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Bending the Arc references a quote by Rev. Dr. King who said, “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.” This digital newsletter from the CSA Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation office showcases the work of changemakers, opportunities to learn, and opportunities for you to help “bend the arc” toward justice. Full contents of the newsletter are published on this page. 
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Archive for the "Unity & Common Ground" Category

Mobilizing? Know Your Rights.

June 10, 2025
By Tracy Abler, Justice Coordinator

Catholic political advocacy involves advocating for policies based on Catholic Social Teaching, which emphasizes the dignity of human life, the common good, and solidarity with the poor and vulnerable. Catholics are encouraged to advocate for what we are for, not for what or who we are against.

Be sure you know and understand your rights when taking a nonviolent, peaceful stand this weekend or in marches and rallies in the weeks ahead. The ACLU offered an online webinar on June 10. 

The materials discussed during this webinar are available for print on their website.

EXPLORE ALL THE MATERIALS

 

They also have a video series regarding your individual rights when interacting with federal enforcement officers.

Explore all the videos


 

Tags: learning

Safer Roads and Driver Licenses For All

May 16, 2025
By Tracy Abler, Justice Coordinator

In May 2005, under a rushed and undemocratic process, the U.S. Congress passed the REAL ID Act, requiring all states to check immigration status before issuing a driver’s licenses or state ID, and to only issue driver’s licenses to persons who are US citizens or have legal status. Despite community efforts led by groups like Wisconsin’s Voces de la Frontera to block implementation, the state passed a state law in March 2006 entitled Act 126, which took effect on April 1, 2007, in anticipation of the REAL ID Act. Under Act 126, undocumented immigrants and people who do not have a social security number can no longer renew or obtain a driver’s license or state identification. Since then, the struggle to restore state driver licenses and state IDs for immigrants has been an ongoing struggle in Wisconsin and nationally.

A lack of access to driver’s licenses is not limited to undocumented individuals, however. Low-income US citizens, especially people of color, have also been affected by stringent laws that limit access to affordable driver’s education and penalize those who do not have the funds to pay their traffic and parking tickets. In 2016, 60% of license suspensions were due to unpaid fines rather than infractions related to unsafe driving. These harsh practices have disproportionately criminalized Black, Brown and low income working class drivers, fueling mass incarceration, voter disenfranchisement, and creating barriers for people to access healthcare, school and other vital services that require an ID. 

Throughout his first four-year term as Governor of Wisconsin, Governor Tony Evers championed the restoration of driver’s licenses for undocumented immigrants.  His efforts have been met with opposition.  
Winning drivers licenses for all would not just benefit immigrants, it would have a major impact on all Wisconsinites. The Wisconsin Budget Project, an initiative of Kids Forward, noted in their Widen the Roads report the benefits of providing driver licenses to undocumented individuals, such as lower insurance costs for all drivers, greater access to gainful employment, and safer roads overall.

Voces de la Frontera continues to work with Governor Evers and pressuring the Wisconsin State Legislature to pass legislation restoring access to driver’s licenses for all regardless of immigration status, and ending the practice of suspending licenses solely due to inability to pay fines. To achieve this goal will require a year-round bottom up organizing effort to lobby our state legislators, continued participation in the electoral arena to support candidates that support access to driver licenses, and building alliances with others to challenge discriminatory policies that undermine public safety. After decades of organizing, there is broad community support for restoring driver licenses for immigrants that cuts across party lines.

If you’d like to join this effort, visit https://vdlf.org/driver-licenses-for-all/. There are opportunities for community sign-on letters for business owners, farmers, religious leaders, law enforcement, and elected officials.

It is time to make Wisconsin’s roads safer and more accessible for all. Visit https://wisconsinforsaferoads.org/ 
 

Tags: learning

Civic Renewal Begins With Every Voice Respected

May 16, 2025
By Tracy Abler, Justice Coordinator

Braver Angels is a nonpartisan organization uniting “red and blue” citizens in a working alliance to depolarize America. They envision an American with respectful embrace of political disagreements, where civic friendship flourishes and competing perspectives strengthen our nation. They embrace values of respect, humility, honesty, and responsible citizenship. The goal of Braver Angels conversations is not to change people’s views of issues, but to change their views of each other.

One thing Braver Angels (BA) does incredibly well is host online debates. In national debates, participants join from across the country to share their perspectives on hot political issues affecting us all. Debates are moderated in which persons on all sides of the issue are able to equally speak in a shared, safe space. Just last week, BA hosted an inaugural Wisconsin-only debate, which was a huge success.

You can participate in the next National Debate on May 20 at 7 pm CT. The topic will be Resolved: Social media companies should fact-check users’ posts. What do you think? Register to participate or just watch, listen and learn. 

To learn more about the principles that guide debates, check out this short intro video. To learn more about the structure of debates, watch this short sample debate or watch a highlight reel.

Register here for may 20

 

On May 31 at 1 pm CT, you are invited to a special BA national workshop called Families & Politics. Use promo code BRAVER during registration to get a free ticket. Participants will learn what (often combative) roles family members typically play in conversations about politics. If you want to preserve important family bonds while staying true to your values and political beliefs, this workshop will give insights into why family differences over politics are uniquely challenging, and offer you strategies and skills for handling family political differences in a constructive way. It won’t be all as super-serious as it sounds; be prepared for some fun during this workshop too!

Register here for May 31

 

To get Braver Angels news and offerings for yourself, subscribe to the Braver Faith. This newsletter shares articles, resources, and upcoming events that celebrate and support the unique contributions that people of faith bring to the work of Braver Angels. Learn more about Braver Faith.

Sign up for Braver Faith monthly newsletter

Tags: learning

The Latino Catholic Voice in a Divided Nation

May 09, 2025
By Tracy Abler, Justice Coordinator

Georgetown University’s Initiative on Catholic Social Thought and Public Life invites us to a dialogue on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, 6:00-7:00 pm CST. This will be livestreamed and recordings are available afterwards.

Latinos are a major force in the U.S. Catholic Church that will define the direction of U.S. Catholicism for generations. At the same time, in the midst of deepening polarization, the role of Latinos in shaping U.S. culture and politics is complex and evolving. 

This dialogue will explore what it means to engage in public life as Latinos/as and Catholics in a society shaped by ideological, political, and social fragmentation. As the Church weighs how to engage the country in defense of immigrants, in support of poor children and families, to prevent the destruction of the environment, and to protect the life and dignity of all, Latino Catholic ministry, media, education, and intellectual life can offer distinctive ways forward.

Focusing on the ecclesial and cultural institutions built and sustained by Latino Catholics in the United States, this conversation will explore a vision for the future of Latino pastoral and political action, considering how Latinos can guide the Catholic Church into a new era of engagement in U.S. political life.

Please RSVP
 

Tags: learning

Braver Angels comes to America’s Dairyland

May 02, 2025
By Tracy Abler, Justice Coordinator

Braver Angels envisions an America with respectful embrace of political disagreements, where civic friendship flourishes and competing perspectives strengthen our nation. They embrace values of respect, humility, honesty, and responsible citizenship. Their goal is not to change people’s views of issues, but to change the views of each other.

Braver Angels offers a podcast, e-courses, online workshops and debates, and personal experiences.

In May 2025, Braver Angels is offering THREE events just for Wisconsin.

The first is an online debate on May 7 from 7-8:30 pm CT. Participants will have the opportunity to debate, or simply listen to, responses to this statement: “America-First is Good for Wisconsin.”

Whether you’re a regular at Braver Angels debates or totally new to this unique “shared search for the truth,” join over Zoom to debate the impact of President Trump’s America-first agenda on America’s Dairyland. Come to debate, or just to listen.  REGISTER HERE.

To learn more about the principles that guide debates, check out this short intro video. To learn more about the structure of debates, watch a highlight reel, or check out this Quick Start Guide.

Second, there will be an in-person workshop in Green Bay on Saturday, May 10 from 10-11:30 am called, Skills for Disagreeing Better. Participants will gain understanding of the values and concerns of those who differ from you politically and practice essential skills for communicating across differences and finding common ground. Learn more and register here.

Third, you are invited to attend a state-wide New Members Meeting on Thursday, May 22, 7-8 pm online. During this meeting, you'll learn more about the organization's history, its mission, and the exciting plans for reinvigorating Braver Angels in Wisconsin. We'll give you a tour of the website (there's so much, it can be overwhelming) and share ways to get involved. Registration link coming in upcoming newsletter. Join at https://braverangels.org/get-involved/#become-member
 

Tags: learning

Democracy Begins With Being Heard

April 11, 2025
By Tracy Abler, Justice Coordinator

Braver Angels is a nonpartisan organization uniting “red and blue” citizens in a working alliance to depolarize America. They envision an American with respectful embrace of political disagreements, where civic friendship flourishes and competing perspectives strengthen our nation. They embrace values of respect, humility, honesty, and responsible citizenship. The goal of Braver Angels conversations is not to change people’s views of issues, but to change their views of each other. Learn more at  https://braverangels.org/ 

One thing Braver Angels (BA) do incredibly well is host online debates. Participants join from across the country to share their perspectives on hot political issues affecting us all. Debates are moderated in which persons on all sides of the issue are able to equally speak in a shared, safe space. Here is a sample of a BA debate: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1d14Ug_ZRROpw92ZIuzzd29JtRY354CTB/view 

Today, millions of Americans are thrilled with the changes President Trump and his administration are bringing to our government while millions of others fear it’s an existential threat to this nation. In their current National Debate Series: Trump’s First 100 Days, Braver Angels has already had debates on Birthright Citizenship and Foreign Policy. The two left will cover DEI (April 22) and answer the question: “Is President Trump Making America Great?” (May 1) You won’t want to miss these! There are a few tickets left to attend these online debates, but get them soon! 

Sign up here through Eventbrite

 

Hero of Fascist? Watch and share this video

There are currently Braver Angels Alliances in Madison and Milwaukee, WI. Learn more at https://braverangels.org/braver-citizens/find-a-local-alliance/ 
 

Tags: learning

Noncooperative, Nonviolent Resistance

March 28, 2025
By Tracy Abler, Justice Coordinator

In their March 19th webinar, the Franciscan Action Network and Pace Bene partnered to provide a powerful and insightful webinar titled, “Using our Power - Nonviolence & Noncooperation in History & Today.” The webinar explored how strategies of noncooperation, through boycotts, economic blackouts, and other forms of civil resistance, have shaped history and continue to be used today to defend democracy, challenge oppression, and promote justice.

One of the esteemed panelists in the webinar was Dr. Ken Butigan. Dr. Butigan is a strategy consultant with Pace e Bene Nonviolence Service, which has trained tens of thousands of people in the power of nonviolent change and which organizes Campaign Nonviolence, a long-term, nationwide effort seeking to foster a more nonviolent culture free from war, poverty, racism and environmental destruction. He opens the webinar in the Spirit of St. Francis of Assisi by sharing this quote: “When we see or hear evil spoken or done, or God blasphemed, let us speak well and do well and praise God who is blessed forever.” Indeed this is what is needed in these times.

Also presenting in the webinar was Maria Stephan of Horizons Project, who had formerly worked at the U.S. Institute of Peace, an independent nonprofit, established by Congress in 1984. Just last week, DOGE and FBI agents entered the Institute of Peace to remove employees who had been fired days earlier as part of cuts from DOGE. This news clip explains why this is problematic and has been getting news attention:

Many agree this webinar is extremely timely. It provided hope and inspiration in the power of collective action and nonviolent resistance. If you missed it, you will want to watch the recording here:

Another piece of interest is this March 26 NCR article in which Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie is quoted, “When one of us is under attack, all of us are under attack” and peaceful protestors hold signs that beg for moral courage from our leaders. Our faith calls us to be like Jesus in our persistence and resistance.

Now, if you’re ready for action, please consider joining a community near you that is hosting a “Hands Off” mobilization on Saturday, April 5, 2025 in Madison, elsewhere in Wisconsin, or across the nation. Find details with a quick Google search.

Tags: learning

Sharing Cultures

March 07, 2025
By Tracy Abler, Justice Coordinator

The Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation Commission (JPIC) and Anti-Racism Committee (ARC) of the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate, Joliet Franciscans, invite you to a series of four monthly Zoom gatherings for the purpose of better understanding persons of cultures other than our own.

Tuesday, March 25 Wednesday, May 28 
Wednesday, April 30 Wednesday, June 25
6:00 - 7:30 pm CT

TO REGISTER FOR ONE OR MORE and GET A ZOOM LINK, Email: tpmarciani@gmail.com with your name, email address and phone number.

May we have a deeper appreciation of people of all cultures so we more fully grasp how each person can live to her/his full potential and all of us can live well together.
 

Tags: learning

Using Our Power

March 07, 2025
By Tracy Abler, Justice Coordinator

You are invited to join a one-hour webinar - Using Our Power - Nonviolence & Noncooperation in History & Today - on March 19 at 3 pm CT. This is hosted by Franciscan Action Network and Pace e Bene Campaign Nonviolence.

The webinar will feature: 

  • Maria Stephan, Ph.D., coauthor of Why Civil Resistance Works, award-winning author, and organizer, whose work focuses on the role of nonviolent action and peacebuilding in advancing human rights, democracy, and sustainable peace
  • Rivera Sun, author of The Dandelion Insurrection, editor of Nonviolence News, and Program Coordinator for Campaign Nonviolence, with extensive experience in nonviolent strategy and movement organizing.
  • Ken Butigan, cofounder of the Catholic Institute for Nonviolence in Rome and professor at DePaul University, who will offer reflection on nonviolent action in lives of St. Francis and St. Clare of Assisi.

Explore together how strategies of noncooperation - boycotts, economic blackouts, and other forms of civil resistance - have shaped history and continue to be used today to defend democracy, challenge oppression, and promote justice.

Register to secure your spot
 

Tags: learning

Saving SNAP, Medicaid, and More

February 13, 2025
By Tracy Abler, Justice Coordinator

NETWORK invites you to join them for an important webinar on Thursday, February 27 at 6:00 pm CST, where they will present “Moved to Action: Saving SNAP, Medicaid, and More!”

During this policy webinar, they will share the very real threats facing the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Medicaid, and how we can work together to mitigate harm.

Unable to attend? You can still register and receive the recording and slides. REGISTER HERE.

 

Tags: learning

What is Ours to do?

February 13, 2025
By Tracy Abler, Justice Coordinator

Concerned about the current times?? You’re not alone. But, throughout the country, in both religious and secular sectors, the message is unified - our greatest impact begins at the local level.

It is time we all turn up our engagement efforts and exercise our rights and duties as participants in our democracy. Please review the following actions and consider what step you can take within your own sphere of influence. Whether big or small, every effort matters - what’s most important is that we each take action. 

Advocacy & Activism:
  • Respond to action alerts to your legislators. Remember that you are responding as an individual constituent, not on behalf of your congregation.
    • Help those who can’t do the technology to respond.
  • Sign the petitions on issues that are important to you.
  • Write Letters to the editor of your local paper.
  • Use the app “5 Calls" Civil Action App  https://5calls.org/
    5 Calls is an app for your phone (Apple or Android) and works on an iPad. This app makes it easy for you to reach your members of Congress to make your voice heard. They research issues, write scripts that clearly articulate a position, figure out the most influential decision-makers, and collect phone numbers for their offices. All you have to do is call.
  • Write positive letters to those who are resisting Project 2025, harmful policies, and spending cuts.
  • Speak with one voice…starting point is the Gospel… We are stronger together.
Collaboration & Networking:
Spiritual & Emotional Support
  • Energy follows thoughts…what type of energy do we want to put out each day? Support our actions by prayer.
  • Work on ourselves so that we don’t become what we are fighting against.
  • Encourage people to remember that all of us are human beings and we share a common humanity.
Support for Specific Organizations and Creativity
  • Support organizations that are challenging unjust policies through legal means.
  • Support artists and musicians. We need their creativity.
What We Can Agree On

One thing most Americans and our congressional representatives do commonly care about is the economy. So it is important we share with our representatives, and others, how actions being taken affect us personally. For example, regarding federal spending cuts and job eliminations, these negatively impact our local economies, and of course, our own families and communities.

It is recommended you call the representatives, whom you want to see change from, with one issue a day. Clearly state your name and your zip code so they know you are a constituent. You do not have to state who you voted for. Simply deliver an honest, heartfelt story regarding issues such as: how your small business is impacted, your family farm is at a loss, your retirement and 401K are tanking, your child’s education is suffering, the agencies you work for or sit on the board for that are helping people out of poverty, addiction and mental illness are having to close, etc. In a day or two, call again regarding a new issue. The key is to call often. It is absolutely crucial that we increase the level of calls we make each week. Consider using the 5 Calls app mentioned earlier to help you know more about the issues and to provide you with helpful scripts.

Find your Senators

Find your House Rep

Locally, find your State Legislators

Tags: action

Post-Election Debrief

January 03, 2025
By Tracy Abler, Justice Coordinator

The outcome of the November election may not have been what some of us were hoping or expecting, but we are invited to consider how we will respond.

The CSA community is invited to join Racine Dominicans and their Justice Promoter, Tim Hall, for a 2-part conversation about the results and implications of the November Presidential election.

Part 1: What Happened? January 9 at 6:30 pm
Part 2: The Way Forward January 16 at 6:30 pm

No registration required. The Zoom link is the same for both sessions: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89134343300 

Tags: learning

Post-Election Resources to Manage Emotions and Relationships

November 26, 2024
By Tracy Abler, Justice Coordinator

Braver Angels is leading the nation’s largest cross-partisan, volunteer-led movement to bridge the partisan divide for the good of our democratic republic. Coming out of the election, they’re bringing together “We the People” to find a hopeful alternative to toxic politics. The American Hope campaign is equipping Americans across the political spectrum to work together and demand the same of politicians from both parties.

The CSA Leadership Team and JPIC Office endorse the work of Braver Angels and encourages you to consider attending one or both of these post-election offerings:

1.    Ask Me Anything: A Red/Blue post-election S.O.S. (A Braver Way podcast recording)

Two weeks after the 2024 election, left-right tensions are through the roof. In this special “Ask Me Anything” episode, a cross-partisan panel of Trump and Harris voters take on a fiery handful of YOUR toughest questions about how in the world we bridge political divides from here… just in time for the holidays. Join host Moni, April, and our special guests — Angel Eduardo, Shira Hoffer, and Travis Tripodi — as they close out this season of A Braver Way with a conversation you don’t want to miss.

2.    Managing intense emotions and important relationships after the election (Saturday, December 7, 1:00–2:30 pm CST)

Braver Angels co-founder Dr. Bill Doherty will guide us in navigating intense post-election emotions and preserving key relationships. Whether feeling the elation of victory or the despair of defeat, he will offer insights on coping with strong emotions, upholding values, and building bridges in deeply divided times.

As the holidays approach, let’s come together for this vital conversation and take a meaningful step toward healing and unity.


 

Tags: action, learning

One Person, One Vote?

August 29, 2024
By Tracy Abler, Justice Coordinator

The Franciscan Peace Center continues its “Movies that Matter: Informing Your Vote” series.

At a time when many Americans question democratic institutions, One Person, One Vote? unveils the complexities of the Electoral College, the uniquely American and often misunderstood mechanism for electing a president. The documentary follows four presidential electors representing different parties in Colorado during the intense 2020 election.

After registering for the event, participants will receive a link to view the film online at their convenience between September 11-25.  Viewers are invited to attend our online discussion session on September 26 at 6:00 PM CDT. A Zoom link to the online discussion will be provided upon registration.

There is no cost associated with viewing the films or participating in the discussion session.

Please click here to register: https://form.jotform.com/242284011616145 

The “Movies That Matter: Informing Your Vote” series offers monthly access to thought-provoking documentaries addressing a spectrum of topics relevant to voters, including immigration, gun violence, overcoming partisanship, care of the Earth, voting rights, and more. Each film will be available for streaming over a two-week period, providing ample opportunity for reflection and dialogue.

A preview of the film is available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CtIGI6ro3U8 
 

Tags: learning

Faith and the Faithful

August 29, 2024
By Tracy Abler, Justice Coordinator

The Initiative on Catholic Social Thought and Public Life offers what looks to be another fantastic public dialogue that will be live-streamed and recorded for later viewing. Wednesday, September 11, 2024, at 5 pm CT. You can watch it here: https://www.youtube.com/@GlobalGeorgetown 

This pre-election Public Dialogue will explore the political and religious dynamics of this tumultuous U.S. presidential election year after the attempted assassination of former president and current candidate Donald Trump, the withdrawal of President Joe Biden, the nomination of Vice President Kamala Harris, and the selection of J.D. Vance and Tim Walz as vice-presidential nominees.

In this unprecedented context, our democratic institutions are being tested. As we approach this election and look to the future, Pope Francis’ warnings about the global “retreat from democracy” remind us that the goal of politics is “listening and serving people” and that “democracy always requires the transition from partisanship to participation, from ‘cheering’ to dialogue.”

Reflecting the latest political analysis through the lens of Catholic social teaching, this dialogue will explore these and other questions: 

  • What is going on, and what should we look for in the final six weeks of the campaign?
  • How will faith and the faithful shape the campaigns and voters’ decisions in this election?  
  • How will these choices affect our democracy and our future as a nation? 
  • How do polarization, isolation, and lack of solidarity threaten our democratic norms and institutions? What can be done to strengthen them?
  • How can Catholic principles of respect for human life and dignity, solidarity and subsidiarity, a priority for the poor, and care for creation be reflected in the discernment and choices of believers?
Tags: learning

2024 Partisan Primary

August 08, 2024
By Tracy Abler, Justice Coordinator

Tuesday, August 13 is the partisan primary in the state of Wisconsin, where voters choose the candidates they prefer for a political party to nominate in the November general election.

CSA encourages voting for candidates who promote the common good. Pope Francis makes it clear: “Catholics and all people of good will are to be multi-issue voters, not single-issue voters,” in the 2024 elections and in our continued participation in public life. Know your candidate's views on the issues most important to you.

In Wisconsin, you can find voting and polling information at https://myvote.wi.gov/en-us/.

Also in Wisconsin, there will be two constitutional amendment questions on the ballots August 13. The Wisconsin League of Women Voters explains them here: https://my.lwv.org/wisconsin as does the ACLU.

For all your voting decisions, we encourage use of Network Lobby’s Equally Sacred Multi-issue Voter Checklist.

Tags: action

Project 2025

July 18, 2024
By Tracy Abler, Justice Coordinator

Earlier this week, historian Heather Cox Richardson talked about Project 2025 and drew an online crowd of 42,000 people. More and more people are becoming aware of what this extreme project means for American democracy and personal freedoms. Want to learn more? Watch this Red Wine & Blue recording with Heather or do some research on your own - there is A LOT out there!

While presidential candidate, Donald Trump, is denying any knowledge of Project 2025, his 2024 GOP Platform has very similar language. Listen to what Heather has to say around the 23-minute and 32-minute marks of this recording, and you decide.
 

Tags: learning
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Honoring John Lewis

July 18, 2024
By Tracy Abler, Justice Coordinator

July 17, 2024, marked the fourth anniversary of civil rights hero and Congressman John Lewis’ passing. 

For six decades, John Lewis fought tirelessly to expand and protect the rights of Black voters and all Americans. The Voting Rights Act (VRA) of 1965 was one of the crown jewels of his lifelong fight for justice and equality.

But, in recent years, the Supreme Court has gutted this crucial civil rights law, ushering in a new era of suppressive state laws and politicians attempting to silence our voices.

We can fix that by passing the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, which will restore and strengthen essential protections of the VRA, shielding millions of voters from potentially discriminatory voting laws.

EVERY voter should be able to cast their ballot on Election Day – free from obstruction or intimidation. Passing this bill would be a major step towards creating the democracy we deserve.

Here are frequently asked questions, answered by the Southern Poverty Law Center.

Use this form to tell your senators to take action and pass this crucial legislation.
 

Tags: learning

Virtual Film and Discussion Series Continues with "A Tree of Life"

June 14, 2024
By Tracy Abler, Justice Coordinator

The “Movies That Matter: Informing Your Vote” series from the Franciscan Peace Center continues in June with a virtual screening of A Tree of Life: The Pittsburgh Synagogue Shooting.  Advance registration is required to view the film online between June 11-27.  A follow-up presentation by survivors and a viewer discussion session will be held on June 27.

The film provides an in-depth look at the tragic events of October 27th, 2018, when a gunman opened fire inside a Pittsburgh synagogue, killing eleven people as they prayed, in what would become the deadliest antisemitic attack in American history. A Tree of Life: The Pittsburgh Synagogue Shooting is a deeply personal portrait of the survivors, victims, and family members, who share their harrowing first-hand accounts of the impact of the shooting on the community.

The film is rooted in a community in the aftermath of a violent attack, as they work to rebuild and heal. Despite core differences, they come together to determine what justice looks like and how to best move forward while honoring and learning from the past. The film sheds light on the collective trauma suffered by a tight-knit group and brings into sharp focus the hate-based rhetoric that surrounds many of the mass shootings today, threatening the fabric of our society.

After registering for the event, participants will receive a link to view the film online at their convenience between June 11-27. On Thursday, June 27, from 6:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. CDT, viewers are invited to a live Zoom session that will begin with a presentation from Carol Black and Audrey Glickman, survivors of the Tree of Life Synagogue shooting. Following the presentation by our panelists, viewers will be able to participate in a discussion session about the film with other viewers from 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. CDT

There is no cost associated with viewing the films or participating in the discussion sessions. Interested individuals can learn more and register online at https://form.jotform.com/241414381478155 to secure their spot in this transformative series.

The “Movies That Matter: Informing Your Vote” series offers monthly access to thought-provoking documentaries addressing a spectrum of topics relevant to voters, including immigration, gun violence, overcoming partisanship, care of the Earth, voting rights, and more. Each film will be available for streaming over a two-week period, providing ample opportunity for reflection and dialogue.

The Franciscan Peace Center, established by the Sisters of St. Francis, Clinton, Iowa, provides meaningful programming that addresses systemic issues integrating spirituality with the mission of promoting nonviolence and advocating for social justice, including immigration reform and human rights.

For more information about the series and other educational opportunities, visit www.ClintonFranciscans.com.
 

Tags: learning

Starts With Us

May 09, 2024
By Tracy Abler, Justice Coordinator

Join 87% of Americans from all walks of life who imagine a world beyond “us vs. them.

Starts With Us is a movement tired of polarizing politics and endless culture wars and declares the power to reclaim our culture Starts With Us. It was founded on the beliefs that diversity of thought is a strength that leads to our most innovative ideas and that we must cooperate across our differences to solve the most pressing societal challenges of our time. Learn more at startswith.us/

Additionally, or alternatively, read this beautiful letter co-written by Starts With Us Founding Partner, Daniel Lubetzky, and Honorary Board Member, Lonnie Ali, Co-Founder of the Muhammad Ali Center. As a passionate Jew and a passionate Muslim, the two came together to humbly share a path forward for how to transcend the construct of “us vs. them” and side with humanity instead. Enjoy this letter.
 

Election Training Series for Faith-Filled Voters

March 07, 2024
By Tracy Abler, Justice Coordinator

This election, faith-filled voters have the opportunity to choose community over chaos. This April and May, join NETWORK Advocates from across the country for a four-part series to dig deeper into what it means to be a multi-issue Catholic voter, learn strategies to engage people in challenging conversations and build hope-filled narratives that inspire people to care about important issues, and explore concrete actions you can take to influence the election.

You’ll notice that each workshop session has multiple time slots–you only need to sign up for one since the content will be repeated. You do not have to sign up for the same time slot each week. It is hoped that you can attend all four workshops in the series, but your participation is welcomed in any! REGISTER HERE.

Watch NETWORK’s February 2024 Policy Update: Choosing Community Over Chaos

 

Trustworthy Elections Report

March 07, 2024
By Tracy Abler, Justice Coordinator

According to a newly released report, conservatives and liberals agree on how to restore trust in our elections.

Braver Angels began a campaign in October 2022 to build trust in the integrity of our elections. Last month, a report of their results was published and is now being disseminated. You can help get the word out in a number of ways. These suggestions and the full report or a summary of it can be found here. 

In short, the report focuses on three principles: 

  1. Voting should be easy. Cheating should be hard. 
  2. “Every citizen should have an equal say in who will govern them; this is done through free and fair elections. 
  3. The American government will fail if candidates refuse to accept any outcome other than victory.

 

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