In weeks approaching the election, we are awash in messaging. Not only are we seeing politician-approved ads, but likely also items in categories* including propaganda, lies, conspiracies, rumors, hoaxes, hyperpartisan content, falsehoods and manipulated media. Such misinformation undermines healthy democratic processes and discourages civic engagement. “The political health of our nation still suffers from the stain of antidemocratic exclusion. Efforts to restrict access to voting should be condemned and resisted,” warns the ELCA social message “Government and Civic Engagement in the United States: Discipleship in a Democracy.” Much misinformation feeds this problem. Guidance to advance our public life in the social message reads, “There is a sharp distinction between public service and private gain, a distinction measured by the straightforward question ‘Whose good is being served?’”

 

What’s the problem?

Material from The Episcopal Church* cautions: “Audiences that mostly consume mainstream media see far more false insider stories and conspiracy theories than they might realize. While mainstream media itself remains highly reliable, online algorithms that favor content with high engagement instead of content with high veracity make it easier to transmit misinformation to these audiences through widely-used platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.”

When Hunger Network in Ohio, part of our Lutheran state public policy office network, reflected on online engagement, they wrote: “Social media offers everyone a chance to help shape the news and the content that each other sees. This is both a blessing and a curse…” They continued, “False news hurts our ability for civil discourse and wrestling with difficult issues to find solutions.”

Consuming a blip of information may take just a moment, but taking extra moments to clarify that information’s source and intent can help keep us from fanning destructive tendencies that divide us. “It seems that we want to cut ourselves off from each other,” said Presiding Bishop Elizabeth A. Eaton in her video address “We are in this together” (9/25/20). “Not only do we disagree, but we say the other is wrong, or they say we are wrong, or we accuse each other somehow of mounting a platform – like we want to divorce each other. But this is not possible. In baptism, the Spirit has forged us together in a bond that is unbreakable by any human sin or even by our anxiety or our desire to get away from the other side.”

 

What can we do about it?

Check out the wide ranging exploration of a spectrum of misinformation, malinformation and disinformation, created and spread by “jokers, scammers, interest-driven entities, conspiracy theorists, ‘insiders’, celebrities, or your friends and family,” available from The Episcopal Church.

“Misinformation, Disinformation, Fake News: Why Do We Care?“

We won’t catch all that is streaming past us, but we can help stop contribution to the problem.

Among remedying tips in the piece is: “Consuming high-quality, diverse media improves our understanding of the world and equips us to identify and critically evaluate misinformation. Even if you don’t follow every trusted source closely, knowing where to go to find accurate information or a different perspective about a topic is extremely helpful.” Then there are the three questions to run through before you “re-share that tweet, or tell a friend about that surprising headline you saw.” Where’s it from? What’s missing? How do you feel? [See graphic for additional description.]

The feeling when we share should be the affirmation of contribution to constructive discussion. “We are one body in Christ,” proclaimed Presiding Bishop Eaton. “This is the witness we in the ELCA need to give to the world and to understand and live ourselves.”

 

---

*”Misinformation, Disinformation, Fake News: Why Do We Care,” post from Office of Government Relations of The Episcopal Church (May 21, 2020 update), content shared by permission

Following are updates shared from submissions of the Lutheran Office for World Community and state public policy offices.

U.N. | Arizona | Colorado | Ohio |Pennsylvania | Washington | Wisconsin

---

United Nations

Dennis Frado, Lutheran Office for World Community, New York, N.Y. ELCA.org/lowc

UN 75^TH ANNIVERSARY COMMEMORATION: The high-level meeting to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the UN was held on September 21^st.  The meeting adopted a declaration acknowledging both the UN’s achievements and its disappointments, such as: “Our challenges are interconnected and can only be addressed through reinvigorated multilateralism,” “Strengthening international cooperation is in the interest of both nations and peoples.” It also included twelve pledges “to ensure the future we want and the United Nations we need.”

CELEBRATION OF THE 25^TH ANNIVERSARY OF BEIJING WOMEN’S CONFERENCE: The UN General Assembly High-level meeting on the 25th anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women was held on October 1^st. According to UN Women, no country has achieved gender equality. There has been progress since the Beijing Conference held in 1995, but gaps remain, and in some areas these gains are threatened and even reversed. The meeting was therefore being held under the theme “Accelerating the realization of gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls”. It aimed to “demonstrate the political will and leadership that will bring about the transformative change needed to address root causes, structural barriers, discriminatory practices and social norms that underpin discrimination and inequality.” You can watch the meeting on UN Web TV.

LOWC SPEAKS TO LUTHERAN STUDIES PROGRAM COLLOQUIA 2020-2021 AT YALE: In late September, Christine Mangale and Dennis Frado spoke via Zoom with Lutheran students at Yale University as part of the Lutheran Studies Program Colloquia theme “Public Church.” The LOWC presentations focused on the church’s presence at the United Nations (UN) and the history of the ELCA’s work on human rights, including at the UN.

---

Arizona

Solveig Muus, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona  https://lamaz.org/

GETTING OUT THE VOTE: In the midst of racial inequity, an upcoming election, a pandemic, and a climate gone crazy, we in Arizona thank God for forgiveness and mercy, and for the miraculous ways God works in us and through us.

This month, we’re all hands on deck to get out the vote. Every faith community and advocacy group in Arizona seems to be in step; all are publicizing the importance of voting and helping in any way to ensure everyone’s voice is heard. Arizona has an excellent track record for successful mail-in ballot counting. Rev. Mark Holman, Bishop’s Associate for Mobility and Leadership, wrote a study resource titled “How Would Jesus Vote?” for congregational use, and a member of LAMA’s policy team created a voter volunteer recruitment packet for congregations.

Like every other state office, LAMA continues to reach out to our 85 Arizona congregations, and are encouraged that several are considering adding an advocacy component to their social ministry teams. Building our network, producing a weekly newsletter, and feeding social media keep us busy.

UPCOMING EVENTS: We are planning LAMA’s first state-wide summit on November 7, which is to be a virtual event featuring Dr. Ryan Cumming of ELCA World Hunger. Together with Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center and Bread for the World Southwest, we are planning and promoting a Virtual Town Hall on November 17 featuring Rev. Eugene Cho, president and CEO of Bread for the World.

---

Colorado

Peter Severson, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry-Colorado https://www.rmselca.org/advocacy

BALLOT MEASURES: Coloradans will vote on eleven statewide ballot measures this fall. Lutheran Advocacy is committed to providing Lutherans and all people of faith with comprehensive and detailed analysis of each measure from our perspective. Lutheran Advocacy Ministry-Colorado’s positions on the eleven measures are available now. View them at https://www.rmselca.org/ColoradoBallot2020. Our 2020 Voter Guide with analysis and information will be available on the same site in the first week of October. Ballots will be mailed to all Colorado voters on October 9^th.

THEOLOGICAL CONFERENCE: The Rocky Mountain Synod met virtually for its annual fall Theological Conference from September 21-24. Lutheran Advocacy was present alongside hundreds of rostered ministers, lay professionals and other leaders to learn from expert presenters, engage in Bible study, and have in-depth discussions of anti-racism and building up God’s beloved community of liberation with all present.

---

Ohio

Deacon Nick Bates, Hunger Network in Ohio hungernetohio.com

HUNGER FOR JUSTICE VIRTUAL CONFERENCE: As voting begins in Ohio this month, we are all diligently working to discern the best candidates for all positions – including the Ohio Statehouse, State Supreme Court, and community leaders for school board and Township Trustees. Regardless of who wins at the local, state, or national level, our work remains the same – proclaiming God’s desire that all may be fed and have justice and peace in our communities.

Our two-hour conference will be held on zoom and feature theological reflection to help frame the election results and policy landscape moving forward. We encourage clergy, congregational leaders, judicatory staff, and people curious about hunger and poverty to attend. Register at www.hungernetohio.com/summit.

OHIO COUNCIL OF CHURCHES ANTI-RACISM SUNDAY: HNO is a proud partner with the Council and their efforts to educate and engage congregations throughout the state on issues of white privilege and racism. You can watch the Livestream online here https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=620062392203248

CROP WALK KICK-OFF: HNO Director Nick Bates will be the featured speaker at the Columbus CROP Walk virtual kick-off on October 11th at noon to discuss our call to advocacy and justice around hunger issues.

PROBLEMS WITH VOTING: HNO is partnering with the Ohio Voter Rights Coalition. You can check your voter registration and find your absentee ballot at https://ohvotes.org/. You can report a problem or concern to 1-866-OUR-VOTE or view their website, https://866ourvote.org/state-information/ohio/.

---

Pennsylvania

Tracey DePasquale, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry–Pennsylvania (LAMPa) lutheranadvocacypa.org

EQUIPPING LEADERS AND VITAL CONGREGATIONS FOR DISCIPLESHIP IN A DEMOCRACY: LAMPa staff and volunteers contacted Pennsylvania’s 67 counties to assess their preparedness for the Nov. 3 election and shared the results with synod leaders to target congregations so that they could support safe access to polls in areas of need. Read more.

POLICY COUNCIL RETREAT: The Rev. Amy Reumann, ELCA Advocacy Director, joined virtually to talk about advocacy as discipleship. She invited the council to imagine how congregational leaders could engage in LAMPa’s ministry as faith formation through the practice of testimony.

HUNGER ADVOCACY FELLOW: Larry D. Herrold, Jr. joined LAMPa as our ELCA Hunger Advocacy Fellow. A member of Zion, Sunbury (Upper Susquehanna Synod), and active in hunger ministry there, he is discerning a call to ministry. Learn more about Larry.

ADVOCACY ON RENT RELIEF AND SURPRISE MEDICAL BILLS: LAMPa advocates urged state lawmakers to improve and extend the application deadline for the CARES Rent Relief Program and to end surprise medical billing.

UNITED LUTHERAN SEMINARY CONVOCATION: LAMPa Director Tracey DePasquale shared whys and ways of connecting with policymakers as a form of loving our neighbor.

GWOH: Congregations around Pennsylvania added their voices to God’s work. Our hands. Sunday by writing letters to lawmakers addressing issues to which they have been called in service of neighbor.

OTHER WORK: Opposed legislation rolling back clean water protections; Supported use of CARES funding to stop utility shutoffs; Garnered signatures in support of waivers for school nutrition programs; Increased SNAP benefits

---

Washington

The Rev. Paul Benz and Elise DeGooyer, Faith Action Network fanwa.org

ANNOUNCING FAN’S VIRTUAL ANNUAL DINNER: FAN’s Annual Dinner will be held virtually this year on November 15. We hope this change will allow more people from across the state to join in, expanding the traditions of our Renton and Spokane dinners! Our theme is “Rise Up Together,” which speaks to our current and future work in confronting the challenges of multiple pandemics – COVID-19, systemic racism, economic uncertainty, and environmental devastation. Learn more at fanwa.org/annual-dinner.

NEW REGIONAL ORGANIZERS: FAN is building our statewide outreach by creating a staff team of Regional Organizers! In Central Wash., we welcome Zahra Roach (pictured here) who is a Pasco City Councilmember and who worked on our Census Equity Team earlier this year. In Western Wash., we welcome Jaspreet Singh who has experience working with the legislative session in Olympia and is representing FAN at the Career and Technical Colleges coalition. More to come as we add University of Washington social work interns and a Spokane area organizer!

WORKING FAMILIES TAX CREDIT: FAN is part of several state policy coalitions – one is the Working Families Tax Credit (WFTC) coalition. Several years ago, our legislature passed this law to provide tax credits to low-income working families, but it has never been funded. Now more than ever in this pandemic where so many households are struggling, funding an emergency cash assistance program like this with an annual credit is critical. Another important piece to make this program more equitable is to statutorily include Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN) filers so that ALL workers in our state receive this benefit. Learn more at fanwa.org/advocacy/advocacy-toolkit/working-families-tax-credit/ or budgetandpolicy.org.

---

Wisconsin

The Rev. Cindy  Crane, Lutheran Office for Public Policy in Wisconsin (LOPPW) loppw.org

WELCOME TO LOPPW HUNGER ADVOCACY FELLOW KYLE MINDEN:  Kyle is with us full-time for one year thanks to a generous grant from ELCA World Hunger.  He graduated from Wartburg College with a B.A. in Religion and Business Administration and a Minor in Social Entrepreneurship. Kyle is passionate about solving the systemic inequities and injustices that stem from public policy at the local, state, and federal level.

VOTING: Kyle has developed two voting resources, the Comprehensive can be found at 2020 LOPPW Voting Guide, while the one-page summary can be found here: 2020 LOPPW Voting Overview. 

HUNGER: We made known information about people eligible for a stimulus check but who have not filed.  Kyle used the center to create this resource:  file:///Users/cynthiacrane/Downloads/Stimulus-Payment-Outreach-Resource-1-1%20(12).pdf

As part of our project to highlight at least one hunger ministry in each synod for others to learn from, we interviewed Bill Binroth, Director of Let’s Eat Community Meals of Chassell, MI in the NGLS.  https://www.facebook.com/LOPPW/videos/377521223250082

CARE FOR CREATION: Our LOPPW statewide climate task force continues to meet.  We sent this press release as a letter to the WI Legislature:  file:///Users/cynthiacrane/Downloads/Revised-Climate-press-release-Team-Bishops.pdf

WEDNESDAY NOON LIVE & IMMIGRATION AND DETENTION: The video of Attorney Mary Campbell, Ms. Marisol Fuentes de Dubon, and Dr. Stephanie Mitchell mentioned last month was published in September: https://www.facebook.com/LOPPW/videos/743410496506120

“LIFTING OUR VOICES DURING THE PANDEMIC”: This Zoom webinar, co-sponsored by East Central Synod Women of the ELCA and LOPPW, will be held on Tuesday, October 13, 2020 from 6:30-7:30 PM. Register here: https://www.loppw.org/evrplus_registration/?action=evrplusegister&event_id=5.

By the Rev. Kaari Reierson, contractor with ELCA advocacy

The impacts of COVID-19 on U.S. citizens are simply unfathomable. Over 200,000 people have died. Unemployment is the highest it has been in the last 70 years. Tens of thousands of businesses have closed.

As difficult as COVID-19 and its many effects have been for those in the U.S., the effects have been multiplied in other parts of the world. As of this writing, the death rate in the United States is eleventh globally. The world’s economy is predicted to be pushed to a recession greater than any since World War II, putting millions more people into poverty.

As the U.S. Congress debates how to assist its citizens, Lutherans are reminded that whatever is happening on U.S. soil is happening elsewhere in the world, in many cases amplified. Unemployment is confronting people with no savings – and no social safety net. Illness is afflicting people with minimal health care. Food scarcity is threatening people with no resources.

In response to a desperate world in 1939, Lutherans in the United States founded Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service to assist Europeans displaced by World War II. Lutherans continue to participate regularly in international efforts to serve the neighbor and guard human dignity, through presence at the United Nations (U.N.), post-war relief in Europe, and engagement in development work and disaster response among many ways. ELCA social teaching recognizes that the U.S. plays a vital leadership role in world affairs and also has an obligation to share its resources with less wealthy nations.

Will our nation respond to the suffering imposed by COVID-19 outside of U.S. soil, or will we only take care of “our own?” Will the U.S. participate fully in international organizations working to quell the pandemic as our Lutheran history and social teaching would urge us to do?

To turn the tide of a virus as contagious as COVID-19 requires a coordinated effort by the international community. The pandemic respects no national boundaries. If the U.S. refuses to engage with and help resource multilateral organizations such as the World Health Organization and U.N., it is not only failing to fulfill its moral obligation, it is endangering its own future. “U.S. support through bilateral foreign assistance programs is also vital to heavily impacted low-income countries,” says Patricia Kisare, ELCA Program Director for International Public Policy. “As members of Congress work on the next COVID-19 stimulus package, they must include funding for international response to address the tremendous needs caused by this pandemic.”

Illustrated by the history of Lutherans in the U.S., expanded in our Lutheran teachings, and sourced in the words and life of Jesus, caring for others is God’s work. “For the Christian, empathy is one way in which love and compassion (Matthew 25:31-46) may be embodied in the world of civil authority, through God’s left-hand work,” reads the ELCA social message “Government and Civic Engagement in the United States.”

You are invited to use “Take Action on the Next Coronavirus Supplemental Bill” in the ELCA Action Center to ask Congress to incorporate international relief measures as it moves our nation’s pandemic response into law.

According to data presented by the U.S. Election Assistance Commission, over 230,000 polling places were used in 2018. Less than 1% of those were located at election offices. Most were at schools, community centers… and churches.

 

The need

Experience during primary elections in our nation have led some to conclude more polling places are needed before the November 3, 2020 general election. Myrna Perez, director of the voting rights and elections program at the Brennan Center for Justice at NYU School of Law, is quoted in an AP news article saying, “In the best of times, really long lines are deterring and disenfranchising. In the time of the coronavirus, long lines can be deadly.”

Several ELCA congregations have opened their facilities as polling places in previous elections. Is this a way your congregation wants to steward its building in 2020? State laws govern where polling places can be located, but ELCA Legal and Risk Assessment colleagues also have some advice to share on churches serving as polling locations.

 

Some considerations

Before your church responds to a request or steps out to offer to be a polling place, key issues must be considered in addition to operating by COVID-19 guidelines and mandates: (1) accessibility, (2) security, and (3&4) insurance/liability.

(1) If the municipality uses the church as a polling place, it should be accessible. Officials should make an accessibility determination in the portion of the building and parking lot being used for voting. Additionally, it is always a good idea to inventory the property for safety hazards.

(2) If the church has a preschool, school or similar activity in the building that is still open, security steps must be taken to make sure that there is separation between the operating school and parts of the building accessible to the public. For example, voters may be directed to a specific door and part of the building but not be allowed access to the other portion. Some churches just close the school for election day (like many public schools do).

(3) Make sure the congregation’s insurance carrier is aware of the facility’s use as a polling place to assure coverage if something happens. The aforementioned safety hazards inventory of the area being made accessible to the public can be assuring.

(4) Proof of insurance for a location as a polling place should be available from the voting authority.

• • Request that the voting authority provide the respective church with a current insurance certificate evidencing the following type of insurance and coverage.

Commercial General Liability:

(a)  Bodily Injury and Property Damage Liability with a $1,000,000 limit per occurrence
(b)  Personal and Advertising Liability with a $1,000,000 limit per person or organization
(c)  Products and Completed operations with a $1,000,000 limit per occurrence and in the aggregate
(d)  General aggregate with a $3,000,000 limit

• • It is very important to confirm that the church is indicated as being insured on the certificate. This confirmation may look something like: (INSERT Name of Church) is named as an additional insured under the (INSERT Name of Voting Authority’s) commercial general liability policy.

Uniquely this year, being a polling place means observing best practices in this time of pandemic. Request that the voting authority comply with all federal, state and municipal COVID-19 guidelines and mandates including those regarding masking, social distancing, equipment wipe down and sanitizing product availability. Guidelines to minimize the risk of transmitting COVID-19 at the polls are discussed in a joint release from The Brennan Center and the Infectious Diseases Society of America.

 

Taking the next step

“For Lutherans, one way Christian vocation finds expression is through dedicated, competent public service,” states the ELCA social message, “Government and Civic Engagement in the United States: Discipleship in a Democracy.” No voter should have to choose between their safety and their fundamental right to vote in November states BrennanCenter.org which shares the joint guidelines. The ELCAvotes initiative grew from the social policy resolution, “Voting Rights to All Citizens,” which calls on us to engage in local efforts and support legislation guaranteeing the right of all to vote. With planning and awareness of best practices, your congregation may be just the place to help facilitate democratic expression in your community and be of public service.

Contact your county Board of Elections to find out how to designate a place you are connected with as a polling site. The American Association of People with Disabilities also has tips on making this connection.

“We’ve been a polling place in this precinct for more than 40 years,” said Jeff Garrison, Church Council President of Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church in Fairfax, Virg. “It is just part of what we do. We feel it is a ministry to our community to make available a safe environment to vote.”

---

This text will soon be available as a pdf from ELCA.org/votes and ELCA.org/resources/advocacy.

Following are updates shared from submissions of the Lutheran Office for World Community and state public policy offices.

U.N. | Arizona | Colorado | Minnesota | New Mexico| Ohio | Pennsylvania | Texas | Washington | Wisconsin

Lutheran Office for World Community, United Nations, New York, N.Y. ELCA.org/lowc

Dennis Frado, director

UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY: The UN General Assembly High Level week which ushers in the annual General Debate will take place from 22nd to 29th September 2020. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, there are limitations on holding large in-person meetings and for the first time since the founding of the UN, world leaders will not gather in person in New York. Heads of State and Government or Ministers representing Member States have been requested to address the General Debate via pre-recorded video statements. However, some may disregard this request and attend in person.  The UN is otherwise limiting in person attendance to delegates and staff with a direct role in a given meeting.  Attendees will be required to wear face masks except when directly addressing a meeting.

H.E. Mr. Volkan Bozkir (left), incoming President of the General Assembly, will preside over the 75th session. Mr. Bozkir is a former Member of the Turkish Parliament where he served as chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee for several years.  He also served as Turkey’s Permanent Representative to the European Union.

There are several high-level meetings scheduled to take place virtually:

• High-level meeting to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the UN: Monday, 21st September 2020. The declaration that will be adopted at the high-level meeting on 21 September was agreed in July 2020.
• Biodiversity Summit: Wednesday, 30th September 2020. The theme of the event is “Urgent action on biodiversity for sustainable development”.
• High-level meeting on the 25th anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women: Thursday, 1st October 2020. Under the theme “Accelerating the realization of gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls.” More information on Accelerating Gender Equality by 2030 can be found on the Generation Equality Forum. In addition, here are remarks of the Secretary General’s virtual townhall meeting with women’s civil society organizations held on 31st August 2020.
• High-level plenary meeting to commemorate and promote the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons: Friday, 2nd October 2020.

LWF APPEAL FOR DR. DENIS MUKWEGE: In late August, the Rev. Dr. Martin Junge, General Secretary of the Lutheran World Federation (LWF), sent an urgent appeal to the United Nations for the safety of Dr. Denis Mukwege.  In a 25th August letter to UN Secretary-General António Guterres, Junge said the LWF “is very concerned about the safety and wellbeing of Dr Denis Mukwege, 2018 Nobel Peace Prize laureate and Founder and Medical Director of Panzi Hospital in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).”  Junge cited threats against Dr Mukwege and his family that are available in the public domain. Junge expressed alarm about “the risks posed by the withdrawal of the security service that was provided until recently by the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO).”

“Dr Mukwege’s work in defense of human rights and holistic care of women affected by sexual and gender-based violence is recognized globally. He is a beacon of hope for all, and especially the most vulnerable populations who have borne the brunt of violence and conflicts.  He is a global leader and human rights defender. He has continued to speak out against impunity and demanded accountability, particularly through the implementation of the recommendations of the 2010 report: DRC: Mapping human rights violations.”

While welcoming the fact “that the Congolese government has offered to provide National Police services to protect Dr Mukwege”, Junge said he firmly believes “that this approach is inadequate because the capacity and the reliability of the Congolese police cannot be ascertained.”

LOWC conveyed the letter to the Secretary-General’s office on behalf of the LWF.

---

Arizona

Solveig Muus, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona https://lamaz.org/

ARIZONA ELECTIONS AND CENSUS: For the next 60 days, the 2020 election is a Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA) priority. We are partnering with other Arizona faith-based advocates to emphasize the importance of voting, particularly in low-income neighborhoods where statistics indicate both 2016 voter turnout was low, and 2020 Census reporting is low as well. We also are preparing a voting toolkit for congregations.

LAMA is continuing its survey of the 85 Lutheran congregations in Arizona and building our network. A common thread our church leaders have identified is a desire for education and resources to help them demonstrate in a visceral way the direct correlation between being people of faith and advocating for the common good. This is one way LAMA hopes to serve to our congregations.

LAMA SUMMIT: LAMA’s policy team is planning its LAMA SUMMIT, the first state-wide gathering of Lutheran advocates and friends since the LAMA office opened its doors in February. Keynote speaker for this 3-hour virtual event on November 7 is Dr. Ryan Cumming program director for hunger education at ELCA World Hunger.

Since we last reported, LAMA has launched the Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona website at www.lamaz.org and also published a weekly newsletter, subscribers welcome!

Our heartfelt thanks to all our Lutheran state public policy offices for their help and counsel as the Arizona team gets up and running. We are blessed!

---

Colorado

Peter Severson, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry-Colorado lam-co.org

FALL BALLOT QUESTIONS ARE SET: The Colorado Secretary of State has affirmed eleven – that’s right, eleven – questions for the November statewide ballot. All Coloradans will have the opportunity to weigh in on major issues impacting our state’s public policy. The LAM-CO Policy Committee will be meeting in early September to decide on the positions we will take, if any, on these measures.

One measure we are already supporting is Proposition 118, Paid Family & Medical Leave. This program would give workers across Colorado access to paid leave in the event of serious medical or family issues, ensuring that people are able to maintain some income and lessen the risk of losing their job. The Colorado Families First Coalition is supporting this measure – join us and learn more at http://www.coloradofamiliesfirst.org/.

Other issues on the ballot include state income tax, property tax, the National Popular Vote Compact, abortion, gray wolves, tobacco taxes, and gambling. Look for more information from Lutheran Advocacy in the next few weeks, including our annual Voter Guide!

LIVING FAITH: The Rocky Mountain Synod is pleased to offer a new curriculum, Living Faith: Church in Society, to help spark rich conversations about our Lutheran faith and social issues. ELCA Social Statements form the backbone of our policy advocacy. These deep resources are the springboard for reflections from voices around our Synod on timely issues, including scripture, prayer, and guided discussion questions. Check it out today!

---

Minnesota

Tammy Walhof, Lutheran Advocacy- Minnesota (LA-MN) lutheranadvocacymn.org

HEALTH EMERGENCY: Governor Walz extended the emergency allowing him executive powers impacting businesses, physical distancing, and mask-wearing. After each extension, the legislature must meet, but both chambers much vote to end the emergency. Legislators pushing to end the emergency are mostly rural and primarily see economic impacts of closed or modified business operations. Legislators from bigger communities (more COVID-19 victims) tend to vote to continue the emergency. [Having been diagnosed with presumptive COVID five months ago, I continue to experience long-term respiratory and fatigue issues despite no pre-existing conditions, and wish legislators better understood long-term health impacts on economics. -TW]

SPECIAL SESSION #3: Minnesota Management & Budget Agency (MMB) interprets SEC rules to discourage or prohibit enactments changing state financials (including appropriations/bonds/taxes) as Minnesota goes to bond markets to sell previously authorized bonds. So, bonding must wait until the end of September to pass. In the August session, the House gaveled in & out, allowing the emergency to continue. However, the Senate unexpectedly fired the governor’s commissioner of Labor & Industry (message to the governor regarding the emergency?).

Some LA-MN partners believe September’s special session will involve postponing until late September when bonding can again be considered. Others hope the governor and MMB will take another look at whether the law actually requires ongoing special sessions during the emergency.

HOUSING: We continue to work to pass bonding for affordable housing. See our website for current talking points.

RENEWABLE ENERGY/CLIMATE CHANGE: Environmental partners are generating the best project list for a 2021 bonding bill (assuming 2020 is lost). LA-MN (with various partners) will work to educate about Minnesotans impacted by climate, and how renewable energy is growing Minnesota’s economy. Watch ELCA Advocacy & LA-MN for upcoming trainings. Check with Tammy for specific action needed in your community.

[LA-MN Director: Tammy Walhof / 651-238-6506 (call/text) / tammy@lutheranadvocacymn.org. Website: www.lutheranadvocacymn.org]

---

NEW MEXICO

Kurt A. Rager, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry-NM lutheranadvocacynm.org

State-wide and Diverse Coalitions are Crucial to our Work! LAM-NM has historically been an active part of a variety of state-wide coalitions which directly connect to the priorities of our annual policy agenda.  During the months between legislative sessions, LAM-NM actively participates with coalitions focused on the issues of hunger, housing insecurity, criminal justice reform, ethics in government, healthcare, early childhood education, and immigrant justice, just to name a few.  An example is LAM-NM’s participation with the Food, Hunger, Water, Agriculture Policy and Action Team convened by New Mexico First.  This coalition, a bipartisan group of legislators, emergency food sector, farmers, ranchers, resilient agriculture advocates, faith communities, anti-hunger and anti-poverty advocates, human rights advocates, health providers and advocates, local food system advocates, researchers, philanthropy, and more has been meeting weekly to prioritize and coordinate policy efforts and put forward a policy agenda and legislation for the upcoming 2021 legislative session.  Members of the policy and advocacy team, including LAM-NM director, Kurt Rager, have met weekly during the month of August.  Our most recent meeting took place on August 27th.

---

OHIO

Deacon Nick Bates, Hunger Network in Ohio hungernetohio.com

ANTI-RACISM SUNDAY, SEPT. 20^th : On September 20th, HNO will join with the Ohio Council of Churches and faith communities throughout Ohio and participate in an Anti-racism Sunday. Racial injustice continues to hold our communities in bondage to sin. We encourage congregations to engage on Sept 20th (or another date that fits for your congregation) in a service to center our spiritual communities on how God is calling us to respond to racial injustice. You can access resources on the Ohio Council of Churches website and register your congregation’s participation! This builds on HNO’s advocacy work to advance racial justice throughout Ohio.

RACIAL JUSTICE AND PUBLIC HEALTH: Declare racism a public health crisis in Ohio. Ohio’s legislature is looking into how racial injustice impacts public health. In Ohio, hunger, infant mortality, and covid-19 cases have hit the African American community hard. We need to break down systemic racism and understand how we can address these issues. Contact your state legislative leaders and tell them to hold hearings and begin to investigate these issues by clicking here

---

Pennsylvania

Tracey DePasquale, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry–Pennsylvania (LAMPa) lutheranadvocacypa.org

LAMPA CONSTITUENTS, FAITH-BASED PARTNERS SHARE CONVERSATION WITH SEN. ROBERT CASEY: More than 60 people participated in a virtual town hall on the federal response to COVID-19. Participants were invited to share questions for the senator. Topics discussed included COVID unemployment; the disproportionate impact of COVID on black and brown populations; childhood hunger and the extension of nutrition benefits, and concerns about the U.S. Postal Service.

CHILD NUTRITION ADVOCACY YIELDS SOME GOOD NEWS: As one in six children in PA experience food insecurity,  we are pleased the USDA is extending free meals for children through Dec. 31, and will continue to allow summer meal program operators to serve free meals to all children into the fall months. LAMPa advocates had been petitioning for the waivers and will continue pressing for funding to ensure nutrition support for the entire school year.

CREATION JUSTICE: LAMPa voiced opposition to state House and Senate bills aimed at stripping the power of the Department of Environmental Protection to enact a carbon reduction program such as the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative.

PA EVICTION MORATORIUM ENDS: Gov. Wolf is urging the state legislature to improve rental and mortgage assistance programs. LAMPa and Lutheran Disaster Response have been warning officials of potential for a surge in homelessness based on the witness of our ministries in their communities.

PROMOTING SAFE, SECURE ELECTIONS: LAMPa is encouraging disciples who can safely do so to register as poll workers in PA, as many volunteers are older, and at higher-risk from COVID-19. LAMPa continues to remind constituents of the deadlines for mail-in and absentee ballot applications and oppose legislative attempts to create barriers to voter access and timely ballot counting.

HATE CRIME LEGISLATION: As incidents of hate crime increase throughout the Commonwealth, LAMPa continues to promote legislation as part of the Pa. Coalition Against Hate.

LAMPa is pleased to be part of ULS Seminarian Margaret Folkemer-Leonard’s learning community.

SEMINARIAN JOINS LAMPA: Margaret Folkemer-Leonard will be serving with LAMPa and St. Matthew, York, as part of her education at United Lutheran Seminary. She hopes to focus on educational advocacy as social justice related to the service of York area congregations. Learn more.

GOD’S WORK. OUR HANDS: LAMPa shared resources with congregations adding advocacy to their service on Sept. 13.

 

---

Texas

Bee Moorhead, Texas Interfaith Center for Public Policy texasimpact.org

TEXAS VOTING AND ELECTIONS: Texas Impact members have been busy this week participating in legislative meetings and preparing for safe, accountable voting in 2020.

In July, Texas Impact re-launched our Faith in Democracy series of local advocacy trainings online, and hosted an event August 23 in Dallas. The Northern Texas-Northern Louisiana Synod  co-sponsored the event, and Bishop Gronberg was be a featured speaker at an event with 350 registrants. Two events are scheduled for September in Houston (September 13) featuring Bishop Michael Rinehart, and Corpus Christi (September27). Each event will include a faith and community leader panel and tools to equip congregations to be effective advocates and promote safe, accountable voting.

Texas Impact’s Legislative Engagement Groups are meeting with members of the Texas House’s district offices this month about the moral nature of the budget, discussing possible revenue options to fund important state priorities.

Texas Impact is continuing to promote the “Texas Faith Votes” campaign, encouraging congregations to promote four components: completing the safe and accountable voting checklist, encouraging mail in voting and signing the accountable Pledge to Vote prioritizing health, immigration, climate and a rejection of discrimination and recruiting election workers.

RACIAL JUSTICE AND ADVOCACY: Texas Impact continued the Weekly Witness podcast series featuring speakers from the Washington Interfaith Staff Community and has added a racial justice series featuring clergy of different races discussing racial justice and advocacy.

CLIMATE AND OTHER ADVOCACY: Climate advocacy was a priority in August with advocates meeting with members of Congress during the August recess. Texas Impact is also partnering with Texas Interfaith Power and Light to map Houston-area congregations engaged in environmental justice work.

Texans of faith are mobilizing and engaging for a busy fall of civic engagement, and Lutheran leaders are playing a key role.

---

Washington

The Rev. Paul Benz and Elise DeGooyer, Faith Action Network fanwa.org

REFERENDUM 90: The Faith Action Network Governing Board has unanimously endorsed Referendum 90 for Safe and Healthy Youth. This will appear on the November ballot in Washington State as a comprehensive sexuality education measure which is age-appropriate and inclusive. During the 2020 legislative session, a coalition of parents, educators, medical professionals, and advocates passed SB 5395 (Sen. Claire Wilson) in Washington State that mandates sex education in our public schools. Those opposed to the bill, sometimes citing religious reasons, have launched a misinformation campaign and gathered enough signatures to put that law up for a public vote this November, so FAN is working in coalition to show strong support from interfaith communities around the state. See more at the campaign’s website approve90wa.org and our Faith Leaders Statement.

INDIGENOUS FILM FESTIVAL: FAN coordinates the Interfaith Network for Indigenous Communities (INIC), a coalition of interfaith leaders seeking solidarity between first nations peoples and allied people of faith as we confront the urgent issues of our time. INIC is co-sponsoring the first online Indigenous Film Festival from August 31 – October 5, celebrating American Indian, Alaska Native, and worldwide Indigenous films, featuring new films each week and opportunities for discussion with filmmakers. Check out this amazing opportunity here: visionmakermedia.org/online-filmfest/

STATE AND BUDGET COALITIONS: Washington State is anticipating a $9B budget deficit into the next biennium. FAN is encouraging advocates to urge their legislators not to cut vital programs, to protect those already impacted by the economic recession and COVID-19, and to pass significant revenue solutions such as eliminating the capital gains tax loophole and adding other wealth taxes. Co-Director Paul Benz is working on multiple coalitions to influence this goal, including pushing for the now-approved $40M Undocumented Worker Relief Fund, funding the Working Families Tax Credit, and working on policing reforms through the Governor’s taskforce and the Washington Coalition for Police Accountability (WCPA).

---

Wisconsin

The Rev. Cindy  Crane, Lutheran Office for Public Policy in Wisconsin (LOPPW) loppw.org

RACIAL JUSTICE: We sent out an action alert about supporting police reform in response to the shooting of Jacob Blake and an Executive Order from Governor Evers. https://support.elca.org/site/Advocacy?cmd=display&page=UserAction&id=1292&fbclid=IwAR2C5b1rRiUxcMVngDLCTNvuG-HCwxQawzDl5wOOiBAMKe7q1Cyz9PzveRg

THE PANDEMIC AND OUR HEALTH: For Wednesday Noon Live, we interviewed Madison’s Reverend Blake Rohrer, who gave a theological perspective on the state mask mandate; Green Bay Alderwoman Barbara Dorff, who discussed the death threats to the City Council after issuing a local mandate (before the state mandate) and future hopes; LOPPW Council Member Mr. William Mattson of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Rhinelander, who responded to local issues with masks.  https://www.facebook.com/LOPPW/videos/303241814223287

IMMIGRATION AND DETENTION: We taped Wednesday Noon Live for Sept (it is usually live). We interviewed Attorney Mary Campbell, AMMPARO; Ms. Marisol Fuentes de Dubon, GMS Task Force & Detained Migrant Project; and Dr. Stephanie Mitchell, Professor of Latin American History at Carthage College & Emmaus Lutheran Church (Racine) member.  They shared practical ideas about what congregations can do.

CARE FOR GOD’S CREATION: Our LOPPW statewide climate task force met for the second time after the listening sessions to strategize.  The director participated in a briefing on a Climate Action Plan convened by the Dane County Executive.

VOTING: Created a video on Caring for God’s Creation and voting with Intern Kyle. Contacted Brookfield’s clerk to ask questions about absentee ballots as part of our voting coalition’s effort to survey municipalities. Participated in a panel for a webinar on voting organized by Ms. Kelly Marciales and Rev. Amy Reumann.

As we approach the end of the federal government’s fiscal year on Sept. 30, the Administration is considering how many refugees to welcome in 2021. Although refugee admissions have gone down each year of the current Administration, we know refugee admissions have not been eliminated due to strong advocacy – particularly from the faith community. Reflections from our summer intern give us background and conclude with an opportunity for us to again respond with impactful advocacy as the calculation is being made.

---

RAISING THE REFUGEE CEILING

By Jenn Werth, summer intern with ELCA advocacy

According to the United Nations High Commission for Refugees, the number of refugees on the African continent has nearly tripled over the past decade, yet the number of refugees the United States admits every year has continually fallen. As a church dedicated to supporting compassionate survival assistance and vigorous international protection for refugees*, it is essential that we hold our country responsible to increase the number of refugees it admits**.

Lutherans have a strong history of providing hospitality to refugees resettling 57,000 refugees in the United States post World War II, resettling 50,000 refugees from Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos after the fall of Saigon in 1975, and providing sanctuary for refugees endangered by wars in Central America in the 1980s***. Today the ELCA remains active in many ways, including through its AMMPARO program, Accompanying Migrant Minors with Protection, Advocacy, Representation and Opportunities. AMMPARO helps ensure basic human rights and safety of migrant children from El Salvador, Honduras and Guatemala.

With such a deep focus on the accompaniment of immigrants and refugees in one small part of the world, it can be easy to lose sight of the international expanse of refugee populations. In 2019 alone, the Lutheran World Federation supported 1.3 million refugees and internally displaced persons, most of whom reside in African countries including but not limited to Uganda, South Sudan, Ethiopia, and Cameroon. We as a church can be a strong voice for both the refugees we work with close to home and the refugees we support from countries across the globe. As it is written in Leviticus 19:34, “The alien who resides with you shall be to you as the citizen among you; you shall love the alien as yourself, for you were aliens in the land of Egypt”.”

Immigration, refugee and asylum policies not only can be evaluated against who we are as a church, but also express our character as a nation. As the United States commits to receiving fewer and fewer refugees every year, dropping from 45,000 in 2018 to 30,000 in 2019 to 18,000 in 2020, our country is not meeting the expectations we as a church have for a generous policy of welcome. The Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service (LIRS) calls on Congress and the current Administration to raise that ceiling to 95,000 refugees. As advocates for generous immigration and refugee policies, we can use our voices to support the efforts to raise our refugee ceiling rather than allow further reduction.

* ELCA social statement For Peace In God’s World, pg. 20
** ELCA social message on “Immigration,” pg. 9.
*** “Immigration,” pg. 3

---

TO LEARN MORE

See “Frequently Asked Questions: Refugee Ceiling and the Presidential Determination” prepared by LIRS.

 

ACTION OPPORTUNITY FOR ROSTERED MINISTERS:

Over 240 rostered ministers urged the president and Secretary Pompeo to commit to resettling 95,000 refugees in fiscal year 2021 by signing a Sept. 24 letter prepared by the ELCA AMMPARO and Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service (LIRS) advocacy teams.

TWO OTHER OPPORTUNITIES FOR FAITH-BASED ACTION organized with the Interfaith Immigration Coalition in which the ELCA participates:

Join the #RefugeesWelcome2021 Campaign. Encourage your state and local elected leaders to express support for welcoming refugees by signing onto this letter.

Write letters-to-the-editor (LTEs) for your local media outlets. Here is a sample LTE that you can use/adapt for your message, as well as step-by-step instructions for how to draft, pitch, and place an LTE. Please contact media@interfaithimmigration.org if you have any questions or need help.

 

by Tessa Comnick, Hunger Advocacy Fellow

Like many people, I have spent the last several months living out of my house. While that may not seem like a significant statement—I mean, houses are where we live—living out of my house has taken on new meaning. It’s now where I socialize (virtually), where I work, where I sleep, where I eat… and soon it will be where I vote in the 2020 election.

I have actually voted by mail for the past several years, coming from a state with no-excuse absentee ballots (that means you don’t need a reason why you cannot physically be present at a polling place to use a mail-in ballot). When I decided to work at my local polling place one year, this habit ended up being very fortuitous. I voted from the comfort of my own home so that I wouldn’t have to think about it during my long (but rewarding) fifteen-hour-day as a volunteer. As that day dragged on, I even thought: “Why doesn’t everyone vote by mail?”

But there are reasons everyone doesn’t vote by mail. It’s different for me than it is for others. I have no disabilities that keep me from being able to send in a paper ballot, requiring a voting machine to confidently and privately vote. I have a home address, one that didn’t change even when I was at school or completing fellowships. I don’t come from a socially marginalized and/or oppressed group that has learned not to trust certain systems because they have continually failed me. The question that flew through my head never took into account experiences that weren’t exclusively mine.

We as a country cannot operate in a one-size-fits-all paradigm, especially with something as crucial as our right to vote. We need to prepare ourselves for a 2020 election that enfranchises everyone’s vote. Mail in voting should be expanded during the current global pandemic crisis, but it should not be the only option.

• SUPPORT MAIL-IN ACCESS – Currently there are 16 states that still require specific reasons or excuses to request an absentee ballot. A nation-wide no-excuse absentee ballot system could help keep lines down, keep the system from getting overwhelmed, and allow high-risk individuals to continue saying home, all while still providing the opportunity for in-person voting for those who need it.
• LIMIT MAILED BALLOT REJECTIONS – Read and share local voting by mail information so that mistakes, such as a missing signature, do not result in ballot rejections. This information should be available in multiple languages and in multiple forms, so as not to exclude anyone without access to internet.
• GET SPACES READY – Polling places should be available for those who will not vote otherwise. Some voters with disabilities, voters with language access needs and American Indian and Alaska Native voters among others need safe, in-person options for fair access. Buildings that are currently sitting closed, like churches, could be used as polling places. Guidelines to minimize the risk of transmitting COVID-19 at the polls can be followed, such as those jointly issued by The Brennan Center and the Infectious Diseases Society of America.
• IS BEING A POLLING WORKER FOR YOU? – Over half of U.S. poll workers were 61 years of age or older in the 2018 general election. In 2020 we could face a shortage. Youth and young adults should consider working on election day (hello to making it a National Holiday!) to help keep those at higher risk safe. When I did it, the day was long, but I heard an endless supply of “thank yous” showing appreciation for an open, accessible system from which to vote. I did not know what faith traditions voters followed, if any, but love for our community connected us in a way that was intrinsically divine. For me, I feel God’s presence strongest when I am among my community, expressing my love for every single member. God’s love is for us all, indiscriminately.

For you and your neighbor, what’s your plan? Learn what qualifies for an absentee ballot in your state. Instructions on how to register and vote-by-mail need to be effectively planned and widely distributed months before an election, to ensure equal access to those who may choose to mail-in their vote. Learn about becoming a poll worker if that sounds right for you. And contact your county Board of Elections to find out how to designate a place you’re connected with as a polling site.

And if you want to encourage election considerations in the next COVID-19 stimulus legislation, write to your lawmakers using the Action Alert “Take Action on the Next Coronavirus Supplemental Bill” at ELCA.org/advocacy/actioncenter. And learn more about the ELCAvotes initiative at ELCA.org/votes.

Every vote counts, and so does every decision on how to vote.

 

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

Partial expanded content from Advocacy Connections: August 2020

COVID-19 STIMULUS PACKAGE  |  HUD HOUSING RULES  |  INTERNATIONAL INTERSECTIONS  |  ENVIRONMENT CONSERVATION BILL SIGNED  |  DACA MEMORANDUM

 

COVID-19 STIMULUS PACKAGE     The next federal stimulus package to address COVID-19 impacts remains in negotiation. While Congress is presently in the traditional period of a recess, scheduled to end September 7, lawmakers are aiming to reconcile differences. A temporary 15% increase in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits has been a continuing interfaith advocacy effort in this new round of COVID-19 legislation. Use the Action Alert to urge this and other considerations in the far-reaching package.

We are grateful for the engagement of ELCA bishops and network members who reached out to key leaders about advancing the temporary SNAP increase. House, Senate and Administration leaders are making steady progress over a compromise economic spending bill. However, resolving widespread differences between the Health and Economic Recovery Omnibus Emergency Solutions Act (HEROES) passed in the House and the proposed Health, Economic Assistance, Liability Protection and Schools Act (HEALS) introduced in the Senate before taking the break could stall the process deep into the traditional summer recess.

 

HUD HOUSING RULES    In a busy month, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced in early July that they would be advancing an initiative to weaken implementation of the 2016 Equal Access Rule, which would undermine transgender and non-binary protections for people seeking shelter. Also, HUD Sec. Ben Carson announced that the administration would take steps to roll back key racial housing protections in the Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing (AFFH) Rule.

Since 2016, homelessness among transgender people increased 88% and could face greater challenges and barriers to shelter access if the rule is further weakened. Reconciling Works and ELCA Advocacy shared a joint Action Alert in opposition of the new changes which facilitates action during HUD’s open public-comment period through September 22.

Discriminatory housing practices have been at the core of systemic racism in the U.S. for generations – right up to present day. The changes to the AFFH rule will water-down enforcement of the civil-rights era Fair Housing Act, stopping requirements for localities to take steps to report and address patterns of segregation in their communities. Hundreds of Lutherans issued opposition to the rule through the ELCA Action Center in the spring when the comment period was open. The ELCA Advocacy office will continue to push for policies that promote racial justice in housing as the proposal likely moves through litigation.

 

INTERNATIONAL INTERSECTIONS     ELCA Advocacy is working in partnership with Jubilee USA Network members urging the U.S. government to support expansion of debt relief for highly indebted poor countries. We are asking for the U.S. to support provision of low interest grants called Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) through the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which will provide funds to countries to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The House passed the NO BAN Act July 22 which would repeal the travel ban on citizens of 13 countries. Our Action Alert remains live to facilitate contacting senators who next will consider the legislation. Additionally, for a long time the international community failed to effectively prevent and respond to gender-based violence at the onset of humanitarian emergencies. Initiatives such as Safe from the Start have moved this issue at the forefront of humanitarian work. Our Action Alert can be used to urge your senators to co-sponsor the Keeping Women and Girls Safe from the Start Act.

 

ENVIRONMENT CONSERVATION BILL SIGNED     On August 4, President Trump signed the bipartisan Great American Outdoors Act of 2020 into law offering more federal resources for national parks, wildlife refuges, Indigenous public lands and our crumbling public land infrastructure. Lutheran advocates have collaborated with many in a slow-building movement for years to promote better stewardship principles for our nation’s public lands.

In addition to helping address the great backlog of infrastructure projects at the Department of Interior, the bill will permanently authorize the Land and Water Conservation Fund, allowing more resources for the federal government to acquire “lands, waters, and interests therein necessary to achieve the natural, cultural, wildlife, and recreation management objectives of federal land management agencies.”

 

DACA MEMORANDUM     A July 28 memorandum on Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) from the acting secretary of the Dept. of Homeland Security may begin the process of dismantling this needed form of protection. Even as suffering and sacrifice in this time of pandemic require national focus, the administration is prioritizing taking away protections and setting the stage for further disbanding of DACA.

Our advocacy focus remains a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers. DACA recipients are members of our communities and churches who have grown up in and contribute to the U.S. An Action Alert is available to urge lawmakers to codify protection before it is further eroded.

 

---

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 .

 

Following are updates shared from submissions of the Lutheran Office for World Community and state public policy offices.

U.N. | California | Colorado | Minnesota | Ohio | Pennsylvania | Texas | Washington | Wisconsin

Lutheran Office for World Community, United Nations, New York, N.Y. ELCA.org/lowc

Dennis Frado, director

WOMEN, PEACE, AND SECURITY: The UN Security Council held its annual debate on Women, Peace and Security on July 17, 2020. This high-level debate theme was on “conflict-related sexual violence: turning commitments into compliance.” Briefing the Council was Pramila Patten, Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict; Angelina Jolie, Special Envoy to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees; Khin Ohmar, Founder and Chairperson of the Advisory Board of Progressive Voice; and Nadia Carine Therese Fornel-Poutou, Executive President of the Association des femmes Juristes de Centrafrique. The debate focused on ensuring accountability and access to justice, implementation of existing commitments and ensuring a survivor-centered approach. LOWC’s Program Director Christine Mangale attended the meeting virtually. Learn more about the landmark resolution 1325 and the women, peace and security agenda here and here. The webcast of the debate can be found here.

MAINTENANCE OF INTERNATIONAL PEACE AND SECUIRTIY—CLIMATE AND SECURITY: The United Nations Security Council held a virtual open debate on “climate and security” on July 24, 2020. Briefing the council were Miroslav Jenča — Assistant Secretary-General for Europe, Central Asia and the Americas, Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs; Colonel Mamadou Seydou Magagi – Director, Centre National d’Etudes Stratégiques et de Sécurité (CNESS); and Coral Pasisi – Director, Sustainable Pacific Consultancy. German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas chaired the meeting.

It was emphasized that climate change is a threat multiplier, disproportionately affecting already vulnerable communities. Most speakers specifically referenced the need for countries to follow-through with implementing their commitments under the Paris Agreement. There was a call for the UN to address climate change better systematically. Almost unanimously, this sentiment included a call for the Security Council to further integrate a climate lens into their work, recognizing the real threats posed by climate change to peace and security. LOWC’s Intern Kirsti Ruud attended the meeting virtually. Learn more on how the Security Council has addressed this issue here . A summary of the open debate can be found here.

---

California

Regina Q. Banks, Lutheran Office of Public Policy- California (LOPP-CA) lutheranpublicpolicyca.org

LEGISLATIVE SESSION RESUMES: The Legislature returned to session on Monday, July 27 after an extended recess due to a COVID-19 outbreak among staff. Priority bills scheduled for upcoming committee hearings include AB 2043: Farmworker Protection, AB 3121: Reparations Task Force, AB 3070: Antidiscrimination in Jury Selection, and AB 3073: CalFresh Prison Preenrollment. The Legislature has a quick push to the hard stop of this two-year bill cycle; many bills are effectively dead because they are not on the agendas put forth for upcoming hearings. Legislators may also engage in negotiations for a ‘junior budget’ during this final session. Many aspects of California’s 2020-2021 budget hinge on stalled federal funding to assist states and local governments; austerity measures will kick in if funding is not approved by the US Senate ASAP.

SNAP ADVOCACY CONTINUES: In California, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) applications have doubled and even tripled in some counties. SNAP provides dignified food assistance which allows people to buy what they want to eat and to choose where they will shop. SNAP stimulates local economies and supports local farmers. Food banks and donation-based programs see themselves as a supplement to vital federal programs. Along with both state and national partners in the California Food and Farming Network, we continue to push Congress to approve a 15% increase in SNAP benefits.

CHURCH OUTREACH ON ANTI-RACISM: Many pastors throughout the state have come to LOPP-CA with questions following the consciousness-raising protests of George Floyd’s murder and of the 400-year pandemic of anti-Black violence in America. What can we do in California to build anti-racist policies and systems? What is the next faithful step? LOPP-CA has responded with a forum for pastors to dig into one particular policy – a ballot measure that would reinstate affirmative action in state agencies and universities. After a pilot run with the Racial Justice Ministry at St. John’s Lutheran in Sacramento, our first open forum is scheduled for late August.

BALLOT MEASURES: California has a robust initiative system, whereby voters have direct power to make laws and approve constitutional amendments. Ballot measures for November 2020 include reinstating affirmative action, expanding the right to vote, updating property tax and eliminating cash bail. The Policy Council has determined its positions on each measure in accordance with the social statements of the ELCA. LOPP-CA will soon release a voter guide to help congregation members throughout the state vote in light of the faith we profess. Additional public forums will be held, including one focused on engaging youth in the church.

ADVOCACY IN QUARANTINE: We continue to host our weekly Wednesdays at Noon briefing on state and federal legislation and call to action. This month, we supported affirmative action, SNAP increases, senior nutrition, and we called in to support LOPP-CA priority bills.

LOOKING FORWARD TO GOD’S WORK, OUR HANDS, OUR VOICES: Our 2020 Lobby Day has been reimagined to focus on the upcoming ballot measures in the November election. Look for updates later this month!

---

Colorado

Peter Severson, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry-Colorado lam-co.org

SECOND SESSION ADJOURNS: The Colorado Legislature returned to work from its pandemic-induced recess on May 27 and formally adjourned for the year on June 15. During the “second session,” legislators faced an uphill climb to balance the state budget in the face of major revenue shortfalls. We advocated with a broad coalition called Recover Colorado to ask the legislature to raise new revenue, rather than focus exclusively on making cuts. You can read our letter to lawmakers and Governor Jared Polis here.

We supported the successful passage of House Bill 20-1420, The Fair Tax Act. Section 4 of the bill eliminates a corporate tax loophole that will fund part of the estimated $84 million in supplemental funds for state education in the next fiscal year. Additionally, we signed on to support and advocate for Senate Bill 20-217, Enhance Law Enforcement Integrity, a bill to make significant changes to policing practices in our communities statewide. Most of the provisions in the bill will go into effect this year.

BALLOT MEASURES: We are supporting two initiatives that are attempting to make the statewide ballot in the fall:

• Initiative #271, also known as Fair Tax Colorado, would give 95% of Coloradans a tax cut while raising significant funds for education through a more progressive state income tax
• Initiative #283, Paid Family Leave, supported by the Colorado Families First coalition, would create up to 12 weeks of paid leave for Colorado workers

---

Minnesota

Tammy Walhof, Lutheran Advocacy- Minnesota (LA-MN) lutheranadvocacymn.org

SPECIAL SESSION #2: A carefully negotiated $1.8 billion bipartisan bonding/tax bill failed the supermajority needed by six votes in the state House of Representatives.

House Minority Leader Kurt Daudt has been holding bonding as leverage to force an end to the governor’s COVID-19 emergency powers. House & Senate leaders hoped that a bipartisan bill would have momentum. However, the bill went down on a House party-line vote despite Senate passage with broad bipartisan support.

Watch for mid-August’s Special Session when we get to do this all over again!

AFFORDABLE HOUSING: Given the bonding bill defeat, housing infrastructure bonds and public housing  bonds were unable to move forward. Although amounts never made it to the levels we were advocating, $100 million was included for housing infrastructure and $16 million for public housing (significantly higher than where the Senate had been).

We appreciate our advocates’ efforts to increase housing bonds, push leaders to bipartisan agreement, and thank several leaders from both parties for their diligent work.

COVID EMERGENCY & HOUSING: Gov. Walz announced $100 million of CARES Act federal funding will be used for housing assistance. Nevertheless, if Congress does not reinstate extra unemployment funding, many Minnesotans will default on rent. (Please see ELCA Advocacy’s alerts on those federal negotiations!)

CLEAN ENERGY: Several small(ish) projects that could help the transition to clean renewable energy also won’t pass without bonding.

POLICE REFORM: A bill banning most chokeholds, requiring intervention to prevent excessive force by fellow officers, and outlawing “warrior training” passed despite huge differences in positions. Various legislators want to come back to deeper racism dismantling within policing structures, and we hope to engage these concerns.

---

OHIO

Deacon Nick Bates, Hunger Network in Ohio hungernetohio.com

OHIO STATEHOUSE DYNAMICS ARE TURNED ON THEIR HEAD: Speaker Larry Householder (R-Glenford) was indicted on charges of corruption and racketeering in July, and Rep. Bob Cupp (R-Lima) has been elected to the position to lead Ohio’s House for the remainder of the calendar year. The $60 million Generation Now related scandal involves a bailout of Ohio’s two nuclear power plants owned by First Energy (referenced in the indictment as Company A).

The reality of this scandal is that most of the unethical activity is well known, because big money creates Goliaths in Ohio politics. We are David, and when the faith community unites, we can still succeed in advancing the voices of hungry and marginalized Ohioans – even with the odds heavily stacked against us. You can read our reflection here on the David and Goliath battle. 

HNO MOURNS THE LOSS OF OUR BOARD PRESIDENT, JOHN WALLACE: Rev. John Wallace is a retired pastor from the United Methodist tradition. He passed away suddenly Sunday night at his home in Dayton, Ohio. John has served on HNO’s board for many years and was recently elected by the board to serve as president. We have lost a strong and passionate advocate for hungry Ohioans and others forced by oppressive policies to live on the margins. Further details and arrangements are yet to be announced. And the angels sing, Faithful servant, well done.

---

Pennsylvania

Tracey DePasquale, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry–Pennsylvania (LAMPa) lutheranadvocacypa.org

LAMPA WELCOMES POLICY COUNCIL MEMBERS: Three new Policy Council members will begin their service in September. Representing the Lower Susquehanna Synod (LSS) the Rev. Carla Wilson; representing the Southwestern PA Synod (SWPA) the Rev. Jim Engel; and representing the United Lutheran Seminary (ULS) Dr. Crystal L. Hall.

LAMPA WORKING TO ENSURE SAFE ACCESS TO VOTING: LAMPa is working with policymakers to ensure safe access to voting in November. Just announced: PA will pay postage for all mail-in votes cast.

GOV. ANNOUNCES EXTENSION OF EVICTION MORATORIUM AND THE AWARD OF NEARLY $19 MILLION FOR HOMELESSNESS ASSISTANCE AND PREVENTION: LAMPa constituents expressed their thanks to Gov. Wolf for extending the rental eviction and foreclosure moratorium. Due to expire on July 10, the extension protects renters and homeowners from eviction proceedings until August 31. The governor also announced nearly $19 million in funding awards to assist in mitigating the impacts of the coronavirus on homeless families and individuals, and to prevent future homelessness across the commonwealth.

TWO POLICING AND CRIMINAL JUSTICE BILLS SIGNED WITH ONE MORE ON DECK: Gov. Wolf signed two police reform bills, one requiring police officers to disclose their employment history and the other requiring officers to undergo regular mental health evaluations and training. Legislators continued to meet in July. Two additional police reform bills are headed to the state House for action. Senate Bill 459 would require all police departments to report any use-of-force incidents to the state police. Senate Bill 1205 would require police departments to publish their use of force policies and limits the use of chokeholds to instances where deadly force is needed.

ADVOCATE ENGAGEMENT: Five action and information alerts were shared with LAMPa constituents in July. Federal Issues included: Public Comment on HUD Discrimination; Protection for Women and Children; and Protecting the Asylum System. At the state level advocates were asked to encourage lawmakers to prioritize health over profits by rejecting HB 732 and share their thanks with Gov. Wolf for the extension of the eviction moratorium.

---

Texas

Bee Moorhead, Texas Interfaith Center for Public Policy texasimpact.org

In July, Texas Impact re-launched our Faith in Democracy series of local advocacy trainings online with an event in Huntsville. The next event will be in Dallas August 23. The Northern Texas-Northern Louisiana Synod is co-sponsoring the event, where Bishop Gronberg will be a featured speaker. Each event will include a faith and community leader panel and tools to equip congregations to be effective advocates and promote safe, accountable voting.

Texas Impact continued the Weekly Witness podcast series featuring speakers from the Washington Interfaith Staff Community and has added a racial justice series featuring clergy of different races discussing racial justice and advocacy.

Climate advocacy was a priority in July with advocates preparing to meet with members of Congress during the August recess. Texas Impact is also partnering with Texas Interfaith Power and Light to map Houston-area congregations engaged in environmental justice work.

The news can be discouraging, but we find hope in the leadership of Texas faith leaders and the level of engagement of Texans of faith.

---

Washington

The Rev. Paul Benz and Elise DeGooyer, Faith Action Network fanwa.org

POLICE REFORM: FAN is very involved in police reform efforts in our state, primarily through the newly established Washington Coalition for Police Accountability (WCPA). This group, many of whom were leaders in the Initiative 940 De-escalate WA effort, is made up of impacted family members who have lost loved ones at the hands of police. It has four policy subgroups: independent investigations, use of deadly force, police oversight, and collective bargaining, along with a ten-member lobbyist group that is engaging with a group of eight legislators, led by the African American and Members of Color Caucuses. The WCPA is coordinating with the 21-member governor’s Task Force on Policing Reforms to come up with bills for the next legislative session that will begin on January 11.

RECOVERING TOGETHER: FAN has also been advocating for statewide cash assistance to help our most-impacted and lowest-income neighbors recover during COVID-19. This effort seeks to fill the gaps that federal assistance left in relief packages, such as unemployment benefits for undocumented workers. We signed onto a WA Budget & Policy Center letter with 70 other organizations across the state to advocate for progressive revenue solutions.

CONGRESSIONAL RELIEF PACKAGES: As Congress considers what to include in the next COVID-19 relief package, FAN is encouraging our advocates to urge their elected officials to include SNAP, housing and unemployment protections. Episcopal Bishops Rickel and Rehberg created videos to promote SNAP in the final package. Our asks are:

• Expand and increase SNAP by 15%, increase the minimum SNAP monthly benefit from $16 to $30, and suspend all administrative SNAP rule changes indefinitely during this time of economic distress.
• Ensure that the housing priorities in the House HEROES bill stay in the final bill, such as $100 billion for emergency rental assistance and $11.5 billion for homeless emergency grants, and establish a nationwide uniform moratorium on evictions and foreclosures.
• Extend the Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (PUC) beyond July 31st and the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) beyond Dec. 31st.

CENSUS 2020: FAN worked with Pyramid Communications and the WA Complete Count Committee to create a Census 2020 “We Have the Power” video featuring interfaith leaders from around the state!

---

Wisconsin

The Rev. Cindy  Crane, Lutheran Office for Public Policy in Wisconsin (LOPPW) loppw.org

THE PANDEMIC AND OUR HEALTH: After Governor Evers issued the Executive Order: Public Health Emergency and Requiring Face Coverings Statewide, LOPPW learned that legislators were being flooded with negative feedback. In response, we sent out an Action Alert.

CARE FOR GOD’S CREATION: Between all of our LOPPW Climate Team members, we attended all six of the Governor’s Task Force on Climate Change’s listening sessions, each of which had different speakers discussing what’s working in Wisconsin. With input from the LOPPW Climate Team and final suggestions from our bishops, we for the first time created a list of asks related to climate change that were not exclusively in response to proposed legislation. We sent the asks to the Task Force. We also used them as examples for feedback that our members could use for their submissions and as a Press Release.

LOPPW also participated in a briefing on a cutting-edge Climate Action Plan convened by the Dane County Executive.

VOTING: LOPPW participated in our All Voting is Local coalition meeting, and received a small grant to encourage voting.

HUMAN TRAFFICKING: LOPPW participated in our quarterly Wisconsin Anti-human Trafficking Consortium meeting. Sex trafficking has not decreased during the pandemic and ways of exploitation have become more severe.

ADDITIONAL EFFORTS: LOPPW worked with the ELCA on preparing for the Hunger Advocacy Fellow position that Wisconsin is fortunate enough to be a site for in the fall!

We also participated in the NWSW justice team meeting, and organized Wednesday Noon Live: Video

 

Congress traditionally takes a recess during the month of August, allowing lawmakers time to return to their home states and congressional districts to connect with constituents. That may look a bit different this year, but the month still holds meaningful potential for local advocates to advance relationships and engage with elected officials, ask questions and share concerns.  

New to help you connect with lawmakers in 2020 is a Virtual Visits resource with tips on how to utilize digital communications options more widely in use this year. Our August Recess Guide also contains ideas for communicating with your elected officials and candidates in–district this month. 

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

---

THIS MOMENT IN TIME: Hunger 

“Because of sin we fall short of these obligations in this world, but we live in light of God’s promised future that ultimately there will be no hunger and injustice. This promise makes us restless with less than what God intends for the world.” – from ELCA social statement  Sufficient Sustainable Livelihood for All 

REMARKS 

As impacts of the coronavirus pandemic cascade, ministry demands expand and more workers are left without employment. Our role to care for our community and each other is more valuable than ever. Hunger and lack of access to healthy and nutritious food are devasting and can also make communities even more vulnerable to COVID-19. 

With unemployment at a record high and schools closed, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) needs to be expanded so that individuals and households can get enough to eat. This includes increasing SNAP benefits by 15%, increasing the minimum monthly SNAP benefit from $16 to $30 and suspending all administrative SNAP rule changes indefinitely, during this time of economic distress and long-term recovery.   

QUESTIONS 

• What exactly do you support in additional federal response for the U.S. to stop the virus and the health and economic disparities that are so present in our communities? 
• Will you support a temporary increase in SNAP benefits to provide food to hungry people? 

 

THIS MOMENT IN TIME: Police Reform 

“As persons called to love one another as God has loved us, we therefore proclaim our commitment to speak with one voice against racism and white supremacy. We stand with those who are targets of racist ideologies and actions. With them, we demand and will advocate for a more just, loving, and peaceful world where the gifts of all people are appreciated, and the lives of all people are treasured.” – From ELCA social policy resolution “Condemnation of White Supremacy and Racist Rhetoric” 

REMARKS 

The discrimination and violence experienced by black and brown Americans at the hands of law enforcement is again at the forefront of our nation’s awareness and concern.  We need Congress to advance meaningful legislation to protect Black communities from the systemic perils of over-policing, police brutality, misconduct, and harassment, and end the impunity with which officers operate in taking the lives of Black people. Congress must act with bipartisan urgency toward a just society that treasures the lives of all, including changes in policing policy and practices. 

Eight legislative measures “to ensure that police officers live up to their oath to protect and serve” were identified by over 400 organizations including the ELCA in a June 1 letter to congressional leaders. There are federal actions that could have impact. 

QUESTIONS  

• What are you hearing from constituents about the need for policing reform?  
• What policing reform policies do you support and why?  

 

THIS MOMENT IN TIME: Housing and Homelessness 

“God’s love in Jesus Christ does, however, move us to care for homeless people as God cares for all. Christians who have shelter are called to care, called to walk with homeless people in their struggle for a more fulfilling life and for adequate, affordable, and sustainable housing.” – From ELCA social message “Homelessness: A Renewal of Commitment“ 

REMARKS 

The COVID-19 pandemic and its economic repercussions has exacerbated many inequalities in our communities, including access to housing, the risk of eviction and homelessness. Many houses of worship and religious service agencies are involved in sheltering and lifting up our neighbors without homes and would like to see greater investment in and focus on affordable housing.  

Exorbitant housing costs have been a growing crisis long before the pandemic, with nearly 71% of extremely low-income renters paying over half their incomes on housing needs. Black and brown individuals are more likely to be renters or at risk of housing insecurity than their white counterparts, making an equitable housing response a significant matter of racial justice as well. 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 

• With enough resolve, we have the means to end homelessness and close racial housing divisions in our communities. As a national leader, how will you work to make access to housing programs a top priority in Congress and in our national responses to crisis? 

 

THIS MOMENT IN TIME: Migration 

“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…” – From ELCA social message “Human Rights“ 

REMARKS 

In June, the Administration issued a new rule that would severely restrict access to asylum to the U.S. In addition, the Administration is also in the middle of litigation to keep asylum-seeking mothers in detention. We know community-based alternatives to detention is humane and keep everyone’s health as a top priority and that making efforts to address the issues that force many to flee is a better long-term strategy. All of these efforts are putting the wellbeing of people seeking protection at risk. The U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees reported that a blanket measure to restrict asylum seekers and refugees on the basis of public health does not meet international standards and many public health experts also report that there is no public health rationale for effectively ending asylum. Welcoming people seeking safety in our country is faithful work for me and my community. 

QUESTIONS 

• As a member of an influential member of our leadership, how are you making sure the U.S. is honoring international laws and standards in our asylum policy? 
• How are you supporting legislation that makes our asylum system both safer and more accessible for those seeking protection? 
• How are you ensuring that families are not kept in detention or separated in the process of seeking safety in the U.S.?  

 

THIS MOMENT IN TIME: International Aid 

“Healing is restoration of wholeness and unity of body, mind, and spirit. Healing addresses the suffering caused by the disruption of relationships with God, with our neighbors, and with ourselves.” Lutherans can “inform themselves of global health concerns and support global ministries of health.” – from the ELCA social statement Caring for Health: Our Shared Endeavor 

REMARKS 

The U.S. has a rich history of providing humanitarian and development assistance to countries that are 

experiencing humanitarian emergencies and extreme poverty. For example, through these programs the U.S. government is able to provide treatment for HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria, address issues of food insecurity and malnutrition, and provide care for mothers and children. Millions of lives have been saved over the years because of U.S. support. But we cannot stop here now. This work must continue, especially because more people need assistance due to global instability and ever-increasing humanitarian crises. 

The International Affairs budget constitutes just one percent of the federal budget. With so many diverse and complex challenges, we must protect and sustain our development and humanitarian programs to avoid more costly interventions in the future.  

We know 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 can have devastating lifelong consequences for children who survive – reducing their overall health, learning ability and earning potential. 

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? 

 

THIS MOMENT IN TIME: Interconnectivity and inequality when promoting next steps 

“We will examine how environmental damage is influenced by racism, sexism, and classism, and how the environmental crisis in turn exacerbates racial, gender, and class discrimination.” – From ELCA social statement  Caring for Creation 

REMARKS 

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the weaknesses in the U.S. economic, health, and food systems. People of color and people with low wealth are more likely to contract COVID-19, with the death rate among the American Black population being greater than any other ethnic group within the United States. Though not conclusive, a recent American University study appears to make a connection between air pollution and increased rates of COVID-19. People of color are more likely to live in areas where air, water and soil pollutions are more prevalent. The CDC states: “Long-standing systemic health and social inequities have put many people from racial and ethnic minority groups at increased risk of getting sick and dying from COVID-19.” 

The interconnectivity of race, environment, economic, health and food are particularly glaring currently. Numerous bills have been introduced separately in Congress including the most recent Economic Justice Act whose summary states: “Federal underinvestment in communities of color has created systemic disparities that cross nearly every sector…”  

QUESTIONS 

• How does Congress come together in a bipartisan manner in these most challenging times to make concrete steps to pass bipartisan legislation to begin to address the injustices that have been perpetrated against people of color?  
• What actions do you need to see from constituents to make this a priority at the highest level?  

 

---

Reach out to your ELCA state public policy offices in more than 19 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. Please send an In-district Activity Form if you meet with policy makers locally to help us build upon and strengthen one another’s efforts. 

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