Dear *{{Informal Name}}*,

 

Peace to you, and I pray you’re finding creative ways of adjusting and adapting to the changes being made to our daily lives right now, in hopes of promoting the health and healing of our communities.

 

At Justice Revival, we feel fortunate to be able to continue many of our ministry initiatives despite the mandate to work remotely for now. While most church engagements, advocacy conferences, and fundraising events are on hold, we are moving forward with several promising efforts planned for this season.

 

Continuing to Champion Equality

 

Right now we're developing a training workshop for faith leaders on the Equal Rights Amendment, which will build on our recent roundtable conversation on this timely topic. The movement for full citizenship and equal rights of all Americans, regardless of sex or gender, continues on and so do our efforts to advance it. This innovative new education program will be available later in the year.

Highlighting the Human Right to Health

 

We’re also exploring new forms of ministry that can respond to the needs and circumstances of the present public health crisis. Last Friday, Justice Revival published our first video blog—an interview with Fran Quigley, founder of Faith in Healthcare. Fran shed light on the challenges of our current healthcare and public health systems in this country, as well as the potential for a moral, multi-faith movement to treat healthcare as a human right. Don’t miss this special interview with a leading expert and voice of faith on this vital topic.

Emerging Human Rights Concerns

 

Justice Revival has been actively consulting with partners in the U.S. Human Rights Network to stay alert to new threats to human rights during this difficult time. We are more concerned than ever for those we’re called to serve, knowing every vulnerable group in this country—those in jails or immigration detention, those without homes, those with low or no income—are now at heightened risk of neglect or unfavorable treatment.

 

We are deeply concerned about rising prejudice against Asian-American neighbors and lack of regard for the valuable lives of the aged and disabled. We're likewise attentive to the economic inequities that could disadvantage some students during this time of distance learning. Justice Revival will persist in advocating a faithful message of equality, inclusion, and universal human dignity. We trust we can count on you to stand in solidarity during this critical time.

 

We also recognize the importance of holding our government leaders accountable, so they aren’t allowed to use this crisis to impose unjustifiably harsh or authoritarian policies. It’s crucial that our democratic society ensure restrictions on our rights and liberties are temporary, proportionate to the need, and evidence-based.

 

Revolutionary Love Continues

 

One upcoming gathering we still anticipate to go forward is the Revolutionary Love conference scheduled for April 24-26, 2020. Organizers have indicated that the event may take place in a virtual format, and we plan to be there! Consider joining us for this inspiring multi-faith event promoting peace, justice, and the common good.

Celebrating Our Newest Teammate

 

And finally, we have something special to celebrate this month, as Justice Revival welcomes our newest member, Patrick Carolan, to our board of directors. Formerly the Executive Director of Franciscan Action Network, Patrick is currently the Catholic Outreach Director at Vote Common Good. His Franciscan faith, Irish immigrant heritage, years of labor and environmental activism, deep theological engagement, and energetic, action-minded approach are a few of the fantastic qualities Patrick brings to this ministry. Please join us in welcoming him!

 

Our prayers and good wishes remain with you as you shelter at home, care for your families, and serve those affected by the coronavirus. The pace and shape of daily life have shifted for now, but the Source of our hope and our salvation has not. In the slowing and distancing of this time, may you find space for sabbath rest, refuge, and renewed strength for tomorrow.

Blessings & peace,

Allyson McKinney Timm

Founder & Executive Director

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A Christian Voice for Human Rights