On April 28, 2025, Rev. William Barber II, alongside fellow progressive Christian activists, found themselves at the center of a significant event at the U.S. Capitol Rotunda in Washington, D.C. The trio, which included writer and preacher Jonathan Wilson-Hartgrove and St. Francis Springs Prayer Center Director Steve Swayne, organized a prayer rally aimed at protesting a proposed Republican-led congressional budget. This budget has raised eyebrows and concerns due to its potential cuts to essential welfare programs that millions of Americans depend on.
As the group began their prayer, they were quickly surrounded by Capitol police, who expelled onlookers and detained the activists shortly after they started praying aloud. A Capitol Police spokesperson clarified that the trio was arrested for demonstrating inside the Congressional Buildings, an action deemed unlawful. They emphasized that even peaceful activities such as group praying and singing are not permitted in that space.
Barber, known for his leadership in the Poor People’s Campaign: A National Call for Moral Revival, and Wilson-Hartgrove later issued a statement on their blog, asserting their commitment to speak out as "Christian preachers" and "public theologians." They expressed deep concern over the proposed budget cuts, arguing that slashing up to $1.5 trillion would severely impact programs like Medicaid, Medicare, and SNAP, which provide vital support to the most vulnerable populations.
In their statement, they poignantly remarked, "When someone dies from poverty and a lack of healthcare, we cannot lie and say, ‘God called them home.’ We have to tell the truth." They emphasized the moral obligation to advocate for those who are suffering due to systemic injustices, stating, "If we know the people are being robbed by a budget that will take from the most vulnerable to give tax breaks to the rich, it is our duty to relocate our ministry to where these life and death decisions are being made."
Despite their arrest, Barber and Wilson-Hartgrove expressed appreciation for the Capitol police, noting that their objection was not personal but rather a call to action for representatives to reconsider the moral implications of their budget decisions. They came to the Capitol with a message of hope, believing that prayer can inspire change and encourage lawmakers to choose policies that promote life and justice.
Rev. Barber has been a prominent figure in social justice movements, gaining national attention for his "Moral Monday" protests in North Carolina. His advocacy work has included organizing significant events, such as the "Mass Poor People’s & Low-Wage Workers’ Assembly and Moral March on Washington" in June 2022, which aimed to raise awareness about poverty and inequality in America.
In June 2023, Barber announced his retirement from ministry to focus more on political activism, stating that "God does His best work with cripples." He reflected on the stories of biblical figures who faced their own challenges and how their experiences can inspire others facing difficulties today.
As this situation unfolds, it highlights the ongoing intersection of faith and politics in America. The actions of Barber and his colleagues serve as a reminder of the role that Christians can play in advocating for justice and compassion in society. For more insights on the intersection of faith and social justice, you can explore resources from the Poor People’s Campaign and other organizations committed to promoting equity and care for the marginalized.
This event not only underscores the importance of civic engagement among Christians but also serves as a clarion call for believers to actively participate in the dialogue surrounding policies that affect the most vulnerable in our communities. As Barber and his fellow activists continue their work, they embody a commitment to faith-driven advocacy that seeks to uplift and empower those in need.