On April 28, Rev. Dr. William Barber II — a lifelong advocate for justice, the poor, and working families — was arrested in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda while praying alongside fellow faith leaders. Their purpose? To call attention to immoral budget proposals that would strip millions of Americans of healthcare, food assistance, and basic dignity.

Their protest was nonviolent. Their voices were raised in prayer. And for that, they were arrested.

The U.S. Capitol is supposed to be the people’s house — not a place where moral dissent is criminalized, and prayer is treated as a threat. Silencing peaceful protest sets a dangerous precedent and undermines the very principles of free speech and democracy.

We call on Congressional leaders, the U.S. Capitol Police, and the Department of Justice to:

• Affirm and protect the right to peaceful protest and prayer in the Capitol.
• Stop criminalizing nonviolent, moral dissent inside public government buildings.
• Drop all charges against Rev. Dr. William Barber and others arrested 

This isn’t about partisan politics. It’s about the soul of our democracy. When those who speak up for the poor and vulnerable are silenced, we all lose. Stand with Rev. Barber. Stand for justice. Stand for our right to be heard.

Sign now to defend the right to moral protest in the people’s house.

Photo via The Independent/The Associated Press