At the United States Capitol Complex in Washington, D.C., during the International Interfaith Conference “United in Liberty: The Rise of Spiritual Diplomats,” led by Pastor Mark Burns, we had the honor of speaking with Cindy Werner, State Director of the Frederick Douglass Foundation, Strategic Partner Advisor for America’s 250th Program, and a former candidate for Lieutenant Governor of Wisconsin.
Cindy Werner is a civic and faith-based leader actively engaged in amplifying voices that promote human dignity, moral responsibility, and unity across communities. In her work with the Frederick Douglass Foundation and the America 250 initiative, she focuses on strengthening civic values, encouraging national reflection, and fostering dialogue as the United States approaches its 250th anniversary.
In this conversation, Cindy Werner reflects on the significance of the conference at a time marked by increasing violence and a growing disregard for human dignity. She shares how listening to personal testimonies, particularly from individuals who have experienced profound loss, offered her a deeper perspective on love, forgiveness, and the power of empathy. The exchange, she notes, served as a reminder of the importance of pausing to truly listen to the struggles of others and to consider alternative paths rooted in compassion and understanding.
A key takeaway for Cindy Werner was the value of stepping beyond one’s own immediate community and viewing global challenges through a broader lens. She emphasizes how the interfaith nature of the conference - bringing together people of different religions, backgrounds, and life experiences, demonstrated the possibility of unity around shared values and a common commitment to peace.
Looking ahead, Cindy Werner highlights the potential of gatherings like this to contribute to the future of interfaith and intercultural cooperation. She connects this vision to the America 250 initiative, expressing hope that this moment in history can inspire a renewed moral and spiritual awakening, one that reconnects people with foundational principles, faith, and responsibility toward one another.
The interview concludes with her appreciation for the leadership of Pastor Mark Burns and her openness to continued collaboration in advancing dialogue, understanding, and meaningful action toward a more united and compassionate society.
For more information about the conference, visit the official website:
https://interfaithconf.org/
More information on the Spiritual Diplomats initiative:
https://www.spiritualdiplomats.org/
ALLATRA International Public Movement Official Website:
https://allatra.org/
Publication of this material provides an opportunity for open discussion and does not in itself imply institutional endorsement, confirmation, or scientific verification of the views expressed. The material does not constitute an official statement, expert opinion, or professional advice.