers, without whose efforts our voices (and votes) would not be counted or heard.  We are grateful to Maricopa County Sheriff Paul Penzone and his office for protecting our voting spaces.

Democracy means compromise, and the citizens of our county and state have indicated that they desire such actions from its elected leadership. Our differences of opinion must come with civility and respect. Therefore, let us re-engage with our friends and neighbors. Let us celebrate our differences. Let us continue to argue, with civility and respect, on what is best for the people of Arizona.

Signed, 

Arizona Faith Network

Chicanos Por La Causa

Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR)-AZ

Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Phoenix

Maricopa County Branch NAACP

ONE Community