The democratic value of equality, as espoused in the U.S. Declaration of Independence, takes practice. It’s one thing to believe that all humans are created equal, but it’s quite another thing to strive to see that equality manifested in the lives of every U.S. citizen. Here are our suggestions for practicing equality:

  • Attend a protest or rally with the intention to go beyond the experience of two-sidedness to an experience of the inner oneness behind the outer multiplicity; rather than clutching a sign that depicts your side’s position, symbolize your intention to experience oneness by holding a basket, holding your hands open, or holding up your index finger.
  • Attend a protest or rally with the intention of being for something you have in common with the "other side" rather than being against something. Practice honoring your personal experience as well as hearing the other side’s feelings, needs, and longings for themselves, their loved ones, and their community.
  • For every person you see, repeat a silent mantra that affirms your equality, like “She is a holy jewel, just as I am,” “I listen for the voice of God in his voice, just as I listen for the voice of God in my voice,” or simply “She is just like me.”
  • Think of some names for God that are meaningful to you, such as The Compassionate One, The Good Shepherd, the Source of Justice, my Beloved. Practice visualizing one of these names in the eyes and heart of each person you meet throughout the day, especially when you are involved in advocacy work.
Habib Todd Boerger in Practicing Democracy through Advocacy and Outreach