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NC Council of Churches

NC Council of Churches

Strength in Unity, Peace through Justice

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Criminal Justice

A Resolution to Change the Cash Bail Bond System

August 8, 2022 By North Carolina Council of Churches

Approved unanimously on June 7, 2022 by the Governing Board of the North Carolina Council of Churches. Considerable empirical evidence demonstrates that the cash bail system is inequitable and ineffective. The cash bail system […]

A Resolution to Change the Cash Bail Bond System

August 8, 2022 by North Carolina Council of Churches

Approved unanimously on June 7, 2022 by the Governing Board of the North Carolina Council of Churches. Considerable empirical evidence demonstrates that the cash bail system is inequitable and ineffective. The cash bail system […]

Filed Under: Issue Statements Tagged With: Cash Bail, Criminal Justice, Racial Justice

Documentary Screening: Wilmington on Fire

July 30, 2019 By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

During both the pre- and post-Civil War eras, lynching was used with impunity by patrols of KKK members to intimidate, terrorize, incarcerate and kill black people. Then as now, unpunished […]

Documentary Screening: Wilmington on Fire

July 30, 2019 by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

During both the pre- and post-Civil War eras, lynching was used with impunity by patrols of KKK members to intimidate, terrorize, incarcerate and kill black people. Then as now, unpunished […]

Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Equality & Reconciliation, Peace, Race/Ethnicity

Raleigh Report – April 29, 2019

April 29, 2019 By George Reed, Former Executive Director

Introduced Bills CRIMINAL JUSTICE HB 834 – Ban the Box would prohibit the state from asking a job applicant about his/her criminal history until that applicant had been selected for […]

Raleigh Report – April 29, 2019

April 29, 2019 by George Reed, Former Executive Director

Introduced Bills CRIMINAL JUSTICE HB 834 – Ban the Box would prohibit the state from asking a job applicant about his/her criminal history until that applicant had been selected for […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Economic Justice, Environment, Good Government, Gun Violence, Public Education

Raleigh Report – April 22, 2019

April 22, 2019 By George Reed, Former Executive Director

INTRODUCED BILLS CRIMINAL JUSTICEHB 781 – Limitations on Use of Solitary Confinementactually contains several items related to prisons: Solitary confinement couldn’t be used for inmates with serious mental illness unless […]

Raleigh Report – April 22, 2019

April 22, 2019 by George Reed, Former Executive Director

INTRODUCED BILLS CRIMINAL JUSTICEHB 781 – Limitations on Use of Solitary Confinementactually contains several items related to prisons: Solitary confinement couldn’t be used for inmates with serious mental illness unless […]

Filed Under: Blog, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Economic Justice, Environment, Good Government, Gun Violence, Immigration, Public Education, Torture

Raleigh Report – April 5, 2019

April 5, 2019 By George Reed, Former Executive Director

INTRODUCED BILLS CRIMINAL JUSTICE/PRISON REFORM HB 460/SB 545 – Fair Chance Hiring would require state agencies to reduce barriers to hiring people with a criminal history. Specific provisions include: Prohibits […]

Raleigh Report – April 5, 2019

April 5, 2019 by George Reed, Former Executive Director

INTRODUCED BILLS CRIMINAL JUSTICE/PRISON REFORM HB 460/SB 545 – Fair Chance Hiring would require state agencies to reduce barriers to hiring people with a criminal history. Specific provisions include: Prohibits […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Economic Justice, Environment, Good Government, Healthcare Reform, Immigration, LGBTQ, Peace, Public Education

Critical Issues Seminar: The Wisdom of Women

March 22, 2018 By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

2018 is shaping up to the be the Year of the Woman. From the halls of government to stages and theaters from coast to coast, from marches and protest to […]

Critical Issues Seminar: The Wisdom of Women

March 22, 2018 by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

2018 is shaping up to the be the Year of the Woman. From the halls of government to stages and theaters from coast to coast, from marches and protest to […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Council News, Criminal Justice, Domestic Violence, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Gender, Healthcare Reform, Public Education, Race/Ethnicity, Worship

On the Hot Seat, Where She Belongs

March 19, 2018 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Ordinary Americans – those of us not allowed to know the secrets of high-level espionage work – at this point find it hard to judge accurately the accomplishments of Gina […]

On the Hot Seat, Where She Belongs

March 19, 2018 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Ordinary Americans – those of us not allowed to know the secrets of high-level espionage work – at this point find it hard to judge accurately the accomplishments of Gina […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Good Government

With Rights at Stake, Judges Stand Tall

February 5, 2018 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The pattern has become familiar – and a welcome pattern it is, even if brought about by the Republican-controlled General Assembly’s relentless abuses of our democratic system. Call it, “Judges […]

With Rights at Stake, Judges Stand Tall

February 5, 2018 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The pattern has become familiar – and a welcome pattern it is, even if brought about by the Republican-controlled General Assembly’s relentless abuses of our democratic system. Call it, “Judges […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Elections

N.C. Judges on Trial

January 4, 2018 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Well, here we go again. If the Republican-led General Assembly in 2017 focused on trying to exert its dominance over a freshly installed Democratic governor, then 2018 could bring the […]

N.C. Judges on Trial

January 4, 2018 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Well, here we go again. If the Republican-led General Assembly in 2017 focused on trying to exert its dominance over a freshly installed Democratic governor, then 2018 could bring the […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Elections, N.C. General Assembly

Defenders of Rights; Defenders of Privilege

September 30, 2017 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

At many levels, Americans are confronting issues of race relations and racial justice with an intensity that echoes the climax of the civil rights movement five decades ago – as […]

Defenders of Rights; Defenders of Privilege

September 30, 2017 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

At many levels, Americans are confronting issues of race relations and racial justice with an intensity that echoes the climax of the civil rights movement five decades ago – as […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Civil Liberties, Criminal Justice, Good Government, N.C. General Assembly, Race/Ethnicity

Time to Take a Knee

September 29, 2017 By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

It has been nearly fourteen months since Colin Kaepernick first knelt during the playing of the Star Spangled Banner prior to the start of his team’s games. The decision not […]

Time to Take a Knee

September 29, 2017 by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

It has been nearly fourteen months since Colin Kaepernick first knelt during the playing of the Star Spangled Banner prior to the start of his team’s games. The decision not […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Civil Discourse, Criminal Justice, Human Rights, Race/Ethnicity, Religion & Society, Worship

Rights Advocacy At Risk

August 3, 2017 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The optics, as they say, are terrible. But in a state whose motto is “To Be Rather Than to Seem,” it’s even more important to look at the substance. And […]

Rights Advocacy At Risk

August 3, 2017 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The optics, as they say, are terrible. But in a state whose motto is “To Be Rather Than to Seem,” it’s even more important to look at the substance. And […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Civil Liberties, Criminal Justice, Economic Justice, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Fracking, Good Government, LGBTQ, N.C. General Assembly, Public Education, Race/Ethnicity

Police Brutality is not a Joking Matter

August 3, 2017 By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

By Andrew Hudgins, NCCC Program Associate for Operations, for The Resistance Prays News: In a speech delivered to law enforcement officers last week, President Trump seemed to endorse police brutality […]

Police Brutality is not a Joking Matter

August 3, 2017 by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

By Andrew Hudgins, NCCC Program Associate for Operations, for The Resistance Prays News: In a speech delivered to law enforcement officers last week, President Trump seemed to endorse police brutality […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Civil Liberties, Criminal Justice, Good Government, Human Rights, Peace, Worship

Action Alert: May 31, 2017 — GA May Act on Guns

May 30, 2017 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

As was feared, some members of the General Assembly may be bringing back legislation that would roll back existing gun safety laws. A version of the previously introduced H.B. 746 […]

Action Alert: May 31, 2017 — GA May Act on Guns

May 30, 2017 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

As was feared, some members of the General Assembly may be bringing back legislation that would roll back existing gun safety laws. A version of the previously introduced H.B. 746 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Action Alert, Children & Youth, Criminal Justice, Domestic Violence, Good Government, Gun Violence, N.C. General Assembly, Peace

For Children, It’s Good News and Bad News from the GA

May 23, 2017 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Last week was a mixed bag for children and youth in terms of activity at the General Assembly. Among accomplishments was further progress on raising the age at which juveniles […]

For Children, It’s Good News and Bad News from the GA

May 23, 2017 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Last week was a mixed bag for children and youth in terms of activity at the General Assembly. Among accomplishments was further progress on raising the age at which juveniles […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Children & Youth, Criminal Justice, Food, N.C. General Assembly, State Budget

2017 Stand Up Sabbath — June 16-18

May 15, 2017 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

About this time two years ago, I accepted the offer to become the next Executive Director of the NC Council of Churches. We agreed that I would spend two weeks […]

2017 Stand Up Sabbath — June 16-18

May 15, 2017 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

About this time two years ago, I accepted the offer to become the next Executive Director of the NC Council of Churches. We agreed that I would spend two weeks […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Children & Youth, Council News, Criminal Justice, Good Government, Gun Violence, Interfaith, Mental Health, N.C. General Assembly, Peace, Religion & Society, Worship

Raleigh Report — May 10, 2017

May 11, 2017 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director [For more information on bills, including committee referrals and re-referrals, texts of bills, procedural histories, and recorded votes, go to the General Assembly website […]

Raleigh Report — May 10, 2017

May 11, 2017 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director [For more information on bills, including committee referrals and re-referrals, texts of bills, procedural histories, and recorded votes, go to the General Assembly website […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Children & Youth, Criminal Justice, Elections, Environment, Food, Health, Healthcare Reform, Human Rights, Hunger, N.C. General Assembly, Organized Labor, Public Education, State Budget

Retiring Judge Stands Tall

April 27, 2017 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

As Shakespeare’s King Lear famously put it, “How sharper than a serpent’s tooth it is to have a thankless child.” Top Republicans in the N.C. General Assembly now might well […]

Retiring Judge Stands Tall

April 27, 2017 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

As Shakespeare’s King Lear famously put it, “How sharper than a serpent’s tooth it is to have a thankless child.” Top Republicans in the N.C. General Assembly now might well […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Elections, Good Government, N.C. General Assembly

Raleigh Report — April 26, 2017

April 27, 2017 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director [The deadlines for the introduction of most new bills have now passed, and we are in Crossover Week. By the end of the week, […]

Raleigh Report — April 26, 2017

April 27, 2017 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director [The deadlines for the introduction of most new bills have now passed, and we are in Crossover Week. By the end of the week, […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Children & Youth, Criminal Justice, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Farmworkers, Gun Violence, Health, Healthcare Reform, Human Rights, Immigration, Organized Labor, Public Education

Guns on Campus Are a Bad Idea

April 25, 2017 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Two of the most volatile elements on a college campus are alcohol and hormones. These ingredients contribute to sexual assault (23.1 percent of female and 5.4 percent of male undergraduates), […]

Guns on Campus Are a Bad Idea

April 25, 2017 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Two of the most volatile elements on a college campus are alcohol and hormones. These ingredients contribute to sexual assault (23.1 percent of female and 5.4 percent of male undergraduates), […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Children & Youth, Criminal Justice, Good Government, Gun Violence, Mental Health, N.C. General Assembly, Public Education

Faith Leaders: Make Yourselves Heard on Juvenile Justice

April 24, 2017 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

A change in New York law earlier this month leaves North Carolina alone in a place 49 other states have found to be indefensible: only NC automatically prosecutes 16- and […]

Faith Leaders: Make Yourselves Heard on Juvenile Justice

April 24, 2017 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

A change in New York law earlier this month leaves North Carolina alone in a place 49 other states have found to be indefensible: only NC automatically prosecutes 16- and […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Children & Youth, Criminal Justice, Good Government, N.C. General Assembly, Peace

SB 145 Debate Not in Accordance with Matthew 25

April 18, 2017 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Last week, the Senate Judiciary Committee of the North Carolina General Assembly discussed SB 145, an anti-immigrant bill that would expand the 287g program, ​ thereby allowing local law enforcement to […]

SB 145 Debate Not in Accordance with Matthew 25

April 18, 2017 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Last week, the Senate Judiciary Committee of the North Carolina General Assembly discussed SB 145, an anti-immigrant bill that would expand the 287g program, ​ thereby allowing local law enforcement to […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Equality & Reconciliation, Farmworkers, Good Government, Human Rights, Immigration, N.C. General Assembly, Race/Ethnicity

Raleigh Report — April 17, 2017

April 17, 2017 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills BUDGET AND TAXES H 540, Teachers & State Employees Pay Raise, would give annual raises of $2,400 to teachers and other […]

Raleigh Report — April 17, 2017

April 17, 2017 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills BUDGET AND TAXES H 540, Teachers & State Employees Pay Raise, would give annual raises of $2,400 to teachers and other […]

Filed Under: Blog, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Children & Youth, Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Gun Violence, Health, Healthcare Reform, Human Rights, People with Disabilities, Public Education, Rural Life, State Budget, Taxes

Raleigh Report — April 10, 2017

April 10, 2017 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Bills are being introduced at a rapid pace as the Senate’s deadline for new bills has passed and the House’s deadline on non-money approaches. […]

Raleigh Report — April 10, 2017

April 10, 2017 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Bills are being introduced at a rapid pace as the Senate’s deadline for new bills has passed and the House’s deadline on non-money approaches. […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Children & Youth, Criminal Justice, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Gun Violence, Health, Healthcare Reform, Human Rights, Immigration, Mental Health, N.C. General Assembly, People with Disabilities, Public Education, Taxes

Shock Waves from High Court ‘Nuke’

April 8, 2017 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Our national politics are in an ugly place, driven by an accelerating cycle of suspicion, accusation, blame, recrimination and retaliation. The circumstances by which Neil Gorsuch takes office as a […]

Shock Waves from High Court ‘Nuke’

April 8, 2017 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Our national politics are in an ugly place, driven by an accelerating cycle of suspicion, accusation, blame, recrimination and retaliation. The circumstances by which Neil Gorsuch takes office as a […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Civil Discourse, Civil Liberties, Criminal Justice, Elections, Good Government

GOP Mantra: Party Hearty!

March 24, 2017 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

They might not care for the image, but Republican members of the N.C. General Assembly act as though they were drunk with power. They have the votes not merely to […]

GOP Mantra: Party Hearty!

March 24, 2017 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

They might not care for the image, but Republican members of the N.C. General Assembly act as though they were drunk with power. They have the votes not merely to […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Domestic Violence, Elections, Equality & Reconciliation, Good Government, Healthcare Reform, Interfaith, N.C. General Assembly, Public Education

Raleigh Report — March 13, 2017

March 14, 2017 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills CRIMINAL AND JUVENILE JUSTICE H 233, Ban the Box, would govern how state and local governments could use criminal histories in […]

Raleigh Report — March 13, 2017

March 14, 2017 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills CRIMINAL AND JUVENILE JUSTICE H 233, Ban the Box, would govern how state and local governments could use criminal histories in […]

Filed Under: Blog, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, Human Rights, Immigration, LGBTQ, Public Education

Raleigh Report — March 7, 2017

March 7, 2017 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills BUDGET AND TAXES S 147, Reenact School Sales Tax Holiday. The school sales tax holiday was a three-day weekend shortly before […]

Raleigh Report — March 7, 2017

March 7, 2017 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills BUDGET AND TAXES S 147, Reenact School Sales Tax Holiday. The school sales tax holiday was a three-day weekend shortly before […]

Filed Under: Blog, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Children & Youth, Criminal Justice, Elections, Good Government, Gun Violence, Immigration, N.C. General Assembly, State Budget, Taxes

Whispers and Shouts

February 11, 2017 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Sometimes God whispers. Whether through hymns or homilies or kids dancing their way down the aisle to children’s chapel. Sometimes God shouts. Through the amplified suffering of others, known or […]

Whispers and Shouts

February 11, 2017 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Sometimes God whispers. Whether through hymns or homilies or kids dancing their way down the aisle to children’s chapel. Sometimes God shouts. Through the amplified suffering of others, known or […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Action Alert, Children & Youth, Christian Unity, Civil Liberties, Council News, Criminal Justice, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Farmworkers, Fracking, Good Government, Gun Violence, Healthcare Reform, Housing, Immigration, Interfaith, LGBTQ, Living Wage, Mental Health, Moral Mondays, N.C. General Assembly, Organized Labor, Peace, People with Disabilities, Prophetic Voice, Public Education, Race/Ethnicity, Religion & Society, Rural Life, State Budget

Big Stakes in High Court Pick

February 1, 2017 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Compared with some of the provocatively, even outrageously unsuited people whom President Trump has chosen for high office, Neil Gorsuch barely moves the needle. But that’s not to say Americans […]

Big Stakes in High Court Pick

February 1, 2017 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Compared with some of the provocatively, even outrageously unsuited people whom President Trump has chosen for high office, Neil Gorsuch barely moves the needle. But that’s not to say Americans […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Good Government, Healthcare Reform, Human Rights, Immigration, LGBTQ, N.C. General Assembly, Race/Ethnicity

Getting Back to Our Normal: Some Suggestions for the Long Haul

January 27, 2017 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Our friend Rob Schofield over at Policy Watch wrote a column on Tuesday that was as vitally important in its truth-telling as it was hard to read for the future […]

Getting Back to Our Normal: Some Suggestions for the Long Haul

January 27, 2017 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Our friend Rob Schofield over at Policy Watch wrote a column on Tuesday that was as vitally important in its truth-telling as it was hard to read for the future […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Children & Youth, Christian Unity, Civil Discourse, Civil Liberties, Criminal Justice, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Farmworkers, Food, Fracking, Gender, Good Government, Gun Violence, Health, Housing, Human Rights, Hunger, Immigration, Interfaith, LGBTQ, Living Wage, Mental Health, N.C. General Assembly, Organized Labor, Peace, Prophetic Voice, Public Education, Race/Ethnicity, Religion & Society, Rural Life, Taxes

Let’s Keep Marching

January 23, 2017 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

At another time in my life, I would not have spent most of Saturday occupying my tiny square of personal space in the heart of Washington DC, literally shoulder to […]

Let’s Keep Marching

January 23, 2017 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

At another time in my life, I would not have spent most of Saturday occupying my tiny square of personal space in the heart of Washington DC, literally shoulder to […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Children & Youth, Christian Unity, Civil Discourse, Civil Liberties, Criminal Justice, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Food, Fracking, Good Government, Gun Violence, Health, Healthcare Reform, Housing, Human Rights, Hunger, Immigration, Interfaith, LGBTQ, Living Wage, Mental Health, Organized Labor, Peace, People with Disabilities, Prophetic Voice, Public Education, Race/Ethnicity, Religion & Society, Rural Life

Speak Out on Cabinet Nominees

January 10, 2017 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Groups at the state and national level continue to mobilize around concerns about President-Elect Donald Trump’s stated policy objectives and choices for cabinet posts. The NC NAACP, Interfaith Power & […]

Speak Out on Cabinet Nominees

January 10, 2017 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Groups at the state and national level continue to mobilize around concerns about President-Elect Donald Trump’s stated policy objectives and choices for cabinet posts. The NC NAACP, Interfaith Power & […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Action Alert, Children & Youth, Civil Liberties, Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Domestic Violence, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Fracking, Good Government, Gun Violence, Health, Healthcare Reform, Human Rights, Hunger, Immigration, Interfaith, LGBTQ, Living Wage, Mental Health, Organized Labor, Peace, People with Disabilities, Public Education, Race/Ethnicity, Religion & Society, Rural Life, Substance Abuse

Advent Guide Focuses on Peace

November 10, 2016 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The NC Council of Churches has never taken peace for granted. Indeed, along with our work in opposition to violence, there has long been the recognition that peace manifests itself […]

Advent Guide Focuses on Peace

November 10, 2016 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The NC Council of Churches has never taken peace for granted. Indeed, along with our work in opposition to violence, there has long been the recognition that peace manifests itself […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Christian Unity, Civil Discourse, Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Domestic Violence, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Farmworkers, Food, Good Government, Gun Violence, Healthcare Reform, Housing, Hunger, Immigration, Interfaith, LGBTQ, Living Wage, Mental Health, Organized Labor, Peace, People with Disabilities, Public Education, Religion & Society, Rural Life, State Budget, Taxes, Worship

Speak Peace

September 25, 2016 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks delivered on September 21 by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland at a press conference marking the International Day of Peace. Words make a world. The words we use become embedded […]

Speak Peace

September 25, 2016 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks delivered on September 21 by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland at a press conference marking the International Day of Peace. Words make a world. The words we use become embedded […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Domestic Violence, Gun Violence, Interfaith, Peace, Religion & Society

North Carolina Passes a Decade with No Executions

August 18, 2016 By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Many in our state are celebrating 10 years of no executions and putting out a call for no more killings in our name.  Patrick O’Neil a leading abolitionist in our […]

North Carolina Passes a Decade with No Executions

August 18, 2016 by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Many in our state are celebrating 10 years of no executions and putting out a call for no more killings in our name.  Patrick O’Neil a leading abolitionist in our […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Human Rights, Race/Ethnicity

Gun Violence Prevention: New Web Page, Stand Up Sabbath

June 1, 2016 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

NC advocates in orange at the General Assembly last year. Photo provided by Beth Messersmith, NC Campaign Director, MomsRising. Less than a month ago, our middle son sat with his classmates under […]

Gun Violence Prevention: New Web Page, Stand Up Sabbath

June 1, 2016 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

NC advocates in orange at the General Assembly last year. Photo provided by Beth Messersmith, NC Campaign Director, MomsRising. Less than a month ago, our middle son sat with his classmates under […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Children & Youth, Council News, Criminal Justice, Gun Violence, Mental Health, N.C. General Assembly, Prophetic Voice, Religion & Society, Worship

Raleigh Report: Weekly Update, May 25, 2016

May 25, 2016 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The update is compiled on a volunteer basis by George Reed, the Council’s retired executive director. Weekly Update May 25, 2016 (Legislators’ identifications are listed only the first time they […]

Raleigh Report: Weekly Update, May 25, 2016

May 25, 2016 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The update is compiled on a volunteer basis by George Reed, the Council’s retired executive director. Weekly Update May 25, 2016 (Legislators’ identifications are listed only the first time they […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Children & Youth, Criminal Justice, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Good Government, Living Wage, N.C. General Assembly, Public Education

2016 Critical Issues Seminar — Register for Workshops

April 5, 2016 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Registration for 2016 Critical Issues Seminar workshops is now available online. If you have not yet registered, please use the form below to do so and include your selection for […]

2016 Critical Issues Seminar — Register for Workshops

April 5, 2016 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Registration for 2016 Critical Issues Seminar workshops is now available online. If you have not yet registered, please use the form below to do so and include your selection for […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Children & Youth, Criminal Justice, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, Housing, Immigration, Interfaith, Prophetic Voice, Race/Ethnicity

Signs of Hope After Easter

April 3, 2016 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

I do not believe that I am the only one who feels a little hopeless right now. Members of the news media bombard us with news of​ the attack on Brussels, […]

Signs of Hope After Easter

April 3, 2016 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

I do not believe that I am the only one who feels a little hopeless right now. Members of the news media bombard us with news of​ the attack on Brussels, […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Economic Justice, Equality & Reconciliation, Farmworkers, Human Rights, Immigration, Living Wage, Race/Ethnicity, Religion & Society

Legislators’ High-Court Switcheroo

February 29, 2016 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

After a five-year exercise in seeking to put a lasting stamp on North Carolina government and policy, the General Assembly’s majority Republicans have provoked a parade of lawsuits challenging a […]

Legislators’ High-Court Switcheroo

February 29, 2016 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

After a five-year exercise in seeking to put a lasting stamp on North Carolina government and policy, the General Assembly’s majority Republicans have provoked a parade of lawsuits challenging a […]

Filed Under: Blog, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Equality & Reconciliation, Good Government, N.C. General Assembly

Critical Issues Seminar — Registration Now Open

February 9, 2016 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Join us for the Council’s 2016 Critical Issues Seminar, focused on Race, Power, and Privilege, on Saturday, April 23 at St. Matthew United Methodist Church, 600 East Florida Street, Greensboro. […]

Critical Issues Seminar — Registration Now Open

February 9, 2016 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Join us for the Council’s 2016 Critical Issues Seminar, focused on Race, Power, and Privilege, on Saturday, April 23 at St. Matthew United Methodist Church, 600 East Florida Street, Greensboro. […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Children & Youth, Criminal Justice, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Good Government, Healthcare Reform, Housing, Immigration, Interfaith, Prophetic Voice, Public Education, Race/Ethnicity

Tenth Annual HKonJ is February 13

February 6, 2016 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Join the NAACP, NC Council of Churches, and other coalition partners for the Tenth Annual Moral March on Raleigh. Historic Thousands on Jones Street 2016 takes place on Saturday, February 13; […]

Tenth Annual HKonJ is February 13

February 6, 2016 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Join the NAACP, NC Council of Churches, and other coalition partners for the Tenth Annual Moral March on Raleigh. Historic Thousands on Jones Street 2016 takes place on Saturday, February 13; […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Action Alert, Children & Youth, Criminal Justice, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Gender, Good Government, Gun Violence, Healthcare Reform, Housing, Immigration, Interfaith, LGBTQ, Living Wage, Moral Mondays, N.C. General Assembly, Organized Labor, Peace, Prophetic Voice, Public Education, Race/Ethnicity, Religion & Society, State Budget, Taxes

2015: Our Conservatives Weren’t Kidding

December 31, 2015 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

For those of us who want to see North Carolina governed with the interests of all its residents in mind – not mainly the interests of the well-off and privileged […]

2015: Our Conservatives Weren’t Kidding

December 31, 2015 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

For those of us who want to see North Carolina governed with the interests of all its residents in mind – not mainly the interests of the well-off and privileged […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Good Government, Gun Violence, Healthcare Reform, N.C. General Assembly, Prophetic Voice, Public Education, Race/Ethnicity, State Budget, Taxes

Interfaith Gun Violence Prevention Sabbath Weekend, December 10-14

November 23, 2015 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Faiths United Against Gun Violence and Washington National Cathedral are working together to have congregations and faith communities across the U.S. recognize December 10 through 14 as Gun Violence Prevention […]

Interfaith Gun Violence Prevention Sabbath Weekend, December 10-14

November 23, 2015 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Faiths United Against Gun Violence and Washington National Cathedral are working together to have congregations and faith communities across the U.S. recognize December 10 through 14 as Gun Violence Prevention […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Gun Violence

What Does it Mean to Wear Ashes in Protest?

February 24, 2015 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Ash Wednesday is the first day of the season of Lent. In liturgical churches, it begins with a vivid reminder of death. As the words “for dust you are and […]

What Does it Mean to Wear Ashes in Protest?

February 24, 2015 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Ash Wednesday is the first day of the season of Lent. In liturgical churches, it begins with a vivid reminder of death. As the words “for dust you are and […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Human Rights, Peace, Worship

Council Post-Election Road Shows to Charlotte and Asheville

November 7, 2014 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

What do Tuesday’s elections mean for North Carolina? How can people of faith in the state continue to affect positive change? Join the staff of the North Carolina Council of […]

Council Post-Election Road Shows to Charlotte and Asheville

November 7, 2014 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

What do Tuesday’s elections mean for North Carolina? How can people of faith in the state continue to affect positive change? Join the staff of the North Carolina Council of […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Children & Youth, Council News, Criminal Justice, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Farmworkers, Food, Fracking, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, Housing, Hunger, Immigration, Interfaith, LGBTQ, Living Wage, N.C. General Assembly, Prophetic Voice, Public Education, Race/Ethnicity, Rural Life, State Budget, Taxes

Judgeships Crowd Ballot with Bubbles

October 24, 2014 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

For people who enjoy voting, North Carolina’s upcoming election promises to be a real treat. Federal, state and local offices are on the ballot. There’s no more straight-ticket voting for […]

Judgeships Crowd Ballot with Bubbles

October 24, 2014 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

For people who enjoy voting, North Carolina’s upcoming election promises to be a real treat. Federal, state and local offices are on the ballot. There’s no more straight-ticket voting for […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Civil Liberties, Criminal Justice, Elections

From Broken Communities to Beloved Communities

August 22, 2014 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

The recent trial of Alamance County Sheriff Andrew Johnson has focused on alleged profiling abuses against Latinos. He is accused of detaining and arresting Latino drivers without probable cause. During the […]

From Broken Communities to Beloved Communities

August 22, 2014 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

The recent trial of Alamance County Sheriff Andrew Johnson has focused on alleged profiling abuses against Latinos. He is accused of detaining and arresting Latino drivers without probable cause. During the […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Civil Discourse, Criminal Justice, Equality & Reconciliation, Human Rights, Immigration, Peace, Race/Ethnicity

Theological Conference on Public Policy — April 12

March 20, 2014 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The call to people of faith through Moral Mondays continues to be felt. On April 12, a daylong conference takes place at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 7000 Creedmoor Road, Raleigh. […]

Theological Conference on Public Policy — April 12

March 20, 2014 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The call to people of faith through Moral Mondays continues to be felt. On April 12, a daylong conference takes place at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 7000 Creedmoor Road, Raleigh. […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Children & Youth, Christian Unity, Criminal Justice, Economic Justice, Elections, Public Education

Worship Resources on the Death Penalty

March 19, 2014 By chris

Date: Good Friday - Apr. 18, 2014
Topic: The Death Penalty
Focus Text: John 18:1-19:42
Because Christians have come to understand the cross as a rich symbol of all that God has accomplished in Jesus it is sometimes easy to forget that the symbol of our faith is (or was) also an instrument of torture and execution (it is certainly more than that, but not less). The details of Jesus’ arrest, trial, and crucifixion are a reminder that Jesus did in fact receive a form of capital punishment. As ethicist Glen Stassen writes, “Christians who remember that their Lord was unjustly and cruelly given the death penalty have a hard time being enthusiastic about imposing the death penalty on others.”

Worship Resources on the Death Penalty

March 19, 2014 by chris

Date: Good Friday – Apr. 18, 2014
Topic: The Death Penalty
Focus Text: John 18:1-19:42
Because Christians have come to understand the cross as a rich symbol of all that God has accomplished in Jesus it is sometimes easy to forget that the symbol of our faith is (or was) also an instrument of torture and execution (it is certainly more than that, but not less). The details of Jesus’ arrest, trial, and crucifixion are a reminder that Jesus did in fact receive a form of capital punishment. As ethicist Glen Stassen writes, “Christians who remember that their Lord was unjustly and cruelly given the death penalty have a hard time being enthusiastic about imposing the death penalty on others.”

Filed Under: Lectionary Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Race/Ethnicity

Worship Resources on Restorative Justice

March 10, 2014 By chris

Date: 5th Sunday in Lent - Apr. 6, 2014
Topic: Restorative Justice
Focus Text: Psalm 130
If there were such a thing as a six o’clock news cast in the first century, Jesus the felon would appear walking down the street escorted by the police of his day—handcuffed—if you will. The announcer would tell us that the vandal who destroyed Temple property and repeatedly broke Jewish laws; the welfare king who relied on the generosity of unsuspecting middle class women to promote his suspicious doctrine; the man known to frequent the establishments of tax collectors and prostitutes—and claimed to be God, had finally been apprehended and was awaiting sentencing. Yes, in the minds of this first century felon’s accusers, he was little more than a common criminal.

Worship Resources on Restorative Justice

March 10, 2014 by chris

Date: 5th Sunday in Lent – Apr. 6, 2014
Topic: Restorative Justice
Focus Text: Psalm 130
If there were such a thing as a six o’clock news cast in the first century, Jesus the felon would appear walking down the street escorted by the police of his day—handcuffed—if you will. The announcer would tell us that the vandal who destroyed Temple property and repeatedly broke Jewish laws; the welfare king who relied on the generosity of unsuspecting middle class women to promote his suspicious doctrine; the man known to frequent the establishments of tax collectors and prostitutes—and claimed to be God, had finally been apprehended and was awaiting sentencing. Yes, in the minds of this first century felon’s accusers, he was little more than a common criminal.

Filed Under: Blog, Lectionary Tagged With: Criminal Justice

Photos from HKonJ 2014

February 22, 2014 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council helped organize a Service of Repentance and Consecration in front of the General Assembly Building prior to the Moral March and HKonJ People’s Assembly held earlier this month in Raleigh. […]

Photos from HKonJ 2014

February 22, 2014 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council helped organize a Service of Repentance and Consecration in front of the General Assembly Building prior to the Moral March and HKonJ People’s Assembly held earlier this month in Raleigh. […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Children & Youth, Criminal Justice, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Fracking, Good Government, Healthcare Reform, Hunger, Immigration, Interfaith, Mental Health, Moral Mondays, N.C. General Assembly, Prophetic Voice, Public Education, State Budget, Taxes

HKonJ 2014 — Moral March and People’s Assembly

February 8, 2014 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

A cross-section of North Carolinians and progressives from other states flooded downtown Raleigh on Saturday as part of HKonJ 2014. Longtime activists from across the state walked with college students, parents […]

HKonJ 2014 — Moral March and People’s Assembly

February 8, 2014 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

A cross-section of North Carolinians and progressives from other states flooded downtown Raleigh on Saturday as part of HKonJ 2014. Longtime activists from across the state walked with college students, parents […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Children & Youth, Criminal Justice, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Fracking, Gender, Good Government, Gun Violence, Health, Housing, Hunger, Immigration, Interfaith, LGBTQ, Living Wage, Mental Health, Moral Mondays, N.C. General Assembly, Public Education, Religion & Society, State Budget, Taxes

Pray with Us on Friday, March with Us on Saturday

February 6, 2014 By George Reed, Former Executive Director

Join the NC NAACP, the North Carolina Council of Churches, and coalition partners for this weekend’s Moral March on Raleigh and HKonJ People’s Assembly. Events include: A Mass Meeting and […]

Pray with Us on Friday, March with Us on Saturday

February 6, 2014 by George Reed, Former Executive Director

Join the NC NAACP, the North Carolina Council of Churches, and coalition partners for this weekend’s Moral March on Raleigh and HKonJ People’s Assembly. Events include: A Mass Meeting and […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Christian Unity, Criminal Justice, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Good Government, Gun Violence, Health, Healthcare Reform, Housing, Immigration, Interfaith, LGBTQ, Moral Mondays, N.C. General Assembly, Prophetic Voice, Public Education, Religion & Society, State Budget, Taxes

HKonJ 2014 — Saturday, February 8

January 12, 2014 By George Reed, Former Executive Director

It’s now just four weeks until this year’s HKonJ People’s Assembly. There is nothing more important for people of faith to do this winter as we work for prophetic social justice than […]

HKonJ 2014 — Saturday, February 8

January 12, 2014 by George Reed, Former Executive Director

It’s now just four weeks until this year’s HKonJ People’s Assembly. There is nothing more important for people of faith to do this winter as we work for prophetic social justice than […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Civil Liberties, Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Fracking, Good Government, Gun Violence, Healthcare Reform, Human Rights, Immigration, Interfaith, LGBTQ, Living Wage, Mental Health, Moral Mondays, N.C. General Assembly, Prophetic Voice, Public Education, Race/Ethnicity, Religion & Society, State Budget, Taxes

The Liberal Protest that Would Shock the Right: Moral Monday

August 4, 2013 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Salon

Every week prayers and gospel songs infuse the air and participants offer blessings to the latest batch of 100 or so activists entering the Raleigh General Assembly building to commit civil disobedience. If you’re not from here, it may all seem a little counter-intuitive: A movement for inclusive and just secular governance that is deeply inflected with Christian ethics and arguments.

The Liberal Protest that Would Shock the Right: Moral Monday

August 4, 2013 Leave a Comment

Salon

Every week prayers and gospel songs infuse the air and participants offer blessings to the latest batch of 100 or so activists entering the Raleigh General Assembly building to commit civil disobedience. If you’re not from here, it may all seem a little counter-intuitive: A movement for inclusive and just secular governance that is deeply inflected with Christian ethics and arguments.

Filed Under: NCCC in the News Tagged With: Children & Youth, Criminal Justice, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Fracking, Good Government, Healthcare Reform, Interfaith, Moral Mondays, N.C. General Assembly, Organized Labor, Prophetic Voice, Public Education, State Budget

Judges and Campaign Cash

June 19, 2013 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The law setting up the North Carolina Public Campaign Fund is clear about its goals. Chapter 163, Article 22D of the General Statutes aims “to ensure the fairness of democratic […]

Judges and Campaign Cash

June 19, 2013 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The law setting up the North Carolina Public Campaign Fund is clear about its goals. Chapter 163, Article 22D of the General Statutes aims “to ensure the fairness of democratic […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Elections, State Budget

Moral Mondays Are Home-Grown

June 17, 2013 By George Reed, Former Executive Director

“Outside agitators.” The very term reminds those of us of a certain age of the Civil Rights Movement, when anybody coming from outside the South to suggest that the South’s […]

Moral Mondays Are Home-Grown

June 17, 2013 by George Reed, Former Executive Director

“Outside agitators.” The very term reminds those of us of a certain age of the Civil Rights Movement, when anybody coming from outside the South to suggest that the South’s […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Civil Discourse, Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Fracking, Good Government, Healthcare Reform, Immigration, Moral Mondays, Prophetic Voice, Public Education, Religion & Society, State Budget, Taxes

Faith Leaders Voice Support for Moral Mondays

June 11, 2013 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Faith leaders from across the state and from different traditions continue to speak out in support of Moral Mondays, the weekly NC NAACP-led demonstrations in Raleigh. Within days of each […]

Faith Leaders Voice Support for Moral Mondays

June 11, 2013 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Faith leaders from across the state and from different traditions continue to speak out in support of Moral Mondays, the weekly NC NAACP-led demonstrations in Raleigh. Within days of each […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Children & Youth, Civil Discourse, Civil Liberties, Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Fracking, Good Government, Healthcare Reform, Interfaith, Moral Mondays, Prophetic Voice, Public Education, Religion & Society, State Budget, Taxes

Tax Cuts’ Painful Costs

June 8, 2013 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

“Moral Monday” demonstrators at the General Assembly bring a wide range of grievances. They charge the legislature’s Republican majorities with failing to uphold the interests of North Carolinians who count […]

Tax Cuts’ Painful Costs

June 8, 2013 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

“Moral Monday” demonstrators at the General Assembly bring a wide range of grievances. They charge the legislature’s Republican majorities with failing to uphold the interests of North Carolinians who count […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Good Government, Public Education, Race/Ethnicity, Taxes

NC NAACP Launches Statewide Tour

May 29, 2013 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The North Carolina NAACP, building on four weeks of Moral Monday demonstrations, has launched a 25-city statewide tour reaching from Elizabeth City to Hendersonville. The Forward Together Movement Local Organizing […]

NC NAACP Launches Statewide Tour

May 29, 2013 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The North Carolina NAACP, building on four weeks of Moral Monday demonstrations, has launched a 25-city statewide tour reaching from Elizabeth City to Hendersonville. The Forward Together Movement Local Organizing […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Children & Youth, Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Good Government, Immigration, Living Wage, Moral Mondays, Public Education, State Budget, Taxes

Jailhouse Justice

May 28, 2013 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

For all the Christian emphasis on forgiveness and redemption, many if not most churchgoers likely are comfortable with the old maxim, “Do the crime, do the time.” Law-breaking has its […]

Jailhouse Justice

May 28, 2013 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

For all the Christian emphasis on forgiveness and redemption, many if not most churchgoers likely are comfortable with the old maxim, “Do the crime, do the time.” Law-breaking has its […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Civil Liberties, Criminal Justice, Good Government, Human Rights, State Budget

Moral Mondays Continue in June

May 25, 2013 By George Reed, Former Executive Director

Moral Mondays continue (though they will take the day off on Memorial Day). This week’s protest had the largest number of participants (around 600) and of people taking part in […]

Moral Mondays Continue in June

May 25, 2013 by George Reed, Former Executive Director

Moral Mondays continue (though they will take the day off on Memorial Day). This week’s protest had the largest number of participants (around 600) and of people taking part in […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Children & Youth, Civil Discourse, Civil Liberties, Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Farmworkers, Good Government, Immigration, Moral Mondays, Public Education, State Budget, Taxes

Moral Mondays – Clergy Issued Special Invitation for May 20

May 15, 2013 By George Reed, Former Executive Director

As many of you already know, Rev. William Barber and the state NAACP are organizing weekly protests at the General Assembly, voicing opposition to the direction our state is being […]

Moral Mondays – Clergy Issued Special Invitation for May 20

May 15, 2013 by George Reed, Former Executive Director

As many of you already know, Rev. William Barber and the state NAACP are organizing weekly protests at the General Assembly, voicing opposition to the direction our state is being […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Children & Youth, Civil Discourse, Civil Liberties, Criminal Justice, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Fracking, Good Government, Human Rights, Interfaith, Living Wage, Mental Health, Moral Mondays, Prophetic Voice, Public Education, Religion & Society, Taxes

Deadlines Pass – Raleigh Report April 22, 2013

April 22, 2013 By George Reed, Former Executive Director

With the passage of deadlines for the introduction of most bills, there’s been a flurry of new legislation. This issue of Raleigh Report will cover some of these new bills, with others to come in the next issue.

Deadlines Pass – Raleigh Report April 22, 2013

April 22, 2013 by George Reed, Former Executive Director

With the passage of deadlines for the introduction of most bills, there’s been a flurry of new legislation. This issue of Raleigh Report will cover some of these new bills, with others to come in the next issue.

Filed Under: Raleigh Report Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Economic Justice, Gun Violence, Health, Healthcare Reform, State Budget

Free lectionary materials - Public Accountability

Execution Foes at Legislature

April 9, 2013 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

A misguided push in the General Assembly to get capital punishment back on track is generating a well-deserved pushback. People of Faith Against the Death Penalty, a group that for […]

Execution Foes at Legislature

April 9, 2013 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Free lectionary materials - Public Accountability

A misguided push in the General Assembly to get capital punishment back on track is generating a well-deserved pushback. People of Faith Against the Death Penalty, a group that for […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Equality & Reconciliation, Good Government, Human Rights, Interfaith, Race/Ethnicity, Religion & Society

Interfaith Call-in Day to Prevent Gun Violence April 9

April 8, 2013 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The National Council of Churches, Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism, and others are sponsoring an Interfaith Call-in Day to ensure that the voices of faithful Americans are heard throughout […]

Interfaith Call-in Day to Prevent Gun Violence April 9

April 8, 2013 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The National Council of Churches, Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism, and others are sponsoring an Interfaith Call-in Day to ensure that the voices of faithful Americans are heard throughout […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Children & Youth, Civil Liberties, Criminal Justice, Domestic Violence, Good Government, Gun Violence, Human Rights, Mental Health, Religion & Society

U.S. Senate Expected to Take Up Gun Legislation

April 2, 2013 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Next week, the United States Senate is expected to take up legislation intended to curb gun violence. Given recent mass atrocities at the hands of gunmen along with the daily loss […]

U.S. Senate Expected to Take Up Gun Legislation

April 2, 2013 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Next week, the United States Senate is expected to take up legislation intended to curb gun violence. Given recent mass atrocities at the hands of gunmen along with the daily loss […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Children & Youth, Civil Discourse, Civil Liberties, Criminal Justice, Domestic Violence, Equality & Reconciliation, Good Government, Gun Violence, Peace, Prophetic Voice, Religion & Society

Raleigh Report – February 25, 2013

February 25, 2013 By George Reed, Former Executive Director

Attacks on Struggling North Carolinians Advance Medicaid Coverage Unemployment Insurance Earned Income Tax Credit Fracking Moratorium Gun Violence Raise the Age Refusing to Extend Medicaid Coverage SB 4, which would […]

Raleigh Report – February 25, 2013

February 25, 2013 by George Reed, Former Executive Director

Attacks on Struggling North Carolinians Advance Medicaid Coverage Unemployment Insurance Earned Income Tax Credit Fracking Moratorium Gun Violence Raise the Age Refusing to Extend Medicaid Coverage SB 4, which would […]

Filed Under: Raleigh Report Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Fracking, Gun Violence, Healthcare Reform, State Budget, Taxes

Program and Registration for 2013 Legislative Seminar

February 18, 2013 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

If you are interested in attending, but have not pre-registered, you may call our office at 919-828-6501 on Tuesday, April 9 until 5:00 p.m. Gene Nichol, Director of the Center […]

Program and Registration for 2013 Legislative Seminar

February 18, 2013 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

If you are interested in attending, but have not pre-registered, you may call our office at 919-828-6501 on Tuesday, April 9 until 5:00 p.m. Gene Nichol, Director of the Center […]

Filed Under: Blog, Events, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Children & Youth, Civil Discourse, Civil Liberties, Council News, Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Economic Justice, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Fracking, Good Government, Gun Violence, Healthcare Reform, Housing, Immigration, LGBTQ, Mental Health, Organized Labor, People with Disabilities, Prophetic Voice, Public Education, State Budget, Taxes

Interfaith Call-In Day to Prevent Gun Violence Feb. 4

January 28, 2013 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Gun violence has long been an issue of concern for the North Carolina Council of Churches. Every injury endured and life lost, whether on a downtown street corner or in […]

Interfaith Call-In Day to Prevent Gun Violence Feb. 4

January 28, 2013 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Gun violence has long been an issue of concern for the North Carolina Council of Churches. Every injury endured and life lost, whether on a downtown street corner or in […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Children & Youth, Civil Discourse, Civil Liberties, Criminal Justice, Domestic Violence, Equality & Reconciliation, Gun Violence, Interfaith, Mental Health, Peace, Prophetic Voice, Race/Ethnicity, Religion & Society, Rural Life

2012 A Victory for NC and for PFADP

December 7, 2012 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

For the first time in the modern era, no one was sentenced to death in North Carolina during 2012. The milestone marks a victory for people throughout the state and […]

2012 A Victory for NC and for PFADP

December 7, 2012 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

For the first time in the modern era, no one was sentenced to death in North Carolina during 2012. The milestone marks a victory for people throughout the state and […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Civil Liberties, Council News, Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Equality & Reconciliation, Interfaith, Race/Ethnicity

Immigrants are Big Business for Private Prison Companies

October 2, 2012 By chris

Did you know that the detention of immigrants is big business? Over the last several years we've witnessed the disturbing trend of private, for-profit prison corporations benefitting from new anti-immigrant laws. These prisons operate like hotels, where each and every bed that is filled provides profits for the company. Every empty bed, on the other hand, costs money. These companies have a financial incentive to detain as many immigrants as possible, and they have poured millions of dollars into lobbying efforts ensuring maximum profits.

Immigrants are Big Business for Private Prison Companies

October 2, 2012 by chris

Did you know that the detention of immigrants is big business? Over the last several years we’ve witnessed the disturbing trend of private, for-profit prison corporations benefitting from new anti-immigrant laws. These prisons operate like hotels, where each and every bed that is filled provides profits for the company. Every empty bed, on the other hand, costs money. These companies have a financial incentive to detain as many immigrants as possible, and they have poured millions of dollars into lobbying efforts ensuring maximum profits.

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Human Rights, Immigration

A Bad Day for Veto Overrides

July 3, 2012 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The General Assembly on Monday overrode Governor Perdue’s vetoes of three bills. By doing so they gutted the Racial Justice Act, revised the budget for 2012-13, and moved ahead with fracking. The outcome was not in doubt in the Senate. In fact, several Senate Democrats had excused absences and didn’t even show up for the votes. The drama was in the House.

A Bad Day for Veto Overrides

July 3, 2012 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The General Assembly on Monday overrode Governor Perdue’s vetoes of three bills. By doing so they gutted the Racial Justice Act, revised the budget for 2012-13, and moved ahead with fracking. The outcome was not in doubt in the Senate. In fact, several Senate Democrats had excused absences and didn’t even show up for the votes. The drama was in the House.

Filed Under: Blog, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Equality & Reconciliation, Fracking, Good Government, State Budget

Racial Justice Act Supporters Push to Sustain Veto of New Bill

July 2, 2012 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The News & Observer

Death penalty opponents and advocates of the state’s Racial Justice Act have embarked on an intense petition drive, letter-writing and email campaign, targeting five Democrats in the state House of Representatives. The goal is to persuade the representatives to sustain the governor’s Thursday veto of the legislature’s overhaul of the Racial Justice Act.

Racial Justice Act Supporters Push to Sustain Veto of New Bill

July 2, 2012 Leave a Comment

The News & Observer

Death penalty opponents and advocates of the state’s Racial Justice Act have embarked on an intense petition drive, letter-writing and email campaign, targeting five Democrats in the state House of Representatives.

The goal is to persuade the representatives to sustain the governor’s Thursday veto of the legislature’s overhaul of the Racial Justice Act.

Filed Under: NCCC in the News Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Equality & Reconciliation, Good Government

Help Sustain the Governor’s Veto of the Gutted Racial Justice Act

June 29, 2012 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We applaud Governor Beverly Perdue for her veto of a rewritten Racial Justice Act that had been gutted of key provisions. The Council has long worked for fairness in our […]

Help Sustain the Governor’s Veto of the Gutted Racial Justice Act

June 29, 2012 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We applaud Governor Beverly Perdue for her veto of a rewritten Racial Justice Act that had been gutted of key provisions. The Council has long worked for fairness in our […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Equality & Reconciliation, Human Rights, Race/Ethnicity

Help Needed to Fight Repeal of the Racial Justice Act

June 26, 2012 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The following is from the NC Coalition for a Moratorium and the Carolina Justice Policy Center. The fate of the Racial Justice Act probably rests with the three representatives listed […]

Help Needed to Fight Repeal of the Racial Justice Act

June 26, 2012 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The following is from the NC Coalition for a Moratorium and the Carolina Justice Policy Center. The fate of the Racial Justice Act probably rests with the three representatives listed […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Civil Liberties, Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Equality & Reconciliation, Good Government, Human Rights, Race/Ethnicity, Religion & Society

Raleigh Report — House Votes to Gut Racial Justice Act

June 15, 2012 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The House of Representatives has voted 73-47 to gut the Racial Justice Act. The vote was on S 416, a bill originally about using tire retreads on school buses. The […]

Raleigh Report — House Votes to Gut Racial Justice Act

June 15, 2012 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The House of Representatives has voted 73-47 to gut the Racial Justice Act. The vote was on S 416, a bill originally about using tire retreads on school buses. The […]

Filed Under: Blog, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Civil Discourse, Civil Liberties, Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Equality & Reconciliation, Good Government, Human Rights, Race/Ethnicity, Religion & Society

Raleigh Report: Racial Justice Act Veto Override and Lobby Day to Stop Fracking Bill

June 4, 2012 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Two time-sensitive issues for advocates: 1) A vote to override the Governor’s veto of the Racial Justice Act could come up any time. 2) There is a lobby day tomorrow […]

Raleigh Report: Racial Justice Act Veto Override and Lobby Day to Stop Fracking Bill

June 4, 2012 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Two time-sensitive issues for advocates: 1) A vote to override the Governor’s veto of the Racial Justice Act could come up any time. 2) There is a lobby day tomorrow […]

Filed Under: Blog, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Christian Unity, Civil Liberties, Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Fracking, Good Government, Human Rights, Interfaith, Race/Ethnicity, Rural Life

Raleigh Report – June 1, 2012

June 1, 2012 By Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

The General Assembly leadership is committed to having this short session truly be short, and there’s talk of adjourning by early July. In fact, an adjournment resolution was introduced yesterday with a target date of June 19. This session, which starts in May of even-numbered years, is primarily to tweak the second year of the budget adopted the year before. In addition, certain bills which were introduced last year (mostly ones which passed in one house) can be considered. For a new bill to be introduced this year, it must fit into one of a few specific categories, with most new bills having to do with budgetary matters or coming from a study commission which met during the interim. Finally, pending veto overrides are also thought by the House and Senate leadership to be eligible for consideration.

Also in this Raleigh Report: Guns in Church, Gambling, Death Penalty, Boards and Commissions and more.

Raleigh Report – June 1, 2012

June 1, 2012 by Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

The General Assembly leadership is committed to having this short session truly be short, and there’s talk of adjourning by early July. In fact, an adjournment resolution was introduced yesterday with a target date of June 19. This session, which starts in May of even-numbered years, is primarily to tweak the second year of the budget adopted the year before. In addition, certain bills which were introduced last year (mostly ones which passed in one house) can be considered. For a new bill to be introduced this year, it must fit into one of a few specific categories, with most new bills having to do with budgetary matters or coming from a study commission which met during the interim. Finally, pending veto overrides are also thought by the House and Senate leadership to be eligible for consideration.


Also in this Raleigh Report: Guns in Church, Gambling, Death Penalty, Boards and Commissions and more.

Filed Under: Blog, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Children & Youth, Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Economic Justice, Environment, Good Government, Gun Violence, Health, Housing, Immigration, Mental Health, Public Education, State Budget

Ruling on Lead NC Racial Justice Act Case

April 20, 2012 By chris

The lead case applying the historic and ground-breaking NC Racial Justice Act (RJA) concluded today with a judicial finding of race discrimination in the operation of the death penalty in […]

Ruling on Lead NC Racial Justice Act Case

April 20, 2012 by chris

The lead case applying the historic and ground-breaking NC Racial Justice Act (RJA) concluded today with a judicial finding of race discrimination in the operation of the death penalty in […]

Filed Under: Blog, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Race/Ethnicity

3rd National Restorative Justice Conference

June 3, 2011 By David LaMotte, Consultant for Peace

The Third National Conference on Restorative Justice will bring together academics, community leaders, educators, faith leaders, judges, politicians, policy makers, practitioners and concerned community members to explore the use of […]

3rd National Restorative Justice Conference

June 3, 2011 by David LaMotte, Consultant for Peace

The Third National Conference on Restorative Justice will bring together academics, community leaders, educators, faith leaders, judges, politicians, policy makers, practitioners and concerned community members to explore the use of […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Domestic Violence, Equality & Reconciliation, Peace

Truth to Power

May 25, 2011 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The seven individuals who were arrested at the General Assembly on Tuesday showed great courage and commitment to social justice. They spoke for those who often have no voice, were […]

Truth to Power

May 25, 2011 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The seven individuals who were arrested at the General Assembly on Tuesday showed great courage and commitment to social justice. They spoke for those who often have no voice, were […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Civil Liberties, Criminal Justice, Economic Justice, Equality & Reconciliation, Good Government, People with Disabilities, Public Education, State Budget

Why I Am in Jail

May 24, 2011 By David LaMotte, Consultant for Peace

As I write this note, it is 12:30PM and I’m sitting comfortably in my office at the NC Council of Churches.  At 3PM, though, I will be in the gallery […]

Why I Am in Jail

May 24, 2011 by David LaMotte, Consultant for Peace

As I write this note, it is 12:30PM and I’m sitting comfortably in my office at the NC Council of Churches.  At 3PM, though, I will be in the gallery […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Civil Liberties, Council News, Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Economic Justice, Equality & Reconciliation, Good Government, Human Rights, Peace, People with Disabilities, Public Education, Race/Ethnicity, Religion & Society, State Budget

Moving Backwards and Playing Games

May 24, 2011 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

At a recent House judiciary committee focused on legislation to do away with the 2009 Racial Justice Act, Seth Edwards, president of the North Carolina Association of District Attorneys, insisted […]

Moving Backwards and Playing Games

May 24, 2011 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

At a recent House judiciary committee focused on legislation to do away with the 2009 Racial Justice Act, Seth Edwards, president of the North Carolina Association of District Attorneys, insisted […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Equality & Reconciliation, Good Government, Race/Ethnicity

Raleigh Report – May 20, 2011

May 24, 2011 By Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

The focus of this issue is a handful of the most important items currently under consideration at the General Assembly. These are issues that are under challenge by the current majorities in both houses.

Raleigh Report – May 20, 2011

May 24, 2011 by Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

The focus of this issue is a handful of the most important items currently under consideration at the General Assembly. These are issues that are under challenge by the current majorities in both houses.

Filed Under: Raleigh Report Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Economic Justice, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, Race/Ethnicity, State Budget

Emergency Call to Action from Rev. William Barber

May 12, 2011 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Rev. William Barber, president of the NC NAACP, organizer of the HKonJ movement (of which the NC Council of Churches is a partner), and pastor of the Greenleaf Christian Church in […]

Emergency Call to Action from Rev. William Barber

May 12, 2011 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Rev. William Barber, president of the NC NAACP, organizer of the HKonJ movement (of which the NC Council of Churches is a partner), and pastor of the Greenleaf Christian Church in […]

Filed Under: Blog, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Children & Youth, Civil Liberties, Criminal Justice, Economic Justice, Environment, Good Government, Public Education, Race/Ethnicity

Raleigh Report – April 26, 2011

April 28, 2011 By Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

State Deadline Passes and Most New Bills Introduced

Raleigh Report – April 26, 2011

April 28, 2011 by Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

State Deadline Passes and Most New Bills Introduced

Filed Under: Raleigh Report Tagged With: Children & Youth, Criminal Justice, Environment, Good Government, Gun Violence, Health, Healthcare Reform, Human Rights, Immigration, Public Education

Raleigh Report – April 19, 2011

April 20, 2011 By Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

New Bills Edition: Attack on Workers Comp by New Bill H 709/S 544 misnamed Protect and Put NC Back to Work.

Raleigh Report – April 19, 2011

April 20, 2011 by Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

New Bills Edition: Attack on Workers Comp by New Bill H 709/S 544 misnamed Protect and Put NC Back to Work.

Filed Under: Raleigh Report Tagged With: Children & Youth, Criminal Justice, Economic Justice, Environment, Good Government, Gun Violence, Health, Housing, Mental Health, Public Education, Substance Abuse

Raleigh Report – March 21, 2011

March 23, 2011 By Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

New bills on the budget, care of creation, criminal justice, election and campaign law, gambling, guns, health and health care, immigration, mental health, developmental disabilities, substance abuse services, public eduction, and taxes.

Raleigh Report – March 21, 2011

March 23, 2011 by Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

New bills on the budget, care of creation, criminal justice, election and campaign law, gambling, guns, health and health care, immigration, mental health, developmental disabilities, substance abuse services, public eduction, and taxes.

Filed Under: Raleigh Report Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Environment, Farmworkers, Good Government, Gun Violence, Health, Healthcare Reform, Immigration, Mental Health, People with Disabilities, Public Education, Substance Abuse

Fifth Sunday in Lent, Year A

March 10, 2011 By chris

If there were such a thing as a six o’clock news cast in the first century, Jesus the felon would appear walking down the street escorted by the police of his day—handcuffed—if you will. The announcer would tell us that the vandal who destroyed Temple property and repeatedly broke Jewish laws; the welfare king who relied on the generosity of unsuspecting middle class women to promote his suspicious doctrine; the man known to frequent the establishments of tax collectors and prostitutes—and claimed to be God, had finally been apprehended and was awaiting sentencing. Yes, in the minds of this first century felon’s accusers, he was little more than a common criminal.

Fifth Sunday in Lent, Year A

March 10, 2011 by chris

If there were such a thing as a six o’clock news cast in the first century, Jesus the felon would appear walking down the street escorted by the police of his day—handcuffed—if you will. The announcer would tell us that the vandal who destroyed Temple property and repeatedly broke Jewish laws; the welfare king who relied on the generosity of unsuspecting middle class women to promote his suspicious doctrine; the man known to frequent the establishments of tax collectors and prostitutes—and claimed to be God, had finally been apprehended and was awaiting sentencing. Yes, in the minds of this first century felon’s accusers, he was little more than a common criminal.

Filed Under: Lectionary Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Race/Ethnicity, Worship

Torture conference logo

Sojourners Blog on Anti-Torture Conference

February 18, 2011 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Sojourners, a leading publication on the intersection of faith, politics and culture, ran a Feb. 16 blog about the upcoming conference opposing torture and being co-sponsored by the Council in […]

Sojourners Blog on Anti-Torture Conference

February 18, 2011 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Torture conference logo

Sojourners, a leading publication on the intersection of faith, politics and culture, ran a Feb. 16 blog about the upcoming conference opposing torture and being co-sponsored by the Council in […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Civil Discourse, Civil Liberties, Criminal Justice, Equality & Reconciliation, Good Government, Human Rights, Peace, Religion & Society

A Great Day at HKonJ

February 14, 2011 By chris

There was a great turnout for Saturday's HKonJ5. Thanks to all of you who attended and marched.

Watch video of HKonJ here.

A Great Day at HKonJ

February 14, 2011 by chris

There was a great turnout for Saturday’s HKonJ5. Thanks to all of you who attended and marched.

Watch video of HKonJ here.

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Economic Justice, Equality & Reconciliation, Good Government, Healthcare Reform, Living Wage, Mental Health, Organized Labor, Peace, Public Education, Race/Ethnicity, State Budget

Affirming NC’s Public Investments — An Opportunity for Action

February 4, 2011 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The North Carolina Council of Churches is a member of the Together NC Coalition. In light of the current state budget crisis, the coalition is offering concerned citizens one way […]

Affirming NC’s Public Investments — An Opportunity for Action

February 4, 2011 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The North Carolina Council of Churches is a member of the Together NC Coalition. In light of the current state budget crisis, the coalition is offering concerned citizens one way […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Civil Discourse, Criminal Justice, Economic Justice, Farmworkers, Good Government, Housing, Immigration, Mental Health, People with Disabilities, Public Education, State Budget

Torture conference logo

Anti-Torture Conference

January 24, 2011 By David LaMotte, Consultant for Peace

Torture conference logoOn March 25 and 26, 2011, the Duke University Divinity School in Durham, North Carolina will be hosting a conference on torture. This two-day event aims to equip participants to understand the arguments against torture and to prepare them for anti-torture advocacy within their own communities, trusting that the greatest protection against the U.S. government’s use of torture is a shared understanding that torture is always wrong.

Anti-Torture Conference

January 24, 2011 by David LaMotte, Consultant for Peace

Torture conference logo

Torture conference logoOn March 25 and 26, 2011, the Duke University Divinity School in Durham, North Carolina will be hosting a conference on torture. This two-day event aims to equip participants to understand the arguments against torture and to prepare them for anti-torture advocacy within their own communities, trusting that the greatest protection against the U.S. government’s use of torture is a shared understanding that torture is always wrong.

Filed Under: Blog, Events Tagged With: Civil Liberties, Criminal Justice, Human Rights, Interfaith, Peace, Religion & Society

Race and the Death Penalty In NC

April 16, 2001 By chris

This is a preliminary report concerning a new study of capital punishment in the State of North Carolina that has been undertaken during the past nine months – the North Carolina Death Penalty Study 2001. It is the first major social scientific study of the death penalty conducted in North Carolina in over 20 years, and the first systematic look for patterns of racial discrimination in capital sentencing in the South employing data more recent than 1984. The report has been prepared by Dr. Robert Unah of the Department of Political Science of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, with the assistance of Professor John Charles Boger of the UNC School of Law.

As we will elaborate below, the preliminary findings present clear and disturbing evidence that North Carolina’s capital system in the 1990s continues to exhibit patterns of racial discrimination that cannot be explained by any of the legitimate sentencing considerations that have been sanctioned by North Carolina’s legislative and judicial branches.

Race and the Death Penalty In NC

April 16, 2001 by chris

This is a preliminary report concerning a new study of capital punishment in the State of North Carolina that has been undertaken during the past nine months – the North Carolina Death Penalty Study 2001. It is the first major social scientific study of the death penalty conducted in North Carolina in over 20 years, and the first systematic look for patterns of racial discrimination in capital sentencing in the South employing data more recent than 1984. The report has been prepared by Dr. Robert Unah of the Department of Political Science of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, with the assistance of Professor John Charles Boger of the UNC School of Law.

As we will elaborate below, the preliminary findings present clear and disturbing evidence that North Carolina’s capital system in the 1990s continues to exhibit patterns of racial discrimination that cannot be explained by any of the legitimate sentencing considerations that have been sanctioned by North Carolina’s legislative and judicial branches.

Filed Under: Resources Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Human Rights, Race/Ethnicity

The Elephant in the Courtroom: Racism and Criminal Justice in NC

March 15, 2001 By chris

This curriculum builds on "The Elephant in the Courtroom: Racism and Criminal Justice in North Carolina," a policy paper developed by the North Carolina Council of Churches' 1999-2000 Task Group on Racism and Criminal Justice in North Carolina. The policy paper has been disseminated among policy makers, judges, prison officials, and the media. The Task Group holds, however, that needed change will not happen until ordinary citizens, informed by a sense of fairness as well as an understanding of the nature of community and the power of forgiveness, demand equity in the administration of justice in our country. The curriculum addresses itself to adult education groups in congregations and workshop leaders at ecumenical and denominational meetings. The packet is self-contained and requires only that the leader copy some of the individual readings for the number of participants at the session.

The Elephant in the Courtroom: Racism and Criminal Justice in NC

March 15, 2001 by chris

This curriculum builds on “The Elephant in the Courtroom: Racism and Criminal Justice in North Carolina,” a policy paper developed by the North Carolina Council of Churches’ 1999-2000 Task Group on Racism and Criminal Justice in North Carolina. The policy paper has been disseminated among policy makers, judges, prison officials, and the media. The Task Group holds, however, that needed change will not happen until ordinary citizens, informed by a sense of fairness as well as an understanding of the nature of community and the power of forgiveness, demand equity in the administration of justice in our country. The curriculum addresses itself to adult education groups in congregations and workshop leaders at ecumenical and denominational meetings. The packet is self-contained and requires only that the leader copy some of the individual readings for the number of participants at the session.

Filed Under: Resources Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Death Penalty, Race/Ethnicity

Resolution on the Death Penalty

April 23, 1987 By North Carolina Council of Churches

Adopted by the House of Delegates, North Carolina Council of Churches, April 23, 1987 WHEREAS, the U.S. Supreme Court yesterday (April 22, 1987) by a 5 to 4 decision upheld as constitutional the […]

Resolution on the Death Penalty

April 23, 1987 by North Carolina Council of Churches

Adopted by the House of Delegates, North Carolina Council of Churches, April 23, 1987 WHEREAS, the U.S. Supreme Court yesterday (April 22, 1987) by a 5 to 4 decision upheld as constitutional the […]

Filed Under: Issue Statements Tagged With: Criminal Justice, Death Penalty

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