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NC Council of Churches

NC Council of Churches

Strength in Unity, Peace through Justice

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Living Wage

Raise the Minimum Wage

April 22, 2021 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by the Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland at the Minimum Wage Increase – Bill Introduction Press Conference, hosted by Raising Wages NC. To watch the full […]

Raise the Minimum Wage

April 22, 2021 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The following remarks were delivered by the Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland at the Minimum Wage Increase – Bill Introduction Press Conference, hosted by Raising Wages NC. To watch the full […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Living Wage

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

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 […]

Tagged With: Equality & Reconciliation, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, Human Rights, Immigration, Interfaith, LGBTQ, Living Wage, N.C. General Assembly, Peace, Public Education, Race/Ethnicity

Raise the Wage

November 23, 2020 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

My faith tradition professes that our worth is in our faces because our faces look like God’s face. We are created in the Image of God, making each human face […]

Raise the Wage

November 23, 2020 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

My faith tradition professes that our worth is in our faces because our faces look like God’s face. We are created in the Image of God, making each human face […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Economic Justice, Good Government, Living Wage

A Shameful Anniversary: The Minimum Wage

July 26, 2019 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

It has been 10 years since Congress raised the minimum wage. Some states have raised their minimum without a federal mandate, but not North Carolina. This 10-year span follows on […]

A Shameful Anniversary: The Minimum Wage

July 26, 2019 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

It has been 10 years since Congress raised the minimum wage. Some states have raised their minimum without a federal mandate, but not North Carolina. This 10-year span follows on […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Living Wage

A Shameful Anniversary: The Minimum Wage

July 26, 2019 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

It has been 10 years since Congress raised the minimum wage. Some states have raised their minimum without a federal mandate, but not North Carolina. This 10-year span follows on […]

A Shameful Anniversary: The Minimum Wage

July 26, 2019 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

It has been 10 years since Congress raised the minimum wage. Some states have raised their minimum without a federal mandate, but not North Carolina. This 10-year span follows on […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Living Wage

Lobby Day for Workers

May 3, 2018 By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Join the Council and Raising Wages NC for a statewide lobby day at the North Carolina General Assembly. Make your voice heard by encouraging your representatives to support a raise […]

Lobby Day for Workers

May 3, 2018 by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Join the Council and Raising Wages NC for a statewide lobby day at the North Carolina General Assembly. Make your voice heard by encouraging your representatives to support a raise […]

Tagged With: Economic Justice, Living Wage

Wise Folks Build Their House on the Rock

April 27, 2018 By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Woe to him who builds his house by unrighteousness, and his upper rooms by injustice; who makes his neighbors work for nothing and does not give them their wages. Jeremiah […]

Wise Folks Build Their House on the Rock

April 27, 2018 by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Woe to him who builds his house by unrighteousness, and his upper rooms by injustice; who makes his neighbors work for nothing and does not give them their wages. Jeremiah […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Economic Justice, Living Wage

Honor Workers with a Labor Day Sabbath

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

The Council is partnering with Raise the Wage NC to encourage faith communities to hold a Labor Sabbath this Labor Day weekend, September 1-3. Faith leaders can adapt their holy […]

Honor Workers with a Labor Day Sabbath

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

The Council is partnering with Raise the Wage NC to encourage faith communities to hold a Labor Sabbath this Labor Day weekend, September 1-3. Faith leaders can adapt their holy […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Economic Justice, Farmworkers, Good Government, Hunger, Living Wage, Organized Labor, Worship

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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Domestic Violence, Economic Justice, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Food, Fracking, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, Housing, Hunger, Immigration, Living Wage, Mental Health, Peace, People with Disabilities, Public Education, Race/Ethnicity, Refugees, Religion & Society, Taxes

Women and Wages

March 8, 2017 By The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks delivered by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland at a press conference on fair wages on March 8, 2017. Today is a day without women. Across the world women have been […]

Women and Wages

March 8, 2017 by The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

Remarks delivered by Executive Director Jennifer Copeland at a press conference on fair wages on March 8, 2017. Today is a day without women. Across the world women have been […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Children & Youth, Economic Justice, Equality & Reconciliation, Food, Gender, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, Housing, Hunger, Living Wage

Whispers and Shouts

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

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

Whispers and Shouts

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Let’s Keep Marching

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

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

Let’s Keep Marching

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

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

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

Speak Out on Cabinet Nominees

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

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

Speak Out on Cabinet Nominees

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

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

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

Advent Guide Focuses on Peace

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

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

Advent Guide Focuses on Peace

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

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

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

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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Death Penalty, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Farmworkers, Food, Gender, Good Government, Gun Violence, Healthcare Reform, Human Rights, Immigration, Interfaith, LGBTQ, Living Wage, Mental Health, N.C. General Assembly, Peace, People with Disabilities, Prophetic Voice, Public Education, Race/Ethnicity, Religion & Society, State Budget, Taxes

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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Children & Youth, Civil Discourse, Civil Liberties, Elections, Equality & Reconciliation, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, Immigration, Interfaith, LGBTQ, Living Wage, Moral Mondays, N.C. General Assembly, Prophetic Voice, Public Education, Race/Ethnicity, Religion & Society, State Budget

Budgeting that Tests our Values

June 3, 2016 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Let’s assume the worst, which for the moment would mean that the N.C. Senate’s version of a new state budget sails through to enactment without change or compromise. The sun, […]

Budgeting that Tests our Values

June 3, 2016 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Let’s assume the worst, which for the moment would mean that the N.C. Senate’s version of a new state budget sails through to enactment without change or compromise. The sun, […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Children & Youth, Economic Justice, Environment, Good Government, Interfaith, Living Wage, N.C. General Assembly, Public Education, State Budget, Taxes

Raleigh Report: Weekly Update, May 25, 2016

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

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

Raleigh Report: Weekly Update, May 25, 2016

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

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

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

Raleigh Report Weekly Update: May 17, 2016

May 17, 2016 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The update is compiled on a volunteer basis by George Reed, the Council’s retired executive director. Weekly Update May 17, 2016 The deadline for introduction of most new bills into […]

Raleigh Report Weekly Update: May 17, 2016

May 17, 2016 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The update is compiled on a volunteer basis by George Reed, the Council’s retired executive director. Weekly Update May 17, 2016 The deadline for introduction of most new bills into […]

Filed Under: Blog, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Economic Justice, Good Government, Healthcare Reform, LGBTQ, Living Wage, N.C. General Assembly, Public Education, State Budget

Safety is Imperative to Worker Justice

April 25, 2016 By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Worker Memorial Day is April 28, a day when we remember workers who have lost their lives providing goods (buildings, roads, food, clothing, etc) and services (caring for our children, […]

Safety is Imperative to Worker Justice

April 25, 2016 by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Worker Memorial Day is April 28, a day when we remember workers who have lost their lives providing goods (buildings, roads, food, clothing, etc) and services (caring for our children, […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Economic Justice, Farmworkers, Good Government, Human Rights, Living Wage, Organized Labor, Religion & Society

Signs of Hope After Easter

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

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

Signs of Hope After Easter

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

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

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

Tenth Annual HKonJ is February 13

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

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

Tenth Annual HKonJ is February 13

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

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

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

Uncomplicating Justice

January 5, 2016 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

A lot of times in the work that we do at the Council we preface our comments, blogs or presentations with the words, “it’s complicated”. The Syrian refugee crisis is […]

Uncomplicating Justice

January 5, 2016 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

A lot of times in the work that we do at the Council we preface our comments, blogs or presentations with the words, “it’s complicated”. The Syrian refugee crisis is […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Economic Justice, Equality & Reconciliation, Good Government, Human Rights, Living Wage, Organized Labor, Peace, Prophetic Voice, Race/Ethnicity, Religion & Society

A Living Wage in Wake County

November 28, 2015 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Last week brought the welcome news that Wake County’s commissioners had voted unanimously to raise the county’s lowest-paid workers up to what commissioners calculate […]

A Living Wage in Wake County

November 28, 2015 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Last week brought the welcome news that Wake County’s commissioners had voted unanimously to raise the county’s lowest-paid workers up to what commissioners calculate […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Economic Justice, Good Government, Living Wage

Shopping with Meaning

November 24, 2015 By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Pope Francis has offered us a message encouraging us to actions that reflects a commitment to dignity and respect for all workers. As the Advent season approaches, gift giving becomes […]

Shopping with Meaning

November 24, 2015 by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Pope Francis has offered us a message encouraging us to actions that reflects a commitment to dignity and respect for all workers. As the Advent season approaches, gift giving becomes […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Economic Justice, Interfaith, Living Wage, Organized Labor, Religion & Society

Coffee Cups and Jesus

November 12, 2015 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Jesus does not care about your latte. Your frappuccino, cappuccino, or mocha, either. At least, he doesn’t care about the cup it is served in and whether it’s branded to […]

Coffee Cups and Jesus

November 12, 2015 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Jesus does not care about your latte. Your frappuccino, cappuccino, or mocha, either. At least, he doesn’t care about the cup it is served in and whether it’s branded to […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Economic Justice, Environment, Farmworkers, Food, Immigration, Living Wage, Organized Labor, Prophetic Voice, Religion & Society, Rural Life

Binkley Certified as Paying a Living Wage

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

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director, NC Council of Churches Olin T. Binkley Memorial Baptist Church in Chapel Hill, one of the Council’s eight member congregations, has become the first […]

Binkley Certified as Paying a Living Wage

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

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director, NC Council of Churches Olin T. Binkley Memorial Baptist Church in Chapel Hill, one of the Council’s eight member congregations, has become the first […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Economic Justice, Living Wage, Religion & Society

Workers Deserve Dignity and Respect

September 4, 2015 By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Monday, September 7 is Labor Day when we should honor the workers in our community with dignity and respect. The Social Creed for the 21st century, a document endorsed by […]

Workers Deserve Dignity and Respect

September 4, 2015 by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Monday, September 7 is Labor Day when we should honor the workers in our community with dignity and respect. The Social Creed for the 21st century, a document endorsed by […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Economic Justice, Human Rights, Living Wage, Organized Labor

Observe Labor Sunday

August 16, 2015 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

The Sunday of Labor Day weekend is Labor Sunday, a day to celebrate workers and their contributions and to support their struggles. It is also a day to commit ourselves […]

Observe Labor Sunday

August 16, 2015 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

The Sunday of Labor Day weekend is Labor Sunday, a day to celebrate workers and their contributions and to support their struggles. It is also a day to commit ourselves […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Economic Justice, Living Wage, Organized Labor

David LaMotte on the Fair Food Program

May 11, 2015 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council’s Farmworker Ministry Committee has long been supportive of the Coalition of Immokalee Workers and its efforts on behalf of those who work in the fields. The Committee has […]

David LaMotte on the Fair Food Program

May 11, 2015 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council’s Farmworker Ministry Committee has long been supportive of the Coalition of Immokalee Workers and its efforts on behalf of those who work in the fields. The Committee has […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Economic Justice, Farmworkers, Food, Human Rights, Living Wage

Justice Advocates Convene for the Cause

April 18, 2015 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The Council of Churches’ Legislative Seminar – its top-profile public event of the year – is meant to inform, and it’s meant to inspire. We’re not too bashful to say […]

Justice Advocates Convene for the Cause

April 18, 2015 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The Council of Churches’ Legislative Seminar – its top-profile public event of the year – is meant to inform, and it’s meant to inspire. We’re not too bashful to say […]

Filed Under: Blog, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Children & Youth, Death Penalty, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, Immigration, LGBTQ, Living Wage, N.C. General Assembly, Organized Labor, Public Education, Religion & Society, State Budget, Taxes

Faith and Taxation

March 26, 2015 By George Reed, Former Executive Director

Lots of us will have our attention focused on taxes over the next couple of weeks. This focus provides a unique opportunity for faith communities to help North Carolinians make […]

Faith and Taxation

March 26, 2015 by George Reed, Former Executive Director

Lots of us will have our attention focused on taxes over the next couple of weeks. This focus provides a unique opportunity for faith communities to help North Carolinians make […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Economic Justice, Good Government, Living Wage, N.C. General Assembly, Religion & Society, State Budget, Taxes

Council Puts Hot Topics on the Table

March 16, 2015 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The mission of the NC Council of Churches extends into many areas that highlight the links between faith and public policies. And of the various events and activities sponsored by […]

Council Puts Hot Topics on the Table

March 16, 2015 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The mission of the NC Council of Churches extends into many areas that highlight the links between faith and public policies. And of the various events and activities sponsored by […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Children & Youth, Council News, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, Immigration, Interfaith, LGBTQ, Living Wage, N.C. General Assembly, Public Education, Religion & Society, State Budget, Taxes

Register for 2015 Legislative Seminar — Updated with Workshops and Presenters

March 3, 2015 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Join us on April 14 at Greenwood Forest Baptist Church in Cary for the Council’s 2015 Legislative Seminar. Held every two years, the Seminar equips people of faith with the […]

Register for 2015 Legislative Seminar — Updated with Workshops and Presenters

March 3, 2015 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Join us on April 14 at Greenwood Forest Baptist Church in Cary for the Council’s 2015 Legislative Seminar. Held every two years, the Seminar equips people of faith with the […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Children & Youth, Christian Unity, Council News, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, Immigration, Interfaith, LGBTQ, Living Wage, N.C. General Assembly, Organized Labor, Prophetic Voice, Public Education, Religion & Society, State Budget, Taxes

What Frightens Civitas?

January 28, 2015 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Apparently I scare Civitas. Maybe it’s my upbringing. I was raised by a single mom (my parents divorced when I was a toddler) who was fortunate to have a solid […]

What Frightens Civitas?

January 28, 2015 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Apparently I scare Civitas. Maybe it’s my upbringing. I was raised by a single mom (my parents divorced when I was a toddler) who was fortunate to have a solid […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Children & Youth, Council News, Death Penalty, Economic Justice, Environment, Health, Healthcare Reform, Human Rights, Immigration, Interfaith, LGBTQ, Living Wage, Mental Health, Moral Mondays, Peace, Prophetic Voice, Public Education, Race/Ethnicity, Religion & Society

So Long, 2014: It Wasn’t all Pretty!

December 29, 2014 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Of the many decisions and activities that unfold in the arena of public affairs, the ones that tend to show up on the NC Council of Churches’ radar are those […]

So Long, 2014: It Wasn’t all Pretty!

December 29, 2014 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Of the many decisions and activities that unfold in the arena of public affairs, the ones that tend to show up on the NC Council of Churches’ radar are those […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Good Government, Healthcare Reform, Immigration, Living Wage, Prophetic Voice, Race/Ethnicity, State Budget, Taxes

Council Post-Election Road Shows to Charlotte and Asheville

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

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

Council Post-Election Road Shows to Charlotte and Asheville

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

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

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

Two Former NCCC Presidents Among Faith Leaders Meeting with US Labor Secretary

September 23, 2014 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

On September 16, two former NC Council of Churches President were among a select group of 13 religious leaders who met with US Secretary of Labor Thomas Perez to discuss how […]

Two Former NCCC Presidents Among Faith Leaders Meeting with US Labor Secretary

September 23, 2014 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

On September 16, two former NC Council of Churches President were among a select group of 13 religious leaders who met with US Secretary of Labor Thomas Perez to discuss how […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Economic Justice, Equality & Reconciliation, Immigration, LGBTQ, Living Wage, Organized Labor

Observing the Labor Sabbath This Weekend

August 25, 2014 By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

As Labor Day weekend quickly approaches, many people are thinking about beaches and barbeques. Amy Laura Hall, however, wants people to be thinking about something different: labor unions. Hall, a professor […]

Observing the Labor Sabbath This Weekend

August 25, 2014 by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

As Labor Day weekend quickly approaches, many people are thinking about beaches and barbeques. Amy Laura Hall, however, wants people to be thinking about something different: labor unions. Hall, a professor […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Economic Justice, Equality & Reconciliation, Farmworkers, Good Government, Living Wage, Organized Labor, Religion & Society, Worship

Workers and Justice — A Call to All People of Faith

August 15, 2014 By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

“There is nothing but a lack of social vision to prevent us from paying an adequate wage to every American whether he [or she] is a hospital worker, laundry worker, […]

Workers and Justice — A Call to All People of Faith

August 15, 2014 by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

“There is nothing but a lack of social vision to prevent us from paying an adequate wage to every American whether he [or she] is a hospital worker, laundry worker, […]

Filed Under: Blog, Homepage Featured Tagged With: Economic Justice, Farmworkers, Interfaith, Living Wage, Organized Labor

Another Spirit-filled Weekend with Partners in Health and Wholeness

July 24, 2014 By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Partners in Health and Wholeness co-hosted a youth conference on Saturday, July 12, with Empowering Word Ministries in Wadesboro.  I was honored to be able to participate as a PHW intern. […]

Another Spirit-filled Weekend with Partners in Health and Wholeness

July 24, 2014 by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Partners in Health and Wholeness co-hosted a youth conference on Saturday, July 12, with Empowering Word Ministries in Wadesboro.  I was honored to be able to participate as a PHW intern. […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Children & Youth, Come to the Table, Community Gardens, Environment, Food, Health, Hunger, Living Wage, Race/Ethnicity, Rural Life

Healthy North Carolina 2020: Are We Gaining or Losing Ground?

April 3, 2014 By Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

Healthy North Carolina 2020 is a health improvement plan for our state. It addresses a wide range of issues that impact our health, such as tobacco use, physical activity and […]

Healthy North Carolina 2020: Are We Gaining or Losing Ground?

April 3, 2014 by Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

Healthy North Carolina 2020 is a health improvement plan for our state. It addresses a wide range of issues that impact our health, such as tobacco use, physical activity and […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Community Gardens, Economic Justice, Environment, Food, Gun Violence, Health, Healthcare Reform, Hunger, Living Wage, Mental Health, Race/Ethnicity, Substance Abuse

Gardening With a Purpose

February 25, 2014 By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Recently, I received a notice from a local community garden organizer about a grant opportunity sponsored by a fertilizer company. I shared it with my e-mail group and found one […]

Gardening With a Purpose

February 25, 2014 by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Recently, I received a notice from a local community garden organizer about a grant opportunity sponsored by a fertilizer company. I shared it with my e-mail group and found one […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Community Gardens, Economic Justice, Environment, Farmworkers, Food, Health, Human Rights, Hunger, Interfaith, Living Wage, Rural Life

HKonJ 2014 — Moral March and People’s Assembly

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

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

HKonJ 2014 — Moral March and People’s Assembly

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

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

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

HKonJ 2014 — Saturday, February 8

January 12, 2014 By George Reed, Former Executive Director

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

HKonJ 2014 — Saturday, February 8

January 12, 2014 by George Reed, Former Executive Director

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

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

Human Dignity and Wages—Are We Stealing?

November 24, 2013 By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

As Christians, we are called to pay just wages. In Scripture, the Book of Timothy says, “The laborer deserves [their] wages.” James reminds us that fraudulent pay reaches God’s ears, […]

Human Dignity and Wages—Are We Stealing?

November 24, 2013 by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

As Christians, we are called to pay just wages. In Scripture, the Book of Timothy says, “The laborer deserves [their] wages.” James reminds us that fraudulent pay reaches God’s ears, […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Economic Justice, Living Wage

Day of the Dead and the Road Ahead for Farmworkers

November 11, 2013 By John Zambenini, Former Duke Divinity School Intern

Andres Sandoval went to a doctor in Benson, North Carolina four years ago complaining of stomach aches and difficulty sleeping. He was diagnosed with leukemia, and as a pesticide applicator, […]

Day of the Dead and the Road Ahead for Farmworkers

November 11, 2013 by John Zambenini, Former Duke Divinity School Intern

Andres Sandoval went to a doctor in Benson, North Carolina four years ago complaining of stomach aches and difficulty sleeping. He was diagnosed with leukemia, and as a pesticide applicator, […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Children & Youth, Economic Justice, Farmworkers, Food, Immigration, Living Wage

Chocolate the Fair-Trade Way

October 28, 2013 By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

With Halloween upon us and holiday baking not far behind, think in terms of fair-trade chocolate and other ingredients for sharing and for cooking. According to Vince Isner in the October […]

Chocolate the Fair-Trade Way

October 28, 2013 by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

With Halloween upon us and holiday baking not far behind, think in terms of fair-trade chocolate and other ingredients for sharing and for cooking. According to Vince Isner in the October […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Economic Justice, Environment, Food, Human Rights, Hunger, Living Wage

When I was a Child, I Spoke with Hunger Pains

September 17, 2013 By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

One in four children in North Carolina is at-risk of hunger. Yet the House of Representatives will soon take up a bill that will cut $40 billion from the Supplemental […]

When I was a Child, I Spoke with Hunger Pains

September 17, 2013 by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

One in four children in North Carolina is at-risk of hunger. Yet the House of Representatives will soon take up a bill that will cut $40 billion from the Supplemental […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Children & Youth, Good Government, Hunger, Living Wage

Worship Resources on a Living Wage

August 19, 2013 By chris

Date: Proper 21 - Sep. 29, 2013
Topic: A Living Wage
Focus Text: Luke 16:19-31
We were on our tour bus, about to leave the dorm where we had been staying, when a few of us saw her. She looked about sixty years old, and she looked like she could have been my grandmother. She came quietly around the corner of the building, went straight to the big trashcan, and started digging out our thrown-away lunches. She put what she could find in a bag, and she was gone. Sheltered life that I had led, I had never before seen someone using a trashcan as a food source.

Worship Resources on a Living Wage

August 19, 2013 by chris

Date: Proper 21 – Sep. 29, 2013
Topic: A Living Wage
Focus Text: Luke 16:19-31
We were on our tour bus, about to leave the dorm where we had been staying, when a few of us saw her. She looked about sixty years old, and she looked like she could have been my grandmother. She came quietly around the corner of the building, went straight to the big trashcan, and started digging out our thrown-away lunches. She put what she could find in a bag, and she was gone. Sheltered life that I had led, I had never before seen someone using a trashcan as a food source.

Filed Under: Lectionary Tagged With: Living Wage

The Ag Act: Congress Considers Turning Back the Clock to the Bracero Program

August 16, 2013 By chris

Somewhat lost this summer amidst all the conversation about comprehensive immigration reform is a little-known bill called the "Agricultural Guestworker Act" (or "Ag Act," HB 1773) that has already passed out of the House Judiciary Committee. This harmful bill is a thinly veiled attempt to strip farmworkers of the few rights they have on the job while propping up agribusinesses' bottom line.

The Ag Act: Congress Considers Turning Back the Clock to the Bracero Program

August 16, 2013 by chris

Somewhat lost this summer amidst all the conversation about comprehensive immigration reform is a little-known bill called the “Agricultural Guestworker Act” (or “Ag Act,” HB 1773) that has already passed out of the House Judiciary Committee. This harmful bill is a thinly veiled attempt to strip farmworkers of the few rights they have on the job while propping up agribusinesses’ bottom line.

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Farmworkers, Food, Immigration, Living Wage, Organized Labor

The Nation is Watching NC and Moral Mondays

July 12, 2013 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The impact of Moral Mondays continues to extend beyond North Carolina. Two recent articles and an editorial in “The New York Times” are reaching a national audience. One of the […]

The Nation is Watching NC and Moral Mondays

July 12, 2013 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The impact of Moral Mondays continues to extend beyond North Carolina. Two recent articles and an editorial in “The New York Times” are reaching a national audience. One of the […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Children & Youth, Civil Liberties, Death Penalty, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Gender, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, Living Wage, Moral Mondays, Organized Labor, People with Disabilities, Prophetic Voice, Public Education, Taxes

Why I Went to Jail for Justice on June 24, 2013

June 25, 2013 By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

NCCC Volunteer Program Associate Sandy Irving was arrested at the June 24 Moral Monday. Thirty-five years ago today, I became a mother—and in these last 35 years, I’ve spent a […]

Why I Went to Jail for Justice on June 24, 2013

June 25, 2013 by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

NCCC Volunteer Program Associate Sandy Irving was arrested at the June 24 Moral Monday. Thirty-five years ago today, I became a mother—and in these last 35 years, I’ve spent a […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Children & Youth, Civil Liberties, Economic Justice, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Food, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, Immigration, Living Wage, Moral Mondays, Public Education, Religion & Society, State Budget, Taxes

David LaMotte: Celebrating Dad’s Day By Taking Mine to Jail

June 21, 2013 By David LaMotte, Consultant for Peace

David LaMotte, the Council’s Consultant for Peace, celebrated Father’s Day last Sunday with his four-year-old son and 82-year-old dad. David then traveled to Raleigh with his father so that the […]

David LaMotte: Celebrating Dad’s Day By Taking Mine to Jail

June 21, 2013 by David LaMotte, Consultant for Peace

David LaMotte, the Council’s Consultant for Peace, celebrated Father’s Day last Sunday with his four-year-old son and 82-year-old dad. David then traveled to Raleigh with his father so that the […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Economic Justice, Gender, Good Government, Living Wage, Moral Mondays, Peace, Prophetic Voice, Religion & Society

NC NAACP Launches Statewide Tour

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

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

NC NAACP Launches Statewide Tour

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

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

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

Christian Unity

Faith Leaders for a Just Society in Asheville

May 16, 2013 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 […]

Faith Leaders for a Just Society in Asheville

May 16, 2013 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Christian Unity

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 […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Economic Justice, Elections, Environment, Equality & Reconciliation, Fracking, Good Government, Healthcare Reform, Housing, Immigration, Living Wage, People with Disabilities, Public Education, Religion & Society, State Budget, Taxes

Childhood Poverty is a Disease

May 16, 2013 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 […]

Childhood Poverty is a Disease

May 16, 2013 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Children & Youth, Equality & Reconciliation, Good Government, Health, Housing, Living Wage, Public Education, Race/Ethnicity

Moral Mondays – Clergy Issued Special Invitation for May 20

May 15, 2013 By George Reed, Former Executive Director

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

Moral Mondays – Clergy Issued Special Invitation for May 20

May 15, 2013 by George Reed, Former Executive Director

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

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

Farmworkers Address Reynolds American: Do More to Protect Workers

May 14, 2013 By chris

Last week, members of the Farm Labor Organizing Committee (FLOC) joined allies and activists from across the state in protesting Reynolds American Inc.'s treatment of farmworkers. Last year, Reynolds earned $1.3 billion in profits, but the company has hesitated to take proactive steps in guaranteeing good housing and fair pay to the workers at the very heart of its supply chain. Here at the NC Council of Churches, we have long supported farmworkers' rights to living wages and dignity on the job. No one should have to work in slave-like conditions to provide for their family. Corporations should take responsibility for their supply chains, and the people whose labor makes possible their profits.

Farmworkers Address Reynolds American: Do More to Protect Workers

May 14, 2013 by chris

Last week, members of the Farm Labor Organizing Committee (FLOC) joined allies and activists from across the state in protesting Reynolds American Inc.’s treatment of farmworkers. Last year, Reynolds earned $1.3 billion in profits, but the company has hesitated to take proactive steps in guaranteeing good housing and fair pay to the workers at the very heart of its supply chain. Here at the NC Council of Churches, we have long supported farmworkers’ rights to living wages and dignity on the job. No one should have to work in slave-like conditions to provide for their family. Corporations should take responsibility for their supply chains, and the people whose labor makes possible their profits.

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Farmworkers, Immigration, Living Wage, Organized Labor

Raleigh Report-Gun Bills Flood In

March 19, 2013 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

March 19, 2013 by George Reed, Former Executive Director

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

Filed Under: Blog, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Environment, Fracking, Good Government, Gun Violence, Immigration, Living Wage, Public Education, State Budget, Taxes

Equal Education, Unequal Pay

January 9, 2013 By chris

For decades, we've been working toward equal pay and equal treatment for women in the workplace. Sadly, there is still much progress to be made - illustrated by this powerful graphic below created by Kayla Evans.

Equal Education, Unequal Pay

January 9, 2013 by chris

For decades, we’ve been working toward equal pay and equal treatment for women in the workplace. Sadly, there is still much progress to be made – illustrated by this powerful graphic below created by Kayla Evans.

Filed Under: Blog, Resources Tagged With: Economic Justice, Gender, Living Wage

Needed: Lobbyists for the Voiceless

December 7, 2012 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’ […]

Needed: Lobbyists for the Voiceless

December 7, 2012 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’ […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Civil Discourse, Economic Justice, Food, Good Government, Health, Housing, Human Rights, Living Wage, Mental Health, People with Disabilities, Religion & Society, Taxes

Worker Justice Leader in the Triangle This Week

September 24, 2012 By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Kim Bobo, a religious and workers’ rights activist and executive director of Interfaith Worker Justice, will meet with other faith and worker rights activists in the Triangle this week to […]

Worker Justice Leader in the Triangle This Week

September 24, 2012 by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Kim Bobo, a religious and workers’ rights activist and executive director of Interfaith Worker Justice, will meet with other faith and worker rights activists in the Triangle this week to […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Economic Justice, Human Rights, Living Wage, Organized Labor

United States Farmworker Factsheet

September 19, 2012 By chris

Farmworkers are some of our nation’s most vital workers, as their labor enables us to enjoy high quality, low-cost, fresh fruits and vegetables all year round. Despite farmworkers’ economic and cultural contributions to the communities where they live and work, they continue to be the some of the lowest paid, least protected, and unhealthiest workers in the United States.

United States Farmworker Factsheet

September 19, 2012 by chris

Farmworkers are some of our nation’s most vital workers, as their labor enables us to enjoy high quality, low-cost, fresh fruits and vegetables all year round. Despite farmworkers’ economic and cultural contributions to the communities where they live and work, they continue to be the some of the lowest paid, least protected, and unhealthiest workers in the United States.

Filed Under: Resources Tagged With: Farmworkers, Food, Health, Housing, Immigration, Living Wage, Rural Life

Reclaiming the Bible’s Prophetic Voice

September 7, 2012 By George Reed, Former Executive Director

Recently, I heard a powerful message from the Rev. William Barber. Many Council folks know him. He’s the President of the NC NAACP and pastor of the Greenleaf Christian Church (Disciple of Christ) in Goldsboro. The power of his message was not in fiery delivery. It was a low-key conversation with a group of fifty or so progressive leaders, sitting in a circle in the chapel of University United Methodist Church in Chapel Hill. The power was in the profound thoughts he expressed and in the clear rightness of his words.

Reclaiming the Bible’s Prophetic Voice

September 7, 2012 by George Reed, Former Executive Director

Recently, I heard a powerful message from the Rev. William Barber. Many Council folks know him. He’s the President of the NC NAACP and pastor of the Greenleaf Christian Church (Disciple of Christ) in Goldsboro. The power of his message was not in fiery delivery. It was a low-key conversation with a group of fifty or so progressive leaders, sitting in a circle in the chapel of University United Methodist Church in Chapel Hill. The power was in the profound thoughts he expressed and in the clear rightness of his words.

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Christian Unity, Economic Justice, Equality & Reconciliation, Human Rights, Immigration, Interfaith, Living Wage, Prophetic Voice, Race/Ethnicity, Religion & Society

2nd Sunday after Easter – Living Wages

March 26, 2012 By chris

From Acts of Faith: Free Lectionary Resources for Prophetic Worship
Date: 2nd Sunday after Easter, April 15, 2012
Topic: Living Wages
Focus Text: Acts 4:32-35
From the pastoral reflection: "As Christians, we attempt to recapture the vision of work as related to the creating, sustaining, and transforming work of God. Our vocation is not defined simply by our paid employment. What we do at home, in churches, in our volunteer and political activities, all contribute to the “work” that embraces the whole of our lives."

2nd Sunday after Easter – Living Wages

March 26, 2012 by chris

From Acts of Faith: Free Lectionary Resources for Prophetic Worship
Date: 2nd Sunday after Easter, April 15, 2012
Topic: Living Wages
Focus Text: Acts 4:32-35
From the pastoral reflection: “As Christians, we attempt to recapture the vision of work as related to the creating, sustaining, and transforming work of God. Our vocation is not defined simply by our paid employment. What we do at home, in churches, in our volunteer and political activities, all contribute to the “work” that embraces the whole of our lives.”

Filed Under: Blog, Lectionary Tagged With: Economic Justice, Living Wage

In Thanksgiving for the Life of Lynice Williams

March 14, 2012 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Lynice Williams died this weekend. Too soon by any measure. She was one of this state’s great advocates for and organizers of people of low income and low wealth. Among […]

In Thanksgiving for the Life of Lynice Williams

March 14, 2012 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Lynice Williams died this weekend. Too soon by any measure. She was one of this state’s great advocates for and organizers of people of low income and low wealth. Among […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Council News, Economic Justice, Equality & Reconciliation, Human Rights, Living Wage

New Edition: Job Loss – A Guidebook for Pastors

March 6, 2012 By chris

With too many North Carolinians jobless, the North Carolina Council of Churches is releasing a newly revised version of its popular “Job Loss: A Guidebook for Pastors” eight years after the original was published. The revised version is available for free download on the Council’s website.

New Edition: Job Loss – A Guidebook for Pastors

March 6, 2012 by chris

With too many North Carolinians jobless, the North Carolina Council of Churches is releasing a newly revised version of its popular “Job Loss: A Guidebook for Pastors” eight years after the original was published. The revised version is available for free download on the Council’s website.

Filed Under: Resources Tagged With: Economic Justice, Living Wage

Join Us at HKonJ This Saturday

February 6, 2012 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 […]

Join Us at HKonJ This Saturday

February 6, 2012 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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Raleigh Report Tagged With: Aging, Children & Youth, Christian Unity, Economic Justice, Equality & Reconciliation, Good Government, Living Wage, Race/Ethnicity, Religion & Society

How Our Health Affects the Bottom Line

November 10, 2011 By Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

A new report by the Trust for America’s Health examines how the health of a community affects its ability to attract new businesses and to ultimately stimulate economic growth.  Businesses […]

How Our Health Affects the Bottom Line

November 10, 2011 by Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

A new report by the Trust for America’s Health examines how the health of a community affects its ability to attract new businesses and to ultimately stimulate economic growth.  Businesses […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Economic Justice, Good Government, Health, Healthcare Reform, Living Wage, State Budget

Nonprofit Offers Pharmacy Program

November 4, 2011 By Willona Stallings, Former Program Coordinator – Partners in Health & Wholeness

The Sanford Herald

Giang said N.C. MedAssist representatives wanted to travel to each county to meet with eligible residents and explain the enrollment process. The organization contacted the North Carolina Council of Churches and expressed interest in partnering with faith-based organizations willing to host one-day enrollment programs. The Rev. Mechelle Myers of Sanford's New Endland AME Zion Church received an e-mail from the Council about the initiative and was the first person to respond.

Nonprofit Offers Pharmacy Program

November 4, 2011 Leave a Comment

The Sanford Herald

Giang said N.C. MedAssist representatives wanted to travel to each county to meet with eligible residents and explain the enrollment process. The organization contacted the North Carolina Council of Churches and expressed interest in partnering with faith-based organizations willing to host one-day enrollment programs. The Rev. Mechelle Myers of Sanford’s New Endland AME Zion Church received an e-mail from the Council about the initiative and was the first person to respond.

Filed Under: NCCC in the News Tagged With: Aging, Health, Healthcare Reform, Living Wage, Mental Health, People with Disabilities

New Documentary: Harvest of Dignity

August 20, 2011 By chris

Harvest of Dignity is a new, original documentary created in 2011. It focuses on the lives and work of farmworkers in North Carolina, providing an in-depth portrait of the people who harvest our food today. It combines interviews with North Carolina farmworkers, advocates, faith leaders and educators, documentary photos and interviews collected by Student Action with Farmworkers interns and clips from the original Harvest of Shame documentary.

New Documentary: Harvest of Dignity

August 20, 2011 by chris

Harvest of Dignity is a new, original documentary created in 2011. It focuses on the lives and work of farmworkers in North Carolina, providing an in-depth portrait of the people who harvest our food today. It combines interviews with North Carolina farmworkers, advocates, faith leaders and educators, documentary photos and interviews collected by Student Action with Farmworkers interns and clips from the original Harvest of Shame documentary.

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Children & Youth, Economic Justice, Farmworkers, Food, Housing, Immigration, Living Wage

Workers Are Worth Their Keep

August 4, 2011 By chris

A Theological Companion to Making Ends Meet After the Great Recession: The 2010 Living Income Standard

This new resource is meant to bring the issue of wages into conversation with theological perspectives of economic justice. Workers Are Worth Their Keep is divided into three main sections. The first section highlights passages from the Bible that speak directly about economic justice, fair pay for workers, and the call of God to treat workers with dignity. The second section examines the perspectives of several major figures from Christian traditions. While their contexts vary greatly, their voices converge around the calling to pay workers wages that are fair and just. The third and final section of this resource quotes from official statements from many of the denominations represented in the NC Council of Churches.

Workers Are Worth Their Keep

August 4, 2011 by chris

A Theological Companion to Making Ends Meet After the Great Recession: The 2010 Living Income Standard

This new resource is meant to bring the issue of wages into conversation with theological perspectives of economic justice. Workers Are Worth Their Keep is divided into three main sections. The first section highlights passages from the Bible that speak directly about economic justice, fair pay for workers, and the call of God to treat workers with dignity. The second section examines the perspectives of several major figures from Christian traditions. While their contexts vary greatly, their voices converge around the calling to pay workers wages that are fair and just. The third and final section of this resource quotes from official statements from many of the denominations represented in the NC Council of Churches.

Filed Under: Resources Tagged With: Economic Justice, Living Wage

Raise Your Hand if You Support Child Labor

June 9, 2011 By chris

As a society, we decided 75 years ago that child labor needed very strict guidelines to make sure that education comes first and to prevent abusive conditions.  The only problem?  Children in agriculture were exempted from these protections, in part because most farms were small family operations that needed everyone’s help.  Today, mass-scale agribusiness has replaced family farms.  But the exemption allowing child labor on farms has remained, meaning that there’s a good chance that pint of blueberries you’re enjoying was hand-picked by 12- and 13-year olds – legally.  These same children are too young to work in any other industry.

Raise Your Hand if You Support Child Labor

June 9, 2011 by chris

As a society, we decided 75 years ago that child labor needed very strict guidelines to make sure that education comes first and to prevent abusive conditions.  The only problem?  Children in agriculture were exempted from these protections, in part because most farms were small family operations that needed everyone’s help.  Today, mass-scale agribusiness has replaced family farms.  But the exemption allowing child labor on farms has remained, meaning that there’s a good chance that pint of blueberries you’re enjoying was hand-picked by 12- and 13-year olds – legally.  These same children are too young to work in any other industry.

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Children & Youth, Farmworkers, Food, Human Rights, Immigration, Living Wage

A Great Day at HKonJ

February 14, 2011 By chris

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

Watch video of HKonJ here.

A Great Day at HKonJ

February 14, 2011 by chris

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

Watch video of HKonJ here.

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

Farmworker Advocacy Network to launch new campaign

September 14, 2010 By chris

Fifty years after “Harvest of Shame,” not much has changed.  Farm work remains one of the nation’s most dangerous industries.  Here in North Carolina, dangerous conditions in the fields, poverty wages and substandard housing continue to threaten workers’ health and well-being.  For example, workers often put in 14-hour days in bad weather – including extreme heat and rain.  In North Carolina, 7 farmworkers died of heat stroke in a recent five-year span.  They were literally worked to death.  And heat stroke isn't the only problem in the fields.

Farmworker Advocacy Network to launch new campaign

September 14, 2010 by chris

Fifty years after “Harvest of Shame,” not much has changed.  Farm work remains one of the nation’s most dangerous industries.  Here in North Carolina, dangerous conditions in the fields, poverty wages and substandard housing continue to threaten workers’ health and well-being.  For example, workers often put in 14-hour days in bad weather – including extreme heat and rain.  In North Carolina, 7 farmworkers died of heat stroke in a recent five-year span.  They were literally worked to death.  And heat stroke isn’t the only problem in the fields.

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Farmworkers, Living Wage

Proper 21, Year C

September 6, 2010 By chris

We were on our tour bus, about to leave the dorm where we had been staying, when a few of us saw her. She looked about sixty years old, and she looked like she could have been my grandmother. She came quietly around the corner of the building, went straight to the big trashcan, and started digging out our thrown-away lunches. She put what she could find in a bag, and she was gone.

Sheltered life that I had led, I had never before seen someone using a trashcan as a food source.

Proper 21, Year C

September 6, 2010 by chris

We were on our tour bus, about to leave the dorm where we had been staying, when a few of us saw her. She looked about sixty years old, and she looked like she could have been my grandmother. She came quietly around the corner of the building, went straight to the big trashcan, and started digging out our thrown-away lunches. She put what she could find in a bag, and she was gone.

Sheltered life that I had led, I had never before seen someone using a trashcan as a food source.

Filed Under: Lectionary Tagged With: Economic Justice, Living Wage, Worship

Thy Kingdom Come: A Call to Prophetic Ministry

May 27, 2010 By chris

In his life and mission, Jesus saw himself as actively preparing and serving the kingdom of God on earth, to be as it is in heaven. He saw all of his disciples in the same light and as having the same purpose. Nowhere in the prayer instructions of Jesus is the focus on getting the earth--or ourselves--to heaven. The heart of the Lord's Prayer is a request for heaven on earth. While this difference may seem subtle, its truth is at the very center of the call and practice of prayer and discipleship.

Thy Kingdom Come: A Call to Prophetic Ministry

May 27, 2010 by chris

In his life and mission, Jesus saw himself as actively preparing and serving the kingdom of God on earth, to
be as it is in heaven. He saw all of his disciples in the same light and as having the same purpose. Nowhere
in the prayer instructions of Jesus is the focus on getting the earth–or ourselves–to heaven. The heart of
the Lord’s Prayer is a request for heaven on earth. While this difference may seem subtle, its truth is at the very center of the call and practice of prayer and discipleship.

Filed Under: Resources Tagged With: Economic Justice, Good Government, Healthcare Reform, Living Wage

A Living Wage for North Carolina: An Introduction

September 12, 2006 By chris

A Living Wage for North Carolina: An Introduction is intended to be just that: an introduction. Exhaustive research abounds on the subjects of the minimum wage and living wage. Yet often these studies—while thorough and informative—assume that the reader has a certain level of expertise. This brief resource seeks to be a primer for readers who are interested in fair wages but do not have the background or resources available to conduct an independent investigation.

A Living Wage for North Carolina: An Introduction

September 12, 2006 by chris

A Living Wage for North Carolina: An Introduction is intended to be just that: an introduction. Exhaustive research abounds on the subjects of the minimum wage and living wage. Yet often these studies—while thorough and informative—assume that the reader has a certain level of expertise. This brief resource seeks to be a primer for readers who are interested in fair wages but do not have the background or resources available to conduct an independent investigation.

Filed Under: Resources Tagged With: Economic Justice, Living Wage

A Living Wage

November 9, 2000 By North Carolina Council of Churches

From the shadows of banking towers of Charlotte and Raleigh to the small towns and hamlets far away from the bustling Piedmont, the much-ballyhooed economy has not lifted all boats.  Many people are working hard but are not earning enough to make ends meet in today’s economy.  For this reason, a “living wage” movement is gaining momentum around the nation.  This movement seeks to educate policymakers and the community about the true costs of making ends meet and to require that local governments and their contractors pay a living wage to their employees.

A Living Wage

November 9, 2000 by North Carolina Council of Churches

From the shadows of banking towers of Charlotte and Raleigh to the small towns and hamlets far away from the bustling Piedmont, the much-ballyhooed economy has not lifted all boats.  Many people are working hard but are not earning enough to make ends meet in today’s economy.  For this reason, a “living wage” movement is gaining momentum around the nation.  This movement seeks to educate policymakers and the community about the true costs of making ends meet and to require that local governments and their contractors pay a living wage to their employees.

Filed Under: Issue Statements Tagged With: Economic Justice, Living Wage

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