Immigration

More Than Two Dozen Christian and Jewish Denominations and Associations Sue to Protect Religious Freedoms

February 11, 2025 By North Carolina Council of Churches

The North Carolina Council of Churches is proud to stand as a plaintiff to affirm the sacred obligation to welcome and care for our immigrant neighbors. Read more in the […]

More Than Two Dozen Christian and Jewish Denominations and Associations Sue to Protect Religious Freedoms

February 11, 2025 by North Carolina Council of Churches

The North Carolina Council of Churches is proud to stand as a plaintiff to affirm the sacred obligation to welcome and care for our immigrant neighbors. Read more in the […]

Faith leader urges Tillis to strengthen family immigration

May 9, 2024 · NC Newsline

As a faith leader in North Carolina, I was dismayed to see Congress pass a recent funding bill that will harm some members of our communities by expanding immigration detention and other […]

Faith leader urges Tillis to strengthen family immigration

May 9, 2024 · NC Newsline

As a faith leader in North Carolina, I was dismayed to see Congress pass a recent funding bill that will harm some members of our communities by expanding immigration detention and other […]

Welcome the Stranger: Supporting Refugees through Sponsorship

July 11, 2023 By Rachel Baker, Communications Director

Join us for a webinar alongside Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society (HIAS), the oldest refugee agency in the U.S., to learn how faith communities and people of faith can become sponsor […]

Welcome the Stranger: Supporting Refugees through Sponsorship

July 11, 2023 by Rachel Baker, Communications Director

Join us for a webinar alongside Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society (HIAS), the oldest refugee agency in the U.S., to learn how faith communities and people of faith can become sponsor […]

Virtual HKonJ Moral March & People’s Assembly 2021

January 28, 2021 By Lindsay Barth, Event Coordinator & PHW Communications Associate

The annual HKonJ (Historic Thousands on Jones Street) Moral March and People’s Assembly 2021 is happening virtually and online this year. Due to Covid, we cannot gather on Fayetteville Street, but there […]

Virtual HKonJ Moral March & People’s Assembly 2021

January 28, 2021 by Lindsay Barth, Event Coordinator & PHW Communications Associate

Voting Our Values: Forum on Loving Our Immigrant Neighbors

July 23, 2020 By Lindsay Barth, Event Coordinator & PHW Communications Associate

This August and September, NCIPL will host an eight-week forum series detailing the important issues facing us this election. These events will highlight our voter reflection guide, feature expert speakers, […]

Voting Our Values: Forum on Loving Our Immigrant Neighbors

July 23, 2020 by Lindsay Barth, Event Coordinator & PHW Communications Associate

Voting Our Values: Forum on Loving Our Immigrant Neighbors

July 23, 2020 By Lindsay Barth, Event Coordinator & PHW Communications Associate

Voting Our Values: Forum on Loving Our Immigrant Neighbors

July 23, 2020 by Lindsay Barth, Event Coordinator & PHW Communications Associate

Closing Doors and Closing Borders

August 6, 2019 By Rachel Baker, Communications Director

Hundreds of thousands of migrants are seeking refuge and asylum in the United States. Many factors contribute to migration and cause people to knock on our country’s door. Political corruption, […]

Closing Doors and Closing Borders

August 6, 2019 by Rachel Baker, Communications Director

Closing Doors and Closing Borders

August 6, 2019 By Rachel Baker, Communications Director

Closing Doors and Closing Borders

August 6, 2019 by Rachel Baker, Communications Director

Sanctuary Leaders Threatened by Impossible Fines

July 9, 2019 By Rachel Baker, Communications Director

The same week as our nation’s Independence Day holiday, several undocumented immigrants were fined for remaining in “the land of the free and the home of the brave.” Immigration & […]

Sanctuary Leaders Threatened by Impossible Fines

July 9, 2019 by Rachel Baker, Communications Director

The same week as our nation’s Independence Day holiday, several undocumented immigrants were fined for remaining in “the land of the free and the home of the brave.” Immigration & […]

Wild Goose Festival 2019

June 27, 2019 By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

The Wild Goose Festival is a 4-day art, music, and story-driven transformational experience grounded in faith-inspired social justice. Come to not only learn from incredible speakers, but also to engage […]

Wild Goose Festival 2019

June 27, 2019 by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

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

Raleigh Report – April 11, 2019

April 11, 2019 By George Reed, Former Executive Director

INTRODUCED BILLS CRIMINAL JUSTICE HB 587 – Repeal Death Penalty would abolish the death penalty, and all prisoners currently on Death Row would be resentenced to life imprisonment without parole. […]

Raleigh Report – April 11, 2019

April 11, 2019 by George Reed, Former Executive Director

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

Raleigh Report – March 25, 2019

March 25, 2019 By George Reed, Former Executive Director

INTRODUCED BILLS ECONOMIC JUSTICE HB 422/SB 234 – Healthy Families & Workplaces/Paid Sick Days is similar to the paid sick leave provisions of HB 46. (See RR, February 26.) Introduced […]

Raleigh Report – March 25, 2019

March 25, 2019 by George Reed, Former Executive Director

INTRODUCED BILLS ECONOMIC JUSTICE HB 422/SB 234 – Healthy Families & Workplaces/Paid Sick Days is similar to the paid sick leave provisions of HB 46. (See RR, February 26.) Introduced […]

Raleigh Report – March 11, 2019

March 11, 2019 By George Reed, Former Executive Director

INTRODUCED BILLS GUN VIOLENCE PREVENTION With the passing last month of the first anniversary of the shooting deaths of 17 at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, FL, the […]

Raleigh Report – March 11, 2019

March 11, 2019 by George Reed, Former Executive Director

INTRODUCED BILLS GUN VIOLENCE PREVENTION With the passing last month of the first anniversary of the shooting deaths of 17 at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, FL, the […]

Raleigh Report – February 26, 2019

February 26, 2019 By George Reed, Former Executive Director

INTRODUCED BILLS ECONOMIC JUSTICE HB 46 – Economic Security Act of 2019HB 46 is a collection of issues long of concern to workers and worker advocates. Specific provisions would: Increase […]

Raleigh Report – February 26, 2019

February 26, 2019 by George Reed, Former Executive Director

INTRODUCED BILLS ECONOMIC JUSTICE HB 46 – Economic Security Act of 2019HB 46 is a collection of issues long of concern to workers and worker advocates. Specific provisions would: Increase […]

The Courage is Already Ours

October 22, 2018 By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Sermon originally delivered by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland on Sunday, October 21 at Community United Church of Christ in Raleigh. Right now there are thousands of people walking from Honduras […]

The Courage is Already Ours

October 22, 2018 by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Immigrant Families Fear Proposed Public Charge Rule

October 19, 2018 By Rachel Baker, Communications Director

Earlier this year, a draft of the “public charge” rule was leaked. The final version from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) was published in the Federal Register (October 10) […]

Immigrant Families Fear Proposed Public Charge Rule

October 19, 2018 by Rachel Baker, Communications Director

Earlier this year, a draft of the “public charge” rule was leaked. The final version from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) was published in the Federal Register (October 10) […]

Familias Unidas, No Divididas

June 23, 2018 By Rachel Baker, Communications Director

Just this week, the president signed an executive order ending the separation of families, but this order does not change the fact that thousands of children were stripped away from […]

Familias Unidas, No Divididas

June 23, 2018 by Rachel Baker, Communications Director

Just this week, the president signed an executive order ending the separation of families, but this order does not change the fact that thousands of children were stripped away from […]

Council Launches NC Sanctuary Coalition

June 11, 2018 By Rachel Baker, Communications Director

The North Carolina Council of Churches and its allies across North Carolina invite others to join the NC Sanctuary Coalition. We first announced plans for the coalition at a press […]

Council Launches NC Sanctuary Coalition

June 11, 2018 by Rachel Baker, Communications Director

The North Carolina Council of Churches and its allies across North Carolina invite others to join the NC Sanctuary Coalition. We first announced plans for the coalition at a press […]

The Border as War

June 8, 2018 By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Sermon delivered by Council Governing Board member Isaac S. Villegas on May 28, 2018. Coming and going, leaving and arriving, exit and entrance. That’s the theme permeating these verse from […]

The Border as War

June 8, 2018 by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Sermon delivered by Council Governing Board member Isaac S. Villegas on May 28, 2018. Coming and going, leaving and arriving, exit and entrance. That’s the theme permeating these verse from […]

Defend Against the Implementation of 287g

June 7, 2018 By Rachel Baker, Communications Director

Earlier this week, Mijente, a new political home for Latinx and Chicanx organizing, launched their “Abolish I.C.E.” tour in Seattle, Washington. The purpose of the tour is to rally support […]

Defend Against the Implementation of 287g

June 7, 2018 by Rachel Baker, Communications Director

Earlier this week, Mijente, a new political home for Latinx and Chicanx organizing, launched their “Abolish I.C.E.” tour in Seattle, Washington. The purpose of the tour is to rally support […]

Stranglehold Tightens Again for Immigrant Families

June 5, 2018 By Rachel Baker, Communications Director

The draft of a new rule from the Department of Homeland Security was recently leaked to the press. On top of all the new restrictions and regulations related to immigration […]

Stranglehold Tightens Again for Immigrant Families

June 5, 2018 by Rachel Baker, Communications Director

The draft of a new rule from the Department of Homeland Security was recently leaked to the press. On top of all the new restrictions and regulations related to immigration […]

Support the Sanctuary Movement

May 31, 2018 By Rachel Baker, Communications Director

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the will of God – what is […]

Support the Sanctuary Movement

May 31, 2018 by Rachel Baker, Communications Director

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the will of God – what is […]

Partner Congregations Provide Sanctuary for Woman in Chapel Hill

April 17, 2018 By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks delivered by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland at a March 17 press conference in Chapel Hill on the Sanctuary Movement. At the North Carolina Council of Churches, we don’t pretend […]

Partner Congregations Provide Sanctuary for Woman in Chapel Hill

April 17, 2018 by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks delivered by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland at a March 17 press conference in Chapel Hill on the Sanctuary Movement. At the North Carolina Council of Churches, we don’t pretend […]

Council hires new Program Coordinator for Immigration Advocacy

March 23, 2018 By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

The North Carolina Council of Churches must replace our veteran Immigration Program Director, Jennie Belle, who will become the Faith Community Organizer for the national organization, Church World Service. Over […]

Council hires new Program Coordinator for Immigration Advocacy

March 23, 2018 by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Statement Affirming the Ministry of Sanctuary by Congregations

March 8, 2018 By chris

Statement Affirming the Ministry of Sanctuary by Congregations Approved March 6, 2018 by the Governing Board of the North Carolina Council of Churches The North Carolina Council of Churches: Reaffirms […]

Statement Affirming the Ministry of Sanctuary by Congregations

March 8, 2018 by chris

Looking for Help?

January 23, 2018 By Mary Elizabeth Hanchey, Program Associate for Legislative Advocacy and Interfaith Outreach

The Federal Government of the United States of America shut down at midnight on Friday. It reopened yesterday, but may shut down again in February. Uncertainty and disorientation abound. […]

Looking for Help?

January 23, 2018 by Mary Elizabeth Hanchey, Program Associate for Legislative Advocacy and Interfaith Outreach

The Federal Government of the United States of America shut down at midnight on Friday. It reopened yesterday, but may shut down again in February. Uncertainty and disorientation abound. […]

Jesus, Martin, and Gilles

January 17, 2018 By Mary Elizabeth Hanchey, Program Associate for Legislative Advocacy and Interfaith Outreach

A reflection on Jesus of Nazareth (out of which nothing good comes)¹, the life and death of Martin Luther King Jr., and the detention of Gilles Bikindou. Jesus. Martin. Gilles. […]

Jesus, Martin, and Gilles

January 17, 2018 by Mary Elizabeth Hanchey, Program Associate for Legislative Advocacy and Interfaith Outreach

A reflection on Jesus of Nazareth (out of which nothing good comes)¹, the life and death of Martin Luther King Jr., and the detention of Gilles Bikindou. Jesus. Martin. Gilles. […]

Defending Temporary Protected Status

January 10, 2018 By Yolanda Santiago-Correa, Duke Divinity School Intern

On Monday, the Department of Homeland Security announced the decision to terminate the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designation for El Salvador. This temporary immigration status allows people from certain countries […]

Defending Temporary Protected Status

January 10, 2018 by Yolanda Santiago-Correa, Duke Divinity School Intern

Council Offers Updated Sanctuary E-course

January 5, 2018 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

A growing movement of immigrant and faith communities have committed to doing what Congress and the Administration refuse to do: protect and stand with immigrants facing deportation. However, many congregations […]

Council Offers Updated Sanctuary E-course

January 5, 2018 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Wild Goose Festival

January 2, 2018 By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Wild Goose Festival

January 2, 2018 by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Hope for the Holidays: 2017 Advent Calendar to Defend Immigrants and Refugees

December 4, 2017 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Last year, we created an Advent Calendar to Support Immigrants and Refugees. This year, as the futures of tens of thousands of refugees, DACA recipients, and immigrants who are at […]

Hope for the Holidays: 2017 Advent Calendar to Defend Immigrants and Refugees

December 4, 2017 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Last year, we created an Advent Calendar to Support Immigrants and Refugees. This year, as the futures of tens of thousands of refugees, DACA recipients, and immigrants who are at […]

Support the Council on Giving Tuesday

November 27, 2017 By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Dear Friends, Last year when we sent out our fall appeal requesting financial support for the work of the North Carolina Council of Churches we were only days past the […]

Support the Council on Giving Tuesday

November 27, 2017 by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Dear Friends, Last year when we sent out our fall appeal requesting financial support for the work of the North Carolina Council of Churches we were only days past the […]

Protect Dreamers This Thanksgiving

November 22, 2017 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

For many of us living in the United States, Thanksgiving is a time when we get together with family and friends. We share food, fellowship, and the things that we are […]

Protect Dreamers This Thanksgiving

November 22, 2017 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

For many of us living in the United States, Thanksgiving is a time when we get together with family and friends. We share food, fellowship, and the things that we are […]

Blessed Are the Dreamers

September 7, 2017 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

This week, the Trump administration announced it will end Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), an Obama initiative protecting hundreds of thousands of young, undocumented immigrants from deportation. This protection […]

Blessed Are the Dreamers

September 7, 2017 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Opposing the RAISE Act

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

Two weeks ago, the President endorsed a new bill in the Senate designed to cut legal immigration levels in half over a decade, a potentially extreme change to policies that […]

Opposing the RAISE Act

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

Two weeks ago, the President endorsed a new bill in the Senate designed to cut legal immigration levels in half over a decade, a potentially extreme change to policies that […]

Supporting Young Immigrants’ Dreams

August 5, 2017 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Five years ago, President Obama created the DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) program to enable young people brought to this country as children to come out of the shadows […]

Supporting Young Immigrants’ Dreams

August 5, 2017 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Five years ago, President Obama created the DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) program to enable young people brought to this country as children to come out of the shadows […]

Sanctuary Matters: Testimony and Best Practices

July 20, 2017 By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

In light of recent events involving the deportation and fears of our immigrant brothers and sisters throughout the state, the NC Council of Churches’ annual Faith & Immigration Summit will […]

Sanctuary Matters: Testimony and Best Practices

July 20, 2017 by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

In light of recent events involving the deportation and fears of our immigrant brothers and sisters throughout the state, the NC Council of Churches’ annual Faith & Immigration Summit will […]

The President’s New Policies are Bad for Cuba and the Church

June 27, 2017 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

I have been blessed with the opportunity to visit Cuba on two occasions: the first in 2000 on a mission trip with a Baptist church and the second last September […]

The President’s New Policies are Bad for Cuba and the Church

June 27, 2017 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

I have been blessed with the opportunity to visit Cuba on two occasions: the first in 2000 on a mission trip with a Baptist church and the second last September […]

Sanctuary Matters: Testimony and Best Practices

June 26, 2017 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Sanctuary Matters: Testimony and Best Practices: A Weekend of Reflection & Training September 16, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and Sunday, September 17 United Church of Chapel Hill 1321 Martin Luther King […]

Sanctuary Matters: Testimony and Best Practices

June 26, 2017 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Sanctuary Matters: Testimony and Best Practices: A Weekend of Reflection & Training September 16, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and Sunday, September 17 United Church of Chapel Hill 1321 Martin Luther King […]

NC Council of Churches Places Welcome Billboard Along I-40

June 26, 2017 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

For at least the next month, drivers along I-40 West between Statesville and Hickory will see an important reminder of God’s directive to be a welcoming presence to the most […]

NC Council of Churches Places Welcome Billboard Along I-40

June 26, 2017 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

For at least the next month, drivers along I-40 West between Statesville and Hickory will see an important reminder of God’s directive to be a welcoming presence to the most […]

Let Us Show Love and Compassion on World Refugee Day

June 19, 2017 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

First celebrated in 2001, World Refugee Day is held annually on June 20. The day marks a worldwide effort to raise awareness of the plight of refugees and recognize the contributions of […]

Let Us Show Love and Compassion on World Refugee Day

June 19, 2017 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

First celebrated in 2001, World Refugee Day is held annually on June 20. The day marks a worldwide effort to raise awareness of the plight of refugees and recognize the contributions of […]

Sanctuary as a Sacred Act

June 2, 2017 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Photo courtesy of the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina. Under President Trump’s recent executive orders, many people’s lives have changed, especially the lives of those who have come to North Carolina […]

Sanctuary as a Sacred Act

June 2, 2017 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

We Are Love Warriors

May 28, 2017 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

The exhilaration of Easter is fading into memory, and we are left with more routine matters. Unfortunately, the matters that are becoming more and more commonplace have frightening implications: tweets, threats, […]

We Are Love Warriors

May 28, 2017 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

The Plank in Your Eye

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

As followers of the Prince of Peace, Christians are not always particularly peaceful people, which is what makes North Carolina’s return to the national stage as a foothold for intolerance […]

The Plank in Your Eye

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

As followers of the Prince of Peace, Christians are not always particularly peaceful people, which is what makes North Carolina’s return to the national stage as a foothold for intolerance […]

2018 Budget Proposal is the Antithesis of our Call

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

Plenty of analysis is already happening around the 2018 budget proposal out of the White House. The Washington Post provides two helpful graphics here and here. More is being written […]

2018 Budget Proposal is the Antithesis of our Call

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

Plenty of analysis is already happening around the 2018 budget proposal out of the White House. The Washington Post provides two helpful graphics here and here. More is being written […]

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, […]

Raleigh Report — April 21, 2017

April 21, 2017 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director [For the latest committee referrals and re-referrals, go to the General Assembly website www.ncleg.net. There you can also find the texts of bills, procedural […]

Raleigh Report — April 21, 2017

April 21, 2017 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

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. […]

2017 Legislative Seminar — Thank You plus Worship and Awards Presentation Online

March 28, 2017 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

For those who could not be with us at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church in Raleigh, video from portions of the day is available on our Facebook page. The morning […]

2017 Legislative Seminar — Thank You plus Worship and Awards Presentation Online

March 28, 2017 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

For those who could not be with us at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church in Raleigh, video from portions of the day is available on our Facebook page. The morning […]

2017 Legislative Seminar Check-In Instructions

March 24, 2017 By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Thank you to those who have registered for the 2017 Legislative Seminar. We are looking forward to having you join us this Monday, March 27, at St. Mark’s United Methodist […]

2017 Legislative Seminar Check-In Instructions

March 24, 2017 by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Thank you to those who have registered for the 2017 Legislative Seminar. We are looking forward to having you join us this Monday, March 27, at St. Mark’s United Methodist […]

Raleigh Report — March 21, 2017

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

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills BUDGET AND TAXATION HB 329, Home School Education Tax Credit, would give a $1,250-per-student-per-semester income tax credit to the parents of […]

Raleigh Report — March 21, 2017

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

If a Budget is a Moral Document, Then What Does this One Preach?

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

The budget blueprint for 2018 released by President Trump on Thursday cuts a wide swath through programs that serve women, people of color, those of low income (for poor women […]

If a Budget is a Moral Document, Then What Does this One Preach?

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

The budget blueprint for 2018 released by President Trump on Thursday cuts a wide swath through programs that serve women, people of color, those of low income (for poor women […]

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 […]

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 […]

2017 Legislative Seminar: Advocate in NC as well as DC

March 6, 2017 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The political situation at the national level has occupied the time and attention of many faithful progressives. Each day has brought with it more reasons to be concerned for our […]

2017 Legislative Seminar: Advocate in NC as well as DC

March 6, 2017 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The political situation at the national level has occupied the time and attention of many faithful progressives. Each day has brought with it more reasons to be concerned for our […]

Video of Webinar: Loving Our Neighbors in a New Administration

February 24, 2017 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Did you miss our webinar, ““Loving Our Neighbors in a New Administration?” If so, please watch the one-hour video below to learn ways to protect immigrants and refugees in the […]

Video of Webinar: Loving Our Neighbors in a New Administration

February 24, 2017 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Did you miss our webinar, ““Loving Our Neighbors in a New Administration?” If so, please watch the one-hour video below to learn ways to protect immigrants and refugees in the […]

Let Loving One Another Become Our Norm

February 23, 2017 By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Yesterday morning, the Sandra P. Lerner Jewish Community Day School in Durham received a bomb threat. This was the most recent in recurring waves of bomb threats against Jewish centers […]

Let Loving One Another Become Our Norm

February 23, 2017 by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Yesterday morning, the Sandra P. Lerner Jewish Community Day School in Durham received a bomb threat. This was the most recent in recurring waves of bomb threats against Jewish centers […]

Raleigh Report — February 20, 2017

February 20, 2017 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills BUDGET AND TAXES S 75, Constitutional Amendment – Maximum Income Tax Rate of 5.5%. The Constitution currently sets a maximum rate […]

Raleigh Report — February 20, 2017

February 20, 2017 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Answering your Questions about Sanctuary

February 16, 2017 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

President Trump’s recent executive actions impacting refugees and immigrants have faithful people increasingly interested in how they might support our sisters and brothers being impacted. Court decisions have offered a […]

Answering your Questions about Sanctuary

February 16, 2017 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Raleigh Report — February 15, 2017

February 15, 2017 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director As the legislative session continues, there’s been a marked increase in the number of bills being introduced. Here are summaries of several which will […]

Raleigh Report — February 15, 2017

February 15, 2017 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Refugees Welcomed, Not Banned

February 10, 2017 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Last in a series of three blogs. Above all, these strangers bring to us the Christ. When we welcome a stranger we welcome Jesus, and when we welcome Jesus we […]

Refugees Welcomed, Not Banned

February 10, 2017 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Last in a series of three blogs. Above all, these strangers bring to us the Christ. When we welcome a stranger we welcome Jesus, and when we welcome Jesus we […]

Walls Demonstrate Hostility, not Hospitality

February 7, 2017 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Second in a series of three blogs. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it. (Hebrews 13:2) The idea […]

Walls Demonstrate Hostility, not Hospitality

February 7, 2017 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Second in a series of three blogs. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it. (Hebrews 13:2) The idea […]

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

Blessed not Blocked or Banned

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

This Sunday’s Gospel reading was the Beatitudes, Matthew 5:1-12. Jesus says blessed nine times, but he never says blocked or banned. When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the […]

Blessed not Blocked or Banned

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

This Sunday’s Gospel reading was the Beatitudes, Matthew 5:1-12. Jesus says blessed nine times, but he never says blocked or banned. When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the […]

The Threat is not from Immigrants and Refugees

January 28, 2017 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council has had a busy weekend. Much of the staff was helping with the Beyond Gun Violence Conference at United Church of Chapel Hill, but we also had folks […]

The Threat is not from Immigrants and Refugees

January 28, 2017 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council has had a busy weekend. Much of the staff was helping with the Beyond Gun Violence Conference at United Church of Chapel Hill, but we also had folks […]

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 […]

Sanctuary, Not Deportation

January 27, 2017 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

First in a series of three blogs. God calls people of faith to remember that they once were strangers in a strange land and they must, must welcome the stranger […]

Sanctuary, Not Deportation

January 27, 2017 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

First in a series of three blogs. God calls people of faith to remember that they once were strangers in a strange land and they must, must welcome the stranger […]

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 […]

A Letter to President Trump

January 20, 2017 By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Dear Mr. Trump, You ARE my president. I did not vote for you, but you were elected, and that makes you my president because I am a citizen of these […]

A Letter to President Trump

January 20, 2017 by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Dear Mr. Trump, You ARE my president. I did not vote for you, but you were elected, and that makes you my president because I am a citizen of these […]

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

Advent Guide: First Sunday After Christmas Day, January 1

December 30, 2016 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Excerpted from How Will We Welcome the Prince of Peace? An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the NC Council of Churches. Now after they had left, an angel […]

Advent Guide: First Sunday After Christmas Day, January 1

December 30, 2016 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Excerpted from How Will We Welcome the Prince of Peace? An Advent Guide for Lectionary Year A from the NC Council of Churches. Now after they had left, an angel […]

The Council Welcomes Your End-of-Year Gift

December 26, 2016 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Looking ahead to 2017, there is much more work for the Council to do than we ever imagined. Please join us. Your financial support helps us continue what began in […]

The Council Welcomes Your End-of-Year Gift

December 26, 2016 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Looking ahead to 2017, there is much more work for the Council to do than we ever imagined. Please join us. Your financial support helps us continue what began in […]

Support North Carolina’s Faithful Voice for Justice, Unity, and Peace

December 18, 2016 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We are living in unsettling times. Progress we once thought inviolable now feels threatened. One constant is the NC Council of Churches and our commitment to a more just, united, […]

Support North Carolina’s Faithful Voice for Justice, Unity, and Peace

December 18, 2016 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We are living in unsettling times. Progress we once thought inviolable now feels threatened. One constant is the NC Council of Churches and our commitment to a more just, united, […]

Advent Calendar to Support Immigrants and Refugees

November 29, 2016 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Today when I logged onto Facebook, among all the heartbreaking news in our world (some from credible sources, others questionable), I was taken with a graphic shared by Hacking Christianity, a blog […]

Advent Calendar to Support Immigrants and Refugees

November 29, 2016 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Be Thankful for Immigrants and Indigenous People

November 23, 2016 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Almost 400 years ago, in what is now Massachusetts, a group of newly arrived immigrants from Europe received lifesaving hospitality from a group of indigenous Americans. Tomorrow, we celebrate and […]

Be Thankful for Immigrants and Indigenous People

November 23, 2016 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

A Troubling Choice, Yet Glimmers of Hope

November 11, 2016 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Those of us aligned with the Council of Churches share a political outlook whose priorities include equal rights, equal opportunity, environmental stewardship, ample investment in public services and fair allocation […]

A Troubling Choice, Yet Glimmers of Hope

November 11, 2016 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

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 […]

Separating Church and Hate Since 1935

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

We work toward a church that is all-loving. That’s what we’ve always done and that’s what we’re going to keep doing. Stay connected with the Council to learn about opportunities […]

Separating Church and Hate Since 1935

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

We work toward a church that is all-loving. That’s what we’ve always done and that’s what we’re going to keep doing. Stay connected with the Council to learn about opportunities […]

Dia de los Muertos: Honor for the Dead; Justice for the Living

November 2, 2016 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By Nina Voli, Duke Divinity School Intern Historically, the celebration of Halloween has its origins in the Celtic festival of Samhain, a pagan commemoration of the end of the harvest […]

Dia de los Muertos: Honor for the Dead; Justice for the Living

November 2, 2016 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By Nina Voli, Duke Divinity School Intern Historically, the celebration of Halloween has its origins in the Celtic festival of Samhain, a pagan commemoration of the end of the harvest […]

Community IDs Aren’t Only for Immigrants

October 28, 2016 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

In the midst of election season, I have been reminded once again of the importance of having an ID in order to vote. When I went to my polling place […]

Community IDs Aren’t Only for Immigrants

October 28, 2016 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

In the midst of election season, I have been reminded once again of the importance of having an ID in order to vote. When I went to my polling place […]

At Campaign Trail’s End, Voters Rule

October 27, 2016 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

As the 2016 campaign season grinds along the final stretch toward Election Day on Nov. 8 – and with thousands of North Carolinians already having cast their ballots – we […]

At Campaign Trail’s End, Voters Rule

October 27, 2016 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

As the 2016 campaign season grinds along the final stretch toward Election Day on Nov. 8 – and with thousands of North Carolinians already having cast their ballots – we […]

Celebrate Citizenship Day by Attending the Faith & Immigration Summit

September 15, 2016 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

September 17 marks Citizenship and Constitution Day, a combined event that commemorates the anniversary of the United States Constitution and recognizes all U.S. citizens. Ceremonies and celebrations will take place […]

Celebrate Citizenship Day by Attending the Faith & Immigration Summit

September 15, 2016 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Faith & Immigration Summit Workshops Highlight Importance of Immigration In Upcoming Elections

August 28, 2016 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Immigration is one of the most important issues in the 2016 presidential race, as it has been in previous election cycles. Debates about our response to immigrants and refugees coming […]

Faith & Immigration Summit Workshops Highlight Importance of Immigration In Upcoming Elections

August 28, 2016 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Immigration is one of the most important issues in the 2016 presidential race, as it has been in previous election cycles. Debates about our response to immigrants and refugees coming […]

Welcoming Strangers and Neighbors

August 6, 2016 By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

These remarks were delivered at the Reason for Reform press conference on August 3, 2016 at Pullen Memorial Baptist Church. In addition to my job as leader of the NC […]

Welcoming Strangers and Neighbors

August 6, 2016 by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

These remarks were delivered at the Reason for Reform press conference on August 3, 2016 at Pullen Memorial Baptist Church. In addition to my job as leader of the NC […]

Scrambled Session’s Lows and Highs

July 10, 2016 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The N.C. General Assembly’s 2016 regular session, which drew to a sudden close on July 1, will be remembered as much for what didn’t happen as for what did – […]

Scrambled Session’s Lows and Highs

July 10, 2016 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The N.C. General Assembly’s 2016 regular session, which drew to a sudden close on July 1, will be remembered as much for what didn’t happen as for what did – […]

The NC Council of Churches Opposes HB 100

July 1, 2016 By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

This speech was delivered by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland at a press conference against House Bill 100 on June 28, 2016. The Old Testament is filled with instructions on how […]

The NC Council of Churches Opposes HB 100

July 1, 2016 by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

This speech was delivered by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland at a press conference against House Bill 100 on June 28, 2016. The Old Testament is filled with instructions on how […]

Crying Aloud in the Wake of the DAPA/DACA Supreme Court Decision

June 27, 2016 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

This past week has been filled with what feels like a continuous barrage of tragic news: the shootings in Orlando and subsequent lack of gun control measures by Congress, World […]

Crying Aloud in the Wake of the DAPA/DACA Supreme Court Decision

June 27, 2016 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

This past week has been filled with what feels like a continuous barrage of tragic news: the shootings in Orlando and subsequent lack of gun control measures by Congress, World […]

Immigrants as Scapegoats — Again

June 26, 2016 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

There wasn’t a lot to like about what occurred the other day in a state Senate committee. First, legislative rules – notoriously rubberized – were stretched to the point where […]

Immigrants as Scapegoats — Again

June 26, 2016 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

There wasn’t a lot to like about what occurred the other day in a state Senate committee. First, legislative rules – notoriously rubberized – were stretched to the point where […]

Stand with Refugees on World Refugee Day

June 20, 2016 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Today, June 20, is World Refugee Day, a day when people all over the world celebrate the courage, strength and resiliency of our neighbors who were forced to flee their home […]

Stand with Refugees on World Refugee Day

June 20, 2016 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Today, June 20, is World Refugee Day, a day when people all over the world celebrate the courage, strength and resiliency of our neighbors who were forced to flee their home […]

Beyond Pulse: Vigilance, Tolerance

June 17, 2016 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Let’s face it. We, that would be all of us who proudly claim the title of American, must do more to forestall the situations and grievances and opportunities that can […]

Beyond Pulse: Vigilance, Tolerance

June 17, 2016 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Let’s face it. We, that would be all of us who proudly claim the title of American, must do more to forestall the situations and grievances and opportunities that can […]

Webinar: A Faithful Response to ICE Raids and Detentions

May 26, 2016 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

At the beginning of 2016, ICE (Immigration and Custom Enforcement) stepped up deportations of undocumented Central Americans in North Carolina. Last week it was announced that another wave of deportations […]

Webinar: A Faithful Response to ICE Raids and Detentions

May 26, 2016 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Webinar: A Faithful Response to ICE Raids and Detentions

May 2, 2016 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Tuesday, May 17 Noon At the beginning of 2016, ICE (Immigration and Custom Enforcement) stepped up deportations of undocumented Central Americans in North Carolina. Now is the time for faith […]

Webinar: A Faithful Response to ICE Raids and Detentions

May 2, 2016 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

Tuesday, May 17 Noon At the beginning of 2016, ICE (Immigration and Custom Enforcement) stepped up deportations of undocumented Central Americans in North Carolina. Now is the time for faith […]

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 […]

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, […]

Trump’s Campaign of Us versus Them

March 21, 2016 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

If Donald J. Trump successfully concludes his so-far-dominant push to become this year’s Republican presidential nominee, North Carolinians will have played a role. Some will view that role as a […]

Trump’s Campaign of Us versus Them

March 21, 2016 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate