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Living Wage

Raise the Minimum Wage

By 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 press conference, click here. It’s been 12 years since the minimum wage was raised, but it’s been more than 60 years since the minimum wage […]

Raise the Minimum Wage

by 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 press conference, click here. It’s been 12 years since the minimum wage was raised, but it’s been more than 60 years since the minimum wage […]

Raise the Wage

By 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 invaluable. Hiding opposition to fair wages behind arguments about shrinking bottom lines and increased overhead devalues the face. Why do people need to work for […]

Raise the Wage

by 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 invaluable. Hiding opposition to fair wages behind arguments about shrinking bottom lines and increased overhead devalues the face. Why do people need to work for […]

A Shameful Anniversary: The Minimum Wage

By 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 the heels of a previous 10-year span without a minimum wage increase. Until 1997, the wage was adjusted fairly regularly, even if not fairly regulated. […]

A Shameful Anniversary: The Minimum Wage

by 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 the heels of a previous 10-year span without a minimum wage increase. Until 1997, the wage was adjusted fairly regularly, even if not fairly regulated. […]

A Shameful Anniversary: The Minimum Wage

By 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 the heels of a previous 10-year span without a minimum wage increase. Until 1997, the wage was adjusted fairly regularly, even if not fairly regulated. […]

A Shameful Anniversary: The Minimum Wage

by 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 the heels of a previous 10-year span without a minimum wage increase. Until 1997, the wage was adjusted fairly regularly, even if not fairly regulated. […]

Wise Folks Build Their House on the Rock

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 22:13 Everytime you shop it is important to keep in mind the way that your purchasing decisions affect workers. Even if you are not the […]

Wise Folks Build Their House on the Rock

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 22:13 Everytime you shop it is important to keep in mind the way that your purchasing decisions affect workers. Even if you are not the […]

Honor Workers with a Labor Day Sabbath

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 day services in ways that reflect the importance of workers, the value of labor unions, and the need to raise the North Carolina minimum wage. […]

Honor Workers with a Labor Day Sabbath

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 day services in ways that reflect the importance of workers, the value of labor unions, and the need to raise the North Carolina minimum wage. […]

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

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 of color, that would mean the same old same old), the arts, the environment, education, job creation, and science.  Couple it with the proposed health […]

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

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 of color, that would mean the same old same old), the arts, the environment, education, job creation, and science.  Couple it with the proposed health […]

Women and Wages

By 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 encouraged not to labor, whether for pay or not for pay. We are taking the day off, all on the same day, to demonstrate how […]

Women and Wages

by 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 encouraged not to labor, whether for pay or not for pay. We are taking the day off, all on the same day, to demonstrate how […]

Whispers and Shouts

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 strangers, all created in the same image. Or through the aftermath of a cataclysmic election. Lately, the lectionary readings have provided desperately needed whispers for […]

Whispers and Shouts

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 strangers, all created in the same image. Or through the aftermath of a cataclysmic election. Lately, the lectionary readings have provided desperately needed whispers for […]

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

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 it forecasts. One of the crucial facts he offered — those of us opposed to the policies, personalities, and vicious rhetoric of the current administration […]

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

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 it forecasts. One of the crucial facts he offered — those of us opposed to the policies, personalities, and vicious rhetoric of the current administration […]

Let’s Keep Marching

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 shoulder with a half million others. But there I was, pink hat and all. I chose to be there because my grandmother cleaned other people’s […]

Let’s Keep Marching

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 shoulder with a half million others. But there I was, pink hat and all. I chose to be there because my grandmother cleaned other people’s […]

Speak Out on Cabinet Nominees

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 & Light, MomsRising, Faith in Public Life, and the National Council of Churches are just some of the organizations calling on people of conscience to speak […]

Speak Out on Cabinet Nominees

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 & Light, MomsRising, Faith in Public Life, and the National Council of Churches are just some of the organizations calling on people of conscience to speak […]

Advent Guide Focuses on Peace

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 in many ways – in how we relate to one another, in the policies our elected officials put in place, in who has enough. For […]

Advent Guide Focuses on Peace

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 in many ways – in how we relate to one another, in the policies our elected officials put in place, in who has enough. For […]

Separating Church and Hate Since 1935

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 to welcome our immigrant sisters and brothers, care for creation, work for economic justice and voting rights, build toward Christian unity and interfaith understanding, teach […]

Separating Church and Hate Since 1935

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 to welcome our immigrant sisters and brothers, care for creation, work for economic justice and voting rights, build toward Christian unity and interfaith understanding, teach […]

At Campaign Trail’s End, Voters Rule

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 may see a familiar paradox of politics once again displayed: Things had to get worse before they could get better. And brother, did they get […]

At Campaign Trail’s End, Voters Rule

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 may see a familiar paradox of politics once again displayed: Things had to get worse before they could get better. And brother, did they get […]

Budgeting that Tests our Values

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, as they say, will still come up in the morning. Public school teachers will continue to report for their difficult, essential duties. State parks will […]

Budgeting that Tests our Values

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, as they say, will still come up in the morning. Public school teachers will continue to report for their difficult, essential duties. State parks will […]

Raleigh Report: Weekly Update, 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 are named in this issue.) Authorizing resolutions have been filed on several issues. Under terms governing the 2016 short session, new bills not otherwise qualified […]

Raleigh Report: Weekly Update, 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 are named in this issue.) Authorizing resolutions have been filed on several issues. Under terms governing the 2016 short session, new bills not otherwise qualified […]

Raleigh Report Weekly Update: 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 the 2016 short session has now passed. Below are summaries of several of the bills which have come in. (Note that a legislator’s party affiliation […]

Raleigh Report Weekly Update: 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 the 2016 short session has now passed. Below are summaries of several of the bills which have come in. (Note that a legislator’s party affiliation […]

Safety is Imperative to Worker Justice

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, elderly and disabled, cleaning our spaces, mowing our lawns, cutting our hair etc) for “the rest of us.” What does God require of us to […]

Safety is Imperative to Worker Justice

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, elderly and disabled, cleaning our spaces, mowing our lawns, cutting our hair etc) for “the rest of us.” What does God require of us to […]

Signs of Hope After Easter

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, the passage of HB 2, ICE raids on undocumented youth and families, hateful political attacks and propaganda, the constant fear of terrorism, the unjust brutality […]

Signs of Hope After Easter

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, the passage of HB 2, ICE raids on undocumented youth and families, hateful political attacks and propaganda, the constant fear of terrorism, the unjust brutality […]

Tenth Annual HKonJ is February 13

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; gather and rally is at 8:30 a.m. and the march begins at 10 a.m. Participants can meet across the street from Raleigh Memorial Auditorium at […]

Tenth Annual HKonJ is February 13

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; gather and rally is at 8:30 a.m. and the march begins at 10 a.m. Participants can meet across the street from Raleigh Memorial Auditorium at […]

Uncomplicating Justice

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 complicated. Immigration reform is complicated. Climate change is complicated. And it is. History is complicated and so are people’s motives and interpretations. However, often that […]

Uncomplicating Justice

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 complicated. Immigration reform is complicated. Climate change is complicated. And it is. History is complicated and so are people’s motives and interpretations. However, often that […]

A Living Wage in Wake County

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 to be a living wage for the county — $13.50 per hour. There are, of course, various ways to calculate what that amount should be, […]

A Living Wage in Wake County

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 to be a living wage for the county — $13.50 per hour. There are, of course, various ways to calculate what that amount should be, […]

Shopping with Meaning

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 a priority for those of us in the Christian community. There are many ways to shop with a conscience supporting values we hold dear. There are […]

Shopping with Meaning

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 a priority for those of us in the Christian community. There are many ways to shop with a conscience supporting values we hold dear. There are […]

Coffee Cups and Jesus

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 praise him. What Jesus would care about, based on his many preachings, teachings, and living out of the word, is the justice of that coffee. […]

Coffee Cups and Jesus

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 praise him. What Jesus would care about, based on his many preachings, teachings, and living out of the word, is the justice of that coffee. […]

Binkley Certified as Paying a Living Wage

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 church in Orange County to be certified as paying a living wage (the amount a worker must earn per hour to afford basic necessities). Orange […]

Binkley Certified as Paying a Living Wage

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 church in Orange County to be certified as paying a living wage (the amount a worker must earn per hour to afford basic necessities). Orange […]

Workers Deserve Dignity and Respect

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 major denominations, says specifically we should work for: Employment for all, at a family-sustaining living wage, with equal pay for comparable work. The rights of […]

Workers Deserve Dignity and Respect

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 major denominations, says specifically we should work for: Employment for all, at a family-sustaining living wage, with equal pay for comparable work. The rights of […]

Observe Labor Sunday

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 to improving conditions for workers and to lament that workers often confront unjust situations such as low wages, unsafe conditions, racism, sexism and other abuses. […]

Observe Labor Sunday

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 to improving conditions for workers and to lament that workers often confront unjust situations such as low wages, unsafe conditions, racism, sexism and other abuses. […]

David LaMotte on the Fair Food Program

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 hosted CIW events locally and advocated for the Coalition’s campaigns. David LaMotte, the Council’s consultant for peace, recently had a guest column published in the […]

David LaMotte on the Fair Food Program

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 hosted CIW events locally and advocated for the Coalition’s campaigns. David LaMotte, the Council’s consultant for peace, recently had a guest column published in the […]

Justice Advocates Convene for the Cause

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 that this year’s version, held on April 14 at Greenwood Forest Baptist Church in Cary, succeeded on both counts. With the General Assembly moving into […]

Justice Advocates Convene for the Cause

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 that this year’s version, held on April 14 at Greenwood Forest Baptist Church in Cary, succeeded on both counts. With the General Assembly moving into […]

Faith and Taxation

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 the connection between paying taxes and living out our values.  Paying taxes allows us to invest in the Common Good and build a just economy […]

Faith and Taxation

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 the connection between paying taxes and living out our values.  Paying taxes allows us to invest in the Common Good and build a just economy […]

Council Puts Hot Topics on the Table

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 the Council, none is more closely focused on those links than the Legislative Seminar – giving it a special prominence on the Council calendar. No, […]

Council Puts Hot Topics on the Table

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 the Council, none is more closely focused on those links than the Legislative Seminar – giving it a special prominence on the Council calendar. No, […]

Register for 2015 Legislative Seminar — Updated with Workshops and Presenters

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 information they need to be advocates on issues before the NC General Assembly. Registration with workshop options is below. Please scroll through the registration section […]

Register for 2015 Legislative Seminar — Updated with Workshops and Presenters

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 information they need to be advocates on issues before the NC General Assembly. Registration with workshop options is below. Please scroll through the registration section […]

What Frightens Civitas?

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 job with the federal government and a supportive family who were the safety net between us and poverty. We were lucky. Maybe it was my […]

What Frightens Civitas?

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 job with the federal government and a supportive family who were the safety net between us and poverty. We were lucky. Maybe it was my […]

So Long, 2014: It Wasn’t all Pretty!

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 affecting the quality of social justice in our state. The Council stands for policies and their associated programs that offer support, relief and prospects for […]

So Long, 2014: It Wasn’t all Pretty!

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 affecting the quality of social justice in our state. The Council stands for policies and their associated programs that offer support, relief and prospects for […]

Council Post-Election Road Shows to Charlotte and Asheville

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 Churches as we visit Charlotte and Asheville to discuss ways our programs are providing a progressive, faithful voice for issues facing NC residents and how […]

Council Post-Election Road Shows to Charlotte and Asheville

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 Churches as we visit Charlotte and Asheville to discuss ways our programs are providing a progressive, faithful voice for issues facing NC residents and how […]

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

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 faith groups and the administration can work together to protect workers and provide greater economic opportunity for all. Stan Kimer, the Council’s Immediate Past President, […]

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

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 faith groups and the administration can work together to protect workers and provide greater economic opportunity for all. Stan Kimer, the Council’s Immediate Past President, […]

Observing the Labor Sabbath This Weekend

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 at Duke Divinity School, is calling for congregations to observe a Labor Sabbath this Friday, Saturday or Sunday prior to Labor Day, during which time the words […]

Observing the Labor Sabbath This Weekend

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 at Duke Divinity School, is calling for congregations to observe a Labor Sabbath this Friday, Saturday or Sunday prior to Labor Day, during which time the words […]

Workers and Justice — A Call to All People of Faith

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, maid, or day laborer.” – Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Labor Day Sunday this year is August 31 — a day to remember all […]

Workers and Justice — A Call to All People of Faith

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, maid, or day laborer.” – Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Labor Day Sunday this year is August 31 — a day to remember all […]

Another Spirit-filled Weekend with Partners in Health and Wholeness

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. Empowering Word Ministries Church held a spirit filled-praise and worship service with groups from the community and surrounding counties on Friday night, which I attended. […]

Another Spirit-filled Weekend with Partners in Health and Wholeness

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. Empowering Word Ministries Church held a spirit filled-praise and worship service with groups from the community and surrounding counties on Friday night, which I attended. […]

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

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 nutrition, mental health, and injury and violence. Optimal goals have been established in each of these areas, with a 2020 deadline for achieving them. So […]

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

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 nutrition, mental health, and injury and violence. Optimal goals have been established in each of these areas, with a 2020 deadline for achieving them. So […]

Gardening With a Purpose

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 response, in particular, intriguing. Within this email, a local community leader expressed the importance of gardens, eating healthy, and making healthy local food accessible to […]

Gardening With a Purpose

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 response, in particular, intriguing. Within this email, a local community leader expressed the importance of gardens, eating healthy, and making healthy local food accessible to […]

HKonJ 2014 — Moral March and People’s Assembly

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 pushed young children in strollers, old friends renewed acquaintances, and new relationships were forged. The day began with an interfaith Service of Repentance and Consecration, organized […]

HKonJ 2014 — Moral March and People’s Assembly

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 pushed young children in strollers, old friends renewed acquaintances, and new relationships were forged. The day began with an interfaith Service of Repentance and Consecration, organized […]

HKonJ 2014 — Saturday, February 8

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 to attend HKonJ and encourage  others to join us. Participants will assemble at Shaw University at 9:30 a.m. with the march set to begin at […]

HKonJ 2014 — Saturday, February 8

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 to attend HKonJ and encourage  others to join us. Participants will assemble at Shaw University at 9:30 a.m. with the march set to begin at […]

Human Dignity and Wages—Are We Stealing?

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, and Paul asks in Romans if we should look at our own life and our own stealing as we are reminding others not to steal. […]

Human Dignity and Wages—Are We Stealing?

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, and Paul asks in Romans if we should look at our own life and our own stealing as we are reminding others not to steal. […]

Day of the Dead and the Road Ahead for Farmworkers

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, believed his disease was linked with prolonged pesticide exposure over the nine years he had returned to the United States to work. Ultimately, despite receiving […]

Day of the Dead and the Road Ahead for Farmworkers

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, believed his disease was linked with prolonged pesticide exposure over the nine years he had returned to the United States to work. Ultimately, despite receiving […]

Chocolate the Fair-Trade Way

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 13 General Board of Church and Society of the United Methodist Church: This Halloween Americans will spend an estimated $1.2 billion on everyone’s favorite treat, […]

Chocolate the Fair-Trade Way

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 13 General Board of Church and Society of the United Methodist Church: This Halloween Americans will spend an estimated $1.2 billion on everyone’s favorite treat, […]

When I was a Child, I Spoke with Hunger Pains

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 Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly the Food Stamp Program) over 10 years. These cuts are cruel, unjust and immoral, which makes them un-Biblical. There is probably […]

When I was a Child, I Spoke with Hunger Pains

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 Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly the Food Stamp Program) over 10 years. These cuts are cruel, unjust and immoral, which makes them un-Biblical. There is probably […]

Worship Resources on a Living Wage

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

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.

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

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

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 Nation is Watching NC and Moral Mondays

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 articles is by Peter Carman, pastor of Binkley Baptist Church, a Council member congregation. Alliance of Baptists: ‘Not One Step Back’: Moral Mondays in Raleigh, […]

The Nation is Watching NC and Moral Mondays

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 articles is by Peter Carman, pastor of Binkley Baptist Church, a Council member congregation. Alliance of Baptists: ‘Not One Step Back’: Moral Mondays in Raleigh, […]

Why I Went to Jail for Justice on June 24, 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 lot of time with children—as a mother, a grandmother, an aunt, and as a friend and neighbor. Currently, I’m a Sunday School teacher of young […]

Why I Went to Jail for Justice on June 24, 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 lot of time with children—as a mother, a grandmother, an aunt, and as a friend and neighbor. Currently, I’m a Sunday School teacher of young […]

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

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 Rev. Dr. John LaMotte could become one of those arrested at Moral Monday. Having already been arrested in an act of conscience, David explained in […]

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

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 Rev. Dr. John LaMotte could become one of those arrested at Moral Monday. Having already been arrested in an act of conscience, David explained in […]

NC NAACP Launches Statewide Tour

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The North Carolina NAACP, building on four weeks of Moral Monday demonstrations, has launched a 25-city statewide tour reaching from Elizabeth City to Hendersonville. The Forward Together Movement Local Organizing Tour began May 28 in Raleigh and ends June 7 in Durham. It is intended to mobilize local communities against the direction the General Assembly […]

NC NAACP Launches Statewide Tour

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The North Carolina NAACP, building on four weeks of Moral Monday demonstrations, has launched a 25-city statewide tour reaching from Elizabeth City to Hendersonville. The Forward Together Movement Local Organizing Tour began May 28 in Raleigh and ends June 7 in Durham. It is intended to mobilize local communities against the direction the General Assembly […]

Faith Leaders for a Just Society in Asheville

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Faith Leaders for a Just Society in Asheville

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Childhood Poverty is a Disease

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

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

Childhood Poverty is a Disease

by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

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

Moral Mondays – Clergy Issued Special Invitation for May 20

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

As many of you already know, Rev. William Barber and the state NAACP are organizing weekly protests at the General Assembly, voicing opposition to the direction our state is being taken during this legislative session (that direction being backwards). These protests include, for those who choose to take part, nonviolent civil disobedience and arrest. In […]

Moral Mondays – Clergy Issued Special Invitation for May 20

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

As many of you already know, Rev. William Barber and the state NAACP are organizing weekly protests at the General Assembly, voicing opposition to the direction our state is being taken during this legislative session (that direction being backwards). These protests include, for those who choose to take part, nonviolent civil disobedience and arrest. In […]

Farmworkers Address Reynolds American: Do More to Protect Workers

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

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.

Raleigh Report-Gun Bills Flood In

By George Reed, Former Executive Director

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

Raleigh Report-Gun Bills Flood In

by George Reed, Former Executive Director

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

Equal Education, Unequal Pay

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

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.

Needed: Lobbyists for the Voiceless

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

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

Needed: Lobbyists for the Voiceless

by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

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

Worker Justice Leader in the Triangle This Week

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 highlight worker-justice issues.  She is a highly regarded expert in her area of work and is the author of “Wage Theft in America.”  In his review of […]

Worker Justice Leader in the Triangle This Week

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 highlight worker-justice issues.  She is a highly regarded expert in her area of work and is the author of “Wage Theft in America.”  In his review of […]

United States Farmworker Factsheet

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

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.

Reclaiming the Bible’s Prophetic Voice

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

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.

2nd Sunday after Easter – Living Wages

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

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.”

In Thanksgiving for the Life of Lynice Williams

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 other things, she was executive director of North Carolina Fair Share for 24 years and was a member of the Governing Board of the North […]

In Thanksgiving for the Life of Lynice Williams

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 other things, she was executive director of North Carolina Fair Share for 24 years and was a member of the Governing Board of the North […]

New Edition: Job Loss – A Guidebook for Pastors

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

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.

Join Us at HKonJ This Saturday

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

Join Us at HKonJ This Saturday

by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

How Our Health Affects the Bottom Line

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 across the country are discovering that unhealthy employees are more expensive to retain, as they are more likely than their healthy counterparts to miss days […]

How Our Health Affects the Bottom Line

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 across the country are discovering that unhealthy employees are more expensive to retain, as they are more likely than their healthy counterparts to miss days […]

Nonprofit Offers Pharmacy Program

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

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.

New Documentary: Harvest of Dignity

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

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.

Workers Are Worth Their Keep

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

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.

Raise Your Hand if You Support Child Labor

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

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.

A Great Day at HKonJ

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

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.

Farmworker Advocacy Network to launch new campaign

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

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.

Proper 21, Year C

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

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.

Thy Kingdom Come: A Call to Prophetic Ministry

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

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.

A Living Wage for North Carolina: An Introduction

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

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

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

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.