March 2026 | Partnerships & Coalition Building

One of IAHR's greatest strengths has always been its people — the faith leaders, advocates, directly impacted individuals, and community partners who believe that every person deserves to be treated with dignity. This spring, IAHR is expanding those connections in meaningful new directions, building bridges from the DMV region to the national stage.

From the DMV to Selma: IAHR at the National Bridging Memory to Mandate Convening

In early March 2026, Executive Director Rev. Dr. Christopher L. Zacharias attended the national convening 'Bridging Memory to Mandate: from Minneapolis to Selma,' held at the invitation of two Rainbow PUSH Coalition board members. Faith leaders from across the country gathered, including members of Foundry United Methodist Church alongside its pastor, Rev. Ginger Gaines-Cirelli.

At the convening, Rev. Zacharias shared IAHR's advocacy and discussed the potential for alignment around efforts to address solitary confinement in both Illinois and Washington, D.C. 

"These discussions open the possibility of regional and national coordination around efforts to end prolonged solitary confinement, advancing IAHR's visibility and influence beyond the DMV."

Faith in Action: The Faith Resistance Gathering

On February 25, 2026, IAHR participated in the Faith Resistance Gathering, organized by the United Methodist Church and led by Bishop Latrelle M. Easterling. The gathering addressed ICE raids, provided support to Latino communities and churches, included a legislative advocacy day with state leaders, and concluded with a public rally of faith leaders advocating for human rights.

IAHR's presence at events like this reflects our belief that ending solitary confinement is not an isolated issue — it is part of a broader commitment to human dignity that connects communities across lines of race, faith, and geography.

Connecting Across the Region

Every new relationship IAHR builds strengthens the movement. Whether it is a faith congregation joining a coalition for the first time, a national organization opening a conversation about collaboration, or a reentry organization sharing expertise, each connection brings us closer to the humane, rehabilitative corrections system we are working to build.

If your organization or faith community is interested in partnering with IAHR, we want to hear from you. Visit interfaithactionhr.org or email [email protected] to start the conversation.