The Office of Public Witness continues to provide immediate advocacy opportunities in the interactive PW Live exhibit at the Churchwide Gathering of Presbyterian Women in Orlando, FL.
As the members of Presbyterian Women learn about and take action on important issues of peace and justice, we invite you to add your voice to theirs by taking action now on these important issues:
- Take Action to Prevent Violence Against Women: On April 26, the Senate passed a bill (S. 1925) to reauthorize the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) with bipartisan support. This bill strengthened protections for all victims, including immigrant women, Native women, and gay and lesbian victims. Unfortunately, the House of Representatives passed a version of this bill that turns back the clock on VAWA. The House bill lacks several of the protections included by the Senate - in fact, some of the differences in the House bill would actually increase the risk faced by some women. Congress needs to send to the President for his signature a real VAWA, with all of the provisions in S. 1925, that serves all victims and contains no rollbacks to the current VAWA. As more and more legislation is stalled due to Congressional gridlock, we need Congressional leaders to hear our strong and united message once and for all: your work on VAWA is not over. Ask your members of Congress today to solve any procedural challenges and pass an inclusive VAWA.
- It's Time for Just and Comprehensive Immigration Reform: The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A) Office of Public Witness was heartened by the announcement last month that President Obama signed Executive Order halting deportations of undocumented youth in the U.S. who would qualify for the DREAM Act, as it was passed by the House in 2011. DHS will begin a process for granting "deferred action" to these youth. Eligible individuals – including but not limited to those who are currently in deportation proceedings – will be allowed to remain and work in the U.S. The Administration’s action last month is an encouraging step forward toward needed reform, but it is not enough. DREAMers, who are our coworkers and neighbors, need stability, safety, and a permanent path to citizenship, which only Congress can provide. Tell Congress to follow the President’s lead, to pass the DREAM Act, and to take this important step towards just and comprehensive immigration reform.
The Office of Public Witness invites you to stand with Presbyterian Women as they advocate for these important peace and justice issues by taking action today, and to join us in praying for the participants and leaders at the Churchwide Gathering.
