Most political coverage in Texas focuses on the urban centers. People think about Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, and the Austin to San Antonio I-35 Corridor. There has also been national political coverage of what is happening in the Valley and South Texas. There is much less conversation about West Texas, despite the outsized political influence the region holds. Three recent Speakers of the Texas House have come from the region; Pete Laney, Tom Craddick and Dustin Burrows. The Texas House has had a Speaker from West Texas for more than half of the last 32 years.
And there are real policy concerns in the region. From climate and disaster preparedness, to water and infrastructure, to immigration, serious conversations are taking place. So we are going to spend the next two episodes highlighting faith leaders in the region.
This week, we were joined by The Rev. Becky Fox, the pastor and head of staff at Covenant Presbyterian Church in Lubbock. Covenant has a long history of engaging in justice ministries and advocacy in Lubbock and beyond. We wanted to talk with Becky about the ministries of Covenant, including how they engage their local community and advocate for justice in a community that might not always share their values.
As someone who lives in a rural community, I recognize the important role faith communities can play to provide community justice-minded congregants and community members, but also the faithful witness clergy and congregations can provide in communities that need that message.
This is especially important in places like Lubbock and West Texas. The work they do will benefit both their communities and the broader Texas policy landscape because of the political power the region holds.
So, for those of you doing the justice and advocacy work in places where you might not have the biggest platforms, know that we see you. And we look forward to highlighting more voices like yours in the coming months!
I hope you will check out the episode and consider ways that you can respond.
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It is good to be back with you all. Let us know what you think, and please reach out with your ideas. We look forward to being back with you again next week!