from the ELCA Advocacy office in Washington, D.C. – the Rev. Amy E. Reumann, director

PROPOSED SNAP RULE CHANGE | AUGUSTA VICTORIA HOSPITAL | INTERFAITH CLIMATE CONSULTATION | YOUNG ADULT HILL VISITS

THIRD PROPOSED RULE CHANGE TO SNAP BENEFITS ANNOUNCED:  On Oct. 1, the United States Department of Agriculture proposed another rule that would cut SNAP benefits, this time by a total of $4.5 billion over five years. The cut would result from changes in how states take households’ utility costs into account in SNAP benefits determination. ELCA Advocacy opposes this new proposed rule.

Lutheran advocates have already submitted public comments pertaining to previously proposed changes. In the period through April 2, ELCA Advocacy network participants opposed time limits on food benefits. In the period through Sept. 23, participants opposed categorical eligibility elimination for SNAP benefit determination. Additional opportunity for response by the ELCA Advocacy network is in development.

AUGUSTA VICTORIA HOSPITAL:  Since September 2018, congressionally allocated U.S. aid has been redirected from hospitals in East Jerusalem to other projects. Augusta Victoria Hospital (AVH) and the other members of the East Jerusalem Hospitals network are critical to the region’s health care and well-being. ELCA Peace Not Walls asks advocates to urge lawmakers to reverse this unilateral policy decision.

AVH is owned and operated by the Lutheran World Federation (LWF) and supported by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) and several other member churches of the LWF. Without international assistance, Augusta Victoria and other hospitals in East Jerusalem face cuts to services. AVH is unable to make minimum payments to pharmaceutical suppliers of cancer medication and is currently running out of vital medication to treat its patients. Learn more from PNW.

ROBUST AND INSPIRATIONAL INTERFAITH CLIMATE CONSULTATION:  Organized by the ELCA and planning partners, “Climate Emergency: Faith-based Organizations Raising Ambition — Leaving No One Behind” drew representatives from more than 45 groups, including World Council of Churches, Islamic Relief, AME Zion Church, and the Buddhist and Catholic faiths. The consultation, held Sept. 24, amplified the momentum of the UN Climate Change Summit and youth-led actions around the world.

The consultation featured inspirational opening and closing prayers, robust discussions and a passionate report from two student activists who were instrumental in the massive youth mobilizations in New York and around the world on September 20. The consultation is preparing an action plan that reflects the discussions held.

YOUNG-ADULT FAITH LEADERS MAKE HILL VISITS:  An advocacy day for young-adult faith leaders was co-hosted by ELCA Advocacy, Bread for the World, Church World Service and other ecumenical partners in the last week of September. The participants, including ELCA young adults, met with their members of Congress to urging support of foreign assistance development and humanitarian funding.

Lutheran seminary student Whylie Cook said of the event, “It was absolutely humbling to work with fellow young people of faith who came together and sought bipartisan support advocating for foreign assistance funding, which assists the most vulnerable and marginalized around the world. Our common faith values coalesced into a formidable force and illuminated God’s intending of abundant life for all, ‘on earth, as it is in heaven.’”

Receive monthly Advocacy Connections directly by becoming part of the ELCA Advocacy network – http://elca.org/advocacy/signup , and learn more from elca.org/advocacy .

By guest blogger the Rev. Lamont Wells, President of the African Descent Lutheran Association

The sidewalk alongside 116th Street was filled with hungry consumers lined up to purchase that very popular chicken sandwich from Popeyes as I left my local gym. (I had tried the tasty sandwich the weekend before and realized it might really help me with my fitness goals.) I paused and watched the line grow longer and overheard various conversations and pontifications about community changes that were occurring in Harlem, especially due to gentrification.

While I listened, a young male said aloud, “I haven’t registered to vote yet!” Many of the things that concerned those in line were happening as a result of political decisions from elected officials. Then I heard my inclination to get involved. I thought to myself, “We could do something about that – today.”

I ran upstairs to my condo and grabbed a handful of voter registration applications leftover from a previous drive. The young man was in about the same place in front of the crowded restaurant when I got back, and I introduced myself as a concerned neighbor who wondered about some of the same things I had heard earlier. We exchanged names, and I asked Chris if he knew the voter registration deadline was approaching very soon. Using the application I gave him, he completed it and was ready to mail it that day.

Chris and I approached others. Within a two-hour period, about 11 people waiting in line for a sandwich were registered to vote, and many more received information about their polling places and eligibility.

These are some of the things I learned:

1. Observe and listen for opportunities to engage your local community. Seize those moments.
2. Know the deadlines for voter registration.* Set benchmarks and registration goals.
3. Obtain necessary supplies: pens, clipboard and applications.
4. Introduce yourself and be ready to tell why voting matters.
5. Review each application’s completion and mail in timely manner.
6. Be ready to educate voters on important issues or refer them to a local register-to-vote hotline.

I took advantage of a captive audience that I overheard cared about many community matters but were not participating in the voting process that could impact elected officials who support their best interests. (I also didn’t judge the desire for this chicken sandwich that made people endure such long lines.)

Voters and potential voters need to know how the political process works, why their vote is important, and what is at stake if they don’t vote. I have often been tempted to disengage from the political process, but as a person of faith who is dedicated to creating a just world for all, I know I/we must be involved. Our Christian faith is infused with hope and our Lutheran witness is built on a foundation of action. That’s why I am so glad to help those in my community get prepared to change the world around them.

* Learn about local voter registration deadlines from www.vote.org/voter-registration-deadlines/.

from the ELCA Advocacy office in Washington, D.C. — the Rev. Amy E. Reumann, director

“GOD’S WORK. OUR HANDS.” SUNDAY | INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS BUDGET | PUBLIC CHARGE RULE COULD STOP BENEFITS TO LEGAL IMMIGRANTS | SANCTUARY RESPONSE | AFRICAN DESCENT LUTHERAN ASSOCIATION ACTIONS

“GOD’S WORK. OUR HANDS.” SUNDAY: The ELCA Advocacy office is grateful for the many congregations that chose to include advocacy and public engagement in their activities for “God’s Work. Our Hands.” Sunday. This day of service came as Hurricane Dorian hit the Bahamas and the East Coast of the U.S. and as other communities braced for the peak of the hurricane season, from mid-August to late October. To advance the theme of the 2019 ELCA Advocacy Convening this spring, ELCA Advocacy has provided in 2019 congregations with resources and template letters centered on natural disaster and climate response. Many congregations have elected to use these, and in coming weeks ELCA Advocacy will be collecting their letters, messages and other stories to bundle and send to Congress. Advocates still interested in taking action on disaster issues can check out elca.org/advocacy/actioncenter for an up-to-date list of live Action Alerts.

INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS BUDGET: In August the U.S. presidential administration indicated that it would rescind $4 billion in unobligated appropriated funds for international programs, which would have disrupted many humanitarian and development projects. ELCA Advocacy and other partners opposed this move, and many members of Congress publicly disagreed with the administration. Because of this combined pressure, the administration eventually withdrew its proposal.

PUBLIC CHARGE RULE COULD STOP BENEFITS TO LEGAL IMMIGRANTS: In August the Trump administration expanded a public charge rule that will stoke fear and increase suffering in immigrant communities. The rule will go into effect Oct. 15, 2019, unless constrained by Congress or the courts. This new policy would impose an unprecedented income test on people seeking legal entry to the United States and deny them entrance if they are judged to be, or judged to likely become, a “public charge” entitled to nutrition, housing or health care assistance. This policy will cause a cascade of negative impacts, increasing hunger, blocking family reunification and severely restricting immigration of people who want to contribute to our nation. On Sept. 24, Interfaith Immigration Coalition and the Interreligious Coalition on Domestic Human Needs will present an interfaith webinar, “Public Charge 101 for Faith Communities,” that will explain more about the rule and its potential impact on the most vulnerable families. ELCA Advocacy participates in both of these organizations, and interested parties are invited to join.

SANCTUARY RESPONSE: In August the 2019 Churchwide Assembly voted to declare the ELCA a sanctuary denomination. A post to ELCA Advocacy’s Facebook page announcing this development garnered rapid and wide response, with over 1,000 shares. Most comments affirmed the vote.“So proud of our church body and leadership for standing up for justice and grace for all,” wrote one commenter. “Thank you for this bold and necessary step.” Additional resources, including a Q&A video and ELCA AMMPARO strategy links, are available from elca.org/sanctuarychurch.

AFRICAN DESCENT LUTHERAN ASSOCIATION ACTIONS: “Seeking justice addressing homelessness and immigration” and “engaging youth through development and advocacy” are among six objectives that were affirmed during the 2019 African Descent Lutheran Association Biennial Assembly in August. ELCA Advocacy staff member Jackie Maddox will serve as a liaison energizing this overlapping commitment. Maddox and Christine Mangale of the Lutheran Office for World Community attended the event, held in Milwaukee, Wisc. Highlights included a celebration of the 40th anniversary of the ordination of black women in the Lutheran church, a discussion on the gift of human sexuality because all Black Lives Matter, and a commemoration of the 400th anniversary of the transatlantic slave trade.

In response to the ELCA’s “Declaration to People of African Descent” (adopted June 27, 2019, by the Church Council), the Rev. Lamont Wells, ADLA president, accepted the apology articulated in the document, stating, “We the people of African descent of the ELCA can receive this apology as a divine mark of repentance that serves as a catalyst for change. … This apology is received because Jesus has shown us the way towards reconciliation.”

Receive the monthly Advocacy Connections directly by becoming part of the ELCA Advocacy network – elca.org/advocacy/signup , and learn more from elca.org/advocacy .

The Trump administration expanded public charge rule is a punitive measure that will stoke fear and increase suffering in immigrant communities. This new policy would impose an unprecedented income test on persons seeking legal entry to the United States and deny entrance if they are judged likely to be or ever in the future become a “public charge” entitled to assistance with nutrition, housing or healthcare. In addition, current lawful permanent residents may have their applications for citizenship denied solely based on using or ever having used certain public programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). This policy will cause a cascade of negative impacts, including increasing hunger, blocking family unification and severely restricting immigration of people who want to come and contribute to our nation.

“This cruel policy change flies in the face of our commitments as a church to people seeking a new home here. Our social message on immigration commits us to ‘work for policies that cause neither undue repercussions within immigrant communities nor bias against them,’” says the Rev. Amy E. Reumann, ELCA director of advocacy. “The public charge rule is an unneeded departure from current practice that prioritizes family unification and humanitarian needs and that values the vitality and contributions of all immigrants regardless of economic status.”

We support benefits for lawful permanent residents as a public good, as stated in the ELCA social message on “Immigration”:

Hundreds of thousands of comments were submitted through a interfaith coalition that included our Lutheran voices when the public charge rule was proposed. The ELCA submission stated that the proposed regulation would harm families by forcing vulnerable people to choose between maintaining or obtaining legal immigration status and meeting their family’s basic needs, including those of children who are citizens. It further noted that the rule would penalize immigrants for seeking the very programs designed to help them attain self-sufficiency. This message that the only ‘worthy’ immigrants in the U.S. are wealthy is not only contrary to the country’s history but also a notion that stands against our faithful teachings as Lutherans.

The rule will go into effect October 15, 2019, unless constrained by Congress or the courts. Please follow along with ELCA Advocacy as we continue to oppose this punitive and unnecessary rule change.

from the ELCA Advocacy office in Washington, D.C. – the Rev. Amy E. Reumann, director

AUGUST RECESS ADVOCACY OPPORTUNITIES  |  LIMITS PROPOSED TO SNAP HUNGER PROGRAM  |  KEEPING GIRLS IN SCHOOL ACT  |  FAITH-BASED PRESENCE AROUND U.N. CLIMATE CONFERENCE  |  FEDERAL BUDGET DEAL REACHED  |  STANDING AGAINST #CHRISTIANNATIONALISM  | HUNGER ADVOCACY FELLOWS  | VISITING D.C.

AUGUST RECESS ADVOCACY OPPORTUNITIES:  During August Recess, senators and representatives return to their state and/or congressional district and reconnect with constituents. This is a great opportunity for local advocates to engage with elected officials, ask questions and share concerns. Advocates interested in meeting with their members of Congress can find suggested activities, how to set up a meeting with lawmakers, and a timely set of policy questions (link) at the fore of current public discussion in new August Recess resources. Prompting questions and background on gun violence are among those that can be used by Lutheran advocates who encounter their legislators in-district.

LIMITS PROPOSED TO SNAP HUNGER PROGRAM:  The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced in mid-July plans to narrow food assistance eligibility for low-income families. The drafted rule would tighten Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefit access to people applying through “broad-based categorical eligibility,” a method by which households earning slightly above the poverty line can apply if they have exorbitant costs (such as housing or child care) that place them below the poverty line.

Historically, the policy has had popular bipartisan support since it incentivizes families to seek higher-paying jobs or small income increases without immediately losing federal support. Early estimates gauge that over 3 million low-income seniors, working families and those of us with disabilities could be affected. The rule is open for public comment until Sep. 23, and ELCA Advocacy will share an action alert on the issue in the coming weeks.

KEEPING GIRLS IN SCHOOL ACT:  A bipartisan group of lawmakers introduced a new bill seeking to ensure that U.S. foreign assistance programs are designed to address the barriers preventing millions of girls around the world from attaining education. The Keeping Girls in School Act of 2019 would help continue investments in quality and equitable education for girls by leveraging existing funds to support partnerships and encouraging innovative financing approaches.

According to a report by the World Bank (link), less than two-thirds of girls complete primary education in low-income countries, and only 1 in 3 completes lower secondary school. Education is one of the best tools for improving social and economic outcomes for individuals and communities, and equal access to education is critical to development of nations. ELCA Advocacy shared an action alert in support of the bill in July, urging lawmakers to co-sponsor the bill and pass it before the end of the Congress. Advocates can take action at the ELCA Action Center.

FAITH-BASED PRESENCE AROUND U.N. CLIMATE CONFERENCE:  Interfaith events are being planned around the U.N. Climate Change Summit 2019. U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres has called on leaders to come to New York Sept. 23 with concrete, realistic plans to enhance their commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), the Episcopal Church, GreenFaith and others are planning an interfaith service Sept. 20; participating in a youth mobilization, also Sept. 20, declaring a climate emergency; and hosting a faith-based consultation Sept. 24, with the theme: “Climate Emergency: Faith-based Organizations Raising Ambition – Leaving No One Behind.”

FEDERAL BUDGET DEAL REACHED:  Lawmakers in Congress and the administration reached a deal to raise federal budget caps and the debt ceiling, which was signed by President Trump Aug. 2. The bipartisan agreement raises limits on discretionary spending by $321 billion over two years and addresses the issue of the debt ceiling until July 31, 2021.

While the increase in federal funding could help maintain existing low-income and humanitarian programs, a significant percent of the nondefense funding will be allocated to support the 2020 Census, meaning ultimate gains will likely be minimal when the budget process is finalized.

With an ELCA voice through the signature of Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton, an interfaith letter signed by more than 30 heads-of-communion was sent to lawmakers July 25, shortly before the agreement was made. The message highlighted the need to raise spending caps to maintain low-income and community programs that help the most vulnerable among us.

STANDING AGAINST #CHRISTIANNATIONALISM:  The ecumenical letter opposing Christian nationalism was released last week with the launch of the “Christians Against Christian Nationalism” campaign. More than 9,000 Christians have already signed, and momentum from a social media introduction by ELCA Advocacy is strong.

HUNGER ADVOCACY FELLOWS:  Six Hunger Advocacy Fellows are concluding their yearlong positions this summer of transformative experience that combines leadership development and faith formation with impactful advocacy that moves toward an end to hunger and a just world where all are fed. We are grateful for the gifts of these innovative, passionate and dedicated young leaders: Erica Earnest, Lutheran Episcopal Advocacy Ministries of New Jersey; Abbigail Hull, ELCA Advocacy national office; Kelsey Johnson, Lutheran Office for Public Policy – Wisconsin; Jordan Slappey, Southeastern Synod Advocacy; Paisha Thomas, Hunger Network in Ohio; and Sarah Vatne, Faith Action Network

In the D.C. office, Hull has made a great many contributions, including presentations, guidance of groups coming to the nation’s capital, lawmaker visit coordination and many more – all with a faith-driven spark and gleaning from her interests and experiences. It has been a pleasure to work with her.

VISITING D.C.:  Over 100 students, pastors and young adult groups visited the ELCA Advocacy office in Washington, D.C. this spring and summer to participated in direct advocacy. Visitors joined us in a range of activities: combining service with conversations about federal policy, discussion of the role of faith in public life, and meetings with members of Congress. Groups interested with connecting with ELCA Advocacy staff in the nation’s Capitol can schedule a meeting through washingtonoffice@elca.org.

Receive monthly Advocacy Connections directly by becoming part of the ELCA Advocacy network – http://elca.org/advocacy/signup , and learn more from elca.org/advocacy .

Most years, Congress recesses for the month of August. Legislators return to their home states and congressional districts and connect with constituents.

This is a great opportunity for local advocates to engage with elected officials, ask questions and share concerns. Our August Recess Guide contains tips for communicating with your elected officials and candidates this month.

Here are some timely questions and talking points based upon ELCA Advocacy priorities.

ADDITION 8/8/2019 –

The ELCA is saddened by the all-too-frequent occurrences of gun violence in the U.S. In 1994, the ELCA adopted the social message Community Violence, calling for advocacy to end the cycle of violence in the U.S. Twenty-five years later, this message is still relevant. Our baptismal covenant calls us to strive for justice and peace in all the world.

THIS MOMENT IN TIME: Gun violence

Some 40,000 people died in 2018 from gun violence in the U.S. Somewhere in our country, gun violence daily shatters a community, a neighborhood, a family. Whereas advocacy and the application of ELCA gun-violence positions in the public square are most visible when prompted by mass shootings, such incidents generally reveal the need for sustained spiritual and political response.

Only a small start has been seen in the 116th Congress of legislative response to this need. The House passed the bi-partisan Background Check Act of 2019 (H.R. 8) in February which would close loopholes for certain kinds of guns sales, such as those at gun shows and over the internet, by only allowing person-to-person gun sales if background checks could be conducted. Senate leadership has blocked consideration of this important legislation in that body [update 8/9/2019 – There has been movement on this issue]. Legislation such as the 1994 Assault Weapons Ban that would ban military assault weapons and Ethan’s Law that would require safe storage of firearms should be debated and passed. Policy consideration of high capacity magazine access and gun lock policies is needed as well as investment in domestic violence prevention.

QUESTION:

• As a member of Congress, what are you doing to address the proliferation of guns in our society, the use of military grade weapons in mass shootings, and protection of our children in schools?

ORIGINAL POST 7/25/2019 –

God richly provides for our daily bread — the earth can produce enough food for everyone. Yet, many of our sisters and brothers still go hungry.

THIS MOMENT IN TIME: Child nutrition programs
Child nutrition reauthorization is in discussion in the 116th Congress. Right now, the Senate Agriculture Committee is working to write bipartisan child nutrition legislation that would continue the advances made in recent years in child nutrition, add flexibility to the programs, ensure community eligibility for high-poverty school districts and protect progress toward making these meals healthier. The Senate bill could be introduced as soon as Labor Day. The House is behind but could take up a Senate bill quickly.

Child nutrition programs expired in 2015 and must be renewed through congressional action called reauthorization. These programs — school lunches, breakfasts, after-school snacks and summer meals, as well as the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program — prevent hunger and a host of educational and health-related deficiencies for children in nearly every community throughout the country. On an average day during the 2017-’18 school year, 12.5 million low-income children received free or reduced-price breakfasts and 21.9 million received free or reduced-price lunches According to the latest U.S. Department of Agriculture data in 2017, 12.5 million (17%) children lived in households facing a constant struggle against hunger.

QUESTION:

• Renewing strong child-nutrition program reauthorization before the end of this year is crucial, but time is short. What are you doing to bring bipartisan legislation to a vote?

Secure shelter is a critical component of the foundation of the human person, the absence of which can contribute to hunger and challenges in health care, education, job prospects and more.

THIS MOMENT IN TIME: Affordable housing and homelessness
In the 2019 congressional spending deal, housing programs saw some of the smallest increases compared to other federal programs, and many state budgets face similar circumstances. Because many Lutherans are involved in sheltering and lifting up people who struggle with poverty, many of us would like to see greater investment in and focus on affordable housing.

Lack of affordable housing and rising costs are gaining more attention within local communities. Only an estimated one-third of citizens eligible for affordable housing actually receive assistance, and nearly 11 million families spend over half their income on rent. Skyrocketing housing costs force many to decide between paying for food or settling their other bills, leaving many with the constant threat of eviction and losing their home.

QUESTION:

• Support for housing programs and funding for people facing homelessness are too often a low priority for elected officials. As a national leader, will you work to make access to housing programs a top priority in Congress?

As stewards of this world, we are called to care for the earth and examine our behavior toward creation. While we need to take from the land for food and sustainability, we also need to be careful that we maintain good stewardship and do not exploit the wonderful things the earth provides.

THIS MOMENT IN TIME: Renewable-energy tax credit
The current renewable-energy tax credit bill does not prevent the phaseout of a number of crucial renewable-energy tax credits, which have helped to catalyze significant investment in renewable energy development and are beneficial to the environment in lowering emissions and thereby providing for cleaner air. There is discussion around a comprehensive green energy package. Efforts to salvage the tax extensions on wind and solar are critical, so that the progress made thus far is not eroded.

QUESTION:

• How does Congress start to address the tax credits and a green energy package in bipartisan manner?

THIS MOMENT IN TIME: Environmental ills
The 2018 Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report and the United States’ own National Climate Assessment report clearly show the state of environment degradation and the harm being caused by emission of greenhouse gases. Additionally, we continue to see a growing number of severe weather events related to the earth’s warming that are causing unprecedented damage and affecting everyone. Congress must begin to address these environmental ills in a bipartisan manner, ensuring that the poor, the elderly — the most vulnerable — are not harmed and do not shoulder the costs of reaching a carbon-neutral society.

QUESTION:

• Where does the Congress stand on developing legislation to mitigate and adapt to the effects of climate change and to produce resilient communities here in the United States, such as: building resiliency against disasters; leveraging funding for community investments; upgrading and repairing infrastructure; and reaching net-zero greenhouse gas emissions?

Concern for the well-being of others lies at the very heart of Christian faith. Christians have a variety of social identifications through their nation of origin, race, ethnicity or political affiliation, but all Christians have a common identity as children of a loving creator.

THIS MOMENT IN TIME: Foreign assistance
The international affairs budget constitutes just 1% of the federal budget. The U.S. has a rich history of providing humanitarian and development assistance to countries experiencing humanitarian emergencies and extreme poverty. We must protect and sustain our development and humanitarian programs to avoid more costly interventions in the future.

With so many complex challenges in our world, through these programs the U.S. government is able to provide treatment for HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria; address food insecurity and malnutrition; and provide care for mothers and children. We know, for example, that even short bouts of hunger and malnutrition in the critical 1,000 days between a woman’s pregnancy and her child’s second birthday can lead to needless death and have devastating lifelong consequences for children who survive — reducing their overall health, learning ability and earning potential. Millions of lives have been saved over the years because of U.S. support. But we cannot stop now. This work must continue, especially because more people need assistance due to global instability and ever-increasing humanitarian crises.

QUESTIONS:

• How important do you think it is to provide foreign assistance to low-income countries?
• What would you do to address global health challenges such as Ebola, TB, HIV/AIDS and malaria?
• The needs of women and children are often relegated to the margins when it comes to economic and social advancement programs. What kind of policies and accountability measures can you suggest to address this inequality? Will you commit to working on this issue?

Our Lutheran faith calls us to see our neighbors as ourselves. As people flee their communities, the ELCA will continue to stand alongside its immigrant neighbors.

THIS MOMENT IN TIME: Migration
Lutherans have a deep-rooted history in refugee and immigrant issues. The God-given dignity of all people and the value of family unity have been cornerstones of ELCA faith-based advocacy, and we understand that many immigrants, as well as their families, are both frightened and confused by recent developments. We are mindful of those on the forefront, including ELCA congregations in U.S. border communities who are providing spiritual and physical sustenance, as well as border patrol officers, resettlement staff and many others charged with implementing our nation’s policies compassionately. The daily experience of ministries, Lutheran organizations and members “keep before us — so that we do not forget — the grim realities many immigrants face and the strength of character and resourcefulness newcomers demonstrate,” notes the ELCA social message “Immigration.”

Recent policies and practices, including restriction of asylum access, expanding expedited deportations, and conditions in detention centers could prevent many of the most vulnerable asylum seekers from entering the U.S. at ports of entry or going through due process in a U.S. court based upon their legal rights.

QUESTIONS:

• What are you doing to make our broken immigration infrastructure more humane and just?
• What are your views on recent unilateral actions to sequester asylum seekers? What is your plan to address heightened tensions on our southern border?

Reach out to your ELCA state public policy offices in more than 16 states or to the ELCA Advocacy national office at washingtonoffice@elca.org. We are available to answer your questions and aid you in the process.

Your question can spark an important conversation and provides an opportunity to hold your elected official publicly accountable. Thank you!

from the ELCA Advocacy office in Washington, D.C. – the Rev. Amy E. Reumann, director

BORDER SUPPLEMENTAL SIGNED | DREAM ACT | UN CLIMATE CHANGE SESSION | FY20 FOREIGN ASSISTANCE BUDGET | SUMMER MEALS

BORDER SUPPLEMENTAL SIGNED: President Trump signed a $4.59 billion border aid package July 1 as border agencies such as Customs and Border Protection (CBP) have been under increased scrutiny for the treatment of migrants in detention facilities. The majority of the package ($2.88 billion) will go to the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Office of Refugee Resettlement, which takes custody of migrant children from CBP and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) before releasing them to the care of family members or other sponsors. Other notable provisions include: · $1.34 billion provided for the Department of Homeland Security, including $905 million for CBP; · $209 million for ICE accounts, including $20 million for alternatives to detention; · $155 million to reimburse the U.S. Marshals Service for housing and transportation of federal detainees; and · $30 million for Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) reimbursements to local jurisdictions and nonprofits for the care of homeless migrants. Use an active Action Alert from ELCA Advocacy to urge lawmakers to support just immigration and asylum policies.

DREAM ACT: The Supreme Court said in June that it would review the Administration’s decision to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program in its next term which begins in October. The DACA program, which affords protections to nearly 800,000 undocumented immigrants brought to the country as children, has been in temporary limbo as the case proceeded through the courts. The House of Representatives recently passed H.R. 6, the American Dream and Promise Act, which would codify protections for Dreamers and other immigrants with temporary protections. Many Lutherans took action as the House voted in support of the bill and urged the Senate to do the same.

UN CLIMATE CHANGE SESSION: ELCA Advocacy attended the Bonn Climate Change Conference (SB50) in June. The UNFCCC Executive Secretary highlighted four numbers in her Global Climate Briefing: ▪ 1.5 or less – the degrees Celsius to which we must limit global warming; ▪ 2050 – the year by which the world must reach carbon neutrality; ▪ 2030 – the year by which we must limit global emissions by 35-40 percent; and ▪ 2020 – when new and revised Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), quantifying commitment for greenhouse gas reductions, must be issued by countries. SB50, an (intersessional) meeting of the United Nations Framework Convening on Climate Change (UNFCCC), saw some progress in moving forward with the implementation of the Paris Agreement, but much work remains to be done.

FY20 FOREIGN ASSISTANCE BUDGET: The House of Representatives passed the International Affairs budget, which funds international anti-poverty programs. Compared to the Fiscal Year 2019 enacted budget, the Fiscal Year 2020 House bill increases by $2.2 billion (four percent). The House rejected President Trump’s proposal to cut this budget by 24 percent. Many of the anti-poverty programs either saw a small increase or were funded at levels similar to those in the FY19 budget. This includes funding for malaria, HIV/AIDS, child/maternal health, food and nutrition, and other humanitarian and development programs.

SUMMER HUNGER: Federally funded Summer Meals begin this month and are served in local communities all over the country to low-income children who could lose reliable and healthy food during the school year. ELCA Advocacy will use this summer to bring awareness to the importance of the Summer Food Service Program and other hunger issues that affect our communities.

Receive monthly Advocacy Connections directly by becoming part of the ELCA Advocacy network – http://elca.org/advocacy/signup , and learn more from elca.org/advocacy .

UPDATE 7/12/2019 – Our communities are bracing for nationwide raids by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to begin on Sunday. Planned raids are reported to focus on 10 major cities where the Department of Justice has sped up immigration cases for thousands of recent arrivals.

Mindful of the biblical call and our strong Lutheran history of welcoming the stranger, our faith community strives to love our neighbors as ourselves. Since original posting, additional ways to respond include:

• A SIGN-ON LETTER
  • ELCA AMMPARO is collecting signatures on a letter addressed to Acting Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kevin McAleenan. It opens: “We are faith leaders from all across the country who are deeply troubled by the implementation of inhumane border policy by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Today, we call on you to respect asylum law and protect the rights of asylum seekers and children.” Read the letter in full and consider adding your name as a faith community member (clergy or lay), from Facebook.
•  CONTACT QUICK SHEET
  • A list of local raid response hotlines and contact information for select cities compiled by the American Immigration Lawyers Association was shared by ELCA AMMPARO on Facebook.
•  SACRED RESISTANCE MOVEMENT
  • ELCA partner Church World Service offers the #SacredResistance network for houses of worship that are willing to resist the raids on the local level through rapid response, creating safe spaces to accompany partner organizations in deportation defense, accompany undocumented community members through public facing safe spaces that can provide shelter, food, clothing, legal service and assistance in family reunification when possible. More information online.
•  ADDITIONAL PRAYER RESOURCES
  • Finding words for our prayers can also be shaped with a compilation from the Archdiocese of Chicago, “Prayers & Intentions for Immigrants and Immigration Reform,” as well as Prayers of Intercession ideas available in the Sundays and Seasons library.

ORIGINAL POST 6/28/2019 – Recent news stories of appalling conditions at immigrant detention centers and of deep human sorrow on our country’s southern border have many of us desperate to be part of change.

Lutherans have a deep-rooted history in refugee and immigrant issues. One of every six Lutherans in the world was a refugee or displaced person after WWII. The God-given dignity in all people and value of family unity have been cornerstones of ELCA faith-based advocacy, and we understand that many immigrants, as well as their families, are both afraid and confused by recent developments. Daily experience of ministries, Lutheran organizations and members “keep before us – so that we do not forget – the grim realities many immigrants face and the strength of character and resourcefulness newcomers demonstrate,” notes the ELCA social message, “Immigration.”

OUR PUBLIC VOICE

At the meeting point of our knowledge and values, here are some ways Lutherans have acted and can continue to respond.

• JOINT STATEMENT – Ecumenical and inter-religious partners joined the Rev. Elizabeth A. Eaton, ELCA presiding bishop, in a joint statement addressing concerns over the well-being of children who cross the U.S. border seeking safety from danger and threats in their home countries (6/6/19). Read at elca.org/News-and-Events/7982 .
• LETTER TO ELCA COMMUNITY – Earlier, Bishop Eaton wrote to our ELCA community (5/28/19). Read at elca.org/Resources/Presiding-Bishop-Messages . In part, it said:

“We follow a Lord who instructed, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of heaven belongs’ (Matthew 19:14). As we continue to serve and love our neighbor, we pray for the well-being of children and families in detention, and we urge the presidential administration to seek alternatives to the detention of children.”

• AMMPARO – Ministry through the ELCA Accompanying Migrant Minors with Protection, Advocacy, Representation and Opportunities (AMMPARO) strategy is present in countries of origin, transit, and the U.S. with our neighbors in Central America. Actions include presence of pro bono lawyers who provide services and monitor detention center visits, and resourcing people in their countries of origin with proven programs that result in fewer choosing to take a difficult migration journey. Consider a gift to ELCA AMMPARO. Donate to this ministry from community.elca.org/donations/ammparo-donate.

REACHING OUT

In the ELCA Advocacy Action Center, Action Alerts are available for you to customize with your message to your member of Congress. Begin from the following.

• “Take action to secure funding for humane and just immigration system” – Use your voice as funding decisions are made.
• UPDATE 7/12/2019 – Comment period has closed. “Protect the housing rights of mixed-immigration status families” – In a tight timeline before July 2, consider using this Action Alert facilitating public comment to the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), on a proposed rulemaking that would prohibit mixed-immigration status families from living in federal affordable housing programs.
• Other ways to urge U.S. immigration enforcement policy to recognize human dignity, uphold human rights, ensure the safety and well-being, and treat all individuals and families fairly and with respect, are to:
  • Call your Member of Congress at (202) 224-3121 to connect with your two Senators and one Representative. Find our who represents you from govtrack.us/congress/members .
  • Tweet, and tag @DHSgov and @POTUS or other official.

GOING FURTHER

Additionally, congregations and individuals may want to take further steps.

• WELCOMING CONGREGATION – Consider becoming a Welcoming Congregation in the ELCA AMMPARO network, making a commitment to spiritually and pastorally accompany migrants in our community congregation; physically accompany migrants as needed to medical, legal and pastoral resources; pray for the children and families; and prayerfully consider participation in ELCA advocacy.
• GUARDIAN ANGEL PROGRAM – Consider participating in the Guardian Angel Program of ELCA AMMPARO, providing spiritual and physical accompaniment of unaccompanied migrant children and families through their immigration court process. More at vimeo.com/157458987 .
• CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY – Check your investments. Private companies are managing the detention of children.
  • The ELCA Private Prison Screen “recommends no investment in private, for-profit prisons including firms involved in prison privatization of the criminal justice system.”
• KNOW YOUR RIGHTS – Share “Know Your Rights” information, providing critical facts about legal rights during encounters with law enforcement.
  • Cards give quick tips and can be printed in Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Hmong, Korean, Spanish and Vietnamese from www.ilrc.org/red-cards .
  • In Spanish and English, resources about rights at home, in public, and in the workplace are available from elca.org/Resources/AMMPARO .
• FIRST STEPS GUIDE – In English and Spanish, the First Steps Guide from Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Services (LIRS) helps refugees, asylum seekers, and migrants navigate the complex system of laws, agencies, and public and private systems they must master by providing important information on legal rights, responsibilities, and eligibility for services and benefits such as healthcare and education, according to immigration status.
• SANCTUARY MOVEMENT – The Sanctuary Movement is a growing movement of immigrant and faith communities in the current political climate. “Sanctuary: A Discernment Guide for Congregations” from the Presbyterian Church USA may facilitate discussion of this possible involvement in your congregation.
  • In the ELCA, many congregations are sanctuary congregations. Identify ELCA welcoming and sanctuary congregations and synods on the map.
• SHARE STORIES AND PRACTICE ACCOMPANIMENT – Create opportunities to gather and hear the stories of immigrants and migrants in your congregation and community and respond to their requests for partnership and solidarity.

CENTERED IN OUR FAITH

We hold in prayer the many migrants imperiled and struggling. We also pray for those on the forefront including ELCA congregations in U.S. border communities who are providing spiritual and physical sustenance, as well as border patrol officers, resettlement staff and many others charged with implementing our nation’s policies compassionately. During Sunday worship, in personal devotions, or by hosting a prayer service with faith partners to generate awareness within your local community, here are some resources as we turn to God for wisdom and strength.

• Migrant Refugee Sunday worship ideas including hymns (from LIRS)
• Worship Resources (from Mennonite Central Committee)
• Immigration Prayer (from United Church of Christ)
• Prayer for Immigrant Justice (from Marianist Social Justice Collaborative, Roman Catholic)
• An Immigrant Prayer (shared by Conference of Catholic Bishops)
• Prayer for Migrants by Jane Derene (shared by Mary Knoll Affiliates)
• A Franciscan Benediction (shared by Franciscan ponderings)

From the ELCA social message on “Immigration,” incorporating affirmations from the social statements For Peace in God’s World and Freed in Christ: Race, Ethnicity, and Culture.

By John Johnson, Program Director for Domestic Policy

It happens every single day. Somewhere in our country, gun violence shatters a community, a neighborhood, a family. Almost 40,000 people died in 2018 from guns. That equates with a city the size of Annapolis, the capital of Maryland, struck down in a year – year after year.

Although written in 1995, the ELCA social message on “Community Violence” reads as if describing today.

“For some women and children, home is less safe than the street. Hate crimes continue. Neighborhood, schoolyard, workplace, or family disputes spark into violence and become lethal. They become headline news, reinforcing the atmosphere of violence and inspiring profitable entertainment media” (page 1).

Access to a lethal weapon intensifies the situation. Gun violence disproportionately impacts communities of color. Guns figure prominently in domestic violence and have been used to terrorize our children in schools. The proliferation of guns, assault weapons and the violence that ensues around these weapons is a thief in the night.

Our national reality is that the next tragedy can happen at any moment. Where is Congress? Where is the president? The realities of gun violence are not adequately in the forefront of policy discussion.

Congress and the administration should be debating and passing legislation now like:

• 1994 Assault Weapons Ban – legislation introduced that would ban military assault weapons like the AR-15 used in many recent mass shootings.
• Ethan’s Law – introduced legislation, originating in Connecticut, that would require safe storage of firearms.

The sad reality is that in the current polarized political climate, the likelihood of meaningful legislation passing Congress is remote.  Nevertheless, the values of our faith tradition compel us to keep pressing forward. “Community Violence” adopted in 1994 states that the ELCA advocates in favor of gun control on the basis of the resolution on community violence adopted by the 1993 Churchwide Assembly, which called for “passage and strict enforcement of local, state, and national legislation that rigidly controls manufacture, importation, exportation, sale, purchase, transfer, receipt, possession and transportation of handguns, assault weapons and assault-like weapons and their parts, excluding rifles and shotguns used for hunting and sporting purposes, for use other than law enforcement and military purposes” (page 4 and footnote).

Legislatively, this means we particularly look for measures that will curtail the violence, including

• Limit of high capacity magazines and require gun locks; and
• Invest in domestic violence prevention.

As we watch and advocate for policy developments that will stem the proliferation of gun violence, the church has our lamps lit – like those waiting and ready in Luke 12:35. Our support and leadership can bolster our communities as we

• Build strong anti-violence coalitions in neighborhoods;
• Encourage peer mediation skills in our schools;
• Call out the culture of violence that pervades our national culture and media; and
• Proclaim spiritual and moral resources for replacing fear and violence with hope and reconciliation in our homes, communities and nation.

By Ruth Ivory-Moore, Program Director for Environment and Corporate Social Responsibility

There are four numbers that matter according to Patricia Espinosa, Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC):

1.5 or less – The degrees Celsius to which we must limit global warming;
2050 – the year by which the world must reach carbon neutrality;
2030 – the year by which we must limit global emissions by 35-40%; and
2020 – when new and revised Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), quantifying commitment for greenhouse gas reductions, must be issued by countries.

The world is in a critical state, and we are far behind in our efforts to limit global warming to 1.5 °C said the executive secretary in her Global Climate Action briefing on June 21, 2019 at the Bonn Climate Change Conference (SB50). ELCA Advocacy is present at SB50 which raises ambition to curb greenhouse gas emissions, accelerate resilience-building efforts, and ensure that climate policy is built on a solid foundation of the best available science and knowledge. Battles over resources will only exacerbate if the limit is not reached, Espinosa warned. We have the facts, but she emphasized we must “get on with the how.”

Diversity is required to address climate change, and UNFCCC appointed two High Level Champions who exemplify and connect the work of governments with the many voluntary and collaborative actions taken by cities, regions, businesses and investors, and nations. Tomasz Chruszczow, Special Envoy for Climate Change from the Ministry of Environment in Poland, said mindsets on all sides need to be changed such that there is a recognition that acting on climate presents economic opportunities to eliminate hunger. Gonzalo Muñoz, business entrepreneur and social change-maker at the forefront of environmental innovation in Chile, said moving forward requires a toolbox with four items: evidence of what has been done; grassroots engagement; talent called upon and used from around the world; and love. Both appreciated successes in the Marrakech Partnership, a framework for high level champions across seven thematic areas, namely – land use (agriculture, forestry and other land use), water, oceans and coastal zones, energy, industry, human settlements and transport.

In a meeting attended by Chruszczow and Muñoz along with ELCA Advocacy, UNFCCC staff members and others, we were assured with awareness of an important asset on earth – our humanity. One comes away with a renewed sense of hope and a firm resolve to navigate the bumpy paths ahead.