Public Education

Critical Issues Seminar — Registration Now Open

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

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

Critical Issues Seminar — Registration Now Open

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

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; […]

2015: Our Conservatives Weren’t Kidding

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

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

2015: Our Conservatives Weren’t Kidding

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

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

UNC System’s New Sheriff

October 30, 2015 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The notably dapper Thom Goolsby, member of the University of North Carolina Board of Governors, made a mark of sorts with his put-down of the NAACP-led Moral Monday protest movement […]

UNC System’s New Sheriff

October 30, 2015 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The notably dapper Thom Goolsby, member of the University of North Carolina Board of Governors, made a mark of sorts with his put-down of the NAACP-led Moral Monday protest movement […]

‘We stand adjourned’ – finally!

October 3, 2015 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The senators and representatives who make up North Carolina’s General Assembly let their 2015 session run on far longer than it should have. Let’s be glad that the curtain has […]

‘We stand adjourned’ – finally!

October 3, 2015 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The senators and representatives who make up North Carolina’s General Assembly let their 2015 session run on far longer than it should have. Let’s be glad that the curtain has […]

Budget Struggle’s Bitter End

September 17, 2015 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The proverbial elephant labored and, against all hopeful expectations, brought forth a mouse. The “elephants” who run the Republican-controlled General Assembly labored and now have brought forth, if not a […]

Budget Struggle’s Bitter End

September 17, 2015 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The Odor Around the Lottery

September 5, 2015 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

When North Carolina legislators by the narrowest of margins 10 years ago approved a state lottery, capping a long debate over the wisdom of state-sponsored gaming, they set aside warnings […]

The Odor Around the Lottery

September 5, 2015 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

When North Carolina legislators by the narrowest of margins 10 years ago approved a state lottery, capping a long debate over the wisdom of state-sponsored gaming, they set aside warnings […]

Complicated Answers to Different Questions

August 22, 2015 By Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The offices for the NC Council of Churches sit half a block from Hillsborough Street—the street that automatically conjures up images of NC State, as well it should since the […]

Complicated Answers to Different Questions

August 22, 2015 by Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, Executive Director

The offices for the NC Council of Churches sit half a block from Hillsborough Street—the street that automatically conjures up images of NC State, as well it should since the […]

Tale of Two Chambers Amid Budget Conflict

August 21, 2015 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

North Carolina has two legislative bodies, the 120-member House of Representatives and the 50-member Senate. They’re set up to be equal in power, although it could be said that the […]

Tale of Two Chambers Amid Budget Conflict

August 21, 2015 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

North Carolina has two legislative bodies, the 120-member House of Representatives and the 50-member Senate. They’re set up to be equal in power, although it could be said that the […]

Protect Us from the ‘Protection Act’

August 13, 2015 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

With its misguided “Taxpayer Protection Act” scheme, the state Senate looks to put a crowning touch on its efforts to turn North Carolina into a veritable Promised Land for conservatives, […]

Protect Us from the ‘Protection Act’

August 13, 2015 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

With its misguided “Taxpayer Protection Act” scheme, the state Senate looks to put a crowning touch on its efforts to turn North Carolina into a veritable Promised Land for conservatives, […]

Private School Vouchers, Lax Standards

August 1, 2015 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The principle of judicial restraint is a wonderful thing. It helps keep judges – as they go about their business of determining whether laws are constitutional – from horning in […]

Private School Vouchers, Lax Standards

August 1, 2015 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The principle of judicial restraint is a wonderful thing. It helps keep judges – as they go about their business of determining whether laws are constitutional – from horning in […]

Priorities and the Jet that Ate the Budget

July 25, 2015 By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

A recent article in Raleigh’s News and Observer focused on the F-35 jet. The American Friends Service Committee calls this weapon system the “plane that ate the budget” and puts […]

Priorities and the Jet that Ate the Budget

July 25, 2015 by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

A recent article in Raleigh’s News and Observer focused on the F-35 jet. The American Friends Service Committee calls this weapon system the “plane that ate the budget” and puts […]

Undocugraduation: Hope to Replace Fear

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

By Wayde Marsh, Duke Divinity School Intern On my way to work one day last week, I listened to WUNC as I usually do. I heard a lot about the […]

Undocugraduation: Hope to Replace Fear

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

By Wayde Marsh, Duke Divinity School Intern On my way to work one day last week, I listened to WUNC as I usually do. I heard a lot about the […]

Revenue Boosts and Tax-cut Boasts

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

The rooster crowed. The sun came up. The rooster puffed his feathered chest as he beheld his magnificent handiwork. Phil Berger led the state Senate in cutting taxes. Revenues nudged […]

Revenue Boosts and Tax-cut Boasts

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

The rooster crowed. The sun came up. The rooster puffed his feathered chest as he beheld his magnificent handiwork. Phil Berger led the state Senate in cutting taxes. Revenues nudged […]

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 […]

Universities Take a Hit with Loss of Ross

March 20, 2015 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Photo by Dan Sears, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill The University of North Carolina system’s Board of Governors, in telling system President Tom Ross in January that he […]

Universities Take a Hit with Loss of Ross

March 20, 2015 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Photo by Dan Sears, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill The University of North Carolina system’s Board of Governors, in telling system President Tom Ross in January that he […]

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 […]

Coming to the Seminar? Bring a Friend!

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

The Council’s 2015 Legislative Seminar is about a month away, and we have an exciting program of preachers, workshops, and presenters planned. If you’ve already registered to be with us, […]

Coming to the Seminar? Bring a Friend!

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

The Council’s 2015 Legislative Seminar is about a month away, and we have an exciting program of preachers, workshops, and presenters planned. If you’ve already registered to be with us, […]

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 […]

Doomed UNC Centers Sang the Wrong Songs

March 2, 2015 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

It’s easy to imagine what the conservative Republicans who rule North Carolina’s legislative roost were thinking: “Here we’ve gone to all the trouble to take control of the General Assembly. […]

Doomed UNC Centers Sang the Wrong Songs

March 2, 2015 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Time to Uphold UNC’s Anti-Poverty Mission

February 22, 2015 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

One can say this about UNC-Chapel Hill’s Gene Nichol without fear of contradiction: He doesn’t seem to know when to keep his mouth shut or his keyboard quiet. Good for […]

Time to Uphold UNC’s Anti-Poverty Mission

February 22, 2015 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

One can say this about UNC-Chapel Hill’s Gene Nichol without fear of contradiction: He doesn’t seem to know when to keep his mouth shut or his keyboard quiet. Good for […]

Gene Nichol Won’t Let Us Ignore Poverty

February 19, 2015 By George Reed, Former Executive Director

Gene Nichol was the recipient of the Council’s 2013 Faith Active in Public Life Award. (To see his keynote address at our 2013 Legislative Seminar, “It’s Better Not to Be […]

Gene Nichol Won’t Let Us Ignore Poverty

February 19, 2015 by George Reed, Former Executive Director

Gene Nichol was the recipient of the Council’s 2013 Faith Active in Public Life Award. (To see his keynote address at our 2013 Legislative Seminar, “It’s Better Not to Be […]

Grading the Schools: The Poverty Link

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

The scheme ordered up by the conservatives who hold power in the NC General Assembly to assign a single letter grade to each of the state’s public schools – ostensibly […]

Grading the Schools: The Poverty Link

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

The scheme ordered up by the conservatives who hold power in the NC General Assembly to assign a single letter grade to each of the state’s public schools – ostensibly […]

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 […]

Welcome EdNC to the Conversation

January 13, 2015 By George Reed, Former Executive Director

Education has been of central importance to the NC Council of Churches throughout our history. Part of our opposition to segregation was support for a fully integrated public school system. […]

Welcome EdNC to the Conversation

January 13, 2015 by George Reed, Former Executive Director

Education has been of central importance to the NC Council of Churches throughout our history. Part of our opposition to segregation was support for a fully integrated public school system. […]

Conservatives, Riding High, Can Heed Cooler Heads

November 8, 2014 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

There’s no getting around the fact that when North Carolinians went to the polls on Nov. 5, they gave a thumbs-up to the conservatives who’ve been in charge at the […]

Conservatives, Riding High, Can Heed Cooler Heads

November 8, 2014 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

There’s no getting around the fact that when North Carolinians went to the polls on Nov. 5, they gave a thumbs-up to the conservatives who’ve been in charge at the […]

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 […]

Educating the Littlest and the Least

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

Recently, several counties in North Carolina have begun passing resolutions discouraging undocumented children, including unaccompanied minors, from attending schools in these counties. These children, who often have no family in […]

Educating the Littlest and the Least

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

Power Surge Hits Streams, Constitution

August 21, 2014 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The N.C. General Assembly during its 2014 session – a session so rife with disputes among the majority Republicans that it smoldered on and on – has left many sour […]

Power Surge Hits Streams, Constitution

August 21, 2014 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The N.C. General Assembly during its 2014 session – a session so rife with disputes among the majority Republicans that it smoldered on and on – has left many sour […]

Revenue-starved Budget Rattles and Rolls

August 5, 2014 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The debate is familiar: State government is too big. No, it’s too small. People in the too-big camp typically think government – the state agencies and institutions that North Carolinians […]

Revenue-starved Budget Rattles and Rolls

August 5, 2014 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The debate is familiar: State government is too big. No, it’s too small. People in the too-big camp typically think government – the state agencies and institutions that North Carolinians […]

Warning Signs in Budget ‘Deal’

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

UPDATE: After this blog was posted, the final budget was unveiled and passed by the House and Senate. The large reductions in Medicaid reimbursement rates mentioned in the blog below […]

Warning Signs in Budget ‘Deal’

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

UPDATE: After this blog was posted, the final budget was unveiled and passed by the House and Senate. The large reductions in Medicaid reimbursement rates mentioned in the blog below […]

Capital Clash over Education, Health

July 15, 2014 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

North Carolina legislators faced with vexing conflicts over a new state budget spent a solid week pawing and snorting at each other without a lot of movement on the main […]

Capital Clash over Education, Health

July 15, 2014 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

North Carolina legislators faced with vexing conflicts over a new state budget spent a solid week pawing and snorting at each other without a lot of movement on the main […]

Twists, Turns on Teacher Pay

July 8, 2014 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

If this year’s session of the N.C. General Assembly were a work of drama for stage or screen, the plot would be coming to a head. And we in the […]

Twists, Turns on Teacher Pay

July 8, 2014 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

If this year’s session of the N.C. General Assembly were a work of drama for stage or screen, the plot would be coming to a head. And we in the […]

Protesters’ Last ‘Salute’ as Legislators Wrangle

June 26, 2014 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

With one final gathering that on June 25 drew more than 1,000 people to the heart of North Carolina’s state government, the NC NAACP and its allies say they have concluded […]

Protesters’ Last ‘Salute’ as Legislators Wrangle

June 26, 2014 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

With one final gathering that on June 25 drew more than 1,000 people to the heart of North Carolina’s state government, the NC NAACP and its allies say they have concluded […]

Council Spotlights Education, Opportunity

June 20, 2014 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The NC Council of Churches aims to exert a positive influence on public policies that have implications for what is commonly known as social justice. What this often boils down […]

Council Spotlights Education, Opportunity

June 20, 2014 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The NC Council of Churches aims to exert a positive influence on public policies that have implications for what is commonly known as social justice. What this often boils down […]

Two New Resources on Public Education

June 15, 2014 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council has published two new resources for people of faith interested in supporting North Carolina’s public schools. One is an abbreviated version of the Council’s materials for holding a […]

Two New Resources on Public Education

June 15, 2014 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Choices, Conflicts Amid Budget Squeeze

June 13, 2014 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

First it was Gov. Pat McCrory who tried to fashion a state budget giving teachers a badly needed raise while hamstrung by large tax cuts. Then the N.C. Senate took […]

Choices, Conflicts Amid Budget Squeeze

June 13, 2014 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

First it was Gov. Pat McCrory who tried to fashion a state budget giving teachers a badly needed raise while hamstrung by large tax cuts. Then the N.C. Senate took […]

Video from June 9 Moral Monday

June 13, 2014 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The June 9 Moral Monday sent a powerful message to state leaders about the value North Carolinians place on strong public schools. If you couldn’t be there, our friends at […]

Video from June 9 Moral Monday

June 13, 2014 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The June 9 Moral Monday sent a powerful message to state leaders about the value North Carolinians place on strong public schools. If you couldn’t be there, our friends at […]

Full Program Available for Critical Issues Seminar on Public Education

June 9, 2014 By Lauren Chesson, Former MSW Intern

The full program for the our 2014 Critical Issues Seminar on Public Education is now available on the website. It includes registration information, the schedule for the day, and a complete […]

Full Program Available for Critical Issues Seminar on Public Education

June 9, 2014 by Lauren Chesson, Former MSW Intern

The full program for the our 2014 Critical Issues Seminar on Public Education is now available on the website. It includes registration information, the schedule for the day, and a complete […]

Health Crunch for the Vulnerable

June 6, 2014 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

For most North Carolinians, the myriad choices that comprise the state budget may affect the quality of their children’s education, or whether their favorite state park is kept in good […]

Health Crunch for the Vulnerable

June 6, 2014 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

For most North Carolinians, the myriad choices that comprise the state budget may affect the quality of their children’s education, or whether their favorite state park is kept in good […]

Senate Budget, Fracking Roar Through

May 31, 2014 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Say this much for the leaders of the North Carolina Senate and House: When they make up their minds on a course of action, they don’t mess around. The General […]

Senate Budget, Fracking Roar Through

May 31, 2014 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Say this much for the leaders of the North Carolina Senate and House: When they make up their minds on a course of action, they don’t mess around. The General […]

Tax Cuts’ Sour Notes

May 20, 2014 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

If a session of the NC General Assembly can be compared to an opera — comedy, farce or tragedy yet to be determined – then the governor’s recommended budget might […]

Tax Cuts’ Sour Notes

May 20, 2014 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

If a session of the NC General Assembly can be compared to an opera — comedy, farce or tragedy yet to be determined – then the governor’s recommended budget might […]

From Superior Court to Supreme Court, Education in the News

May 19, 2014 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Education figured prominently in the news over the past few days, both nationally and locally. As a country, we marked the 60th anniversary of Brown vs. Board of Education, the […]

From Superior Court to Supreme Court, Education in the News

May 19, 2014 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Education figured prominently in the news over the past few days, both nationally and locally. As a country, we marked the 60th anniversary of Brown vs. Board of Education, the […]

Looming Battles Over the Schools

May 15, 2014 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

North Carolina legislators may think they have their hands full trying to defuse the hot political issue of the moment – the state’s woeful pay levels for its public school […]

Looming Battles Over the Schools

May 15, 2014 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

North Carolina legislators may think they have their hands full trying to defuse the hot political issue of the moment – the state’s woeful pay levels for its public school […]

Food Drive at Critical Issues Seminar for Backpack Buddies

May 11, 2014 By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

In conjunction with the Critical Issues Seminar on Public Education in June, the NC Council of Churches will be collecting non-perishable items to support Inter-Faith Food Shuttle’s Backpack Buddies program. […]

Food Drive at Critical Issues Seminar for Backpack Buddies

May 11, 2014 by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Education Events on Tap

April 30, 2014 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The turmoil in North Carolina’s public schools, caused by budget cuts and ill-advised policy choices, has gotten people’s attention. On Saturday, May 3, there’ll be an opportunity to take a […]

Education Events on Tap

April 30, 2014 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Teachers Feel the Strain

April 25, 2014 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

North Carolina’s public school classrooms these days seem to be running short of happy campers where they’re most needed — among the teachers whose noble job it is to lead […]

Teachers Feel the Strain

April 25, 2014 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

North Carolina’s public school classrooms these days seem to be running short of happy campers where they’re most needed — among the teachers whose noble job it is to lead […]

Lutherans Sponsor Conference to Ponder Justice and Faith

April 15, 2014 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

When the line to check in at a church-sponsored conference on a beautiful Saturday morning in April stretches out the door, it’s a sign that the event has generated an […]

Lutherans Sponsor Conference to Ponder Justice and Faith

April 15, 2014 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

When the line to check in at a church-sponsored conference on a beautiful Saturday morning in April stretches out the door, it’s a sign that the event has generated an […]

Palm Sunday: Poverty & Education by Gene Nichol

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

In recognition of our faithful call and of this time in history, the Council’s annual Lenten guide focuses on poverty and the ways we can respond to our sisters and […]

Palm Sunday: Poverty & Education by Gene Nichol

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

In recognition of our faithful call and of this time in history, the Council’s annual Lenten guide focuses on poverty and the ways we can respond to our sisters and […]

2014 Critical Issues Seminar — Registration is Ongoing

March 31, 2014 By Lauren Chesson, Former MSW Intern

*To see registration form, scroll down to the middle of the page. Registration for the Council’s 2014 Critical Issues Seminar on Public Education with a guaranteed lunch has been extended for […]

2014 Critical Issues Seminar — Registration is Ongoing

March 31, 2014 by Lauren Chesson, Former MSW Intern

*To see registration form, scroll down to the middle of the page. Registration for the Council’s 2014 Critical Issues Seminar on Public Education with a guaranteed lunch has been extended for […]

Theological Conference on Public Policy — April 12

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

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

Theological Conference on Public Policy — April 12

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

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

Crossroads for Teacher Pay

March 17, 2014 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The gory details are right there, laid out in columns of cold hard data compiled by the National Education Association. Each year, the national teachers’ group provides a comprehensive, state-by-state […]

Crossroads for Teacher Pay

March 17, 2014 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Teacher Pay: Leaping, then Looking

March 9, 2014 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

He hasn’t put it quite this way, but what Gov. Pat McCrory seems to be saying – and who among us hasn’t offered the same excuse? – is that it […]

Teacher Pay: Leaping, then Looking

March 9, 2014 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

He hasn’t put it quite this way, but what Gov. Pat McCrory seems to be saying – and who among us hasn’t offered the same excuse? – is that it […]

Presbyterian Clergy Sign Letter for the Public Good

February 28, 2014 By George Reed, Former Executive Director

A group of Presbyterian clergy have prepared and circulated A Pastoral Letter to their colleagues. It is a fine statement, noting that “[a]n enduring principle of our discipleship is the […]

Presbyterian Clergy Sign Letter for the Public Good

February 28, 2014 by George Reed, Former Executive Director

A group of Presbyterian clergy have prepared and circulated A Pastoral Letter to their colleagues. It is a fine statement, noting that “[a]n enduring principle of our discipleship is the […]

Photos from HKonJ 2014

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

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

Photos from HKonJ 2014

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

The Stakes with Teachers’ Pay

February 17, 2014 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Whether anecdotal or empirical, the evidence is clear: North Carolina has done a poor job of furnishing its public school teachers with adequate salaries. By “adequate,” we should mean pay […]

The Stakes with Teachers’ Pay

February 17, 2014 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Whether anecdotal or empirical, the evidence is clear: North Carolina has done a poor job of furnishing its public school teachers with adequate salaries. By “adequate,” we should mean pay […]

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

Pray with Us on Friday, March with Us on Saturday

February 6, 2014 By George Reed, Former Executive Director

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

Pray with Us on Friday, March with Us on Saturday

February 6, 2014 by George Reed, Former Executive Director

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

Boosts for Voters, Protestors

January 27, 2014 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

By the time last year’s edition of the NC General Assembly finished its work, it was as though the laws and policies by which this state is governed had been […]

Boosts for Voters, Protestors

January 27, 2014 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

By the time last year’s edition of the NC General Assembly finished its work, it was as though the laws and policies by which this state is governed had been […]

One State, One Rate: In-State Tuition for Young Immigrants

January 14, 2014 By chris

Education is one of the critical issues of our time. How we as a society choose to invest in our young people has dramatic implications for our future. Today, thousands […]

One State, One Rate: In-State Tuition for Young Immigrants

January 14, 2014 by chris

Education is one of the critical issues of our time. How we as a society choose to invest in our young people has dramatic implications for our future. Today, thousands […]

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 […]

A Year of Setbacks, Pushbacks

December 29, 2013 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

At the close of a momentous year for politics and public policy in North Carolina – a year that challenged many people of faith to act on their beliefs — […]

A Year of Setbacks, Pushbacks

December 29, 2013 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

At the close of a momentous year for politics and public policy in North Carolina – a year that challenged many people of faith to act on their beliefs — […]

Momentum, Maybe, on Teacher Pay

December 2, 2013 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Perhaps they’re hearing footsteps – the footsteps of all those teachers who have turned out in recent months to call for better pay and more generous overall support for North […]

Momentum, Maybe, on Teacher Pay

December 2, 2013 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Perhaps they’re hearing footsteps – the footsteps of all those teachers who have turned out in recent months to call for better pay and more generous overall support for North […]

Holy Discontentment: Lifting Your Voice and Letting Your Little Light Shine

September 29, 2013 By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

“Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of injustice, to undo the thongs of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break […]

Holy Discontentment: Lifting Your Voice and Letting Your Little Light Shine

September 29, 2013 by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

“Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of injustice, to undo the thongs of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break […]

Capital’s End-of-Summer Fallout

September 6, 2013 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Call it the year of North Carolina’s Big Right Turn. A conservative General Assembly, with a conservative governor in tow, veered away from the moderate consensus that had set the […]

Capital’s End-of-Summer Fallout

September 6, 2013 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Call it the year of North Carolina’s Big Right Turn. A conservative General Assembly, with a conservative governor in tow, veered away from the moderate consensus that had set the […]

Back to School Amid Tight Times

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

Of the many public policies North Carolina has followed across the decades, none has brought greater dividends than the state’s commitment to invest in education at all levels. No other […]

Back to School Amid Tight Times

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

Of the many public policies North Carolina has followed across the decades, none has brought greater dividends than the state’s commitment to invest in education at all levels. No other […]

Take Action for Public Schools — Aug. 24 and 26

August 22, 2013 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

North Carolina’s public schools has suffered at the hands of this General Assembly and Governor. The impact on the schools, their employees, and the children they serve will be felt for […]

Take Action for Public Schools — Aug. 24 and 26

August 22, 2013 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

North Carolina’s public schools has suffered at the hands of this General Assembly and Governor. The impact on the schools, their employees, and the children they serve will be felt for […]

The Liberal Protest that Would Shock the Right: Moral Monday

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

Salon

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

The Liberal Protest that Would Shock the Right: Moral Monday

August 4, 2013

Salon

Short Rations for Schools

August 1, 2013 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The teachers were upset. And with North Carolina now embarked on a program of aggressive backsliding in its commitment to public education, who could blame them? Teachers, many of them […]

Short Rations for Schools

August 1, 2013 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The teachers were upset. And with North Carolina now embarked on a program of aggressive backsliding in its commitment to public education, who could blame them? Teachers, many of them […]

More Damage as Session Ends

July 26, 2013 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

The General Assembly has adjourned its 2013 session after a final cascade of disappointing and disturbing bills that now await review by Gov. Pat McCrory. Among the bills approved are ones that will make it less convenient for many citizens to vote and that weaken regulatory oversight of the environment. There was at least one bright spot, as the House rejected a last-minute push by the Senate to speed up the environmentally risky natural gas extraction process known as fracking. But on the whole, legislators succeeded in putting the crowning touches on a session devoted to a conservative agenda the likes of which modern North Carolina has never before seen.

More Damage as Session Ends

July 26, 2013 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

There was at least one bright spot, as the House rejected a last-minute push by the Senate to speed up the environmentally risky natural gas extraction process known as fracking. But on the whole, legislators succeeded in putting the crowning touches on a session devoted to a conservative agenda the likes of which modern North Carolina has never before seen.

Squeeze on Education Spending

July 22, 2013 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

A budget to carry North Carolina state government through the next two years is poised for approval in the General Assembly. It represents a triumph of diminished expectations. That is […]

Squeeze on Education Spending

July 22, 2013 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

A budget to carry North Carolina state government through the next two years is poised for approval in the General Assembly. It represents a triumph of diminished expectations. That is […]

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 […]

Moral Mondays Reverberate Across the Country

July 5, 2013 By chris

I finally had the chance to go my first Moral Monday earlier this week. Walking around Halifax Mall with our Executive Director, George Reed, I was struck by how many people we both knew. I'm deeply proud of the involvement by clergy and faith communities in particular. So many of our members are represented not only in the crowd but also in the faces of those participating in civil disobedience and getting arrested. As we celebrate Independence Day this week, we give thanks not only for the many freedoms our country offers, but in particular for the countless faithful voices speaking up and speaking out for those who are being pushed to the margins by this General Assembly.

Moral Mondays Reverberate Across the Country

July 5, 2013 by chris

I finally had the chance to go my first Moral Monday earlier this week. Walking around Halifax Mall with our Executive Director, George Reed, I was struck by how many people we both knew. I’m deeply proud of the involvement by clergy and faith communities in particular. So many of our members are represented not only in the crowd but also in the faces of those participating in civil disobedience and getting arrested. As we celebrate Independence Day this week, we give thanks not only for the many freedoms our country offers, but in particular for the countless faithful voices speaking up and speaking out for those who are being pushed to the margins by this General Assembly.

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 […]

State’s Priorities in Play

June 21, 2013 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

North Carolina’s state government leaders will make some heavy-duty decisions over the next few days. A new state budget is supposed to be in place by July 1, and the […]

State’s Priorities in Play

June 21, 2013 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

North Carolina’s state government leaders will make some heavy-duty decisions over the next few days. A new state budget is supposed to be in place by July 1, and the […]

Moral Mondays Are Home-Grown

June 17, 2013 By George Reed, Former Executive Director

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

Moral Mondays Are Home-Grown

June 17, 2013 by George Reed, Former Executive Director

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

Faith Leaders Voice Support for Moral Mondays

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

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

Faith Leaders Voice Support for Moral Mondays

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

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

Tax Cuts’ Painful Costs

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

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

Tax Cuts’ Painful Costs

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

Call to Mobilize 1,000 Clergy

June 1, 2013 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

A group of clergy members is working to mobilize 1,000 of their colleagues to gather at Raleigh’s Bicentennial Mall on Monday, June 10 at 5 p.m. and raise their voices […]

Call to Mobilize 1,000 Clergy

June 1, 2013 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

A group of clergy members is working to mobilize 1,000 of their colleagues to gather at Raleigh’s Bicentennial Mall on Monday, June 10 at 5 p.m. and raise their voices […]

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

Moral Mondays Continue in June

May 25, 2013 By George Reed, Former Executive Director

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

Moral Mondays Continue in June

May 25, 2013 by George Reed, Former Executive Director

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

Please Pray for Oklahoma

May 21, 2013 By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

All people affected by this week’s devastating storms, particularly those in Moore, Oklahoma, need our prayers. In addition, donations can be made to organizations providing assistance, including denominational relief agencies, […]

Please Pray for Oklahoma

May 21, 2013 by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

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

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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

May 14, 2013 By chris

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

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

May 14, 2013 by chris

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

May 6, 2013 By George Reed, Former Executive Director

House Bills Senate Bills Notable Quotes Arizona-like Immigration Bill Introduced In the wake of failed attempts by Congress to pass comprehensive immigration reform, states and localities have increased their own […]

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

May 6, 2013 by George Reed, Former Executive Director

Tax Reform Cookies

April 13, 2013 By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

There’s no telling how the tax cookies will crumble by the time the 2013 General Assembly closes shop. But chief bakers in both the House and Senate seem intent on […]

Tax Reform Cookies

April 13, 2013 by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

There’s no telling how the tax cookies will crumble by the time the 2013 General Assembly closes shop. But chief bakers in both the House and Senate seem intent on […]

Rush to the Right Continues (Raleigh Report, April 5, 2013)

April 6, 2013 By George Reed, Former Executive Director

Voter Suppression & Campaign Finance Other New Bills Commentary Tax Fairness Public Education Voting Rights Death Penalty Rush to the Right Continues From the first days […]

Rush to the Right Continues (Raleigh Report, April 5, 2013)

April 6, 2013 by George Reed, Former Executive Director

Voter Suppression & Campaign Finance Other New Bills Commentary Tax Fairness Public Education Voting Rights Death Penalty Rush to the Right Continues From the first days […]

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.

Putting a Face on Legislation

March 15, 2013 By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Our state and nation are in a time of civil discord. My own preacher, the Rev. Betty Connette, challenged us a few weeks ago to be Citizens of Heaven and to […]

Putting a Face on Legislation

March 15, 2013 by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Our state and nation are in a time of civil discord. My own preacher, the Rev. Betty Connette, challenged us a few weeks ago to be Citizens of Heaven and to […]

Program and Registration for 2013 Legislative Seminar

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

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

Program and Registration for 2013 Legislative Seminar

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

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

Raleigh Report – February 1, 2013

February 4, 2013 By Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

After a one-day organizational meeting in early January, the 2013 General Assembly convened in earnest last Wednesday. Bills introduced and advanced during these first two days give a taste of things to come. Note especially the bills affecting the implementation of the Affordable Care Act, weakening the benefits of unemployment insurance, and extending the presence of guns.

Raleigh Report – February 1, 2013

February 4, 2013 by Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

Canaries in the School Bus Lane

September 6, 2012 By George Reed, Former Executive Director

You probably know how the phrase “canary in the coal mine” came into being, but it doesn’t hurt to repeat it. Before there were other ways of monitoring for dangerous […]

Canaries in the School Bus Lane

September 6, 2012 by George Reed, Former Executive Director

You probably know how the phrase “canary in the coal mine” came into being, but it doesn’t hurt to repeat it. Before there were other ways of monitoring for dangerous […]

Urge Congress to Promote the Common Good, Protect the Vulnerable

August 24, 2012 By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Laypeople, clergy and organizational leaders can urge Congress to protect programs vital to vulnerable people as well as to protect the country’s economic security by e-mailing their elected leaders or signing […]

Urge Congress to Promote the Common Good, Protect the Vulnerable

August 24, 2012 by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

For Young Farmworkers, No Time for Homework

June 27, 2012 By Daryn Lane, Former Student Action with Farmworkers Intern

At a farmworker camp this past week, sitting on the ground with a plate of rice and tortillas in my lap, I glanced around at the faces of my dinner […]

For Young Farmworkers, No Time for Homework

June 27, 2012 by Daryn Lane, Former Student Action with Farmworkers Intern

At a farmworker camp this past week, sitting on the ground with a plate of rice and tortillas in my lap, I glanced around at the faces of my dinner […]

Raleigh Report June 12 Update

June 12, 2012 By Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

George Reed, Editor Robert L. Mason, Intern Associate Fracking Clean Energy and Economic Security Act Domestic Energy Policy Underground Injection Ban Fracking Contracts/Against Public Policy Sale of Children Senate’s Budget […]

Raleigh Report June 12 Update

June 12, 2012 by Rose Gurkin, Former Program Associate for Administration

Raleigh Report – June 1, 2012

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

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

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