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Tax Cuts’ Painful Costs

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 on robust public education programs as paths out of poverty and doorways to success. They say poor people’s health care needs are being neglected. They […]

Tax Cuts’ Painful Costs

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 on robust public education programs as paths out of poverty and doorways to success. They say poor people’s health care needs are being neglected. They […]

Budget and Taxes Move Front and Center: Raleigh Report, June 7, 2013

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

A brief summary of significant points in the Senate budget with additional commentary by Steve Ford.

Budget and Taxes Move Front and Center: Raleigh Report, June 7, 2013

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

A brief summary of significant points in the Senate budget with additional commentary by Steve Ford.

Call to Mobilize 1,000 Clergy

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

A group of clergy members is working to mobilize 1,000 of their colleagues to gather at Raleigh’s Bicentennial Mall on Monday, June 10 at 5 p.m. and raise their voices against many of the policies of the North Carolina legislature. The group does not plan on entering the Legislative Building or on being arrested, but […]

Call to Mobilize 1,000 Clergy

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

A group of clergy members is working to mobilize 1,000 of their colleagues to gather at Raleigh’s Bicentennial Mall on Monday, June 10 at 5 p.m. and raise their voices against many of the policies of the North Carolina legislature. The group does not plan on entering the Legislative Building or on being arrested, but […]

A Challenge for People of Faith: Contact Congress like Pentagon Contractors Do

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

The Coalition on Human Needs is sharing sequester impacts and challenging people of faith to raise their voices for the less fortunate. Real cuts are harming our most vulnerable children. We need to remember that one in five children in NC is already living in poverty and many  in wrenching poverty. The Friends Committee on National Legislation […]

A Challenge for People of Faith: Contact Congress like Pentagon Contractors Do

by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

The Coalition on Human Needs is sharing sequester impacts and challenging people of faith to raise their voices for the less fortunate. Real cuts are harming our most vulnerable children. We need to remember that one in five children in NC is already living in poverty and many  in wrenching poverty. The Friends Committee on National Legislation […]

NC NAACP Launches Statewide Tour

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 Tour began May 28 in Raleigh and ends June 7 in Durham. It is intended to mobilize local communities against the direction the General Assembly […]

NC NAACP Launches Statewide Tour

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 Tour began May 28 in Raleigh and ends June 7 in Durham. It is intended to mobilize local communities against the direction the General Assembly […]

Jailhouse Justice

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 consequences in a just society, as it must. Still, the maxim can be dreadfully simplistic. How much time, under what conditions? What about mitigating factors? […]

Jailhouse Justice

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 consequences in a just society, as it must. Still, the maxim can be dreadfully simplistic. How much time, under what conditions? What about mitigating factors? […]

Senators Choose to Cut

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The North Carolina General Assembly has no more critical task than enacting budgets that set state government’s scope and mission – programs to serve the public that must be financed with money from taxpayers. How much to spend, and where? Who pays? As they answer those questions, legislators showcase their priorities and values. This year, […]

Senators Choose to Cut

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The North Carolina General Assembly has no more critical task than enacting budgets that set state government’s scope and mission – programs to serve the public that must be financed with money from taxpayers. How much to spend, and where? Who pays? As they answer those questions, legislators showcase their priorities and values. This year, […]

Moral Mondays Continue in June

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 civil disobedience and being arrested (57). I saw a lot of Council folks there – current and past Board members, pastors of congregations (including Covenant […]

Moral Mondays Continue in June

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 civil disobedience and being arrested (57). I saw a lot of Council folks there – current and past Board members, pastors of congregations (including Covenant […]

Talking on Water

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

We can’t go about our business as a society without messing up the environment to some degree. The challenge is to keep that damage to a minimum, ideally through steps that limit it at the outset. North Carolina’s Environmental Management Commission has had the task of crafting rules meant to safeguard the state’s water and […]

Talking on Water

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

We can’t go about our business as a society without messing up the environment to some degree. The challenge is to keep that damage to a minimum, ideally through steps that limit it at the outset. North Carolina’s Environmental Management Commission has had the task of crafting rules meant to safeguard the state’s water and […]

Please Pray for Oklahoma

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

All people affected by this week’s devastating storms, particularly those in Moore, Oklahoma, need our prayers. In addition, donations can be made to organizations providing assistance, including denominational relief agencies, Church World Service, and the American Red Cross. –Aleta Payne, Development and Communications

Please Pray for Oklahoma

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

All people affected by this week’s devastating storms, particularly those in Moore, Oklahoma, need our prayers. In addition, donations can be made to organizations providing assistance, including denominational relief agencies, Church World Service, and the American Red Cross. –Aleta Payne, Development and Communications

Faith Leaders for a Just Society in Asheville

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Faith leaders in Asheville are adding their voices to those outraged by the actions of NC legislators. Rev. Joe Hoffman, pastor of First Congregational United Church of Christ and an NC Council of Churches board member, is joining his colleagues as well as those from the non-profit community there for a press conference on Monday, […]

Faith Leaders for a Just Society in Asheville

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Faith leaders in Asheville are adding their voices to those outraged by the actions of NC legislators. Rev. Joe Hoffman, pastor of First Congregational United Church of Christ and an NC Council of Churches board member, is joining his colleagues as well as those from the non-profit community there for a press conference on Monday, […]

Childhood Poverty is a Disease

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Pediatrician and author Perri Klass has written a powerful essay on childhood poverty as a disease. She writes in part: Toxic stress is the heavy hand of early poverty, scripting a child’s life not in the Horatio Alger scenario of determination and drive, but in the patterns of disappointment and deprivation that shape a life […]

Childhood Poverty is a Disease

by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Pediatrician and author Perri Klass has written a powerful essay on childhood poverty as a disease. She writes in part: Toxic stress is the heavy hand of early poverty, scripting a child’s life not in the Horatio Alger scenario of determination and drive, but in the patterns of disappointment and deprivation that shape a life […]

Moral Mondays – Clergy Issued Special Invitation for May 20

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 taken during this legislative session (that direction being backwards). These protests include, for those who choose to take part, nonviolent civil disobedience and arrest. In […]

Moral Mondays – Clergy Issued Special Invitation for May 20

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 taken during this legislative session (that direction being backwards). These protests include, for those who choose to take part, nonviolent civil disobedience and arrest. In […]

Rev. Joe Brown: From the Church House to the State House

By chris

The Rev. Joseph Brown, Sr. is Presiding Elder, African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church. He is a former Council president and a past recipient of the Council’s Distinguished Service Award. Rev. Brown is based in Fayetteville.  [powerpress]

Rev. Joe Brown: From the Church House to the State House

by chris

The Rev. Joseph Brown, Sr. is Presiding Elder, African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church. He is a former Council president and a past recipient of the Council’s Distinguished Service Award. Rev. Brown is based in Fayetteville.  [powerpress]

Legislative Process and Advocacy: Legislative Seminar Workshop

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

Tune in as George Reed, our Executive Director here at the NC Council of Churches, explains the legislative process in North Carolina. How can "ordinary citizens" get involved? What strategies can we use to be as effective as possible? Listen as George crams 25 years of experience into one jam-packed hour.

Legislative Process and Advocacy: Legislative Seminar Workshop

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

Tune in as George Reed, our Executive Director here at the NC Council of Churches, explains the legislative process in North Carolina. How can “ordinary citizens” get involved? What strategies can we use to be as effective as possible? Listen as George crams 25 years of experience into one jam-packed hour.

Arizona-like Immigration Bill Introduced: Raleigh Report, May 3, 2013

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

House Bills Senate Bills Notable Quotes Arizona-like Immigration Bill Introduced In the wake of failed attempts by Congress to pass comprehensive immigration reform, states and localities have increased their own efforts to enforce current immigration laws and to implement new programs designed to reduce immigration. Many of these efforts have created a more hostile environment […]

Arizona-like Immigration Bill Introduced: Raleigh Report, May 3, 2013

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

House Bills Senate Bills Notable Quotes Arizona-like Immigration Bill Introduced In the wake of failed attempts by Congress to pass comprehensive immigration reform, states and localities have increased their own efforts to enforce current immigration laws and to implement new programs designed to reduce immigration. Many of these efforts have created a more hostile environment […]

New Videos: Legislative Seminar Awards

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

A leader against economic injustice and two longtime advocates on the Council’s board have received the North Carolina Council of Churches’ highest honors. Gene Nichol received the Faith Active in Public Life Award. Barbara Volk and Sydnor Thompson II were recognized with Distinguished Service awards. All three were presented at the Council’s 2013 Legislative Seminar which took place April 11 at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church in Raleigh.

New Videos: Legislative Seminar Awards

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

A leader against economic injustice and two longtime advocates on the Council’s board have received the North Carolina Council of Churches’ highest honors.

Gene Nichol received the Faith Active in Public Life Award. Barbara Volk and Sydnor Thompson II were recognized with Distinguished Service awards. All three were presented at the Council’s 2013 Legislative Seminar which took place April 11 at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church in Raleigh.

New Video: Gene Nichol Delivers Powerful Speech at Legislative Seminar

By chris

Speaking to 200 social justice advocates, Gene Nichol delivered a powerful luncheon address at the Council’s 2013 Legislative Seminar held April 11 at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church in Raleigh. He received the Council’s Faith Active in Public Life Award at the Seminar for his “courageous, dedicated, humane and compassionate witness in the political arena.” […]

New Video: Gene Nichol Delivers Powerful Speech at Legislative Seminar

by chris

Speaking to 200 social justice advocates, Gene Nichol delivered a powerful luncheon address at the Council’s 2013 Legislative Seminar held April 11 at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church in Raleigh. He received the Council’s Faith Active in Public Life Award at the Seminar for his “courageous, dedicated, humane and compassionate witness in the political arena.” […]

Voting Rights NC: Legislative Seminar Workshop

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The Council’s 2013 Legislative Seminar on April 11 featured a workshop about voting rights. It was provided by Bob Hall, executive director of Democracy North Carolina, a group that advocates for voting rights and for proper safeguards against the influence of self-serving special interests in the political system. The debate over whether voters should have to show a photo ID has raged from state to state, with backers saying such IDs are needed to combat voter fraud. Nobody wants to see even one vote cast illegally, and it’s true that most voters already have photo IDs. However, those who don’t have them tend to be among society’s vulnerable.

Voting Rights NC: Legislative Seminar Workshop

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The Council’s 2013 Legislative Seminar on April 11 featured a workshop about voting rights. It was provided by Bob Hall, executive director of Democracy North Carolina, a group that advocates for voting rights and for proper safeguards against the influence of self-serving special interests in the political system.

The debate over whether voters should have to show a photo ID has raged from state to state, with backers saying such IDs are needed to combat voter fraud.

Nobody wants to see even one vote cast illegally, and it’s true that most voters already have photo IDs. However, those who don’t have them tend to be among society’s vulnerable.

NC Council of Churches Supports National Groups to Assist the Less Fortunate

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

In keeping with its mission of supporting peace, unity and social justice, the Council recently has signed on to three letters involving issues being addressed at the federal level. We have spoken out for a faithful budget, for preserving low-income tax credits, and for gun violence prevention and school safety. The call for a faithful […]

NC Council of Churches Supports National Groups to Assist the Less Fortunate

by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

In keeping with its mission of supporting peace, unity and social justice, the Council recently has signed on to three letters involving issues being addressed at the federal level. We have spoken out for a faithful budget, for preserving low-income tax credits, and for gun violence prevention and school safety. The call for a faithful […]

Believing in Goodness and Mercy After a Very Hard Week

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

It has been a difficult week for anyone who lives from a place of compassion. For people of faith who believe in a kind and loving God and who may recently have celebrated the resurrection of the Prince of Peace, the tragedies have seemed endless. Horror in Boston, devastation in Texas, decisions around gun violence […]

Believing in Goodness and Mercy After a Very Hard Week

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

It has been a difficult week for anyone who lives from a place of compassion. For people of faith who believe in a kind and loving God and who may recently have celebrated the resurrection of the Prince of Peace, the tragedies have seemed endless. Horror in Boston, devastation in Texas, decisions around gun violence […]

Legislative Seminar Page Features Podcasts, Pictures and More

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Many of you who attended the 2013 Legislative Seminar expressed an interest in having portions of the day available online, and we have started that process. Audio from the Rev. Joe Brown’s opening worship, the Rev. Fletcher Harper’s plenary “Communicating the Values We Believe,” and Gene Nichol’s luncheon address are now available on our seminar […]

Legislative Seminar Page Features Podcasts, Pictures and More

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Many of you who attended the 2013 Legislative Seminar expressed an interest in having portions of the day available online, and we have started that process. Audio from the Rev. Joe Brown’s opening worship, the Rev. Fletcher Harper’s plenary “Communicating the Values We Believe,” and Gene Nichol’s luncheon address are now available on our seminar […]

Tax Reform Cookies

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

There’s no telling how the tax cookies will crumble by the time the 2013 General Assembly closes shop. But chief bakers in both the House and Senate seem intent on some manner of “reform.” In sync with Gov. Pat McCrory, they’ve signaled their desire to cut income tax rates, and hopefully to replace lost revenue […]

Tax Reform Cookies

by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

There’s no telling how the tax cookies will crumble by the time the 2013 General Assembly closes shop. But chief bakers in both the House and Senate seem intent on some manner of “reform.” In sync with Gov. Pat McCrory, they’ve signaled their desire to cut income tax rates, and hopefully to replace lost revenue […]

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Execution Foes at Legislature

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 years has helped focus the case against executions, is bringing religious leaders to the Legislative Building as the debate again heats up. PFADP got its […]

Execution Foes at Legislature

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 years has helped focus the case against executions, is bringing religious leaders to the Legislative Building as the debate again heats up. PFADP got its […]

Interfaith Call-in Day to Prevent Gun Violence April 9

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 the halls of Congress on April 9. You can call NC Senators Hagan and Burr at 1-888-897-0174 and urge them to act to prevent gun violence. As […]

Interfaith Call-in Day to Prevent Gun Violence April 9

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 the halls of Congress on April 9. You can call NC Senators Hagan and Burr at 1-888-897-0174 and urge them to act to prevent gun violence. As […]

U.S. Senate Expected to Take Up Gun Legislation

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 of life by those who turn to guns as a surrogate for civil disagreement, progress on the issue should be inevitable. But it’s not. Lobbying by groups like […]

U.S. Senate Expected to Take Up Gun Legislation

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 of life by those who turn to guns as a surrogate for civil disagreement, progress on the issue should be inevitable. But it’s not. Lobbying by groups like […]

Shane Claiborne’s Challenge to Christians

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

In 2008, the Council co-sponsored an event called Jesus for President, which took place at First Baptist Church on Wilmington Street in downtown Raleigh. About 500 twenty-somethings came together to talk about the social justice and environmental issues that are defining their generation. At its core, the national movement called for Christians to reconsider their […]

Shane Claiborne’s Challenge to Christians

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

In 2008, the Council co-sponsored an event called Jesus for President, which took place at First Baptist Church on Wilmington Street in downtown Raleigh. About 500 twenty-somethings came together to talk about the social justice and environmental issues that are defining their generation. At its core, the national movement called for Christians to reconsider their […]

Affordable Care Act’s Third Anniversary — A Reason to Celebrate

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

On March 23, the Affordable Care Act celebrated its third anniversary. The North Carolina Council of Churches has long supported universal health care, and we remain committed to that goal and to celebrating the progress made through ACA. Our friends at Faithful Reform in Health Care have offered a number of ways to recognize this […]

Affordable Care Act’s Third Anniversary — A Reason to Celebrate

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

On March 23, the Affordable Care Act celebrated its third anniversary. The North Carolina Council of Churches has long supported universal health care, and we remain committed to that goal and to celebrating the progress made through ACA. Our friends at Faithful Reform in Health Care have offered a number of ways to recognize this […]

Raleigh Report-Gun Bills Flood In

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

Gun bills that extend the availability and use of guns flood the General Assembly.

Raleigh Report-Gun Bills Flood In

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

Gun bills that extend the availability and use of guns flood the General Assembly.

Putting a Face on Legislation

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Our state and nation are in a time of civil discord. My own preacher, the Rev. Betty Connette, challenged us a few weeks ago to be Citizens of Heaven and to live out a different set of values patterned after Jesus not Caesar…to serve others rather than lord it over them. Our voices are sorely needed […]

Putting a Face on Legislation

by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Our state and nation are in a time of civil discord. My own preacher, the Rev. Betty Connette, challenged us a few weeks ago to be Citizens of Heaven and to live out a different set of values patterned after Jesus not Caesar…to serve others rather than lord it over them. Our voices are sorely needed […]

Guns in Bars and Restaurants Before Subcommittee on March 20

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The folks at North Carolinians Against Gun Violence have called House Bill 17 a “Recipe for Disaster.” That about sums it up. This is the bill that would allow anyone with a concealed carry permit for a handgun to take that weapon into eating establishments, including those serving alcohol. That’s a boost for drinkers and diners who enjoy […]

Guns in Bars and Restaurants Before Subcommittee on March 20

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The folks at North Carolinians Against Gun Violence have called House Bill 17 a “Recipe for Disaster.” That about sums it up. This is the bill that would allow anyone with a concealed carry permit for a handgun to take that weapon into eating establishments, including those serving alcohol. That’s a boost for drinkers and diners who enjoy […]

National Gun Violence Prevention Sabbath — March 15-17

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

If ending gun violence were easy, nightmares like Sandy Hook would never happen. Young lives would not end on urban streets in a hail of bullets. We wouldn’t need to parse the difference between automatic and semi-automatic. Just as taking away guns does not inherently make us safe from harm, we need to move beyond the lie […]

National Gun Violence Prevention Sabbath — March 15-17

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

If ending gun violence were easy, nightmares like Sandy Hook would never happen. Young lives would not end on urban streets in a hail of bullets. We wouldn’t need to parse the difference between automatic and semi-automatic. Just as taking away guns does not inherently make us safe from harm, we need to move beyond the lie […]

Resources for Voting Rights Sunday

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

As you probably know, the Voting Rights Act is being challenged in the US Supreme Court, and General Assembly leaders in Raleigh are renewing their push to pass laws that will make voting harder, especially for African Americans, seniors who no longer drive, people who don’t own a car, and other low-income voters. These legislators […]

Resources for Voting Rights Sunday

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

As you probably know, the Voting Rights Act is being challenged in the US Supreme Court, and General Assembly leaders in Raleigh are renewing their push to pass laws that will make voting harder, especially for African Americans, seniors who no longer drive, people who don’t own a car, and other low-income voters. These legislators […]

Faith and Fair Taxation Expert at WFU

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

There will be no more important and overarching issue before the General Assembly this year than tax reform. Proposals being floated by legislative leaders would reduce or eliminate personal and corporate income taxes and replace lost revenues by increasing the sales tax, eliminating exemptions, and/or making further cuts in funding to crucial state programs. This would mean a […]

Faith and Fair Taxation Expert at WFU

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

There will be no more important and overarching issue before the General Assembly this year than tax reform. Proposals being floated by legislative leaders would reduce or eliminate personal and corporate income taxes and replace lost revenues by increasing the sales tax, eliminating exemptions, and/or making further cuts in funding to crucial state programs. This would mean a […]

Protect the Vulnerable Against Federal Cuts

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

On March 1, new federal cuts will begin to take effect. If nothing is done, many hundreds of thousands of people will be hurt by across-the-board cuts to education, job training, home heating assistance, public health, and social services, to name only a few areas. In NC, 18,300 children and mothers would lose WIC nutrition aid […]

Protect the Vulnerable Against Federal Cuts

by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

On March 1, new federal cuts will begin to take effect. If nothing is done, many hundreds of thousands of people will be hurt by across-the-board cuts to education, job training, home heating assistance, public health, and social services, to name only a few areas. In NC, 18,300 children and mothers would lose WIC nutrition aid […]

Raleigh Report – February 21, 2013

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

    Payday Lending What It Is, How It Harms People, Why We Don’t Need It Back Payday lending, sadly, could be coming back to North Carolina. It was banned by the General Assembly in 2001, and strong enforcement by Attorney General Roy Cooper has led to its disappearance from NC. If payday lending returns, […]

Raleigh Report – February 21, 2013

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

    Payday Lending What It Is, How It Harms People, Why We Don’t Need It Back Payday lending, sadly, could be coming back to North Carolina. It was banned by the General Assembly in 2001, and strong enforcement by Attorney General Roy Cooper has led to its disappearance from NC. If payday lending returns, […]

Program and Registration for 2013 Legislative Seminar

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 on Poverty, Work and Opportunity at the UNC-CH School of Law will be the lunch speaker at this year’s Legislative Seminar.The day’s topic for Nichol, who […]

Program and Registration for 2013 Legislative Seminar

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 on Poverty, Work and Opportunity at the UNC-CH School of Law will be the lunch speaker at this year’s Legislative Seminar.The day’s topic for Nichol, who […]

For the Good of All God’s Children — Accept Federal Money Offered to NC

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

If you are following the actions of the 2013 NC legislature, you know that the idea of accepting federal funds that will cover health insurance for hundreds of thousands of North Carolinians is in danger of being rejected by our legislature. The Senate has already declined to accept these funds (SB4), and we are told the House […]

For the Good of All God’s Children — Accept Federal Money Offered to NC

by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

If you are following the actions of the 2013 NC legislature, you know that the idea of accepting federal funds that will cover health insurance for hundreds of thousands of North Carolinians is in danger of being rejected by our legislature. The Senate has already declined to accept these funds (SB4), and we are told the House […]

Raleigh Report – February 6, 2013

By Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

Yesterday morning the Senate Rules Committee unveiled a committee substitute for SB 10 which would effectively kick off all of the members of several influential commissions, including the Environmental Management Commission, the Coastal Resources Commission, the Utilities Commission, and the Lottery Commission, and then enable the General Assembly and the Governor to appoint new members.

Raleigh Report – February 6, 2013

by Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

Yesterday morning the Senate Rules Committee unveiled a committee substitute for SB 10 which would effectively kick off all of the members of several influential commissions, including the Environmental Management Commission, the Coastal Resources Commission, the Utilities Commission, and the Lottery Commission, and then enable the General Assembly and the Governor to appoint new members.

What’s Wrong with Photo ID?

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

One of the most insidious proposals coming up in the General Assembly session is the one to require people to show photo IDs in order to vote. It has the potential to disenfranchise hundreds of thousands of voters in NC. Proponents argue that it will prevent voter fraud, but they are unable to point to […]

What’s Wrong with Photo ID?

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

One of the most insidious proposals coming up in the General Assembly session is the one to require people to show photo IDs in order to vote. It has the potential to disenfranchise hundreds of thousands of voters in NC. Proponents argue that it will prevent voter fraud, but they are unable to point to […]

Important Upcoming Events for NC Social Justice Advocates

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

You probably already know that the General Assembly goes into session on Wednesday, January 30. They’ve already had a one-day organizational meeting. You probably also already know that this will be a difficult session for those of us who have worked for years (or even decades) for justice for all North Carolinians, especially the most […]

Important Upcoming Events for NC Social Justice Advocates

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

You probably already know that the General Assembly goes into session on Wednesday, January 30. They’ve already had a one-day organizational meeting. You probably also already know that this will be a difficult session for those of us who have worked for years (or even decades) for justice for all North Carolinians, especially the most […]

2013 Conference on the Common Good — February 18

By Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

Register for the 2013 Conference on the Common Good set for Monday, February 18 at Wake Forest Divinity School.

2013 Conference on the Common Good — February 18

by Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

Register for the 2013 Conference on the Common Good set for Monday, February 18 at Wake Forest Divinity School.

Raleigh City Council Approves Bring The War Dollars Home Proclamation

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

I was thrilled to attend the Raleigh City Council meeting on January 15 where Council members passed a Bring the War Dollars Home proclamation to send to our North Carolina congressional delegation.  I was proud that our capital city of NC has local leadership that recognizes how spending money on wars along with other excessive Pentagon expenditures […]

Raleigh City Council Approves Bring The War Dollars Home Proclamation

by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

I was thrilled to attend the Raleigh City Council meeting on January 15 where Council members passed a Bring the War Dollars Home proclamation to send to our North Carolina congressional delegation.  I was proud that our capital city of NC has local leadership that recognizes how spending money on wars along with other excessive Pentagon expenditures […]

Help Sustain Wind Power Tax Credit

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Sunshine, wind and waves are all free gifts from God and expressions of God’s amazing power and love.  North Carolina is blessed with all three in abundance. That puts our state in a wonderful position to lead the nation and the world in clean, renewable energy production – energy that does not pollute the air, […]

Help Sustain Wind Power Tax Credit

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Sunshine, wind and waves are all free gifts from God and expressions of God’s amazing power and love.  North Carolina is blessed with all three in abundance. That puts our state in a wonderful position to lead the nation and the world in clean, renewable energy production – energy that does not pollute the air, […]

Needed: Lobbyists for the Voiceless

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Congress is overwhelmed with lobbyists for corporations, Chambers of Commerce, AARP, the Department of Defense, etc. But those living in poverty are short on lobbyist as the so-called ‘fiscal cliff’ is debated and cuts as well as revenue sources are considered. People of faith and compassion are being called to serve as lobbyists for the […]

Needed: Lobbyists for the Voiceless

by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Congress is overwhelmed with lobbyists for corporations, Chambers of Commerce, AARP, the Department of Defense, etc. But those living in poverty are short on lobbyist as the so-called ‘fiscal cliff’ is debated and cuts as well as revenue sources are considered. People of faith and compassion are being called to serve as lobbyists for the […]

The Case for Fair Taxes

By Justin Hubbard, Former Duke Divinity School Intern

The challenge of faith communities is not to deduct a set of moral principles from scripture that houses a model for a fair tax system. There are no formulas or bureaucratic maps that arise out of biblical texts that we might apply to our current context and tax system that will magically make the system fair. Rather, the biblical texts provide a framework to understand the Christian witness towards the common good and a Christian ethic of love and care for the vulnerable and exploited.

The Case for Fair Taxes

by Justin Hubbard, Former Duke Divinity School Intern

The challenge of faith communities is not to deduct a set of moral principles from scripture that houses a model for a fair tax system. There are no formulas or bureaucratic maps that arise out of biblical texts that we might apply to our current context and tax system that will magically make the system fair. Rather, the biblical texts provide a framework to understand the Christian witness towards the common good and a Christian ethic of love and care for the vulnerable and exploited.

Electioneering and the IRS

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

In the weeks just before November’s general election, the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association paid to place full-page ads in newspapers including the [Raleigh] News & Observer to The New York Times. These ads quoted Billy Graham calling on voters to “cast [their] ballots for candidates who base their decisions on biblical principles and support the […]

Electioneering and the IRS

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

In the weeks just before November’s general election, the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association paid to place full-page ads in newspapers including the [Raleigh] News & Observer to The New York Times. These ads quoted Billy Graham calling on voters to “cast [their] ballots for candidates who base their decisions on biblical principles and support the […]

Our Responsibility to Vote

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Our middle son and I went to early vote on Saturday, taking advantage of his visit home for fall break. He is 18, and this is his first general election. We have impressed upon him and his older brother that how they vote – for whom and what – is a matter of thoughtful, personal […]

Our Responsibility to Vote

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Our middle son and I went to early vote on Saturday, taking advantage of his visit home for fall break. He is 18, and this is his first general election. We have impressed upon him and his older brother that how they vote – for whom and what – is a matter of thoughtful, personal […]

North Carolina Beyond Coal

By Richard Fireman, Former NCIPL Public Policy Advisor

Since 1965, my first year of medical school, I knew that coal kills (see Alan Lockwood’s The Silent Epidemic: Coal and the Hidden Threat to Health). Since 1989, when I read Bill McKibben’s The End of Nature, I knew that climate change was the most serious threat to humanity and all other life on earth […]

North Carolina Beyond Coal

by Richard Fireman, Former NCIPL Public Policy Advisor

Since 1965, my first year of medical school, I knew that coal kills (see Alan Lockwood’s The Silent Epidemic: Coal and the Hidden Threat to Health). Since 1989, when I read Bill McKibben’s The End of Nature, I knew that climate change was the most serious threat to humanity and all other life on earth […]

Rendering to Caesar

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

Ed: This post is part of a new series called “Reclaiming the Bible’s Prophetic Voice,” in which Council staff consider the biblical and theological roots of their work. You can read more from the series here. Mark Chapter 12:13-17 And they sent to him some of the Pharisees and some of the Hero’dians, to entrap […]

Rendering to Caesar

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

Ed: This post is part of a new series called “Reclaiming the Bible’s Prophetic Voice,” in which Council staff consider the biblical and theological roots of their work. You can read more from the series here. Mark Chapter 12:13-17 And they sent to him some of the Pharisees and some of the Hero’dians, to entrap […]

Clean Air, Clean Water, Good Jobs

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Over the past few months, North Carolina Interfaith Power & Light has been a proud part of a coalition of nonprofits and businesses participating in a statewide ad campaign emphasizing the link between clean air, clean water and good jobs. The slogan for the campaign was “All Three for NC.” The ads can be viewed on […]

Clean Air, Clean Water, Good Jobs

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Over the past few months, North Carolina Interfaith Power & Light has been a proud part of a coalition of nonprofits and businesses participating in a statewide ad campaign emphasizing the link between clean air, clean water and good jobs. The slogan for the campaign was “All Three for NC.” The ads can be viewed on […]

Tweet on Behalf of Children in Poverty

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Half in Ten reminds us that one in five children in the US lives in poverty (sadly, it is one in four in North Carolina) yet the presidential candidates are not discussing poverty in a meaningful way. The Coalition for Human Needs is joining with Half in Ten and Every Child Matters to try to change this discussion. […]

Tweet on Behalf of Children in Poverty

by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Half in Ten reminds us that one in five children in the US lives in poverty (sadly, it is one in four in North Carolina) yet the presidential candidates are not discussing poverty in a meaningful way. The Coalition for Human Needs is joining with Half in Ten and Every Child Matters to try to change this discussion. […]

Canaries in the School Bus Lane

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

You probably know how the phrase “canary in the coal mine” came into being, but it doesn’t hurt to repeat it. Before there were other ways of monitoring for dangerous gases in coal mines, like carbon monoxide, miners took caged canaries with them into the tunnels. If gases were present, they would kill the canaries […]

Canaries in the School Bus Lane

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

You probably know how the phrase “canary in the coal mine” came into being, but it doesn’t hurt to repeat it. Before there were other ways of monitoring for dangerous gases in coal mines, like carbon monoxide, miners took caged canaries with them into the tunnels. If gases were present, they would kill the canaries […]

Urge Congress to Promote the Common Good, Protect the Vulnerable

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Laypeople, clergy and organizational leaders can urge Congress to protect programs vital to vulnerable people as well as to protect the country’s economic security by e-mailing their elected leaders or signing on to a letter prepared by the Coalition on Human Needs. The letter calls upon Congress to promote the common good, protect those in need, and […]

Urge Congress to Promote the Common Good, Protect the Vulnerable

by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Laypeople, clergy and organizational leaders can urge Congress to protect programs vital to vulnerable people as well as to protect the country’s economic security by e-mailing their elected leaders or signing on to a letter prepared by the Coalition on Human Needs. The letter calls upon Congress to promote the common good, protect those in need, and […]

A Bad Day for Veto Overrides

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

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.

Racial Justice Act Supporters Push to Sustain Veto of New Bill

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

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.

Health On Earth

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The News & Observer

The N.C. Council of Churches rejoices in the ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court upholding the Affordable Care Act, affirming the decades-long concerns of the council for those without health care.

Health On Earth

The News & Observer

The N.C. Council of Churches rejoices in the ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court upholding the Affordable Care Act, affirming the decades-long concerns of the council for those without health care.

Health Care for All God’s Children — ACA Upheld

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The NC Council of Churches rejoices in today’s ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court upholding the Affordable Care Act (ACA) which affirms the decades-long work and concerns of the NCCC for those without health care. This decision means that millions who had no health insurance and thus restricted health care will have their needs met. […]

Health Care for All God’s Children — ACA Upheld

The NC Council of Churches rejoices in today’s ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court upholding the Affordable Care Act (ACA) which affirms the decades-long work and concerns of the NCCC for those without health care. This decision means that millions who had no health insurance and thus restricted health care will have their needs met. […]

Help Needed to Fight Repeal of the Racial Justice Act

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 below. The Governor’s veto could come at any time and the override vote could happen shortly thereafter, so please don’t delay in making these contacts, […]

Help Needed to Fight Repeal of the Racial Justice Act

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 below. The Governor’s veto could come at any time and the override vote could happen shortly thereafter, so please don’t delay in making these contacts, […]

Ask the Governor to Veto Fracking Bill

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The General Assembly has passed S 820 and sent it to the Governor. This is the bill that would move North Carolina farther down the road toward extraction of natural gas by hydraulic fracturing and horizontal drilling, a technique which has had serious impact on health, environment, and safety in other states.  Suggested Action: Call […]

Ask the Governor to Veto Fracking Bill

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The General Assembly has passed S 820 and sent it to the Governor. This is the bill that would move North Carolina farther down the road toward extraction of natural gas by hydraulic fracturing and horizontal drilling, a technique which has had serious impact on health, environment, and safety in other states.  Suggested Action: Call […]

Rio+20 and The Climate is Changed!

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

One of my friends just posted this amazing YouTube video of Severn Suzuki who, at age 12, addressed the United Nations at the first Earth Summit in Rio twenty years ago.  Her words ring out with perfect clarity now as they did then, except that the world has done little to heed her child-heart call. […]

Rio+20 and The Climate is Changed!

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

One of my friends just posted this amazing YouTube video of Severn Suzuki who, at age 12, addressed the United Nations at the first Earth Summit in Rio twenty years ago.  Her words ring out with perfect clarity now as they did then, except that the world has done little to heed her child-heart call. […]

Raleigh Report — House Votes to Gut Racial Justice Act

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 House stripped out the original content and replaced it with language limiting the use of statistical evidence to show racial bias in the death penalty. […]

Raleigh Report — House Votes to Gut Racial Justice Act

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 House stripped out the original content and replaced it with language limiting the use of statistical evidence to show racial bias in the death penalty. […]

Affirming Principles of Concern for the Poor and Vulnerable

By North Carolina Council of Churches

Statement Affirming the Principles of Concern for the Poor and the Vulnerable as Made More Visible by the “Occupy” and Other Movements Approved June 5, 2012 by the Governing Board of the North Carolina Council of Churches In recent months, there have been numerous stories in the media about groups in this country and around […]

Affirming Principles of Concern for the Poor and Vulnerable

by North Carolina Council of Churches

Statement Affirming the Principles of Concern for the Poor and the Vulnerable as Made More Visible by the “Occupy” and Other Movements Approved June 5, 2012 by the Governing Board of the North Carolina Council of Churches In recent months, there have been numerous stories in the media about groups in this country and around […]

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

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 in opposition to fracking. We will send more information on fracking, including other related bills, later in the week. If you cannot attend the lobby […]

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

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 in opposition to fracking. We will send more information on fracking, including other related bills, later in the week. If you cannot attend the lobby […]

Raleigh Report – 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

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.

Legislative Advocacy Toolkit Now Available

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

A Legislative Advocacy Toolkit is now available from the Council. The toolkit provides a wealth of information for people of faith who want to be effective as grass-roots lobbyists, especially with the state’s General Assembly. Information includes how to register and vote, how to get information on a bill, how to contact your legislators (and […]

Legislative Advocacy Toolkit Now Available

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

A Legislative Advocacy Toolkit is now available from the Council. The toolkit provides a wealth of information for people of faith who want to be effective as grass-roots lobbyists, especially with the state’s General Assembly. Information includes how to register and vote, how to get information on a bill, how to contact your legislators (and […]

Church Council Bulletin, Spring 2012

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Spring 2012 Church Council Bulletin includes photographs from the Council’s recent Critical Issues Seminar, an update on items of interest in the General Assembly’s short session, a statement on the passage of Amendment One, the Council’s spring appeal, and more.

Church Council Bulletin, Spring 2012

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Spring 2012 Church Council Bulletin includes photographs from the Council’s recent Critical Issues Seminar, an update on items of interest in the General Assembly’s short session, a statement on the passage of Amendment One, the Council’s spring appeal, and more.

Raleigh Report — May 18 Update

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The General Assembly convened this past Wednesday for its regular “short session.” As always, the primary purpose of the short session is to tweak the budget for the fiscal year that starts on July 1, but there are several other important issues either still rattling around from last year or being newly introduced. Because we […]

Raleigh Report — May 18 Update

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The General Assembly convened this past Wednesday for its regular “short session.” As always, the primary purpose of the short session is to tweak the budget for the fiscal year that starts on July 1, but there are several other important issues either still rattling around from last year or being newly introduced. Because we […]

Upcoming Legislative Days and a Revenue Plan

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Several additional legislative days have been announced. Among them are: HKonJ, People of Color Justice and Unity Legislative Day is Wednesday, May 23. The opening session will be at Raleigh’s First Baptist Church on Wilmington Street at 9:00. The group will then march to the General Assembly Building, where there will be a press conference […]

Upcoming Legislative Days and a Revenue Plan

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Several additional legislative days have been announced. Among them are: HKonJ, People of Color Justice and Unity Legislative Day is Wednesday, May 23. The opening session will be at Raleigh’s First Baptist Church on Wilmington Street at 9:00. The group will then march to the General Assembly Building, where there will be a press conference […]

Statement on Passage of Amendment One

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

In light of yesterday’s vote to add a discriminatory amendment about marriage to our state’s constitution, it is important to consider what was accomplished through this campaign and what it tells us about progress. First, the fine work of a committed group of people has resulted in alliances and coalitions that hadn’t existed before. People […]

Statement on Passage of Amendment One

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

In light of yesterday’s vote to add a discriminatory amendment about marriage to our state’s constitution, it is important to consider what was accomplished through this campaign and what it tells us about progress. First, the fine work of a committed group of people has resulted in alliances and coalitions that hadn’t existed before. People […]

Care of Creation Faith Message Has Legs on Capitol Hill

By Susannah Tuttle, Director of Strategic Engagement

Susannah Tuttle and I had the privilege of representing NCIPL at the annual meeting of Interfaith Power & Light last week in Washington, DC. We spent two days immersed in heady discussions with other state leaders about our mutual work with congregations all across the nation – finding ways to respond positively to the theological […]

Care of Creation Faith Message Has Legs on Capitol Hill

by Susannah Tuttle, Director of Strategic Engagement

Susannah Tuttle and I had the privilege of representing NCIPL at the annual meeting of Interfaith Power & Light last week in Washington, DC. We spent two days immersed in heady discussions with other state leaders about our mutual work with congregations all across the nation – finding ways to respond positively to the theological […]

Reed’s Full Radio Interview Against Amendment One

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Executive Director George Reed’s full interview with NC Policy Watch from Sunday is now available here.  In it, Reed explains the Council’s opposition to Amendment One. People of faith who have not yet voted can make their voices heard on May 8 and prevent this discriminatory amendment from becoming part of the North Carolina Constitution. — […]

Reed’s Full Radio Interview Against Amendment One

Executive Director George Reed’s full interview with NC Policy Watch from Sunday is now available here.  In it, Reed explains the Council’s opposition to Amendment One. People of faith who have not yet voted can make their voices heard on May 8 and prevent this discriminatory amendment from becoming part of the North Carolina Constitution. — […]

Reed Explains Council’s Opposition to Amendment One on Sunday Radio Show

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Hear George Reed explain the Council’s opposition to Amendment One on Sunday morning’s News & Views hosted by Chris Fitzsimon of NC Policy Watch. The program airs at 7 a.m. on WRAL 101.5 and at 7:30 a.m. on WCMC 99.9. For those who miss it, check the Council website on Monday for an MP3 of […]

Reed Explains Council’s Opposition to Amendment One on Sunday Radio Show

Hear George Reed explain the Council’s opposition to Amendment One on Sunday morning’s News & Views hosted by Chris Fitzsimon of NC Policy Watch. The program airs at 7 a.m. on WRAL 101.5 and at 7:30 a.m. on WCMC 99.9. For those who miss it, check the Council website on Monday for an MP3 of […]

Keep Discrimination Out of the NC Constitution — Vote May 8

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Council Friends— I am writing you with a last-minute appeal to get to the polls for next Tuesday’s election, when voters decide whether to amend the state constitution, defining marriage between a man and a woman as “the only domestic legal union” inNorth Carolina. In addition to inserting discrimination based on sexual orientation into our […]

Keep Discrimination Out of the NC Constitution — Vote May 8

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Council Friends— I am writing you with a last-minute appeal to get to the polls for next Tuesday’s election, when voters decide whether to amend the state constitution, defining marriage between a man and a woman as “the only domestic legal union” inNorth Carolina. In addition to inserting discrimination based on sexual orientation into our […]

Clergy Engage Constitutional Amendment Debate

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Durham Herald-Sun

The ballot referendum that could cement the definition of marriage as “the only domestic legal union” into the state Constitution has turned a political debate into a religious one — and is mustering people of faith across North Carolina to the polls.

Clergy Engage Constitutional Amendment Debate

Durham Herald-Sun

The ballot referendum that could cement the definition of marriage as “the only domestic legal union” into the state Constitution has turned a political debate into a religious one — and is mustering people of faith across North Carolina to the polls.

Early Voting and Amendment One

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Early voting is now under way for North Carolina’s May 8 primary. Between now and May 5, you can vote if you are already registered, and you can register and vote at the same time (one-stop voting) if you are not already registered. To find out the places and hours for early voting in your […]

Early Voting and Amendment One

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Early voting is now under way for North Carolina’s May 8 primary. Between now and May 5, you can vote if you are already registered, and you can register and vote at the same time (one-stop voting) if you are not already registered. To find out the places and hours for early voting in your […]

Affordable Care Act (ACA) Celebrates its Second Anniversary

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Affordable Care Act was approved two years ago. Join the virtual second-anniversary celebration through a conference call with Surgeon General Dr. Regina Benjamin on Thursday, March 22 at 2 p.m. Hear all the benefits already in place and what is to come. An RSVP in advance is required through this link. Additionally, as the Supreme Court takes […]

Affordable Care Act (ACA) Celebrates its Second Anniversary

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Affordable Care Act was approved two years ago. Join the virtual second-anniversary celebration through a conference call with Surgeon General Dr. Regina Benjamin on Thursday, March 22 at 2 p.m. Hear all the benefits already in place and what is to come. An RSVP in advance is required through this link. Additionally, as the Supreme Court takes […]

Statement on Accusations about Candidates’ Faith

By North Carolina Council of Churches

Adopted by the Governing Board, NC Council of Churches, March 6, 2012 In 1998, the NC Council of Churches issued a statement entitled With All Due Respect. It decried the “scarcity of decency and respect” seen most clearly in political campaigns. “Political rhetoric appears to be less courteous and more coarse; personal attacks are uglier.” […]

Statement on Accusations about Candidates’ Faith

by North Carolina Council of Churches

Adopted by the Governing Board, NC Council of Churches, March 6, 2012 In 1998, the NC Council of Churches issued a statement entitled With All Due Respect. It decried the “scarcity of decency and respect” seen most clearly in political campaigns. “Political rhetoric appears to be less courteous and more coarse; personal attacks are uglier.” […]

Pilgrim UCC hosting series on Amendment 1

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Durham Herald-Sun

Pilgrim United Church of Christ will host a community series this month on “Faith and the Marriage Amendment,” about the proposed North Carolina Amendment 1. If the ballot measure passes May 8, the only valid domestic union recognized by the state will be marriage of a man and a woman. Read more: The Herald-Sun - Pilgrim UCC hosting series on Amendment 1

Pilgrim UCC hosting series on Amendment 1

Durham Herald-Sun

Pilgrim United Church of Christ will host a community series this month on “Faith and the Marriage Amendment,” about the proposed North Carolina Amendment 1. If the ballot measure passes May 8, the only valid domestic union recognized by the state will be marriage of a man and a woman.

Read more: The Herald-Sun – Pilgrim UCC hosting series on Amendment 1

Jack Crum Conference on Prophetic Ministry Focuses on Amendment One

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We hope you’ll join us on April 14 for the Fourth Annual Jack Crum Conference on Prophetic Ministry. This annual ecumenical event takes place at Raleigh’s Fairmont United Methodist Church from 9 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. and focuses on Amendment One with the theme “For Such a Time As This: Embracing God’s Call To Protect […]

Jack Crum Conference on Prophetic Ministry Focuses on Amendment One

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We hope you’ll join us on April 14 for the Fourth Annual Jack Crum Conference on Prophetic Ministry. This annual ecumenical event takes place at Raleigh’s Fairmont United Methodist Church from 9 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. and focuses on Amendment One with the theme “For Such a Time As This: Embracing God’s Call To Protect […]

Council Provides Toolkit for Amendment One Opponents

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The NC Council of Churches, working in conjunction with the Coalition to Protect ALL NC Families, has developed a toolkit to help people of faith working against Amendment One. If passed in May, this amendment to the state’s constitution would define marriage in a way that excludes gays and lesbians and that severely limits benefits […]

Council Provides Toolkit for Amendment One Opponents

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The NC Council of Churches, working in conjunction with the Coalition to Protect ALL NC Families, has developed a toolkit to help people of faith working against Amendment One. If passed in May, this amendment to the state’s constitution would define marriage in a way that excludes gays and lesbians and that severely limits benefits […]

Both sides gear up in N.C. gay marriage fight

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Washington Post

WILMINGTON, N.C. — As the only Southern state without a constitutional amendment barring same-sex marriage, North Carolina is the next battleground, with religious groups on both sides bracing for a high-stakes fight on May 8. Against a recent string of gay-marriage victories in California, Washington state and Maryland, North Carolinians will be asked to vote on a constitutional amendment on May 8, the same day as the state Republican primary. Same-sex marriage has been illegal in the Tar Heel State since 1996; Minnesota also has a marriage amendment planned for a vote in November.

Both sides gear up in N.C. gay marriage fight

The Washington Post

WILMINGTON, N.C. — As the only Southern state without a constitutional amendment barring same-sex marriage, North Carolina is the next battleground, with religious groups on both sides bracing for a high-stakes fight on May 8.

Against a recent string of gay-marriage victories in California, Washington state and Maryland, North Carolinians will be asked to vote on a constitutional amendment on May 8, the same day as the state Republican primary.

Same-sex marriage has been illegal in the Tar Heel State since 1996; Minnesota also has a marriage amendment planned for a vote in November.

Contact Congress: No Cuts, No Barriers

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Remember the words of Mordecai to Esther:  “For if you keep silent at such a time as this…you and your father’s family will perish.”  (NRSV-Esther 4:14) It is unbelievable and disheartening that Congress is considering using children to “pay for”  the unemployment insurance (UI) extension. It would be funded with money from needy, tax-paying immigrant […]

Contact Congress: No Cuts, No Barriers

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Remember the words of Mordecai to Esther:  “For if you keep silent at such a time as this…you and your father’s family will perish.”  (NRSV-Esther 4:14) It is unbelievable and disheartening that Congress is considering using children to “pay for”  the unemployment insurance (UI) extension. It would be funded with money from needy, tax-paying immigrant […]

Put Your Faith into Action — Join the Public Policy Advocacy Team!

By Richard Fireman, Former NCIPL Public Policy Advisor

The North Carolina Council of Churches advocates for just and compassionate public policy in North Carolina, and North Carolina Interfaith Power & Light, a program of the Council, brings that advocacy work to issues of climate change and energy. We recognize that while personal and congregational change in energy consumption is necessary, it will be […]

Put Your Faith into Action — Join the Public Policy Advocacy Team!

by Richard Fireman, Former NCIPL Public Policy Advisor

The North Carolina Council of Churches advocates for just and compassionate public policy in North Carolina, and North Carolina Interfaith Power & Light, a program of the Council, brings that advocacy work to issues of climate change and energy. We recognize that while personal and congregational change in energy consumption is necessary, it will be […]

Join Us at HKonJ This Saturday

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The 2012 Historic Thousands on Jones Street (HKonJ) People’s Assembly is this Saturday, February 11. We’ll gather at Shaw University in Raleigh starting at 9:30 and march to the Legislative Building. Other than voting, there’s probably nothing more important for you to do in the interim between legislative sessions. By our presence, we show policy […]

Join Us at HKonJ This Saturday

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The 2012 Historic Thousands on Jones Street (HKonJ) People’s Assembly is this Saturday, February 11. We’ll gather at Shaw University in Raleigh starting at 9:30 and march to the Legislative Building. Other than voting, there’s probably nothing more important for you to do in the interim between legislative sessions. By our presence, we show policy […]

New Nutritional Standards for School Lunches

By Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

Back in November, I told you about the political battle that was ensuing over school lunches in our country.  More specifically, the Obama Administration was calling for healthier meals made with less fat and sodium as well as more fruits and vegetables, while the spending bill passed by Congress recognized tomato paste as a vegetable […]

New Nutritional Standards for School Lunches

by Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

Back in November, I told you about the political battle that was ensuing over school lunches in our country.  More specifically, the Obama Administration was calling for healthier meals made with less fat and sodium as well as more fruits and vegetables, while the spending bill passed by Congress recognized tomato paste as a vegetable […]

Town Hall Meeting: Bring Our War Dollars Home!

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The NC Council of Churches is co-sponsor of a town hall meeting, Bring Our War Dollars Home and Restore Our Communities, which takes place Feb. 20 at 11 a.m. in the Legislative Building Auditorium, 16 W. Jones St., Raleigh. Since 2001, North Carolina taxpayers have spent $14 billion on the war in Afghanistan. The meeting […]

Town Hall Meeting: Bring Our War Dollars Home!

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The NC Council of Churches is co-sponsor of a town hall meeting, Bring Our War Dollars Home and Restore Our Communities, which takes place Feb. 20 at 11 a.m. in the Legislative Building Auditorium, 16 W. Jones St., Raleigh. Since 2001, North Carolina taxpayers have spent $14 billion on the war in Afghanistan. The meeting […]

Permit for Canada to Texas Pipeline Denied

By Richard Fireman, Former NCIPL Public Policy Advisor

By denying a federal permit to the Keystone XL pipeline, the Obama administration has taken a vital step in the ongoing effort to protect the environment. NC Interfaith Power and Light and other like-minded organizations have vehemently opposed the  pipeline, which would run from Canada to Texas carrying dirty tar sands oil to refineries on the […]

Permit for Canada to Texas Pipeline Denied

by Richard Fireman, Former NCIPL Public Policy Advisor

By denying a federal permit to the Keystone XL pipeline, the Obama administration has taken a vital step in the ongoing effort to protect the environment. NC Interfaith Power and Light and other like-minded organizations have vehemently opposed the  pipeline, which would run from Canada to Texas carrying dirty tar sands oil to refineries on the […]

Council Working with Coalition to Defeat Marriage Amendment

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Since 2004, the NC Council of Churches has officially opposed a constitutional amendment defining marriage. Put simply, the Council’s board does not believe discrimination has a place in our state or federal constitution. For that reason, we are working with other organizations in the Coalition to Protect All NC Families to oppose the amendment that […]

Council Working with Coalition to Defeat Marriage Amendment

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Since 2004, the NC Council of Churches has officially opposed a constitutional amendment defining marriage. Put simply, the Council’s board does not believe discrimination has a place in our state or federal constitution. For that reason, we are working with other organizations in the Coalition to Protect All NC Families to oppose the amendment that […]

Governor Proposes Adding Back Emergency Sales Tax

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Governor Perdue has called on the General Assembly to restore three-quarters of a cent of sales tax which the General Assembly allowed to expire last year and to use the money to reduce cuts to education. In a statement, the Governor noted that “The North Carolina Association of School Administrators pointed out recently that North Carolinahas fallen […]

Governor Proposes Adding Back Emergency Sales Tax

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Governor Perdue has called on the General Assembly to restore three-quarters of a cent of sales tax which the General Assembly allowed to expire last year and to use the money to reduce cuts to education. In a statement, the Governor noted that “The North Carolina Association of School Administrators pointed out recently that North Carolinahas fallen […]

Gov. Perdue: 3/4ths of 1-cent sales tax hike needed for schools

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

IndyWeek.Com

Governor Bev Perdue kicked off the 2012 budget debate today — and (unofficially) kicked off her 2012 re-electon campaign — with a call for increased school funding. Specifically, she wants 3/4ths of that temporary 1-cent sales tax for education back temporarily.

Gov. Perdue: 3/4ths of 1-cent sales tax hike needed for schools

IndyWeek.Com

Governor Bev Perdue kicked off the 2012 budget debate today — and (unofficially) kicked off her 2012 re-electon campaign — with a call for increased school funding. Specifically, she wants 3/4ths of that temporary 1-cent sales tax for education back temporarily.

Gun Control Advocates hold Memorial to Mark One-Year Anniversary of Ariz. Shooting

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Raleigh News & Observer

A gathering on a hillside outside a church in West Raleigh late Sunday marked the one-year anniversary since a shooting in Tucson, Ariz., left a federal judge and five other people dead and 13 injured, including U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords. Organizers used the occasion to highlight a shifting focus in what has been a decades-long effort to promote legislation aimed at limiting people's access to guns. Instead, there is a growing focus on using churches and other faith-based efforts to promote a change in how the American culture views guns, they said. It's also an acknowledgement that work in legislatures across the country have been met with resistance to many anti-gun measures.

Gun Control Advocates hold Memorial to Mark One-Year Anniversary of Ariz. Shooting

Raleigh News & Observer

A gathering on a hillside outside a church in West Raleigh late Sunday marked the one-year anniversary since a shooting in Tucson, Ariz., left a federal judge and five other people dead and 13 injured, including U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords.

Organizers used the occasion to highlight a shifting focus in what has been a decades-long effort to promote legislation aimed at limiting people’s access to guns.

Instead, there is a growing focus on using churches and other faith-based efforts to promote a change in how the American culture views guns, they said. It’s also an acknowledgement that work in legislatures across the country have been met with resistance to many anti-gun measures.

Connecting the Dots in 2012

By Richard Fireman, Former NCIPL Public Policy Advisor

As 2012 begins to unfold, I am called to reflect on the amazing world wide pro-democracy movements that were birthed to everyone’s surprise in 2011. Three of the legislative advocacy initiatives of the NC Council of Churches are implicitly connected to this prodemocracy movement – “establishing economic justice”, “promoting clean elections” and “supporting good government”. […]

Connecting the Dots in 2012

by Richard Fireman, Former NCIPL Public Policy Advisor

As 2012 begins to unfold, I am called to reflect on the amazing world wide pro-democracy movements that were birthed to everyone’s surprise in 2011. Three of the legislative advocacy initiatives of the NC Council of Churches are implicitly connected to this prodemocracy movement – “establishing economic justice”, “promoting clean elections” and “supporting good government”. […]

Too Many Victims — Gun Violence Vigil on January 8

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

As part of the national “Too Many Victims” campaign, there will be a vigil in Raleigh on Sunday, January 8. That day is the one-year anniversary of the Tucson shootings, which claimed the lives of six and wounded 13 others, including Congressperson Gabrielle Giffords. The vigil will remember all of those who have been killed or […]

Too Many Victims — Gun Violence Vigil on January 8

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

As part of the national “Too Many Victims” campaign, there will be a vigil in Raleigh on Sunday, January 8. That day is the one-year anniversary of the Tucson shootings, which claimed the lives of six and wounded 13 others, including Congressperson Gabrielle Giffords. The vigil will remember all of those who have been killed or […]

Register NOW for the Preach-In on Global Warming – Feb.10-12

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Durban climate talks are now over and were marked by a striking failure to act.  At the same time that we are seeing irrefutable evidence of climate change and record weather around the globe, the global leaders have again failed to rise to the urgent need for action—instead kicking the can down the road […]

Register NOW for the Preach-In on Global Warming – Feb.10-12

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Durban climate talks are now over and were marked by a striking failure to act.  At the same time that we are seeing irrefutable evidence of climate change and record weather around the globe, the global leaders have again failed to rise to the urgent need for action—instead kicking the can down the road […]

Good News: Governor Perdue Vetoes Attack on Racial Justice Act

By chris

Late this morning, Governor Bev Perdue vetoed the bill which would have gutted the Racial Justice Act (RJA). The RJA is a two-year-old law which allows defendants in death penalty cases to introduce statistical evidence that racial bias affected their death sentence. It’s rebuttable evidence, which means that prosecutors could introduce evidence of their own, […]

Good News: Governor Perdue Vetoes Attack on Racial Justice Act

by chris

Late this morning, Governor Bev Perdue vetoed the bill which would have gutted the Racial Justice Act (RJA). The RJA is a two-year-old law which allows defendants in death penalty cases to introduce statistical evidence that racial bias affected their death sentence. It’s rebuttable evidence, which means that prosecutors could introduce evidence of their own, […]

NC Ranks 21st in Protecting Youth from Tobacco

By Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

According to a recent report released by top public health organizations, NC spends just 16.2% of the $106.8 million recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on programs to prevent youth from using tobacco and to help current smokers quit.  The Health and Wellness Trust Fund (HWTF), which was abolished by state lawmakers […]

NC Ranks 21st in Protecting Youth from Tobacco

by Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

According to a recent report released by top public health organizations, NC spends just 16.2% of the $106.8 million recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on programs to prevent youth from using tobacco and to help current smokers quit.  The Health and Wellness Trust Fund (HWTF), which was abolished by state lawmakers […]

Placing Obese Children in Foster Care: Does the Punishment Fit the “Crime”?

By Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

The debate over whether to place morbidly obese children in foster care or to leave them in an unhealthy home environment resurfaced a few days ago when a 200-pound eight-year-old boy from Ohio was removed from his home. Case workers grew concerned when their attempts to work with the mother to reduce the child’s weight proved […]

Placing Obese Children in Foster Care: Does the Punishment Fit the “Crime”?

by Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

The debate over whether to place morbidly obese children in foster care or to leave them in an unhealthy home environment resurfaced a few days ago when a 200-pound eight-year-old boy from Ohio was removed from his home. Case workers grew concerned when their attempts to work with the mother to reduce the child’s weight proved […]

The Debate over Healthier School Lunches

By Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

As the U.S. grapples with falling home prices, rising unemployment and poverty, members of Congress can’t even agree on what to serve our school-aged children for lunch!  The Obama administration – in concert with the First Lady’s flagship health initiative, Let’s Move! – has been working to improve the foods our children eat during the […]

The Debate over Healthier School Lunches

by Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

As the U.S. grapples with falling home prices, rising unemployment and poverty, members of Congress can’t even agree on what to serve our school-aged children for lunch!  The Obama administration – in concert with the First Lady’s flagship health initiative, Let’s Move! – has been working to improve the foods our children eat during the […]