Envisioning Gospel-Based Solidarity and Flourishing with Migrants
News Intro Text
From March 16–18, 2020 a national gathering of Catholic religious justice and peace leaders met to develop collaborative responses and strategies to the emergency on the US – Mexico border, as well as the crisis of immigrants and their families throughout the United States.
News Item Content
<div class="page" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" title="Page 1">
<div class="page" title="Page 1">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT;">From March 16</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT;">–</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT;">18, 2020 a national gathering of Catholic religious justice and peace leaders, organized by the U.S. Conference of Major Superiors of Men, met to develop collaborative responses and strategies to the emergency on the US </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT;">– </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT;">Mexico border, as well as the crisis of immigrants and their families throughout the United States. </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 11pt;">The meeting, originally scheduled to be held in Las Cruces, NM, was held online. We </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 11pt;">gathered with our hearts reaching out in prayers to God for our brothers and sisters affected by COVID-19 </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 11pt;">and in solidarity with medical workers who are at the front line giving medical assistance to those who are </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 11pt;">sick.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT;">We affirmed the common humanity we share with migrants, refugees, and asylum-seekers, and expressed a desire to strengthen our solidarity with them, in order to build a stronger nonviolent movement within the Catholic Church to challenge inhumane and unjust immigration and border policies. And we looked at how racism, economic injustice, climate change, militarization and migration are all interconnected, just as we as a human family are connected to our migrant sisters and brothers. An intersectional lens helps us to see how these issues not only exacerbate each other, especially forced migration, but how getting to the root causes of forced migration requires us to address each of these issues together.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT;">We acknowledged the intimate connection between racism toward immigrants and forced migration. This is an old story, rooted in centuries of oppression against native peoples, but its impacts are as cruel as ever, based on policies that criminalize immigrants and militarize borders. During the current administration we have seen the devastating impact of cruel and inhumane policies that deny immigrants the right to asylum, detain and separate families, traumatize children, as well as effectively seal the border denying entry to most immigrants. The courts have often pushed back on federal policies leading to a huge increase in state level anti-immigrant legislation focused on enforcement.</span></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/CMSM JPIC National Gathering Statement - Final.pdf">Read full statement here>></a></p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p>
<div class="page" title="Page 1">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT;">From March 16</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT;">–</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT;">18, 2020 a national gathering of Catholic religious justice and peace leaders, organized by the U.S. Conference of Major Superiors of Men, met to develop collaborative responses and strategies to the emergency on the US </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT;">– </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT;">Mexico border, as well as the crisis of immigrants and their families throughout the United States. </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 11pt;">The meeting, originally scheduled to be held in Las Cruces, NM, was held online. We </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 11pt;">gathered with our hearts reaching out in prayers to God for our brothers and sisters affected by COVID-19 </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 11pt;">and in solidarity with medical workers who are at the front line giving medical assistance to those who are </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 11pt;">sick.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT;">We affirmed the common humanity we share with migrants, refugees, and asylum-seekers, and expressed a desire to strengthen our solidarity with them, in order to build a stronger nonviolent movement within the Catholic Church to challenge inhumane and unjust immigration and border policies. And we looked at how racism, economic injustice, climate change, militarization and migration are all interconnected, just as we as a human family are connected to our migrant sisters and brothers. An intersectional lens helps us to see how these issues not only exacerbate each other, especially forced migration, but how getting to the root causes of forced migration requires us to address each of these issues together.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT;">We acknowledged the intimate connection between racism toward immigrants and forced migration. This is an old story, rooted in centuries of oppression against native peoples, but its impacts are as cruel as ever, based on policies that criminalize immigrants and militarize borders. During the current administration we have seen the devastating impact of cruel and inhumane policies that deny immigrants the right to asylum, detain and separate families, traumatize children, as well as effectively seal the border denying entry to most immigrants. The courts have often pushed back on federal policies leading to a huge increase in state level anti-immigrant legislation focused on enforcement.</span></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/CMSM JPIC National Gathering Statement - Final.pdf">Read full statement here>></a></p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p>
Date
Further Action Needed to Protect People from Coronavirus Fallout
News Intro Text
Stimulus package insufficient, contains big bailouts with inadequate accountability
News Item Content
<p><span><img alt="" src="/jsri/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/images/unnamed-3.png" /></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><span>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE</span></p>
<p>March 26, 2020</p>
<p><span>CONTACT:</span><br />
Carter Dougherty<br />
<u><a href="mailto:carter@ourfinancialsecurity.org">carter@ourfinancialsecurity.org</a></u><br />
(202) 251-6700</p>
<h5>
<span>Further Action Needed to Protect People from Coronavirus Fallout</span><br />
<span>Stimulus package insufficient, contains big bailouts with inadequate accountability</span></h5>
<p><span>Statement from Lisa Donner, executive director, Americans for Financial Reform:</span></p>
<p>Corporate and Wall Street titans have used the coronavirus crisis to grab windfalls as a price for putting desperately needed resources into health care and helping people facing acute distress after losing jobs and income. The Trump administration and too many members of Congress actively promoted this terribly unbalanced approach to a public health emergency. The federal government – Congress and the executive branch – must move swiftly beyond what is in this legislation to help struggling people, families and communities in a just and inclusive manner. More needs to be done to respond to this crisis.</p>
<p>The money it includes for health care and to replace lost income is urgently needed. But this legislation fails to protect vulnerable communities most hurt by this crisis in many ways. A moratorium on foreclosures and evictions, and broadly available forbearance for mortgage payments, are necessary measures to protect people’s ability to stay in their homes. But the provisions in the bill largely repeat steps already taken by regulators and will be unwieldy because they require borrowers to contact their mortgage company to receive a forbearance at a time when call centers are being overwhelmed. They do not cover all loans, nor do they address borrower needs for flexible and affordable payment options after the health crisis abates and the forbearance period comes to an end.</p>
<p>The legislation provides no protection from garnishments, car repossessions, or debt collectors. There are also no protections from predatory lenders seeking to take advantage of the crisis. The bill only allows relief from negative credit reporting when a consumer reaches a separate agreement with their lender, a significant and unnecessary hurdle that will have repercussions for years if not removed.</p>
<p>The provisions on student loans are weak. (See separate statement <a href="https://ourfinancialsecurity.org/2020/03/news-release-cares-act-fails-provide-sufficient-relief-federal-student-loan-borrowers/">here</a>.) The suspension of payments will leave borrowers in the same hole once it lifts, and it excludes borrowers who do not have federally held loans, which will lead to confusion and frustration at a time when student loan servicers are <u><a href="https://protectborrowers.org/plans-to-pause-student-loan-payments-solve-a-political-problem-but-leave-student-loan-borrowers-worse-for-the-wear/">shutting call centers</a></u> that could provide clarification.</p>
<p>The bill lacks any requirement for direct lending to front line states and localities for emerging crisis-related needs. Given the massive credit assistance to business, and the importance of state and local leadership in crisis response, the absence of a forceful mandate for support of municipal borrowing is disturbing.</p>
<p>At the same time, the Trump administration will now control a fund worth $500 billion that the Federal Reserve can leverage into $5 trillion in lending, a figure equal to a quarter of normal U.S. economic output. The legislation includes few real restrictions on most of this fund, leaving the door open for this massive amount of money to inflate corporate bottom lines without benefiting ordinary people hurt by the pandemic.</p>
<p>Excepting airlines, big businesses benefiting from this funding do not even have to commit to retaining their workers. Prohibitions on lobbying, stock buybacks, executive bonuses and “golden parachutes,” and requirements for worker representation on boards of bailed-out companies range from weak to nonexistent. The measure requires an inspector general, appointed by Trump, and a congressional oversight body whose tools for the job are not sufficient.</p>
<p>The Fed and the Treasury will use, or are already using, Wall Street behemoths as their agents in administering assistance programs, which will give the industry strong influence over how money is distributed and create serious conflicts of interest. Policymakers need to remember the lessons of the failed response to the 2008 financial crisis. Without further action that puts people, families, and communities first, ordinary people will continue to pay the price.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><span>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE</span></p>
<p>March 26, 2020</p>
<p><span>CONTACT:</span><br />
Carter Dougherty<br />
<u><a href="mailto:carter@ourfinancialsecurity.org">carter@ourfinancialsecurity.org</a></u><br />
(202) 251-6700</p>
<h5>
<span>Further Action Needed to Protect People from Coronavirus Fallout</span><br />
<span>Stimulus package insufficient, contains big bailouts with inadequate accountability</span></h5>
<p><span>Statement from Lisa Donner, executive director, Americans for Financial Reform:</span></p>
<p>Corporate and Wall Street titans have used the coronavirus crisis to grab windfalls as a price for putting desperately needed resources into health care and helping people facing acute distress after losing jobs and income. The Trump administration and too many members of Congress actively promoted this terribly unbalanced approach to a public health emergency. The federal government – Congress and the executive branch – must move swiftly beyond what is in this legislation to help struggling people, families and communities in a just and inclusive manner. More needs to be done to respond to this crisis.</p>
<p>The money it includes for health care and to replace lost income is urgently needed. But this legislation fails to protect vulnerable communities most hurt by this crisis in many ways. A moratorium on foreclosures and evictions, and broadly available forbearance for mortgage payments, are necessary measures to protect people’s ability to stay in their homes. But the provisions in the bill largely repeat steps already taken by regulators and will be unwieldy because they require borrowers to contact their mortgage company to receive a forbearance at a time when call centers are being overwhelmed. They do not cover all loans, nor do they address borrower needs for flexible and affordable payment options after the health crisis abates and the forbearance period comes to an end.</p>
<p>The legislation provides no protection from garnishments, car repossessions, or debt collectors. There are also no protections from predatory lenders seeking to take advantage of the crisis. The bill only allows relief from negative credit reporting when a consumer reaches a separate agreement with their lender, a significant and unnecessary hurdle that will have repercussions for years if not removed.</p>
<p>The provisions on student loans are weak. (See separate statement <a href="https://ourfinancialsecurity.org/2020/03/news-release-cares-act-fails-provide-sufficient-relief-federal-student-loan-borrowers/">here</a>.) The suspension of payments will leave borrowers in the same hole once it lifts, and it excludes borrowers who do not have federally held loans, which will lead to confusion and frustration at a time when student loan servicers are <u><a href="https://protectborrowers.org/plans-to-pause-student-loan-payments-solve-a-political-problem-but-leave-student-loan-borrowers-worse-for-the-wear/">shutting call centers</a></u> that could provide clarification.</p>
<p>The bill lacks any requirement for direct lending to front line states and localities for emerging crisis-related needs. Given the massive credit assistance to business, and the importance of state and local leadership in crisis response, the absence of a forceful mandate for support of municipal borrowing is disturbing.</p>
<p>At the same time, the Trump administration will now control a fund worth $500 billion that the Federal Reserve can leverage into $5 trillion in lending, a figure equal to a quarter of normal U.S. economic output. The legislation includes few real restrictions on most of this fund, leaving the door open for this massive amount of money to inflate corporate bottom lines without benefiting ordinary people hurt by the pandemic.</p>
<p>Excepting airlines, big businesses benefiting from this funding do not even have to commit to retaining their workers. Prohibitions on lobbying, stock buybacks, executive bonuses and “golden parachutes,” and requirements for worker representation on boards of bailed-out companies range from weak to nonexistent. The measure requires an inspector general, appointed by Trump, and a congressional oversight body whose tools for the job are not sufficient.</p>
<p>The Fed and the Treasury will use, or are already using, Wall Street behemoths as their agents in administering assistance programs, which will give the industry strong influence over how money is distributed and create serious conflicts of interest. Policymakers need to remember the lessons of the failed response to the 2008 financial crisis. Without further action that puts people, families, and communities first, ordinary people will continue to pay the price.</p>
Date
Greenstein: President Trump’s 2021 Budget Would Widen Country’s Divisions
News Intro Text
CBPP today released a statement from Robert Greenstein, president, on President Trump’s new budget...
News Item Content
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(99, 99, 99); color: rgb(99, 99, 99); font-family: Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, monospace, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;">In the face of a bitterly divided country that needs healing, President Trump today threw gasoline on the fire by releasing a stunningly harsh budget that would tear us further apart.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(99, 99, 99); color: rgb(99, 99, 99); font-family: Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, monospace, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;">It would push tens of millions of less fortunate Americans into or deeper into poverty and cause widespread hardship even as it doubles down on tax cuts for the most well-off. It would take health coverage away from millions of people and cut aid to millions of families and individuals struggling to make ends meet. At the same time, the budget would make permanent the 2017 tax law’s tax cuts for individuals, which are heavily weighted toward the top. As a result, the budget would further widen inequality and racial disparities.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(99, 99, 99); color: rgb(99, 99, 99); font-family: Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, monospace, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;"><a href="https://www.cbpp.org/press/statements/greenstein-president-trumps-2021-budget-would-widen-countrys-divisions?utm_source=CBPP+Email+Updates&utm_campaign=02a441483d-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_02_10_08_10&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_ee3f6da374-02a441483d-50655441">Read full article here>></a></p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(99, 99, 99); color: rgb(99, 99, 99); font-family: Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, monospace, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;">It would push tens of millions of less fortunate Americans into or deeper into poverty and cause widespread hardship even as it doubles down on tax cuts for the most well-off. It would take health coverage away from millions of people and cut aid to millions of families and individuals struggling to make ends meet. At the same time, the budget would make permanent the 2017 tax law’s tax cuts for individuals, which are heavily weighted toward the top. As a result, the budget would further widen inequality and racial disparities.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(99, 99, 99); color: rgb(99, 99, 99); font-family: Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, monospace, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;"><a href="https://www.cbpp.org/press/statements/greenstein-president-trumps-2021-budget-would-widen-countrys-divisions?utm_source=CBPP+Email+Updates&utm_campaign=02a441483d-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_02_10_08_10&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_ee3f6da374-02a441483d-50655441">Read full article here>></a></p>
Date
TPS extended for everyone
News Intro Text
Trump Administration announces extension to comply with cases pending in federal courts
News Item Content
<p style="font-size: 16px; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 23px; caret-color: rgb(33, 33, 33); color: rgb(33, 33, 33); font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", Times, serif;">MIAMI | In a little-publicized <a href="https://bit.ly/37xnioX" style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-color: rgb(14, 75, 120); box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(14, 75, 120); cursor: pointer;" target="_blank">notice posted in theFederal Register Nov. 4</a>, the Department of Homeland Security announced that all beneficiaries of TPS — Temporary Protected Status — “will retain their TPS” through Jan. 4, 2021.</p>
<p style="font-size: 16px; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 23px; caret-color: rgb(33, 33, 33); color: rgb(33, 33, 33); font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", Times, serif;">That’s great news for immigrants from Haiti, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Nepal and Sudan who were facing deportation when the Trump administration decided to end their temporary permission to work and live legally in the U.S.</p>
<p style="font-size: 16px; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 23px; caret-color: rgb(33, 33, 33); color: rgb(33, 33, 33); font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", Times, serif;">“Termination is being held in abeyance by a judge” pending the resolution of three lawsuits against TPS termination, said Randolph McGrorty, executive director of <a href="http://www.cclsmiami.org/" style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-color: rgb(14, 75, 120); box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(14, 75, 120); cursor: pointer;" target="_blank">Catholic Legal Services of the Archdiocese of Miami</a>.</p>
<p style="font-size: 16px; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 23px; caret-color: rgb(33, 33, 33); color: rgb(33, 33, 33); font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", Times, serif;">The posting in the Federal Register noted that DHS was taking this action “to ensure its continued compliance with the preliminary injunction orders” of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California and the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York. The courts are considering three different lawsuits: Ramos, et al. v. Nielsen, et al.; Saget, et al., v. Trump, et al.; and Bhattarai v. Nielsen.</p>
<p style="font-size: 16px; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 23px; caret-color: rgb(33, 33, 33); color: rgb(33, 33, 33); font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", Times, serif;">The best news for TPS beneficiaries is that this is an automatic extension. They don’t need to do anything to retain their status.</p>
<p style="font-size: 16px; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 23px; caret-color: rgb(33, 33, 33); color: rgb(33, 33, 33); font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", Times, serif;">“They don’t need to file anything, neither for TPS extension nor employment authorization. It’s all automatic,” McGrorty said. </p>
<p style="font-size: 16px; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 23px; caret-color: rgb(33, 33, 33); color: rgb(33, 33, 33); font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", Times, serif;">He stressed that employers cannot require any additional documentation. Immigrants need only show them the notice from the Federal Register and their expired employment authorization.</p>
<p style="font-size: 16px; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 23px; caret-color: rgb(33, 33, 33); color: rgb(33, 33, 33); font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", Times, serif;">TPS would have expired Jan. 2, 2020 for beneficiaries from Haiti, El Salvador, Nicaragua and Sudan; on Jan. 5, 2020 for those from Honduras; and March 24, 2020 for those from Nepal.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.miamiarch.org/CatholicDiocese.php?op=Article_miami-tps-extended-for-everyone-november-2019">Read article here>></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p style="font-size: 16px; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 23px; caret-color: rgb(33, 33, 33); color: rgb(33, 33, 33); font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", Times, serif;">That’s great news for immigrants from Haiti, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Nepal and Sudan who were facing deportation when the Trump administration decided to end their temporary permission to work and live legally in the U.S.</p>
<p style="font-size: 16px; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 23px; caret-color: rgb(33, 33, 33); color: rgb(33, 33, 33); font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", Times, serif;">“Termination is being held in abeyance by a judge” pending the resolution of three lawsuits against TPS termination, said Randolph McGrorty, executive director of <a href="http://www.cclsmiami.org/" style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-color: rgb(14, 75, 120); box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(14, 75, 120); cursor: pointer;" target="_blank">Catholic Legal Services of the Archdiocese of Miami</a>.</p>
<p style="font-size: 16px; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 23px; caret-color: rgb(33, 33, 33); color: rgb(33, 33, 33); font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", Times, serif;">The posting in the Federal Register noted that DHS was taking this action “to ensure its continued compliance with the preliminary injunction orders” of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California and the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York. The courts are considering three different lawsuits: Ramos, et al. v. Nielsen, et al.; Saget, et al., v. Trump, et al.; and Bhattarai v. Nielsen.</p>
<p style="font-size: 16px; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 23px; caret-color: rgb(33, 33, 33); color: rgb(33, 33, 33); font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", Times, serif;">The best news for TPS beneficiaries is that this is an automatic extension. They don’t need to do anything to retain their status.</p>
<p style="font-size: 16px; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 23px; caret-color: rgb(33, 33, 33); color: rgb(33, 33, 33); font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", Times, serif;">“They don’t need to file anything, neither for TPS extension nor employment authorization. It’s all automatic,” McGrorty said. </p>
<p style="font-size: 16px; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 23px; caret-color: rgb(33, 33, 33); color: rgb(33, 33, 33); font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", Times, serif;">He stressed that employers cannot require any additional documentation. Immigrants need only show them the notice from the Federal Register and their expired employment authorization.</p>
<p style="font-size: 16px; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 23px; caret-color: rgb(33, 33, 33); color: rgb(33, 33, 33); font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", Times, serif;">TPS would have expired Jan. 2, 2020 for beneficiaries from Haiti, El Salvador, Nicaragua and Sudan; on Jan. 5, 2020 for those from Honduras; and March 24, 2020 for those from Nepal.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.miamiarch.org/CatholicDiocese.php?op=Article_miami-tps-extended-for-everyone-november-2019">Read article here>></a></p>
<p> </p>
Date
Address of His Holiness Pope Francis at the 50th Anniversary Observance of the Jesuit Curia Office
News Intro Text
Address of His Holiness Pope Francis to participants at the meeting of the Social Justice and Ecology Secretariat of the Society of Jesus.
News Item Content
<p>Fr. Kammer S.J., Ms. Mary Baudouin, and Fr. Tom Greene S.J. were the UCS Province Representatives at this address. <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Address to Jesuit Justice 50th-110719-fran.pdf">Read full address here>></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Address to Jesuit Justice 50th-110719-fran.pdf"><img alt="" src="/jsri/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/images/photo_Address%20to%20Jesuit%20Justice%2050th-110719-fran_0.jpg" /></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Address to Jesuit Justice 50th-110719-fran.pdf"><img alt="" src="/jsri/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/images/photo_Address%20to%20Jesuit%20Justice%2050th-110719-fran_0.jpg" /></a></p>
Date
The Privilege of Plenty: Educational Inequity in Mississippi
News Intro Text
The Privilege of Plenty: Educational Inequity in Mississippi analyzes the connections between economic and social factors, educational performance, and educational attainment in Mississippi.
News Item Content
<p><span><i>The Privilege of Plenty: Educational Inequity in Mississippi</i> analyzes the connections between economic and social factors, educational performance, and educational attainment in Mississippi. It is divided into four periods of life: birth to age four, elementary and secondary education, post-secondary education, and the long-term impacts of educational attainment. </span><span><b>This report shows that poverty in Mississippi is the greatest detriment to educational performance. This hinders educational attainment and economic security. Moreover, increasing adult educational attainment improves the overall standard of living. Furthermore, this report also shows that communities of color suffer from a level of poverty that harms educational performance and produces lower adult educational attainment rates. This in turn creates more poverty for the next generation of children starting their own educational journey.</b></span><span> It concludes that improving adult education attainment requires providing the necessary resources to educate children and alleviate the effects of poverty upon them. </span></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/The%20Privilege%20of%20Plenty-%20Educational%20Inequity%20in%20Mississippi.pdf">Full report here>></a></p>
<div>
</div>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/The%20Privilege%20of%20Plenty-%20Educational%20Inequity%20in%20Mississippi.pdf">Full report here>></a></p>
<div>
</div>
Date
JustSouth Index 2018 Just Released!
News Intro Text
Gulf South states rank below average on measures of social justice for third year in a row; report spotlights three challenging issues facing the Gulf South – poverty, racial disparity and immigrant exclusion. LOUISIANA RANKS LAST.
News Item Content
<h2>
<strong style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 12px; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Study: Loyola University New Orleans Jesuit Social Research Institute Issues 2018 <em>JustSouth Index</em></strong></h2>
<p><strong><em>Gulf South states rank below average on measures of social justice for third year in a row; report spotlights three challenging issues facing the Gulf South – poverty, racial disparity and immigrant exclusion. LOUISIANA RANKS LAST. </em></strong></p>
<p><strong>(New Orleans, LA, -- November 21, 2019) </strong>The 2018 <em>JustSouth Index</em> report released today by Loyola University New Orleans’ Jesuit Social Research Institute (JSRI) reveals that states in the Gulf South of the U.S. all fall near the bottom of the Index on measures of social justice. The <em>JustSouth Index</em> measures and compares states’ performance on nine quantitative indicators that fall under three dimensions: poverty, racial disparity and immigrant exclusion. All 50 states, plus the District of Columbia, were scored. The five Gulf South states ranked as follows:</p>
<ul>
<li>
Florida #41</li>
<li>
Texas # 46</li>
<li>
Alabama #49</li>
<li>
Mississippi #50</li>
<li>
Louisiana #51</li>
</ul>
<p>Hawaii fares best overall, with a No. 1 ranking.</p>
<p><strong>Key Findings for Louisiana:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>
The state’s expansion of Medicaid in 2016 led to a dramatic decline in the number of uninsured. Louisiana went from 45<sup>th</sup>to 33<sup>rd</sup> in the state rankings in this particular indicator. Specifically, in our <em>Index</em> we find that the percentage of low income people without health insurance in 2017 was 19.8%. The previous year it was 26.4%. This represents the greatest decline in the percentage of uninsured among the 50 states and the District of Columbia. </li>
<li>
Despite great improvement in the uninsured, Louisiana was, for the third year in a row, at the bottom of the state rankings in overall score.</li>
<li>
Louisiana had the second lowest average income among low income residents (bottom quartile or 25%): $11,016. The state at the bottom was Mississippi with $10,821. The state at the top was Maryland with $22,234. The national average was $16,293.</li>
<li>
Louisiana had the second largest white-minority wage gap in the country, 18.4%.</li>
<li>
Louisiana had the second largest gap in health insurance coverage between native and foreign-born residents, 26.6%. The national average was 13.9%.</li>
<li>
Louisiana had the sixth highest percentage of segregated schools in the U.S., 21.8%.</li>
</ul>
<p>“The <em>JustSouth Index</em> serves as a measure of social justice examining key dimensions that must be addressed to improve lives and enhance human dignity<em>,” </em>said <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/bio/fr-fred-kammer-sj-j-d">the Rev. Fred Kammer</a>, S.J., J.D., executive director of Loyola’s Jesuit Social Research Institute. “Our purposes, rooted deeply in the Scriptures and Catholic social justice traditions, are to educate the people of this region and to point out how we together can make the kind of changes that promote far greater social justice, equity, and inclusion for all of us who live here.” </p>
<p><strong>Key Recommendations for Louisiana:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>
Raise the minimum wage significantly and rescind the 2012 preemption law banning municipal wages and sick leave policies.</li>
<li>
Investigate discriminatory labor practices</li>
<li>
Make available more resources to educate all residents (native or foreign born) about the various benefits available to them via the ACA, including expanded Medicaid.</li>
<li>
Increase state enforcement of school desegregation and address unequal funding allocation to schools.</li>
</ul>
<p>“While Louisiana currently ranks low in the <em>Index</em>, it is well within the power and the duty of leaders and citizens in the state to change the current reality,” says JSRI. “Improving a state’s ranking on the indicators, dimension indices, and the overall <em>JustSouth Index</em> will require that policymakers, advocates, philanthropists, business, labor and community leaders, and citizens take action to work for policy and program changes that will more justly distribute opportunity and resources to all in society. In turn, they will serve the common good and create greater solidarity among the residents of Louisiana.”</p>
<p>The <em>JustSouth Index,</em> made possible by a grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, establishes a measure of social justice and provides policymakers, businesses, nonprofits, and residents with a better understanding of how the people of the Gulf South are faring with regard to basic human rights and needs. </p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JSRI_JustSouth%20Index%202018.pdf"><strong>The full report is linked here.</strong></a></p>
<h4>
<strong><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/indicators-map"><span><span class="intro"><span>Interactive Map 2018</span></span></span></a></strong></h4>
<p> </p>
<strong style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 12px; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Study: Loyola University New Orleans Jesuit Social Research Institute Issues 2018 <em>JustSouth Index</em></strong></h2>
<p><strong><em>Gulf South states rank below average on measures of social justice for third year in a row; report spotlights three challenging issues facing the Gulf South – poverty, racial disparity and immigrant exclusion. LOUISIANA RANKS LAST. </em></strong></p>
<p><strong>(New Orleans, LA, -- November 21, 2019) </strong>The 2018 <em>JustSouth Index</em> report released today by Loyola University New Orleans’ Jesuit Social Research Institute (JSRI) reveals that states in the Gulf South of the U.S. all fall near the bottom of the Index on measures of social justice. The <em>JustSouth Index</em> measures and compares states’ performance on nine quantitative indicators that fall under three dimensions: poverty, racial disparity and immigrant exclusion. All 50 states, plus the District of Columbia, were scored. The five Gulf South states ranked as follows:</p>
<ul>
<li>
Florida #41</li>
<li>
Texas # 46</li>
<li>
Alabama #49</li>
<li>
Mississippi #50</li>
<li>
Louisiana #51</li>
</ul>
<p>Hawaii fares best overall, with a No. 1 ranking.</p>
<p><strong>Key Findings for Louisiana:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>
The state’s expansion of Medicaid in 2016 led to a dramatic decline in the number of uninsured. Louisiana went from 45<sup>th</sup>to 33<sup>rd</sup> in the state rankings in this particular indicator. Specifically, in our <em>Index</em> we find that the percentage of low income people without health insurance in 2017 was 19.8%. The previous year it was 26.4%. This represents the greatest decline in the percentage of uninsured among the 50 states and the District of Columbia. </li>
<li>
Despite great improvement in the uninsured, Louisiana was, for the third year in a row, at the bottom of the state rankings in overall score.</li>
<li>
Louisiana had the second lowest average income among low income residents (bottom quartile or 25%): $11,016. The state at the bottom was Mississippi with $10,821. The state at the top was Maryland with $22,234. The national average was $16,293.</li>
<li>
Louisiana had the second largest white-minority wage gap in the country, 18.4%.</li>
<li>
Louisiana had the second largest gap in health insurance coverage between native and foreign-born residents, 26.6%. The national average was 13.9%.</li>
<li>
Louisiana had the sixth highest percentage of segregated schools in the U.S., 21.8%.</li>
</ul>
<p>“The <em>JustSouth Index</em> serves as a measure of social justice examining key dimensions that must be addressed to improve lives and enhance human dignity<em>,” </em>said <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/bio/fr-fred-kammer-sj-j-d">the Rev. Fred Kammer</a>, S.J., J.D., executive director of Loyola’s Jesuit Social Research Institute. “Our purposes, rooted deeply in the Scriptures and Catholic social justice traditions, are to educate the people of this region and to point out how we together can make the kind of changes that promote far greater social justice, equity, and inclusion for all of us who live here.” </p>
<p><strong>Key Recommendations for Louisiana:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>
Raise the minimum wage significantly and rescind the 2012 preemption law banning municipal wages and sick leave policies.</li>
<li>
Investigate discriminatory labor practices</li>
<li>
Make available more resources to educate all residents (native or foreign born) about the various benefits available to them via the ACA, including expanded Medicaid.</li>
<li>
Increase state enforcement of school desegregation and address unequal funding allocation to schools.</li>
</ul>
<p>“While Louisiana currently ranks low in the <em>Index</em>, it is well within the power and the duty of leaders and citizens in the state to change the current reality,” says JSRI. “Improving a state’s ranking on the indicators, dimension indices, and the overall <em>JustSouth Index</em> will require that policymakers, advocates, philanthropists, business, labor and community leaders, and citizens take action to work for policy and program changes that will more justly distribute opportunity and resources to all in society. In turn, they will serve the common good and create greater solidarity among the residents of Louisiana.”</p>
<p>The <em>JustSouth Index,</em> made possible by a grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, establishes a measure of social justice and provides policymakers, businesses, nonprofits, and residents with a better understanding of how the people of the Gulf South are faring with regard to basic human rights and needs. </p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JSRI_JustSouth%20Index%202018.pdf"><strong>The full report is linked here.</strong></a></p>
<h4>
<strong><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/indicators-map"><span><span class="intro"><span>Interactive Map 2018</span></span></span></a></strong></h4>
<p> </p>
Date
Rich School, Poor School: Education [In]Equity in Louisiana
News Intro Text
Rich School, Poor School: Education [In]Equity in Louisiana analyzes the connections between economic and social factors, educational performance, and educational attainment in Louisiana.
News Item Content
<p><span style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 10pt; font-family: GothamMedium; font-style: italic;">Rich School, Poor School: Education [In]Equity in Louisiana </span><span style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 10pt; font-family: GothamMedium;">analyzes the connections between economic and social factors, educational performance, and educational attainment in Louisiana. It is divided into four periods of life: birth to age four, elementary and secondary education, post- secondary education, and the long-term impacts of educational attainment.</span></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Rich%20School,%20Poor%20School-%20Education%20%5BIn%5DEquity%20in%20Louisiana.pdf"><span style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 10pt; font-family: GothamMedium;">Read full report here>></span></a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Rich%20School,%20Poor%20School-%20Education%20%5BIn%5DEquity%20in%20Louisiana.pdf"><span style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 10pt; font-family: GothamMedium;">Read full report here>></span></a></p>
Date
Labor Day Statement: On the Hundredth Year of the United States Bishops’ Program of Social Reconstruction
News Intro Text
In his 2019 Labor Day statement, Bishop Frank J. Dewane of Venice, Florida, chairman of the U.S. bishops’ Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development, invites us to consider how we can work together to address the persistence of low wages and inequality in our workplaces.
News Item Content
<p><img alt="" src="/jsri/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/images/Screen%20Shot%202019-08-29%20at%202.13.45%20PM.png" style="height: 172px; width: 500px;" /></p>
<h2>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Labor Day Statement-2019-Dewane-cst.pdf">Read the full statement in English here.</a></h2>
<p><img alt="" src="/jsri/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/images/Screen%20Shot%202019-08-29%20at%202.13.54%20PM.png" style="height: 192px; width: 500px;" /></p>
<h2>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Labor Day Statement-2019-spanish-Dewane-cst.pdf">Read the full statement in Spanish here.</a></h2>
<h2>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Labor Day Statement-2019-Dewane-cst.pdf">Read the full statement in English here.</a></h2>
<p><img alt="" src="/jsri/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/images/Screen%20Shot%202019-08-29%20at%202.13.54%20PM.png" style="height: 192px; width: 500px;" /></p>
<h2>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Labor Day Statement-2019-spanish-Dewane-cst.pdf">Read the full statement in Spanish here.</a></h2>
Date
Churches Respond to Mississippi Immigration Raids
News Intro Text
The August 7th Mississippi immigration raids have prompted a strong response from the Catholic, Episcopal, and Methodist Bishops of Mississippi. Persons wishing to help should contact Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Jackson.
News Item Content
<p>The August 7th Mississippi immigration raids have prompted <a href="http://catholiccharitiesjackson.org/manage/wp-content/uploads/Joint-Bishops-Statement-Immigration-Raids0808.19.pdf">a strong response</a> from the Catholic, Episcopal, and Methodist Bishops of Mississippi condemning the raids. Persons wishing to help families in distress should contact<a href="https://catholiccharitiesjackson.org/ice-raids-in-morton/"> Catholic Charities</a> of the Diocese of Jackson. Opportunities to help include donations and volunteering.</p>
Date
Statement of Donald Kerwin, Executive Director of the Center for Migration Studies, on the Shooting in El Paso
News Intro Text
The violent attack yesterday in El Paso in which 22 people lost their lives and more than 24 others were injured evokes two starkly divergent views of El Paso...
News Item Content
<p class="null"><span>The violent attack yesterday in El Paso in which 22 people lost their lives and more than 24 others were injured evokes two starkly divergent views of El Paso, the first held by most of its residents and those who know it well, and the second championed by extremist politicians, media sources, and hate groups. The latter describe El Paso and other border communities as dangerous and crime-ridden places, victimized by “invaders” from undesirable countries.</span></p>
<p><span>Just five days ago, </span><a href="https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/455489-orourke-calls-el-paso-the-ellis-island-of-today">Beto O’Rourke</a><span> outlined a different vision of this community, writing in </span><em>The Hill</em><span> that that El Paso might (instead) be considered the nation’s future Ellis Island; that is, a symbol of hope for the world. The Ellis Island language may have come from a 2012 gathering in El Paso of border residents (most from El Paso) from different sectors – public officials, law enforcement, faith communities, business people, the press, and others – who were offended by how their communities had been characterized in the national immigration debate and wanted to articulate a richer, more truthful narrative of their communities. “If nothing else,” they later wrote presciently, “we could all agree on this point. There is a prevailing narrative about the US border and it is false and it is dangerous to border communities.”</span></p>
<div>
<a href="https://cmsny.org/statement-shooting-in-el-paso/?fbclid=IwAR0G3_SPk6z-5QUIgd0g9fTnXr91_2qATGgkp8aUpd9lYjYkQinuX5r0Vc8">Read full statement here>></a></div>
<p><span>Just five days ago, </span><a href="https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/455489-orourke-calls-el-paso-the-ellis-island-of-today">Beto O’Rourke</a><span> outlined a different vision of this community, writing in </span><em>The Hill</em><span> that that El Paso might (instead) be considered the nation’s future Ellis Island; that is, a symbol of hope for the world. The Ellis Island language may have come from a 2012 gathering in El Paso of border residents (most from El Paso) from different sectors – public officials, law enforcement, faith communities, business people, the press, and others – who were offended by how their communities had been characterized in the national immigration debate and wanted to articulate a richer, more truthful narrative of their communities. “If nothing else,” they later wrote presciently, “we could all agree on this point. There is a prevailing narrative about the US border and it is false and it is dangerous to border communities.”</span></p>
<div>
<a href="https://cmsny.org/statement-shooting-in-el-paso/?fbclid=IwAR0G3_SPk6z-5QUIgd0g9fTnXr91_2qATGgkp8aUpd9lYjYkQinuX5r0Vc8">Read full statement here>></a></div>
Date
Louisiana on Lockdown
News Intro Text
GROUNDBREAKING NEW REPORT EXPOSES IMPACT OF SOLITARY CONFINEMENT IN LOUISIANA STATE PRISONS
News Item Content
<p><strong>GROUNDBREAKING NEW REPORT EXPOSES IMPACT OF </strong></p>
<p><strong>SOLITARY CONFINEMENT IN LOUISIANA STATE PRISONS</strong></p>
<p><strong>Full report here: <a href="https://solitarywatch.org/louisianaonlockdown/">https://solitarywatch.org/louisianaonlockdown/</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>Largest Ever Survey of People Living in Solitary Reveals Mental Deterioration </strong></p>
<p><strong>and Widespread Abuse in Isolation Units</strong></p>
<p><strong>State’s Rate of Solitary Confinement Use Is 4X the National Average</strong></p>
<p><strong>Albert Woodfox and Other Solitary Survivors Join Advocates and Authors for </strong></p>
<p><strong>Report Launch, and to Discuss Path Toward Change in Louisiana</strong></p>
<p><strong>NEW ORLEANS, June 25, 2019</strong>—A morning press event on the campus of Loyola University marks the release of a <a href="http://solitarywatch.org/louisianaonlockdown">new report</a>that includes harrowing first-hand accounts of prolonged isolation in Louisiana’s state prisons, where at last count the Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections (LADOC) held at least 17 percent of people in some form of solitary confinement—some 3,000 individuals in all. This percentage was double the next highest state’s, and nearly four times the U.S. national average, making Louisiana an outlier state in an outlier country when it comes to the use of solitary confinement.</p>
<p>The report, <a href="http://www.solitarywatch.org/louisianaonlockdown"><strong><em>LOUISIANA ON LOCKDOWN</em></strong></a><strong><em>: </em></strong><em>A Report on the Use of Solitary Confinement in Louisiana State Prisons, With Testimony From the People Who Live It, </em>is published by <strong>Solitary Watch, the ACLU of Louisiana, and the Jesuit Social Research Institute at Loyola University New Orleans. </strong>More than two years in the making, it is based primarily on a survey completed by 709 people in solitary in all nine of Louisiana’s prisons, the largest ever survey of people living in solitary.</p>
<p>“For decades, solitary confinement occupied one of the darkest corners of the U.S. criminal justice system,” said <strong>Jean Casella, Co-Director of Solitary Watch</strong>, a national watchdog group that investigates and reports on the subject. “Even now, most of what we know is based on data provided by corrections departments. That information is incomplete without the testimony of people who know what it means to live for months, years, or even decades in a 6-by-9-foot cell, cut off from nearly all human contact.” </p>
<p>The responses to the survey paint a grim picture of long stretches of time spent in small cells that are often windowless, filthy, and/or subject to extreme temperatures, where individuals are denied basic human needs such as adequate food and daily exercise, and subject to many forms of abuse as well as to unending idleness and loneliness, resulting in physical and mental deterioration.</p>
<p>“These cells drive men mad,” wrote Carl, who reported spending years in solitary. “I have personally witnessed one man take his life, another tried to by running the length of the tier and smashing his head into the front bars, sadly for him he still lives, if you can really call it that…” Those who survive the isolation, Carl wrote, are nonetheless destroyed by it: “Too much hurt, too much pain, too much confusion, we are lost, lost from God, lost from reality.”</p>
<p>These responses are consistent with a growing body of evidence showing the devastating and often permanent psychological and physical harm caused by prolonged isolation. In 2015, the United Nations called on countries to prohibit the use of solitary beyond 15 days, declaring it cruel, inhumane, and degrading treatment that in many cases rises to the level of torture. </p>
<p>Among the report’s other disturbing findings are the following:</p>
<ul>
<li>
Most survey respondents believed their mental health had worsened during their time in solitary, describing symptoms including anxiety, depression, paranoia, visual and auditory hallucinations, and difficulty interacting with others. Some expressed fear that they would “never be the same again.”</li>
<li>
More than 77 percent of people who responded to the survey said they had been held in solitary confinement for more than a year, and 30 percent said they had been there for more than five years. Nationally, less than 20 percent of individuals in solitary have been there for more than a year. </li>
<li>
A majority said they were in solitary for breaking prison rules, including minor, nonviolent infractions, and many said they were there indefinitely, with no clear way of earning their way out through good behavior. </li>
<li>
Approximately 80 percent of respondents reported that physical assaults at the hands of staff, as well as threats, intimidation, and racial intimidation, were common or very common in solitary confinement. </li>
<li>
Most respondents said they had personally been subjected to additional punishments in solitary, including pepper spray or physical restraints, and a few described being punished by being placed in bare “strip” cells with only a paper gown to wear.</li>
<li>
Over 25 percent of respondents reported engaging in self-harm, including cutting and head-banging, while in solitary, and most had witnessed it. But only 4 percent of those who had harmed themselves said they received counseling, while more than 26 percent said they were punished for it.</li>
<li>
Nearly everyone who responded to the survey described serious neglect in the areas of medical and mental health care, which they said led to suffering, blindness, and even death. </li>
</ul>
<p>“Solitary confinement raises significant constitutional concerns while undermining public safety and inflicting egregious harm on individuals and communities,” said <strong>Congressman Cedric Richmond</strong>, a longtime advocate for ending the practice of solitary confinement. “This report is a stark reminder of the devastating impact solitary confinement has on human beings and of the urgent need for reform. Americans have waited long enough for a prison system that reflects their values and respects human dignity. The time to end solitary confinement is now."</p>
<p>"These powerful first-hand accounts describe in terrible detail how solitary confinement inflicts devastating physical and mental harm on those who experience it," said <strong>Katie Schwartzmann, Legal Director of the ACLU of Louisiana.</strong>"Louisiana's overuse of solitary confinement is well-documented, but by recounting these stories, this report has given people living in solitary confinement a way to share their experiences beyond the prison walls. We are hopeful that LADOC is listening."</p>
<p><em>LOUISIANA ON LOCKDOWN</em>provides a list of detailed recommendations that include immediate limits on the use of solitary that would drastically reduce the number of people isolated in Louisiana’s prisons:</p>
<ul>
<li>
An end to the use of solitary as a response to all but the most serious and violent prison offenses.</li>
<li>
An immediate six-month limit on the length of all stays in isolation and ultimately for LADOC to comply with international standards, which limit detention in solitary confinement to 15 days maximum.</li>
<li>
Creation of a transition program out of solitary.</li>
<li>
Closure of lockdown units at two prisons.</li>
<li>
A complete ban on solitary for minors under 18, people with mental illness, and other vulnerable individuals. </li>
<li>
Creation of a task force that includes community members, as well as experts and prison officials, to bring Louisiana into compliance with UN standards.</li>
</ul>
<p>Recognizing that the practice has adverse effects not only on incarcerated people, but on effective prison management and public safety, LADOC has recently shown a new openness to change. For several years, the department has been working in partnership with the Vera Institute for Justice’s Safe Alternatives to Segregation Initiative, which issued its own report last month. LADOC has implemented initial reforms recommended by the Vera Institute, and committed to further changes in the future. </p>
<p><strong><em>LOUISIANA ON LOCKDOWN </em></strong>is intended to add additional insights and an even greater sense of urgency to the push for change, said <strong>Dr. Sue Weishar, Policy and Research Fellow for Loyola’s Jesuit Social Research Institute, </strong>“It is our hope that this report ensures that the voices of some of the most forgotten members of our community are finally heard, and that the suffering they so poignantly describe is brought to an end. Louisiana’s correctional leaders must move forward with a renewed commitment to safeguarding the human rights and respecting the inherent human dignity of every person in their care and control.”</p>
<p>In addition to the report authors, the press event features <strong>Dr. Ashley Howard, Assistant Professor of History at Loyola,</strong>whose students inputted survey responses and who were “devastated and transformed” by what they learned. <strong>Rev. Dan Krutz, Executive Director of the Louisiana Interchurch Conference</strong>, whose members have issued a powerful statement calling for an end to prolonged solitary confinement in Louisiana prisons and jails, will also speak at the event.</p>
<p><strong>Vanessa Spinazola, Executive Director of the Justice and Accountability Center of Louisiana and a founding member of the Louisiana Stop Solitary Coalition,</strong>stresses that the kind of profound changes needed can never come entirely from within the corrections department. She notes that a grassroots movement that has come together to work toward an end to solitary confinement in Louisiana.</p>
<p>Among the leaders of this movement is <strong>Albert Woodfox, also a founding member of the Stop Solitary Coalition, who spent more than 43 years in solitary confinement in Louisiana </strong>and became known as one of the “Angola 3” before he was finally freed in 2016. Woodfox’s recently published memoir <em>Solitary</em>has been called “a crushing account of the inhumanity of solitary confinement” (<em>Publishers Weekly</em>). </p>
<p>“I spent more than four decades in solitary and just celebrated my third anniversary of freedom,” Woodfox said. “But one thing that the three of us made a vow to do is that when we went free, we would be the voice and face of the men and women and children that are still hidden behind the walls of the prisons, and in the solitary confinement cells of this state and this country. Part of doing that is working with the Louisiana Stop Solitary Coalition. Solitary confinement is the most cruel form of torture there is, and we must abolish it.” </p>
<p>Many others with direct experience of solitary confinement will be present at the event, most of them members of VOTE (Voice of the Experienced), a New Orleans-based grassroots group “dedicated to restoring the full human and civil rights of those most impacted by the criminal (in)justice system.” </p>
<p><strong>Kiana Calloway, a solitary survivor and the Housing Justice Campaign Organizer for VOTE</strong>, will describe his own experiences in isolation. He will be joined by <strong>Rhonda Oliver, Executive Director of Women Determined</strong>, which secures housing and other support for women returning from prison, to read narratives from the surveys of people in solitary. </p>
<p>The final narrative they plan to read captures the devastation caused by solitary confinement, not only for the individuals who endure it, but also for the corrections system and for the families and communities to which many will one day return.</p>
<p>“Have you ever seen how a dog becomes after being locked up for a while?” Marvin wrote. “When you let that dog out on society what usually happens? Trouble, right? Well being in segregation for long periods of time have the same effect on a man. When let out, anxiety is high, fear is through the roof. This leads to antisocial behavior, substance abuse to self medicate the new mental anguish acquired from being caged like an animal. This in turn leads to destructive sometimes criminal behavior, which in turn can lead back to the same cage the man just left. Isn't this the definition of insanity? If so then it begs to differ that the system is INSANE! This produces men of insane minds, not productive citizens, who have been rehabilitated for society. I pray to God I will do good after being segregated for so long.”</p>
<p><strong>The full report is online at: </strong><strong><a href="http://www.solitarywatch.org/louisianaonlockdown">solitarywatch.org/louisianaonlockdown</a></strong></p>
<p align="center">•</p>
<p>Launch Event for <em>LOUISIANA ON LOCKDOWN: A Report on the Use of Solitary Confinement in Louisiana State Prisons, With Testimony From the People Who Live It </em></p>
<p><strong>Tuesday, June 25, 10:00—11:30 am, Loyola University New Orleans, Greenville Hall, 7214 St Charles Ave. </strong>(corner of Broadway and Pine Streets, set back from street). Parking available on Pine Street.</p>
<p><strong>LIST OF EVENT PARTICIPANTS</strong></p>
<p align="center"> </p>
<ul>
<li>
Albert Woodfox, survivor of 43 years in solitary confinement in Louisiana state prisons; author of the new memoir <em>Solitary;</em>and founding member, Louisiana Stop Solitary Coalition</li>
<li>
Jean Casella, Co-Director, Solitary Watch</li>
<li>
Katie Schwartzmann, Legal Director, American Civil Liberties Union of Louisiana</li>
<li>
Dr. Sue Weishar, Policy and Research Fellow, Jesuit Social Research Institute/Loyola University New Orleans </li>
<li>
Vanessa Spinazola, Executive Director, Justice and Accountability Center of Louisiana, and founding member, Louisiana Stop Solitary Coalition</li>
<li>
Rhonda Oliver, Executive Director, Women Determined</li>
<li>
Kiana Calloway, solitary survivor; Housing Justice Campaign Organizer, Voice of the Experienced (VOTE); and Program Manager, Roots of Renewal </li>
<li>
Rev. Dan Krutz, Executive Director, Louisiana Interchurch Conference</li>
<li>
Dr. Ashley Howard, Assistant Professor, History, Loyola University New Orleans</li>
<li>
Dr. Alí Bustamante, economist and former Research Fellow, Jesuit Social Research Institute/Loyola University New Orleans </li>
<li>
Rev. Fred Kammer, SJ, Executive Director Jesuit Social Research Institute/Loyola University New Orleans</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><strong>For more information, contact Channing Grate, </strong><a href="mailto:channing@gpsimpact.com"><strong>channing@gpsimpact.com</strong></a><strong>, 401-286-7499, </strong></p>
<p align="center"><strong>or Jean Casella, </strong><a href="mailto:jcasella@solitarywatch.org"><strong>jcasella@solitarywatch.org</strong></a><strong>, 917-974-0529.</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"># # #</p>
<p><strong>SOLITARY CONFINEMENT IN LOUISIANA STATE PRISONS</strong></p>
<p><strong>Full report here: <a href="https://solitarywatch.org/louisianaonlockdown/">https://solitarywatch.org/louisianaonlockdown/</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>Largest Ever Survey of People Living in Solitary Reveals Mental Deterioration </strong></p>
<p><strong>and Widespread Abuse in Isolation Units</strong></p>
<p><strong>State’s Rate of Solitary Confinement Use Is 4X the National Average</strong></p>
<p><strong>Albert Woodfox and Other Solitary Survivors Join Advocates and Authors for </strong></p>
<p><strong>Report Launch, and to Discuss Path Toward Change in Louisiana</strong></p>
<p><strong>NEW ORLEANS, June 25, 2019</strong>—A morning press event on the campus of Loyola University marks the release of a <a href="http://solitarywatch.org/louisianaonlockdown">new report</a>that includes harrowing first-hand accounts of prolonged isolation in Louisiana’s state prisons, where at last count the Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections (LADOC) held at least 17 percent of people in some form of solitary confinement—some 3,000 individuals in all. This percentage was double the next highest state’s, and nearly four times the U.S. national average, making Louisiana an outlier state in an outlier country when it comes to the use of solitary confinement.</p>
<p>The report, <a href="http://www.solitarywatch.org/louisianaonlockdown"><strong><em>LOUISIANA ON LOCKDOWN</em></strong></a><strong><em>: </em></strong><em>A Report on the Use of Solitary Confinement in Louisiana State Prisons, With Testimony From the People Who Live It, </em>is published by <strong>Solitary Watch, the ACLU of Louisiana, and the Jesuit Social Research Institute at Loyola University New Orleans. </strong>More than two years in the making, it is based primarily on a survey completed by 709 people in solitary in all nine of Louisiana’s prisons, the largest ever survey of people living in solitary.</p>
<p>“For decades, solitary confinement occupied one of the darkest corners of the U.S. criminal justice system,” said <strong>Jean Casella, Co-Director of Solitary Watch</strong>, a national watchdog group that investigates and reports on the subject. “Even now, most of what we know is based on data provided by corrections departments. That information is incomplete without the testimony of people who know what it means to live for months, years, or even decades in a 6-by-9-foot cell, cut off from nearly all human contact.” </p>
<p>The responses to the survey paint a grim picture of long stretches of time spent in small cells that are often windowless, filthy, and/or subject to extreme temperatures, where individuals are denied basic human needs such as adequate food and daily exercise, and subject to many forms of abuse as well as to unending idleness and loneliness, resulting in physical and mental deterioration.</p>
<p>“These cells drive men mad,” wrote Carl, who reported spending years in solitary. “I have personally witnessed one man take his life, another tried to by running the length of the tier and smashing his head into the front bars, sadly for him he still lives, if you can really call it that…” Those who survive the isolation, Carl wrote, are nonetheless destroyed by it: “Too much hurt, too much pain, too much confusion, we are lost, lost from God, lost from reality.”</p>
<p>These responses are consistent with a growing body of evidence showing the devastating and often permanent psychological and physical harm caused by prolonged isolation. In 2015, the United Nations called on countries to prohibit the use of solitary beyond 15 days, declaring it cruel, inhumane, and degrading treatment that in many cases rises to the level of torture. </p>
<p>Among the report’s other disturbing findings are the following:</p>
<ul>
<li>
Most survey respondents believed their mental health had worsened during their time in solitary, describing symptoms including anxiety, depression, paranoia, visual and auditory hallucinations, and difficulty interacting with others. Some expressed fear that they would “never be the same again.”</li>
<li>
More than 77 percent of people who responded to the survey said they had been held in solitary confinement for more than a year, and 30 percent said they had been there for more than five years. Nationally, less than 20 percent of individuals in solitary have been there for more than a year. </li>
<li>
A majority said they were in solitary for breaking prison rules, including minor, nonviolent infractions, and many said they were there indefinitely, with no clear way of earning their way out through good behavior. </li>
<li>
Approximately 80 percent of respondents reported that physical assaults at the hands of staff, as well as threats, intimidation, and racial intimidation, were common or very common in solitary confinement. </li>
<li>
Most respondents said they had personally been subjected to additional punishments in solitary, including pepper spray or physical restraints, and a few described being punished by being placed in bare “strip” cells with only a paper gown to wear.</li>
<li>
Over 25 percent of respondents reported engaging in self-harm, including cutting and head-banging, while in solitary, and most had witnessed it. But only 4 percent of those who had harmed themselves said they received counseling, while more than 26 percent said they were punished for it.</li>
<li>
Nearly everyone who responded to the survey described serious neglect in the areas of medical and mental health care, which they said led to suffering, blindness, and even death. </li>
</ul>
<p>“Solitary confinement raises significant constitutional concerns while undermining public safety and inflicting egregious harm on individuals and communities,” said <strong>Congressman Cedric Richmond</strong>, a longtime advocate for ending the practice of solitary confinement. “This report is a stark reminder of the devastating impact solitary confinement has on human beings and of the urgent need for reform. Americans have waited long enough for a prison system that reflects their values and respects human dignity. The time to end solitary confinement is now."</p>
<p>"These powerful first-hand accounts describe in terrible detail how solitary confinement inflicts devastating physical and mental harm on those who experience it," said <strong>Katie Schwartzmann, Legal Director of the ACLU of Louisiana.</strong>"Louisiana's overuse of solitary confinement is well-documented, but by recounting these stories, this report has given people living in solitary confinement a way to share their experiences beyond the prison walls. We are hopeful that LADOC is listening."</p>
<p><em>LOUISIANA ON LOCKDOWN</em>provides a list of detailed recommendations that include immediate limits on the use of solitary that would drastically reduce the number of people isolated in Louisiana’s prisons:</p>
<ul>
<li>
An end to the use of solitary as a response to all but the most serious and violent prison offenses.</li>
<li>
An immediate six-month limit on the length of all stays in isolation and ultimately for LADOC to comply with international standards, which limit detention in solitary confinement to 15 days maximum.</li>
<li>
Creation of a transition program out of solitary.</li>
<li>
Closure of lockdown units at two prisons.</li>
<li>
A complete ban on solitary for minors under 18, people with mental illness, and other vulnerable individuals. </li>
<li>
Creation of a task force that includes community members, as well as experts and prison officials, to bring Louisiana into compliance with UN standards.</li>
</ul>
<p>Recognizing that the practice has adverse effects not only on incarcerated people, but on effective prison management and public safety, LADOC has recently shown a new openness to change. For several years, the department has been working in partnership with the Vera Institute for Justice’s Safe Alternatives to Segregation Initiative, which issued its own report last month. LADOC has implemented initial reforms recommended by the Vera Institute, and committed to further changes in the future. </p>
<p><strong><em>LOUISIANA ON LOCKDOWN </em></strong>is intended to add additional insights and an even greater sense of urgency to the push for change, said <strong>Dr. Sue Weishar, Policy and Research Fellow for Loyola’s Jesuit Social Research Institute, </strong>“It is our hope that this report ensures that the voices of some of the most forgotten members of our community are finally heard, and that the suffering they so poignantly describe is brought to an end. Louisiana’s correctional leaders must move forward with a renewed commitment to safeguarding the human rights and respecting the inherent human dignity of every person in their care and control.”</p>
<p>In addition to the report authors, the press event features <strong>Dr. Ashley Howard, Assistant Professor of History at Loyola,</strong>whose students inputted survey responses and who were “devastated and transformed” by what they learned. <strong>Rev. Dan Krutz, Executive Director of the Louisiana Interchurch Conference</strong>, whose members have issued a powerful statement calling for an end to prolonged solitary confinement in Louisiana prisons and jails, will also speak at the event.</p>
<p><strong>Vanessa Spinazola, Executive Director of the Justice and Accountability Center of Louisiana and a founding member of the Louisiana Stop Solitary Coalition,</strong>stresses that the kind of profound changes needed can never come entirely from within the corrections department. She notes that a grassroots movement that has come together to work toward an end to solitary confinement in Louisiana.</p>
<p>Among the leaders of this movement is <strong>Albert Woodfox, also a founding member of the Stop Solitary Coalition, who spent more than 43 years in solitary confinement in Louisiana </strong>and became known as one of the “Angola 3” before he was finally freed in 2016. Woodfox’s recently published memoir <em>Solitary</em>has been called “a crushing account of the inhumanity of solitary confinement” (<em>Publishers Weekly</em>). </p>
<p>“I spent more than four decades in solitary and just celebrated my third anniversary of freedom,” Woodfox said. “But one thing that the three of us made a vow to do is that when we went free, we would be the voice and face of the men and women and children that are still hidden behind the walls of the prisons, and in the solitary confinement cells of this state and this country. Part of doing that is working with the Louisiana Stop Solitary Coalition. Solitary confinement is the most cruel form of torture there is, and we must abolish it.” </p>
<p>Many others with direct experience of solitary confinement will be present at the event, most of them members of VOTE (Voice of the Experienced), a New Orleans-based grassroots group “dedicated to restoring the full human and civil rights of those most impacted by the criminal (in)justice system.” </p>
<p><strong>Kiana Calloway, a solitary survivor and the Housing Justice Campaign Organizer for VOTE</strong>, will describe his own experiences in isolation. He will be joined by <strong>Rhonda Oliver, Executive Director of Women Determined</strong>, which secures housing and other support for women returning from prison, to read narratives from the surveys of people in solitary. </p>
<p>The final narrative they plan to read captures the devastation caused by solitary confinement, not only for the individuals who endure it, but also for the corrections system and for the families and communities to which many will one day return.</p>
<p>“Have you ever seen how a dog becomes after being locked up for a while?” Marvin wrote. “When you let that dog out on society what usually happens? Trouble, right? Well being in segregation for long periods of time have the same effect on a man. When let out, anxiety is high, fear is through the roof. This leads to antisocial behavior, substance abuse to self medicate the new mental anguish acquired from being caged like an animal. This in turn leads to destructive sometimes criminal behavior, which in turn can lead back to the same cage the man just left. Isn't this the definition of insanity? If so then it begs to differ that the system is INSANE! This produces men of insane minds, not productive citizens, who have been rehabilitated for society. I pray to God I will do good after being segregated for so long.”</p>
<p><strong>The full report is online at: </strong><strong><a href="http://www.solitarywatch.org/louisianaonlockdown">solitarywatch.org/louisianaonlockdown</a></strong></p>
<p align="center">•</p>
<p>Launch Event for <em>LOUISIANA ON LOCKDOWN: A Report on the Use of Solitary Confinement in Louisiana State Prisons, With Testimony From the People Who Live It </em></p>
<p><strong>Tuesday, June 25, 10:00—11:30 am, Loyola University New Orleans, Greenville Hall, 7214 St Charles Ave. </strong>(corner of Broadway and Pine Streets, set back from street). Parking available on Pine Street.</p>
<p><strong>LIST OF EVENT PARTICIPANTS</strong></p>
<p align="center"> </p>
<ul>
<li>
Albert Woodfox, survivor of 43 years in solitary confinement in Louisiana state prisons; author of the new memoir <em>Solitary;</em>and founding member, Louisiana Stop Solitary Coalition</li>
<li>
Jean Casella, Co-Director, Solitary Watch</li>
<li>
Katie Schwartzmann, Legal Director, American Civil Liberties Union of Louisiana</li>
<li>
Dr. Sue Weishar, Policy and Research Fellow, Jesuit Social Research Institute/Loyola University New Orleans </li>
<li>
Vanessa Spinazola, Executive Director, Justice and Accountability Center of Louisiana, and founding member, Louisiana Stop Solitary Coalition</li>
<li>
Rhonda Oliver, Executive Director, Women Determined</li>
<li>
Kiana Calloway, solitary survivor; Housing Justice Campaign Organizer, Voice of the Experienced (VOTE); and Program Manager, Roots of Renewal </li>
<li>
Rev. Dan Krutz, Executive Director, Louisiana Interchurch Conference</li>
<li>
Dr. Ashley Howard, Assistant Professor, History, Loyola University New Orleans</li>
<li>
Dr. Alí Bustamante, economist and former Research Fellow, Jesuit Social Research Institute/Loyola University New Orleans </li>
<li>
Rev. Fred Kammer, SJ, Executive Director Jesuit Social Research Institute/Loyola University New Orleans</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><strong>For more information, contact Channing Grate, </strong><a href="mailto:channing@gpsimpact.com"><strong>channing@gpsimpact.com</strong></a><strong>, 401-286-7499, </strong></p>
<p align="center"><strong>or Jean Casella, </strong><a href="mailto:jcasella@solitarywatch.org"><strong>jcasella@solitarywatch.org</strong></a><strong>, 917-974-0529.</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"># # #</p>
Date
Louisiana Teacher Pay Fact Sheet
News Intro Text
On paper, the average teacher salary in Louisiana appears to have modestly increased from $48,627 to $50,589. However, when adjusted for inflation, the average teacher salary has actually decreased more than $6,000.
News Item Content
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Louisiana Teacher Pay Fact Sheet.jpg" /></p>
Date
Social Analysis Reports
News Intro Text
Jesuits and their colleagues have new tools to help them better understand the “signs of the times” in their locales.
News Item Content
<p>Jesuits and their colleagues have new tools to help them better understand the “signs of the times” in their locales.</p>
<p>The Jesuit Social Research Institute (JSRI) in New Orleans recently released reports summarizing the socio-economic conditions of nine communities in the Jesuits USA Central and Southern (UCS) Province. These fact-filled reports are being shared with Jesuit apostolates in each area.</p>
<p>“We hope that the reports will provide valuable background information about how our apostolates can address – either separately or together – some of the larger issues in a region, particularly those related to the recently announced Universal Apostolic Preferences of walking with the excluded and caring for creation,” said Mary Baudouin, provincial assistant for social ministries. </p>
<p>The project stemmed from a recommendation of the UCS Province’s Social Ministries Commission as a means of helping Jesuits, apostolates and colleagues make informed apostolic decisions. The reports focus on economic, social, political, cultural, religious and environmental realities and trends and serve as a “composition of place” for each city where the province has ministries.</p>
<p>Researchers relied upon data available from the U.S. Census Bureau, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the FBI, among others. </p>
<p>Several JSRI staff and associates contributed to the research and preparation of the reports, including Economic Policy Specialist Dennis Kalob; Research Assistant Millicent Eib; Administrative Assistant Kelsey McLaughlin; and former JSRI Fellow Ali Bustamante. Father Fred Kammer, SJ, director of JSRI, oversaw the project. William McCormick, SJ, and Fr. Ted Arroyo, SJ, helped determine the scope and design of the reports.</p>
<p>The social analysis reports are available as pdfs by clinking on the links below: </p>
<p><a href="https://image.jesuits.org/UCSPROV/media/Dallas_Social%20Analysis%20Report%20(1).pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Dallas</a></p>
<p><a href="http://image.jesuits.org/UCSPROV/media/DENVER%20Social%20Analysis-Branded.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Denver</a></p>
<p><a href="https://image.jesuits.org/UCSPROV/media/El%20Paso_Social%20Analysis%20Report%20(1).pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">El Paso</a></p>
<p><a href="https://image.jesuits.org/UCSPROV/media/Houston_Social%20Analysis%20Report%20(1).pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Houston</a></p>
<p><a href="https://image.jesuits.org/UCSPROV/media/Kansas%20City_Social%20Analysis%20Report%20(1).pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Kansas City</a></p>
<p><a href="https://image.jesuits.org/UCSPROV/media/Mobile_Social%20Analysis%20Report%20(1).pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Mobile</a></p>
<p><a href="https://image.jesuits.org/UCSPROV/media/New%20Orleans_Social%20Analysis%20Report.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">New Orleans</a></p>
<p><a href="https://image.jesuits.org/UCSPROV/media/St.%20Louis_Social%20Analysis%20Report%20(1).pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">St. Louis</a></p>
<p><a href="https://image.jesuits.org/UCSPROV/media/Tampa_Social%20Analysis%20Report%20(1).pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Tampa</a></p>
<p>The Jesuit Social Research Institute (JSRI) in New Orleans recently released reports summarizing the socio-economic conditions of nine communities in the Jesuits USA Central and Southern (UCS) Province. These fact-filled reports are being shared with Jesuit apostolates in each area.</p>
<p>“We hope that the reports will provide valuable background information about how our apostolates can address – either separately or together – some of the larger issues in a region, particularly those related to the recently announced Universal Apostolic Preferences of walking with the excluded and caring for creation,” said Mary Baudouin, provincial assistant for social ministries. </p>
<p>The project stemmed from a recommendation of the UCS Province’s Social Ministries Commission as a means of helping Jesuits, apostolates and colleagues make informed apostolic decisions. The reports focus on economic, social, political, cultural, religious and environmental realities and trends and serve as a “composition of place” for each city where the province has ministries.</p>
<p>Researchers relied upon data available from the U.S. Census Bureau, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the FBI, among others. </p>
<p>Several JSRI staff and associates contributed to the research and preparation of the reports, including Economic Policy Specialist Dennis Kalob; Research Assistant Millicent Eib; Administrative Assistant Kelsey McLaughlin; and former JSRI Fellow Ali Bustamante. Father Fred Kammer, SJ, director of JSRI, oversaw the project. William McCormick, SJ, and Fr. Ted Arroyo, SJ, helped determine the scope and design of the reports.</p>
<p>The social analysis reports are available as pdfs by clinking on the links below: </p>
<p><a href="https://image.jesuits.org/UCSPROV/media/Dallas_Social%20Analysis%20Report%20(1).pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Dallas</a></p>
<p><a href="http://image.jesuits.org/UCSPROV/media/DENVER%20Social%20Analysis-Branded.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Denver</a></p>
<p><a href="https://image.jesuits.org/UCSPROV/media/El%20Paso_Social%20Analysis%20Report%20(1).pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">El Paso</a></p>
<p><a href="https://image.jesuits.org/UCSPROV/media/Houston_Social%20Analysis%20Report%20(1).pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Houston</a></p>
<p><a href="https://image.jesuits.org/UCSPROV/media/Kansas%20City_Social%20Analysis%20Report%20(1).pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Kansas City</a></p>
<p><a href="https://image.jesuits.org/UCSPROV/media/Mobile_Social%20Analysis%20Report%20(1).pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Mobile</a></p>
<p><a href="https://image.jesuits.org/UCSPROV/media/New%20Orleans_Social%20Analysis%20Report.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">New Orleans</a></p>
<p><a href="https://image.jesuits.org/UCSPROV/media/St.%20Louis_Social%20Analysis%20Report%20(1).pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">St. Louis</a></p>
<p><a href="https://image.jesuits.org/UCSPROV/media/Tampa_Social%20Analysis%20Report%20(1).pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Tampa</a></p>
Date
Address by Most Reverend Salvatore J. Cordileone, Archbishop of San Francisco
News Intro Text
Delivered at the 2019 Catholic Immigrant Integration Initiative Conference
Santa Clara, California | March 13, 2019
Santa Clara, California | March 13, 2019
News Item Content
<div>
<p>“Each migrant has a name, a face and a story,” once noted Pope Francis, and behind every immigrant story is a very real, very moving, and sometimes tragic human experience. Immigration is an issue that perhaps more than any other looks very different when one puts a human face to it. When immigrants are no longer seen as merely a danger to others or threats to the local community but instead as persons, our feelings of animosity can morph into feelings of love and concern. As Catholics, we are called not only to “know” the stranger through the stranger’s stories but to welcome the stranger as Christ himself, for Christ reveals himself to us through them: “I was…a stranger and you welcomed me” (Mt 25:35). An essential component of our role in welcoming the stranger is to place special attention on integration – uplifting the newcomer to help him or her reach full and dignified participation in our Church and society.</p>
</div>
<p><a href="https://cmsny.org/publications/2019-ciii-cordileone/">Read full speech here >></a></p>
<p>“Each migrant has a name, a face and a story,” once noted Pope Francis, and behind every immigrant story is a very real, very moving, and sometimes tragic human experience. Immigration is an issue that perhaps more than any other looks very different when one puts a human face to it. When immigrants are no longer seen as merely a danger to others or threats to the local community but instead as persons, our feelings of animosity can morph into feelings of love and concern. As Catholics, we are called not only to “know” the stranger through the stranger’s stories but to welcome the stranger as Christ himself, for Christ reveals himself to us through them: “I was…a stranger and you welcomed me” (Mt 25:35). An essential component of our role in welcoming the stranger is to place special attention on integration – uplifting the newcomer to help him or her reach full and dignified participation in our Church and society.</p>
</div>
<p><a href="https://cmsny.org/publications/2019-ciii-cordileone/">Read full speech here >></a></p>
Date
Loyola University's Lenten Series 2019: JESUITICA
News Intro Text
Fr. Kammer speaks at Jesuitica about "The Faith That Does Justice"
News Item Content
<h5>
</h5>
<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iR-WsfdU-OI" width="560"></iframe></p>
</h5>
<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iR-WsfdU-OI" width="560"></iframe></p>
Date
Hungry at the Banquet: Food Insecurity in Louisiana 2018
News Intro Text
New report by Loyola University New Orleans Jesuit Social Research Institute reveals scope and depth of hunger in Louisiana, causes and cures, and the realities of food deserts; presents recommendations to promote food justice.
News Item Content
<p><img alt="" src="/jsri/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/images/LOYOLAheader.png" style="height: 163px; width: 500px; float: left;" /></p>
<p class="Body"> </p>
<p class="Body"> </p>
<p class="Body"> </p>
<p class="Body"> </p>
<p class="Body"> </p>
<p class="Body" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border: none; line-height: normal; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><b><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE</span></b><b><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="Body" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border: none; line-height: normal; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><b><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></b></p>
<p class="Body" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border: none; line-height: normal; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Contact:</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; font-size: medium; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border: none; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Georgia, serif;">Patricia M. Murret</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Georgia, serif;">Associate Director of Public Affairs </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Georgia, serif;"><span class="Hyperlink0" style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="mailto:pmurret@loyno.edu"><span style="color: black;">pmurret@loyno.edu</span></a></span><br />
<span class="Hyperlink0" style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="mailto:publaff@loyno.edu"><span style="color: black;">publaff@loyno.edu</span></a></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Georgia, serif;">(504) 861-5448</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; font-size: medium; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border: none; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Georgia, serif;">(504) 352-8775</span></p>
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; font-size: medium; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border: none; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="rtecenter"> </p>
<p class="rtecenter"><strong><em>Study: Hungry at the Banquet: Food Insecurity in Louisiana 2018</em></strong></p>
<p class="rtecenter"><strong><em>New report by Loyola University New Orleans Jesuit Social Research Institute reveals scope and depth of hunger in Louisiana, causes and cures, and the realities of food deserts; presents recommendations to promote food justice.</em></strong></p>
<p class="rtecenter"> </p>
<p><strong>(New Orleans, La. – December 13, 2018) </strong>A new report issued today by Loyola University New Orleans’ Jesuit Social Research Institute (JSRI) centers around the realities of hunger and food deserts in Louisiana. <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/LA Food Insecurity Report.pdf"><em>Hungry at the Banquet: </em>Food Insecurity in Louisiana 2018</a> reminds us that, in a state that celebrates rich and varied food traditions that are famous worldwide, there are many people without enough to eat. The condition is known as “food insecurity,” and Louisiana has the second highest rate of food insecurity in the United States.</p>
<p>Authored by Kathleen J. Fitzgerald, Ph.D., the report helps us to understand the scope of food insecurity, its causes and its cures, the realities of food deserts, and the nature of food justice. In his introduction to the report, JSRI Executive Director the Rev. Fred Kammer, S.J., J.D., emphasizes: “Dr. Fitzgerald presents strategies for addressing food insecurity as part of the demands upon all of us — citizens and policymakers — to end the scourge of hunger in the midst of plenty in Louisiana.” </p>
<p><strong>Key Findings: Hungry at the Banquet: Food Insecurity in Louisiana 2018</strong></p>
<p><strong>Louisiana has the second highest rate of food insecurity in the nation and it is rising faster than in the rest of the country.</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>
Despite being a foodie destination, Louisiana suffers from a food gap, which is the failure of the market economy to serve the basic human needs of those who are the most impoverished.</li>
<li>
In Louisiana, 783,400 people, 258,630 of whom are children, struggle with hunger, according to Feeding America. One in six children—17.9 percent—live in households without consistent access to adequate food.</li>
<li>
Forty-six of the sixty-four parishes in Louisiana have food insecurity rates of 15% or higher, and some as high as 34.4%. The national average in 2017 was 11.8%.</li>
<li>
Food insecurity rates are higher in small towns and rural areas than in cities in Louisiana, as they are nationally.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Louisiana is replete with food deserts, places with a dearth of healthy and affordable food options, such as full-service grocery stores and/or farmers’ markets within a convenient travel distance.</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>
Research links food deserts to poor health; and Louisiana is one of the least healthy states, with one of the highest rates of adult obesity, diabetes, and hypertension.</li>
<li>
Nationwide, the prevalence of food deserts increases in low-income zip codes and in racial minority communities. Food deserts are disproportionately found in the American south, including Louisiana.</li>
<li>
Louisiana’s poverty and racial demographics make it ripe for the prevalence of food deserts and much of the state qualifies as such. </li>
<li>
Two metropolitan areas—New Orleans-Metairie and Baton Rouge—land in the top ten Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs) in the nation struggling with food insecurity. </li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Food insecurity in Louisiana, and around the nation, is being addressed, albeit incompletely, by three federal programs: SNAP, WIC, and the National School Lunch Program as well as some local initiatives. </strong></p>
<ul>
<li>
One in four Louisiana families rely on SNAP to meet their monthly food needs; two-thirds of these residents are children.</li>
<li>
Thousands of food-insecure Louisiana residents are not eligible for the SNAP program and, for those who are, more than 90% of benefits are used by the third week of the month.</li>
<li>
Food banks, including mobile food pantries, are helping meet the needs of Louisiana’s food-insecure population in some, but not all, areas of the state.</li>
<li>
Food activism came to New Orleans in the post-Katrina era, in the form of urban farms and farmers’ markets; yet the white, middle-class food movement has largely failed to connect with the low-income communities of color facing the highest rates of food insecurity.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>A food justice movement emphasizes equal access to food, ending structural inequalities to food access, specifically those related to race and racism, and an emphasis on a wider distribution of environmental benefits.</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>
The right to food tops the list of specific human rights in Catholic social teaching because hunger is such a fundamental assault on human life itself—and so widespread. </li>
<li>
It is impossible to address food justice separately from economic and racial justice.</li>
<li>
The State of Louisiana needs to make food policy a higher priority, including offering incentives for grocery stores to open in underserved communities.</li>
</ul>
<p>The report <em>Hungry at the Banquet</em><em>2018</em>includes a number of maps showing: food insecurity levels by civil parish within the state; food deserts by census tract in Louisiana; and food deserts by census tract within metropolitan New Orleans. The report also discusses the work of Second Harvest of Greater New Orleans and Acadiana and Sankofa Mobile Market in New Orleans. </p>
<p>In reading the report, Natalie Jayroe, President and CEO of Second Harvest commented, “While we will always be here to respond to the need of any South Louisianan facing hunger —whether it is a child going to school hungry, an older person choosing between food and medicine, an oil and gas worker laid off from their job, or an entire community coping with a natural disaster — we are also increasingly focused on strategies that make a greater long-term impact, such as our oncology clinic pantry at University Medical Center and SNAP education and outreach efforts.”</p>
<p>In her conclusion to the report, Dr. Fitzgerald commented, "Addressing food insecurity in Louisiana must be understood as a social justice issue of the highest priority, requiring attention from all levels of government, the business community, local activists, and the faith community."</p>
<p>The report was made possible by a grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation. It continues the work of JSRI on hunger in Louisiana and the Gulf South and its February 2017 report <em>SNAP Keeps Louisiana Strong and Healthy during Difficult Times.</em></p>
<p><strong><u>Contacts: </u></strong></p>
<p>Fr. Fred Kammer, SJ, Director, Jesuit Social Research Institute, College of Arts and Sciences, Loyola University New Orleans, can be reached at: (504) 864-7747.</p>
<p>Dr. Kathleen J. Fitzgerald, University of North Carolina, can be reached at (573) 355-3464.</p>
<p>Natalie Jayroe, President and CEO of Second Harvest, can be reached at: (504) 734-1322.</p>
<h3>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/LA Food Insecurity Report.pdf">READ FULL REPORT HERE >></a></h3>
<p>-30-</p>
<p>Loyola University New Orleans is a Catholic, Jesuit university located in the heart of the picturesque Uptown neighborhood of New Orleans. For more than 100 years, Loyola has helped shape the lives of its students, as well as the history of the city and the world, through educating men and women in the Jesuit traditions of academic excellence and service to others. Loyola’s more than 40,000 graduates serve as catalysts for change in their communities as they exemplify the comprehensive, values-laden education received at Loyola.</p>
<p><span><o p=""></o></span></p>
<p class="Body"> </p>
<p class="Body"> </p>
<p class="Body"> </p>
<p class="Body"> </p>
<p class="Body"> </p>
<p class="Body" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border: none; line-height: normal; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><b><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE</span></b><b><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="Body" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border: none; line-height: normal; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><b><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></b></p>
<p class="Body" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border: none; line-height: normal; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Contact:</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; font-size: medium; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border: none; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Georgia, serif;">Patricia M. Murret</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Georgia, serif;">Associate Director of Public Affairs </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Georgia, serif;"><span class="Hyperlink0" style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="mailto:pmurret@loyno.edu"><span style="color: black;">pmurret@loyno.edu</span></a></span><br />
<span class="Hyperlink0" style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="mailto:publaff@loyno.edu"><span style="color: black;">publaff@loyno.edu</span></a></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Georgia, serif;">(504) 861-5448</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; font-size: medium; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border: none; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Georgia, serif;">(504) 352-8775</span></p>
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; font-size: medium; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border: none; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="rtecenter"> </p>
<p class="rtecenter"><strong><em>Study: Hungry at the Banquet: Food Insecurity in Louisiana 2018</em></strong></p>
<p class="rtecenter"><strong><em>New report by Loyola University New Orleans Jesuit Social Research Institute reveals scope and depth of hunger in Louisiana, causes and cures, and the realities of food deserts; presents recommendations to promote food justice.</em></strong></p>
<p class="rtecenter"> </p>
<p><strong>(New Orleans, La. – December 13, 2018) </strong>A new report issued today by Loyola University New Orleans’ Jesuit Social Research Institute (JSRI) centers around the realities of hunger and food deserts in Louisiana. <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/LA Food Insecurity Report.pdf"><em>Hungry at the Banquet: </em>Food Insecurity in Louisiana 2018</a> reminds us that, in a state that celebrates rich and varied food traditions that are famous worldwide, there are many people without enough to eat. The condition is known as “food insecurity,” and Louisiana has the second highest rate of food insecurity in the United States.</p>
<p>Authored by Kathleen J. Fitzgerald, Ph.D., the report helps us to understand the scope of food insecurity, its causes and its cures, the realities of food deserts, and the nature of food justice. In his introduction to the report, JSRI Executive Director the Rev. Fred Kammer, S.J., J.D., emphasizes: “Dr. Fitzgerald presents strategies for addressing food insecurity as part of the demands upon all of us — citizens and policymakers — to end the scourge of hunger in the midst of plenty in Louisiana.” </p>
<p><strong>Key Findings: Hungry at the Banquet: Food Insecurity in Louisiana 2018</strong></p>
<p><strong>Louisiana has the second highest rate of food insecurity in the nation and it is rising faster than in the rest of the country.</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>
Despite being a foodie destination, Louisiana suffers from a food gap, which is the failure of the market economy to serve the basic human needs of those who are the most impoverished.</li>
<li>
In Louisiana, 783,400 people, 258,630 of whom are children, struggle with hunger, according to Feeding America. One in six children—17.9 percent—live in households without consistent access to adequate food.</li>
<li>
Forty-six of the sixty-four parishes in Louisiana have food insecurity rates of 15% or higher, and some as high as 34.4%. The national average in 2017 was 11.8%.</li>
<li>
Food insecurity rates are higher in small towns and rural areas than in cities in Louisiana, as they are nationally.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Louisiana is replete with food deserts, places with a dearth of healthy and affordable food options, such as full-service grocery stores and/or farmers’ markets within a convenient travel distance.</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>
Research links food deserts to poor health; and Louisiana is one of the least healthy states, with one of the highest rates of adult obesity, diabetes, and hypertension.</li>
<li>
Nationwide, the prevalence of food deserts increases in low-income zip codes and in racial minority communities. Food deserts are disproportionately found in the American south, including Louisiana.</li>
<li>
Louisiana’s poverty and racial demographics make it ripe for the prevalence of food deserts and much of the state qualifies as such. </li>
<li>
Two metropolitan areas—New Orleans-Metairie and Baton Rouge—land in the top ten Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs) in the nation struggling with food insecurity. </li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Food insecurity in Louisiana, and around the nation, is being addressed, albeit incompletely, by three federal programs: SNAP, WIC, and the National School Lunch Program as well as some local initiatives. </strong></p>
<ul>
<li>
One in four Louisiana families rely on SNAP to meet their monthly food needs; two-thirds of these residents are children.</li>
<li>
Thousands of food-insecure Louisiana residents are not eligible for the SNAP program and, for those who are, more than 90% of benefits are used by the third week of the month.</li>
<li>
Food banks, including mobile food pantries, are helping meet the needs of Louisiana’s food-insecure population in some, but not all, areas of the state.</li>
<li>
Food activism came to New Orleans in the post-Katrina era, in the form of urban farms and farmers’ markets; yet the white, middle-class food movement has largely failed to connect with the low-income communities of color facing the highest rates of food insecurity.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>A food justice movement emphasizes equal access to food, ending structural inequalities to food access, specifically those related to race and racism, and an emphasis on a wider distribution of environmental benefits.</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>
The right to food tops the list of specific human rights in Catholic social teaching because hunger is such a fundamental assault on human life itself—and so widespread. </li>
<li>
It is impossible to address food justice separately from economic and racial justice.</li>
<li>
The State of Louisiana needs to make food policy a higher priority, including offering incentives for grocery stores to open in underserved communities.</li>
</ul>
<p>The report <em>Hungry at the Banquet</em><em>2018</em>includes a number of maps showing: food insecurity levels by civil parish within the state; food deserts by census tract in Louisiana; and food deserts by census tract within metropolitan New Orleans. The report also discusses the work of Second Harvest of Greater New Orleans and Acadiana and Sankofa Mobile Market in New Orleans. </p>
<p>In reading the report, Natalie Jayroe, President and CEO of Second Harvest commented, “While we will always be here to respond to the need of any South Louisianan facing hunger —whether it is a child going to school hungry, an older person choosing between food and medicine, an oil and gas worker laid off from their job, or an entire community coping with a natural disaster — we are also increasingly focused on strategies that make a greater long-term impact, such as our oncology clinic pantry at University Medical Center and SNAP education and outreach efforts.”</p>
<p>In her conclusion to the report, Dr. Fitzgerald commented, "Addressing food insecurity in Louisiana must be understood as a social justice issue of the highest priority, requiring attention from all levels of government, the business community, local activists, and the faith community."</p>
<p>The report was made possible by a grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation. It continues the work of JSRI on hunger in Louisiana and the Gulf South and its February 2017 report <em>SNAP Keeps Louisiana Strong and Healthy during Difficult Times.</em></p>
<p><strong><u>Contacts: </u></strong></p>
<p>Fr. Fred Kammer, SJ, Director, Jesuit Social Research Institute, College of Arts and Sciences, Loyola University New Orleans, can be reached at: (504) 864-7747.</p>
<p>Dr. Kathleen J. Fitzgerald, University of North Carolina, can be reached at (573) 355-3464.</p>
<p>Natalie Jayroe, President and CEO of Second Harvest, can be reached at: (504) 734-1322.</p>
<h3>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/LA Food Insecurity Report.pdf">READ FULL REPORT HERE >></a></h3>
<p>-30-</p>
<p>Loyola University New Orleans is a Catholic, Jesuit university located in the heart of the picturesque Uptown neighborhood of New Orleans. For more than 100 years, Loyola has helped shape the lives of its students, as well as the history of the city and the world, through educating men and women in the Jesuit traditions of academic excellence and service to others. Loyola’s more than 40,000 graduates serve as catalysts for change in their communities as they exemplify the comprehensive, values-laden education received at Loyola.</p>
<p><span><o p=""></o></span></p>
Date
Open Wide our Hearts: The Enduring Call to Love
News Intro Text
U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops brings forth a pastoral letter against racism.
News Item Content
<div class="page" title="Page 3">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<div class="page" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: -webkit-standard;" title="Page 2">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT;">The document </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: TimesNewRomanPS; font-style: italic;">Open Wide Our Hearts: The Enduring Call to Love - A Pastoral Letter Against Racism </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT;">was developed by the Committee on Cultural Diversity in the Church of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB). It was approved by the full body of bishops as a formal statement of the same at its November 2018 General Meeting and has been authorized for publication by the undersigned.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT;">Msgr. J. Brian Bransfield General Secretary, USCCB</span></p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p><a href="http://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/human-life-and-dignity/racism/upload/open-wide-our-hearts.pdf">Read letter here >></a></p>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<div class="page" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: -webkit-standard;" title="Page 2">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT;">The document </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: TimesNewRomanPS; font-style: italic;">Open Wide Our Hearts: The Enduring Call to Love - A Pastoral Letter Against Racism </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT;">was developed by the Committee on Cultural Diversity in the Church of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB). It was approved by the full body of bishops as a formal statement of the same at its November 2018 General Meeting and has been authorized for publication by the undersigned.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT;">Msgr. J. Brian Bransfield General Secretary, USCCB</span></p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p><a href="http://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/human-life-and-dignity/racism/upload/open-wide-our-hearts.pdf">Read letter here >></a></p>
Date
Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops Supports Unanimous Juries Within Louisiana
News Intro Text
The Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops strongly affirms the November 6th ballot initiative to return Louisiana to a state possessing unanimous juries, and therefore enabling its legal practices to become more truly reflective of justice.
News Item Content
<div class="page" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: -webkit-standard;" title="Page 1">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Calibri;">The Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops strongly affirms the November 6</span><span style="font-size: 6pt; font-family: Calibri; vertical-align: 4pt;">th </span><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Calibri;">ballot initiative to return Louisiana to a state possessing unanimous juries, and therefore enabling its legal practices to become more truly reflective of justice. Louisiana must return to the wisdom of its origins within this matter and bring its practice in line with the forty‐eight states that require unanimous jury verdicts for all felony convictions. During her founding in 1803, Louisiana required unanimous juries. However, unanimity was abandoned in 1880, and this abandonment was subsequently codified in 1898 by way of Article 116 of her Constitution. The opportunity and time are ripe for Louisiana to move beyond such abandonment, and fully embrace the justice of unanimity. "There is an appointed time for everything, and a time for every affair under the heavens...A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to be silent, and a time to speak" (</span><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Calibri; font-style: italic;">Ecclesiastes 3: 1, 7</span><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Calibri;">).</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Calibri;">In our Catholic faith, prudence is the first of the cardinal virtues and is naturally concerned with the intellect. Prudence allows us to judge what is right and what is wrong in any given situation. Justice is the second of such virtues and concerns the will. Most simply stated justice is, "giving God and neighbor their due." The responsibility of a jury is to be an impartial body of peers that acts prudently to ensure justice to all parties involved. The unanimity of a jury does not simply ensure that the legal standard of "beyond a reasonable doubt" has been met, but it also brings our legal system into much closer accord with the cardinal virtues of prudence and justice. Unanimity does so by providing the jury with the ability to decide what is right and what is wrong as a unified and empowered whole – without division, reaching a conclusion that then provides their neighbor with his due.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Calibri;">The case for non‐unanimous juries has been expressed in the false and even erroneous expression of the "efficiency" of justice. Neither prudence nor justice favors efficiency over their foundation of love, mercy, solidarity, and forgiveness. As we are all too aware, efficiency can lead to haste and haste can lead to wrongful convictions in the case of decisions by non‐unanimous juries. The effects of such error are only exacerbated by the seriousness of the crimes that non‐ unanimous juries currently apply to within Louisiana, such as non‐capital first degree murder and second‐degree murder. The punishment for such crimes is life without parole. Acknowledging that humanity itself is flawed, should Louisiana not have unanimity among those juries that decide whether or not an individual will spend the rest of his life in prison?</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Calibri;">Additionally, given that non‐unanimous juries make felony convictions easier to obtain by requiring less than total agreement, this practice also calls into question the impact a ruling has on an individual’s right to vote. We hold the right to vote to be reflective of our call to community and participation as well as the rights and responsibilities articulated with the themes of Catholic Social Teaching. The inability to do so, therefore stands as a barrier to our obligation to participate in the democratic process. Currently, a non‐unanimous jury could stand in the way of this obligation.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Calibri;">It is for the reasons articulated above – striving for a purer sense of justice where prudence is present, deferring to careful deliberation and discernment as opposed to efficiency, and protecting our obligation to participate in our great democracy – that we as the Catholic bishops of Louisiana support the return of Louisiana’s criminal justice system to one requiring unanimous juries for all felony convictions. Justice must always dictate a true legal construct and as St. Augustine has proclaimed, "an unjust law is no law at all." The time is indeed ripe to right Louisiana's history on this issue and to re‐institute unanimous juries on November 6</span><span style="font-size: 6pt; font-family: Calibri; vertical-align: 4pt;">th</span><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Calibri;">.</span></p>
</div>
</div>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Calibri; font-style: italic;">October 4, 2018</span></p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Calibri;">The Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops strongly affirms the November 6</span><span style="font-size: 6pt; font-family: Calibri; vertical-align: 4pt;">th </span><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Calibri;">ballot initiative to return Louisiana to a state possessing unanimous juries, and therefore enabling its legal practices to become more truly reflective of justice. Louisiana must return to the wisdom of its origins within this matter and bring its practice in line with the forty‐eight states that require unanimous jury verdicts for all felony convictions. During her founding in 1803, Louisiana required unanimous juries. However, unanimity was abandoned in 1880, and this abandonment was subsequently codified in 1898 by way of Article 116 of her Constitution. The opportunity and time are ripe for Louisiana to move beyond such abandonment, and fully embrace the justice of unanimity. "There is an appointed time for everything, and a time for every affair under the heavens...A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to be silent, and a time to speak" (</span><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Calibri; font-style: italic;">Ecclesiastes 3: 1, 7</span><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Calibri;">).</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Calibri;">In our Catholic faith, prudence is the first of the cardinal virtues and is naturally concerned with the intellect. Prudence allows us to judge what is right and what is wrong in any given situation. Justice is the second of such virtues and concerns the will. Most simply stated justice is, "giving God and neighbor their due." The responsibility of a jury is to be an impartial body of peers that acts prudently to ensure justice to all parties involved. The unanimity of a jury does not simply ensure that the legal standard of "beyond a reasonable doubt" has been met, but it also brings our legal system into much closer accord with the cardinal virtues of prudence and justice. Unanimity does so by providing the jury with the ability to decide what is right and what is wrong as a unified and empowered whole – without division, reaching a conclusion that then provides their neighbor with his due.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Calibri;">The case for non‐unanimous juries has been expressed in the false and even erroneous expression of the "efficiency" of justice. Neither prudence nor justice favors efficiency over their foundation of love, mercy, solidarity, and forgiveness. As we are all too aware, efficiency can lead to haste and haste can lead to wrongful convictions in the case of decisions by non‐unanimous juries. The effects of such error are only exacerbated by the seriousness of the crimes that non‐ unanimous juries currently apply to within Louisiana, such as non‐capital first degree murder and second‐degree murder. The punishment for such crimes is life without parole. Acknowledging that humanity itself is flawed, should Louisiana not have unanimity among those juries that decide whether or not an individual will spend the rest of his life in prison?</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Calibri;">Additionally, given that non‐unanimous juries make felony convictions easier to obtain by requiring less than total agreement, this practice also calls into question the impact a ruling has on an individual’s right to vote. We hold the right to vote to be reflective of our call to community and participation as well as the rights and responsibilities articulated with the themes of Catholic Social Teaching. The inability to do so, therefore stands as a barrier to our obligation to participate in the democratic process. Currently, a non‐unanimous jury could stand in the way of this obligation.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Calibri;">It is for the reasons articulated above – striving for a purer sense of justice where prudence is present, deferring to careful deliberation and discernment as opposed to efficiency, and protecting our obligation to participate in our great democracy – that we as the Catholic bishops of Louisiana support the return of Louisiana’s criminal justice system to one requiring unanimous juries for all felony convictions. Justice must always dictate a true legal construct and as St. Augustine has proclaimed, "an unjust law is no law at all." The time is indeed ripe to right Louisiana's history on this issue and to re‐institute unanimous juries on November 6</span><span style="font-size: 6pt; font-family: Calibri; vertical-align: 4pt;">th</span><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Calibri;">.</span></p>
</div>
</div>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Calibri; font-style: italic;">October 4, 2018</span></p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p>
Date
JSRI congratulates Tom Chabolla, new JVC national president!
News Intro Text
Today, the Jesuit Volunteer Corps (JVC) announced Tom Chabolla as its new President.
News Item Content
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px rgb(243, 243, 243); outline: 0px; font-size: 14px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-position: initial; background-size: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; color: rgb(128, 128, 128); font-family: "Open Sans"; text-align: center;"><strong style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px rgb(243, 243, 243); outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; background: transparent; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Jesuit Volunteer Corps Announces Tom Chabolla As New President</strong></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px rgb(243, 243, 243); outline: 0px; font-size: 14px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-position: initial; background-size: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; color: rgb(128, 128, 128); font-family: "Open Sans"; text-align: center;"><em style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px rgb(243, 243, 243); outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; background: transparent; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Chabolla brings 30+ years’ experience leading large, complex organizations committed to social change</em></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px rgb(243, 243, 243); outline: 0px; font-size: 14px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-position: initial; background-size: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; color: rgb(128, 128, 128); font-family: "Open Sans";">BALTIMORE – Today, the Jesuit Volunteer Corps (JVC) announced Tom Chabolla as its new President. Chabolla, who most recently served as the COO and Executive Vice President at NeighborWorks America, has a long history with JVC that reaches back to the late eighties, when he and his wife worked as support people for a JVC community in Southern California.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px rgb(243, 243, 243); outline: 0px; font-size: 14px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-position: initial; background-size: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; color: rgb(128, 128, 128); font-family: "Open Sans";">At NeighborWorks America, Chabolla oversaw four divisions and more than 200 staff. Prior to his time with NeighborWorks, Chabolla worked as Assistant to the President and Deputy Chief of Staff at SEIU, where he gained a deep knowledge of civil society institutions and unions.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px rgb(243, 243, 243); outline: 0px; font-size: 14px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-position: initial; background-size: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; color: rgb(128, 128, 128); font-family: "Open Sans";">“Tom’s experience leading large organizations and managing decentralized, local programs across the country are unmatched,” said Joan Gillman, Chair of the JVC Board. “Tom is passionate about the work of JVC and about leading a team, volunteers and a community committed to our mission and to communities in need. We are confident that his core Jesuit values will underpin all he does at JVC.” </p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px rgb(243, 243, 243); outline: 0px; font-size: 14px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-position: initial; background-size: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; color: rgb(128, 128, 128); font-family: "Open Sans";">Chabolla also has extensive experience serving with the Catholic Church, having worked at the Archdiocese of Los Angeles from 1988-2002 as Director of the Office of Justice and Peace, among other roles, and later at the Catholic Campaign for Human Development.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px rgb(243, 243, 243); outline: 0px; font-size: 14px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-position: initial; background-size: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; color: rgb(128, 128, 128); font-family: "Open Sans";">“I am impressed with Tom’s 30-year consistent history of commitment to the faith that does justice, extending from his days in Los Angeles to his work nationally with the Catholic Campaign for Human Development to leadership with unions and those committed to neighborhood development,” said Fred Kammer, Vice Chair of the JVC Board. “He combines that commitment to justice and service of the least among us with a deep spirituality rooted in Jesuit ideals, the kinds of values that are at the heart of the Jesuit Volunteer Corps.”</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px rgb(243, 243, 243); outline: 0px; font-size: 14px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-position: initial; background-size: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; color: rgb(128, 128, 128); font-family: "Open Sans";">Chabolla, who is Mexican-American, also brings concrete experience in promoting diversity and inclusion, having previously led an organization-wide effort to creatively confront the realities of racism and prejudice within our society and its organizations.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px rgb(243, 243, 243); outline: 0px; font-size: 14px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-position: initial; background-size: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; color: rgb(128, 128, 128); font-family: "Open Sans";">With a tenure that begins November 1, Chabolla was selected from a national pool of more than 200 applicants in a competitive process. </p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px rgb(243, 243, 243); outline: 0px; font-size: 14px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-position: initial; background-size: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; color: rgb(128, 128, 128); font-family: "Open Sans";">“Senior staff at the Jesuit Volunteer Corps were involved throughout the interview process,” said Mike Reddy, Interim President and Director of Communication at JVC. “Given the extent of Tom’s experience resourcing communities organizing for social change, we are excited to have the opportunity to draw from and learn from his leadership.”</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px rgb(243, 243, 243); outline: 0px; font-size: 14px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-position: initial; background-size: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; color: rgb(128, 128, 128); font-family: "Open Sans";">To learn more about Chabolla and the Jesuit Volunteer Corps, <a href="http://www.jesuitvolunteers.org/team/tom-chabolla/" style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px rgb(243, 243, 243); outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; background: transparent; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; transition: color 300ms ease 0s, background-color 300ms ease 0s, opacity 300ms ease 0s; color: rgb(72, 140, 131);">visit the JVC website staff page</a>.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px rgb(243, 243, 243); outline: 0px; font-size: 14px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-position: initial; background-size: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; color: rgb(128, 128, 128); font-family: "Open Sans";"><strong style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px rgb(243, 243, 243); outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; background: transparent; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><em style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px rgb(243, 243, 243); outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; background: transparent; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">About the Jesuit Volunteer Corps</em></strong></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px rgb(243, 243, 243); outline: 0px; font-size: 14px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-position: initial; background-size: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; color: rgb(128, 128, 128); font-family: "Open Sans";"><em style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px rgb(243, 243, 243); outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; background: transparent; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">The Jesuit Volunteer Corps (JVC) is the largest lay Catholic full-time volunteer program in the world and has been a pioneer in the service landscape for 40 years. Over 10,000 men and women have served tens of thousands of individuals and families within hundreds of communities worldwide since its inception. Jesuit Volunteers have worked tirelessly for social justice, while exploring their spirituality and faith through a framework of Catholic, Ignatian values</em></p>
<p>Read more: <a href="http://www.jesuitvolunteers.org/jvc-announces-tom-chabolla/">http://www.jesuitvolunteers.org/jvc-announces-tom-chabolla/</a></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px rgb(243, 243, 243); outline: 0px; font-size: 14px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-position: initial; background-size: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; color: rgb(128, 128, 128); font-family: "Open Sans"; text-align: center;"><em style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px rgb(243, 243, 243); outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; background: transparent; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Chabolla brings 30+ years’ experience leading large, complex organizations committed to social change</em></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px rgb(243, 243, 243); outline: 0px; font-size: 14px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-position: initial; background-size: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; color: rgb(128, 128, 128); font-family: "Open Sans";">BALTIMORE – Today, the Jesuit Volunteer Corps (JVC) announced Tom Chabolla as its new President. Chabolla, who most recently served as the COO and Executive Vice President at NeighborWorks America, has a long history with JVC that reaches back to the late eighties, when he and his wife worked as support people for a JVC community in Southern California.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px rgb(243, 243, 243); outline: 0px; font-size: 14px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-position: initial; background-size: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; color: rgb(128, 128, 128); font-family: "Open Sans";">At NeighborWorks America, Chabolla oversaw four divisions and more than 200 staff. Prior to his time with NeighborWorks, Chabolla worked as Assistant to the President and Deputy Chief of Staff at SEIU, where he gained a deep knowledge of civil society institutions and unions.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px rgb(243, 243, 243); outline: 0px; font-size: 14px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-position: initial; background-size: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; color: rgb(128, 128, 128); font-family: "Open Sans";">“Tom’s experience leading large organizations and managing decentralized, local programs across the country are unmatched,” said Joan Gillman, Chair of the JVC Board. “Tom is passionate about the work of JVC and about leading a team, volunteers and a community committed to our mission and to communities in need. We are confident that his core Jesuit values will underpin all he does at JVC.” </p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px rgb(243, 243, 243); outline: 0px; font-size: 14px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-position: initial; background-size: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; color: rgb(128, 128, 128); font-family: "Open Sans";">Chabolla also has extensive experience serving with the Catholic Church, having worked at the Archdiocese of Los Angeles from 1988-2002 as Director of the Office of Justice and Peace, among other roles, and later at the Catholic Campaign for Human Development.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px rgb(243, 243, 243); outline: 0px; font-size: 14px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-position: initial; background-size: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; color: rgb(128, 128, 128); font-family: "Open Sans";">“I am impressed with Tom’s 30-year consistent history of commitment to the faith that does justice, extending from his days in Los Angeles to his work nationally with the Catholic Campaign for Human Development to leadership with unions and those committed to neighborhood development,” said Fred Kammer, Vice Chair of the JVC Board. “He combines that commitment to justice and service of the least among us with a deep spirituality rooted in Jesuit ideals, the kinds of values that are at the heart of the Jesuit Volunteer Corps.”</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px rgb(243, 243, 243); outline: 0px; font-size: 14px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-position: initial; background-size: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; color: rgb(128, 128, 128); font-family: "Open Sans";">Chabolla, who is Mexican-American, also brings concrete experience in promoting diversity and inclusion, having previously led an organization-wide effort to creatively confront the realities of racism and prejudice within our society and its organizations.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px rgb(243, 243, 243); outline: 0px; font-size: 14px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-position: initial; background-size: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; color: rgb(128, 128, 128); font-family: "Open Sans";">With a tenure that begins November 1, Chabolla was selected from a national pool of more than 200 applicants in a competitive process. </p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px rgb(243, 243, 243); outline: 0px; font-size: 14px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-position: initial; background-size: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; color: rgb(128, 128, 128); font-family: "Open Sans";">“Senior staff at the Jesuit Volunteer Corps were involved throughout the interview process,” said Mike Reddy, Interim President and Director of Communication at JVC. “Given the extent of Tom’s experience resourcing communities organizing for social change, we are excited to have the opportunity to draw from and learn from his leadership.”</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px rgb(243, 243, 243); outline: 0px; font-size: 14px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-position: initial; background-size: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; color: rgb(128, 128, 128); font-family: "Open Sans";">To learn more about Chabolla and the Jesuit Volunteer Corps, <a href="http://www.jesuitvolunteers.org/team/tom-chabolla/" style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px rgb(243, 243, 243); outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; background: transparent; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; transition: color 300ms ease 0s, background-color 300ms ease 0s, opacity 300ms ease 0s; color: rgb(72, 140, 131);">visit the JVC website staff page</a>.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px rgb(243, 243, 243); outline: 0px; font-size: 14px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-position: initial; background-size: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; color: rgb(128, 128, 128); font-family: "Open Sans";"><strong style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px rgb(243, 243, 243); outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; background: transparent; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><em style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px rgb(243, 243, 243); outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; background: transparent; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">About the Jesuit Volunteer Corps</em></strong></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px rgb(243, 243, 243); outline: 0px; font-size: 14px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-position: initial; background-size: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; color: rgb(128, 128, 128); font-family: "Open Sans";"><em style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px rgb(243, 243, 243); outline: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; background: transparent; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">The Jesuit Volunteer Corps (JVC) is the largest lay Catholic full-time volunteer program in the world and has been a pioneer in the service landscape for 40 years. Over 10,000 men and women have served tens of thousands of individuals and families within hundreds of communities worldwide since its inception. Jesuit Volunteers have worked tirelessly for social justice, while exploring their spirituality and faith through a framework of Catholic, Ignatian values</em></p>
<p>Read more: <a href="http://www.jesuitvolunteers.org/jvc-announces-tom-chabolla/">http://www.jesuitvolunteers.org/jvc-announces-tom-chabolla/</a></p>
Date
Declaración del Día del Trabajo 2018
News Intro Text
Salarios justos y florecimiento humano
News Item Content
<div class="CS_Element_Schedule" id="cs_control_1386">
<div id="CS_Element_maincontent" title="">
<div class="cs_control CS_Element_Textblock" id="cs_control_1739">
<div class="CS_Textblock_Text">
<h3 align="left">
<strong>Salarios justos y florecimiento humano</strong></h3>
<h5>
Excelentísimo Monseñor Frank J. Dewane, Obispo de Venice<br />
Presidente del Comité de Justicia Nacional y Desarrollo Humano<br />
Conferencia de Obispos Católicos de los Estados Unidos<br />
3 de septiembre de 2018</h5>
<p> </p>
<p>La difícil situación de nuestros hermanos y hermanas que trabajan arduamente pero a duras penas nos llama a todos a reflexionar de manera especial en este Día del Trabajo. Hoy día, leemos en el Evangelio de san Lucas cómo Jesús, al regresar a su hogar en Nazaret, leyó al profeta Isaías que declaraba en la sinagoga: "El espíritu del Señor está sobre mí, porque me ha ungido y me ha enviado para anunciar la buena nueva a los pobres".<sup>1</sup> Tristemente, en nuestros tiempos demasiadas personas son excluidas, marginadas y privadas de sus derechos políticos y económicos. La lucha de los trabajadores, de los pobres, como nos recuerda el papa Francisco, no es ante todo "algo social, político. ¡No! Es Evangelio puro".<sup>2</sup> Ha habido un progreso notable en nuestra economía en los últimos años, pero también es evidente que para muchos no está donde debería estar, y todos podemos desempeñar un papel productivo para asegurarnos que sea un sistema que haga valer la dignidad de todas las personas.</p>
<p>Las últimas noticias y datos económicos informan que la pobreza continúa disminuyendo, el desempleo ha bajado a uno de sus niveles más bajos en décadas y ha habido un crecimiento económico tal que la producción, las acciones en la bolsa y las ganancias han aumentado a niveles récord. Pero, ¿es esta la historia completa? ¿Ofrecen estos avances una descripción completamente precisa de la vida y luchas cotidianas de los trabajadores, de los que todavía no tienen trabajo o de los subempleados que luchan con salarios bajos?</p>
<p>Es alentador que la pobreza haya disminuido, pero todavía casi una de cada tres personas tiene un ingreso familiar inferior al 200% de la línea federal de pobreza.<sup>3</sup> Hoy en día, hay muchas familias que, incluso si han escapado técnicamente de la pobreza, enfrentan sin embargo dificultades significativas para satisfacer sus necesidades básicas. Los salarios de los trabajadores de bajos ingresos son, según diversos reportes, insuficientes para mantener una familia y proporcionar un futuro seguro. Un estudio reciente examinó si una persona que gana el salario mínimo podía pagar un apartamento promedio de dos habitaciones en su estado de residencia. Sorprendentemente, en los 50 estados, la respuesta fue no.<sup>4</sup> Un informe reciente de la Reserva Federal muestra que cuatro de cada diez adultos no podían cubrir un gasto de emergencia de $400, o tendrían que pedir prestado o vender algo para hacerlo.<sup>5</sup></p>
<p>Aunque el ingreso promedio nacional ha aumentado en los últimos dos años, todavía está relativamente estancado en comparación con los que más ganan. Teniendo en cuenta la inflación y el creciente costo de vida, los trabajadores en el extremo inferior del espectro de ingresos han visto sus salarios estancarse o incluso disminuir en la última década.<sup>6</sup> De 2014 a 2015, la tasa de crecimiento del ingreso fue más pronunciada en el extremo inferior del espectro, posiblemente debido a aumentos estatales en el salario mínimo y el aumento del empleo. Pero de 2015 a 2016, la tasa de crecimiento fue más alta en el extremo superior.<sup>7</sup></p>
<p>Otra tendencia alarmante es la continua disparidad en los ingresos promedio entre diferentes grupos raciales y étnicos y entre mujeres y hombres. Por ejemplo, en 2016, el ingreso familiar promedio de los blancos no hispanos fue $25,500 más que el de los negros, y el ingreso promedio real de las mujeres fue $10,000 más bajo que el de los hombres.<sup>8</sup> Claramente, ningún examen de nuestra economía, a la luz de la justicia, puede dejar de considerar cómo la discriminación basada en la raza y el sexo impacta en la justa distribución de los salarios.</p>
<p>Todo trabajador tiene derecho a un salario justo según el criterio de la justicia, que san Juan XXIII describió como un salario que "permita, tanto a él como a su familia, mantener un género de vida adecuado a la dignidad del hombre".<sup>9</sup> San Juan Pablo II profundizó en las implicaciones sistemáticas del salario justo, describiéndolo como "la <em>verificación concreta de la justicia</em> de todo el sistema socio-económico".<sup>10</sup> Sin embargo, cuando una sociedad falla en la tarea de garantizar que los trabajadores reciban un salario justo, surgen preguntas relativas a los supuestos subyacentes de ese sistema. Una sociedad que está dispuesta a excluir a sus miembros más vulnerables, sugiere el papa Francisco en <em>Evangelii gaudium</em>, es una sociedad en que "el sistema social y económico es injusto en su raíz".<sup>11</sup> El papa Francisco advierte que, en ausencia de una respuesta justa, estas disparidades pueden llevar a profundas divisiones sociales e incluso violencia.</p>
<p>La doctrina tradicional de la Iglesia sostiene que los salarios deben honrar la dignidad y la capacidad de una persona para contribuir al bien común de la sociedad civil y el bienestar familiar. Como dice el <em>Catecismo</em>, "El desarrollo de las actividades económicas y el crecimiento de la producción están destinados a satisfacer las necesidades de los seres humanos. La vida económica no tiende solamente a multiplicar los bienes producidos y a aumentar el lucro o el poder; está ordenada ante todo al servicio de las personas, del hombre entero y de toda la comunidad humana".<sup>12</sup>La economía debe servir a las personas, no al revés. El trabajo es más que una forma de ganarse la vida; es una forma de participar en la creación de Dios. Si se ha de proteger la dignidad del trabajo, entonces deben respetarse los derechos básicos de los trabajadores, incluido el derecho al trabajo productivo, a salarios dignos y justos, a organizarse y afiliarse a sindicatos, a la propiedad privada y a la iniciativa económica.</p>
<p>Todas las personas pueden ayudar a construir una economía que reconozca la dignidad de cada vida. Los dueños y administradores de las empresas tienen el deber de buscar ganancias para garantizar la estabilidad y el éxito a largo plazo de sus empresas. Sin embargo, también "están obligados a considerar el bien de las personas y no solamente el aumento de las ganancias".<sup>13</sup> Una parte de esta obligación es pagar un salario justo, que proporcione un sustento digno para que los trabajadores y sus familias satisfagan sus necesidades básicas . Un salario justo no sólo asegura el bienestar financiero de los trabajadores, sino que fomenta sus dimensiones sociales, culturales y espirituales como individuos y miembros de la sociedad. Esta es la esencia de lo que la Iglesia quiere decir cuando habla de desarrollo humano integral.</p>
<p>La doctrina tradicional de la Iglesia también recuerda que el simple hecho de que trabajadores y empleadores hayan acordado un salario determinado "no basta para justificar moralmente la cuantía del salario".<sup>14</sup> Las cuestiones de justicia y salarios deben examinarse en el contexto del bienestar y florecimiento del individuo, la familia y la sociedad. El costo de la desigualdad salarial severa, además del daño a la dignidad de la persona, es en última instancia la paz y la armonía de la sociedad.</p>
<p>¿Cómo estamos llamados como cristianos, miembros también de la sociedad, a responder a la cuestión de los salarios y la justicia? En primer lugar, estamos llamados a vivir de manera justa en nuestra propia vida sea como dueños de empresas o como trabajadores. En segundo lugar, estamos llamados a solidarizarnos con nuestros hermanos y hermanas pobres y vulnerables. Por último, todos debemos trabajar para reformar y construir una sociedad más justa, que promueva la vida y la dignidad humanas y el bien común de todos. También debemos reconocer los dones y las responsabilidades que Dios nos ha confiado a cada uno de nosotros. En su reciente exhortación apostólica <em>Gaudete et exultate</em>, el papa Francisco nos pide que reflexionemos sobre lo siguiente: "¿Eres un trabajador? Sé santo cumpliendo con honradez y competencia tu trabajo al servicio de los hermanos… ¿Tienes autoridad? Sé santo luchando por el bien común y renunciando a tus intereses personales".<sup>15</sup></p>
<p>Para que la reforma sea posible, el papa Francisco nos llama a ver nuestra "vida como una misión", y añade: "Pregúntale siempre al Espíritu qué espera Jesús de ti en cada momento de tu existencia y en cada opción que debas tomar, para discernir el lugar que eso ocupa en tu propia misión".<sup>16</sup> Esto requerirá la conversión personal y la acción correspondiente en la sociedad civil. En términos prácticos, en la fijación de los salarios, debe haber la debida consideración por lo que garantice de manera justa la seguridad de los empleados para establecer y mantener todos los aspectos significativos de la vida familiar, y cuidar de los miembros de la familia con miras al futuro. Del mismo modo, los responsables de las políticas y finanzas públicas deben considerar las causas estructurales de los bajos salarios, especialmente la forma en que las empresas distribuyen las ganancias, y responder trabajando para abordar las disparidades injustas. Los derechos de los trabajadores a organizarse deben respetarse, así como los derechos de los sindicatos y centros de trabajadores a abogar por salarios justos, beneficios de salud que respeten la vida y la dignidad, y tiempo de descanso, y a protegerse contra el robo de salarios. Los trabajadores también deben acometer su misión con integridad, como dijo recientemente el papa Francisco: "Renovar el trabajo en un sentido ético significa, en efecto, renovar toda la sociedad, ahuyentando el fraude y la mentira, que envenenan el mercado, la convivencia civil y la vida de las personas, especialmente la de las más débiles".<sup>17</sup></p>
<p>Como cristianos, creemos que el conflicto o la enemistad entre los ricos y los pobres no son necesarios o inevitables. Estas divisiones son de hecho pecaminosas. Pero vivimos con la esperanza de que nuestra sociedad pueda ser cada vez más justa cuando haya una conversión del corazón y la mente para que las personas reconozcan la dignidad inherente de todos y trabajen juntas por el bien común. En este Día del Trabajo, comprometámonos todos a la conversión personal del corazón y la mente, y solidaricémonos con los trabajadores abogando por salarios justos y, al hacerlo, "anunciar la buena nueva a los pobres".</p>
<br />
<hr align="left" size="1" width="33%" />
<p><sup>1</sup> <em>Lc</em> 4:18.</p>
<p><sup>2</sup> Papa Francisco, Misa por el noble pueblo chino (24 de mayo de 2018) <a class="external link" title="//w2.vatican.va/content/francesco/es/cotidie/2018/documents/papa-francesco-cotidie_20180524_pueblo-chino.html">https://w2.vatican.va/content/francesco/es/cotidie/2018/documents/papa-francesco-cotidie_20180524_pueblo-chino.html</a><span class="icon" title="external link">. . . </span>.</p>
<p><sup>3</sup> U.S. Dep't of Comm'r, U.S. Census Bureau, Income and Poverty in the United States: 2016, 17 (septiembre de 2017).</p>
<p><sup>4</sup> Tracy Jan, "A minimum wage worker can't afford a 2-bedroom apartment anywhere in the U.S.", <em>The Washington Post</em> (13 de junio de 2018).</p>
<p><sup>5</sup> Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, Report on the Economic Well-Being of U.S. Households in 2017, 21 (mayo de 2018).</p>
<p><sup>6</sup> <em>Véase</em>, p. ej.,U.S. Dep't of Comm'r, U.S. Census Bureau, Income and Poverty in the United States: 2016, 31 (Table-A2) (septiembre de 2017); Patricia Cohen, "Paychecks Lag as Profits Soar, and Prices Erode Wage Gains", <em>The New York Times</em> (13 de julio de 2018).</p>
<p><sup>7</sup> <em>Véase íd</em>.</p>
<p><sup>8</sup> U.S. Dep't of Comm'r, U.S. Census Bureau, Income and Poverty in the United States: 2016, en 5 (Figure 1); 10 (Figure 2).</p>
<p><sup>9</sup> Papa Juan XXII, <em>Pacem in terris</em>, no. 20.</p>
<p><sup>10</sup> Papa Juan Pablo II, <em>Laborem exercens</em>, no. 19 (cursiva en el original).</p>
<p><sup>11</sup> Papa Francisco, <em>Evangelii gaudium</em>, no. 59.</p>
<p><sup>12</sup> <em>Catecismo de la Iglesia Católica</em>, no. 2426.</p>
<p><sup>13</sup> <em>CIC</em>, no. 2432.</p>
<p><sup>14</sup> <em>CIC</em>, no. 2434.</p>
<p><sup>15</sup> Papa Francisco, <em>Gaudete et exultate</em>, no. 14.</p>
<p><sup>16</sup> <em>Gaudete et exultate</em>, no. 23.</p>
<p><sup>17</sup> Papa Francisco, Discurso a los participantes en el Congreso Nacional de la Federación de los Maestros del Trabajo de Italia (15 de junio de 2018), <a class="external link" title="//press.vatican.va/content/salastampa/es/bollettino/pubblico/2018/06/15/pers.html">https://press.vatican.va/content/salastampa/es/bollettino/pubblico/2018/06/15/pers.html</a><span class="icon" title="external link">. . . </span>.</p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p>
<div id="CS_Element_maincontent" title="">
<div class="cs_control CS_Element_Textblock" id="cs_control_1739">
<div class="CS_Textblock_Text">
<h3 align="left">
<strong>Salarios justos y florecimiento humano</strong></h3>
<h5>
Excelentísimo Monseñor Frank J. Dewane, Obispo de Venice<br />
Presidente del Comité de Justicia Nacional y Desarrollo Humano<br />
Conferencia de Obispos Católicos de los Estados Unidos<br />
3 de septiembre de 2018</h5>
<p> </p>
<p>La difícil situación de nuestros hermanos y hermanas que trabajan arduamente pero a duras penas nos llama a todos a reflexionar de manera especial en este Día del Trabajo. Hoy día, leemos en el Evangelio de san Lucas cómo Jesús, al regresar a su hogar en Nazaret, leyó al profeta Isaías que declaraba en la sinagoga: "El espíritu del Señor está sobre mí, porque me ha ungido y me ha enviado para anunciar la buena nueva a los pobres".<sup>1</sup> Tristemente, en nuestros tiempos demasiadas personas son excluidas, marginadas y privadas de sus derechos políticos y económicos. La lucha de los trabajadores, de los pobres, como nos recuerda el papa Francisco, no es ante todo "algo social, político. ¡No! Es Evangelio puro".<sup>2</sup> Ha habido un progreso notable en nuestra economía en los últimos años, pero también es evidente que para muchos no está donde debería estar, y todos podemos desempeñar un papel productivo para asegurarnos que sea un sistema que haga valer la dignidad de todas las personas.</p>
<p>Las últimas noticias y datos económicos informan que la pobreza continúa disminuyendo, el desempleo ha bajado a uno de sus niveles más bajos en décadas y ha habido un crecimiento económico tal que la producción, las acciones en la bolsa y las ganancias han aumentado a niveles récord. Pero, ¿es esta la historia completa? ¿Ofrecen estos avances una descripción completamente precisa de la vida y luchas cotidianas de los trabajadores, de los que todavía no tienen trabajo o de los subempleados que luchan con salarios bajos?</p>
<p>Es alentador que la pobreza haya disminuido, pero todavía casi una de cada tres personas tiene un ingreso familiar inferior al 200% de la línea federal de pobreza.<sup>3</sup> Hoy en día, hay muchas familias que, incluso si han escapado técnicamente de la pobreza, enfrentan sin embargo dificultades significativas para satisfacer sus necesidades básicas. Los salarios de los trabajadores de bajos ingresos son, según diversos reportes, insuficientes para mantener una familia y proporcionar un futuro seguro. Un estudio reciente examinó si una persona que gana el salario mínimo podía pagar un apartamento promedio de dos habitaciones en su estado de residencia. Sorprendentemente, en los 50 estados, la respuesta fue no.<sup>4</sup> Un informe reciente de la Reserva Federal muestra que cuatro de cada diez adultos no podían cubrir un gasto de emergencia de $400, o tendrían que pedir prestado o vender algo para hacerlo.<sup>5</sup></p>
<p>Aunque el ingreso promedio nacional ha aumentado en los últimos dos años, todavía está relativamente estancado en comparación con los que más ganan. Teniendo en cuenta la inflación y el creciente costo de vida, los trabajadores en el extremo inferior del espectro de ingresos han visto sus salarios estancarse o incluso disminuir en la última década.<sup>6</sup> De 2014 a 2015, la tasa de crecimiento del ingreso fue más pronunciada en el extremo inferior del espectro, posiblemente debido a aumentos estatales en el salario mínimo y el aumento del empleo. Pero de 2015 a 2016, la tasa de crecimiento fue más alta en el extremo superior.<sup>7</sup></p>
<p>Otra tendencia alarmante es la continua disparidad en los ingresos promedio entre diferentes grupos raciales y étnicos y entre mujeres y hombres. Por ejemplo, en 2016, el ingreso familiar promedio de los blancos no hispanos fue $25,500 más que el de los negros, y el ingreso promedio real de las mujeres fue $10,000 más bajo que el de los hombres.<sup>8</sup> Claramente, ningún examen de nuestra economía, a la luz de la justicia, puede dejar de considerar cómo la discriminación basada en la raza y el sexo impacta en la justa distribución de los salarios.</p>
<p>Todo trabajador tiene derecho a un salario justo según el criterio de la justicia, que san Juan XXIII describió como un salario que "permita, tanto a él como a su familia, mantener un género de vida adecuado a la dignidad del hombre".<sup>9</sup> San Juan Pablo II profundizó en las implicaciones sistemáticas del salario justo, describiéndolo como "la <em>verificación concreta de la justicia</em> de todo el sistema socio-económico".<sup>10</sup> Sin embargo, cuando una sociedad falla en la tarea de garantizar que los trabajadores reciban un salario justo, surgen preguntas relativas a los supuestos subyacentes de ese sistema. Una sociedad que está dispuesta a excluir a sus miembros más vulnerables, sugiere el papa Francisco en <em>Evangelii gaudium</em>, es una sociedad en que "el sistema social y económico es injusto en su raíz".<sup>11</sup> El papa Francisco advierte que, en ausencia de una respuesta justa, estas disparidades pueden llevar a profundas divisiones sociales e incluso violencia.</p>
<p>La doctrina tradicional de la Iglesia sostiene que los salarios deben honrar la dignidad y la capacidad de una persona para contribuir al bien común de la sociedad civil y el bienestar familiar. Como dice el <em>Catecismo</em>, "El desarrollo de las actividades económicas y el crecimiento de la producción están destinados a satisfacer las necesidades de los seres humanos. La vida económica no tiende solamente a multiplicar los bienes producidos y a aumentar el lucro o el poder; está ordenada ante todo al servicio de las personas, del hombre entero y de toda la comunidad humana".<sup>12</sup>La economía debe servir a las personas, no al revés. El trabajo es más que una forma de ganarse la vida; es una forma de participar en la creación de Dios. Si se ha de proteger la dignidad del trabajo, entonces deben respetarse los derechos básicos de los trabajadores, incluido el derecho al trabajo productivo, a salarios dignos y justos, a organizarse y afiliarse a sindicatos, a la propiedad privada y a la iniciativa económica.</p>
<p>Todas las personas pueden ayudar a construir una economía que reconozca la dignidad de cada vida. Los dueños y administradores de las empresas tienen el deber de buscar ganancias para garantizar la estabilidad y el éxito a largo plazo de sus empresas. Sin embargo, también "están obligados a considerar el bien de las personas y no solamente el aumento de las ganancias".<sup>13</sup> Una parte de esta obligación es pagar un salario justo, que proporcione un sustento digno para que los trabajadores y sus familias satisfagan sus necesidades básicas . Un salario justo no sólo asegura el bienestar financiero de los trabajadores, sino que fomenta sus dimensiones sociales, culturales y espirituales como individuos y miembros de la sociedad. Esta es la esencia de lo que la Iglesia quiere decir cuando habla de desarrollo humano integral.</p>
<p>La doctrina tradicional de la Iglesia también recuerda que el simple hecho de que trabajadores y empleadores hayan acordado un salario determinado "no basta para justificar moralmente la cuantía del salario".<sup>14</sup> Las cuestiones de justicia y salarios deben examinarse en el contexto del bienestar y florecimiento del individuo, la familia y la sociedad. El costo de la desigualdad salarial severa, además del daño a la dignidad de la persona, es en última instancia la paz y la armonía de la sociedad.</p>
<p>¿Cómo estamos llamados como cristianos, miembros también de la sociedad, a responder a la cuestión de los salarios y la justicia? En primer lugar, estamos llamados a vivir de manera justa en nuestra propia vida sea como dueños de empresas o como trabajadores. En segundo lugar, estamos llamados a solidarizarnos con nuestros hermanos y hermanas pobres y vulnerables. Por último, todos debemos trabajar para reformar y construir una sociedad más justa, que promueva la vida y la dignidad humanas y el bien común de todos. También debemos reconocer los dones y las responsabilidades que Dios nos ha confiado a cada uno de nosotros. En su reciente exhortación apostólica <em>Gaudete et exultate</em>, el papa Francisco nos pide que reflexionemos sobre lo siguiente: "¿Eres un trabajador? Sé santo cumpliendo con honradez y competencia tu trabajo al servicio de los hermanos… ¿Tienes autoridad? Sé santo luchando por el bien común y renunciando a tus intereses personales".<sup>15</sup></p>
<p>Para que la reforma sea posible, el papa Francisco nos llama a ver nuestra "vida como una misión", y añade: "Pregúntale siempre al Espíritu qué espera Jesús de ti en cada momento de tu existencia y en cada opción que debas tomar, para discernir el lugar que eso ocupa en tu propia misión".<sup>16</sup> Esto requerirá la conversión personal y la acción correspondiente en la sociedad civil. En términos prácticos, en la fijación de los salarios, debe haber la debida consideración por lo que garantice de manera justa la seguridad de los empleados para establecer y mantener todos los aspectos significativos de la vida familiar, y cuidar de los miembros de la familia con miras al futuro. Del mismo modo, los responsables de las políticas y finanzas públicas deben considerar las causas estructurales de los bajos salarios, especialmente la forma en que las empresas distribuyen las ganancias, y responder trabajando para abordar las disparidades injustas. Los derechos de los trabajadores a organizarse deben respetarse, así como los derechos de los sindicatos y centros de trabajadores a abogar por salarios justos, beneficios de salud que respeten la vida y la dignidad, y tiempo de descanso, y a protegerse contra el robo de salarios. Los trabajadores también deben acometer su misión con integridad, como dijo recientemente el papa Francisco: "Renovar el trabajo en un sentido ético significa, en efecto, renovar toda la sociedad, ahuyentando el fraude y la mentira, que envenenan el mercado, la convivencia civil y la vida de las personas, especialmente la de las más débiles".<sup>17</sup></p>
<p>Como cristianos, creemos que el conflicto o la enemistad entre los ricos y los pobres no son necesarios o inevitables. Estas divisiones son de hecho pecaminosas. Pero vivimos con la esperanza de que nuestra sociedad pueda ser cada vez más justa cuando haya una conversión del corazón y la mente para que las personas reconozcan la dignidad inherente de todos y trabajen juntas por el bien común. En este Día del Trabajo, comprometámonos todos a la conversión personal del corazón y la mente, y solidaricémonos con los trabajadores abogando por salarios justos y, al hacerlo, "anunciar la buena nueva a los pobres".</p>
<br />
<hr align="left" size="1" width="33%" />
<p><sup>1</sup> <em>Lc</em> 4:18.</p>
<p><sup>2</sup> Papa Francisco, Misa por el noble pueblo chino (24 de mayo de 2018) <a class="external link" title="//w2.vatican.va/content/francesco/es/cotidie/2018/documents/papa-francesco-cotidie_20180524_pueblo-chino.html">https://w2.vatican.va/content/francesco/es/cotidie/2018/documents/papa-francesco-cotidie_20180524_pueblo-chino.html</a><span class="icon" title="external link">. . . </span>.</p>
<p><sup>3</sup> U.S. Dep't of Comm'r, U.S. Census Bureau, Income and Poverty in the United States: 2016, 17 (septiembre de 2017).</p>
<p><sup>4</sup> Tracy Jan, "A minimum wage worker can't afford a 2-bedroom apartment anywhere in the U.S.", <em>The Washington Post</em> (13 de junio de 2018).</p>
<p><sup>5</sup> Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, Report on the Economic Well-Being of U.S. Households in 2017, 21 (mayo de 2018).</p>
<p><sup>6</sup> <em>Véase</em>, p. ej.,U.S. Dep't of Comm'r, U.S. Census Bureau, Income and Poverty in the United States: 2016, 31 (Table-A2) (septiembre de 2017); Patricia Cohen, "Paychecks Lag as Profits Soar, and Prices Erode Wage Gains", <em>The New York Times</em> (13 de julio de 2018).</p>
<p><sup>7</sup> <em>Véase íd</em>.</p>
<p><sup>8</sup> U.S. Dep't of Comm'r, U.S. Census Bureau, Income and Poverty in the United States: 2016, en 5 (Figure 1); 10 (Figure 2).</p>
<p><sup>9</sup> Papa Juan XXII, <em>Pacem in terris</em>, no. 20.</p>
<p><sup>10</sup> Papa Juan Pablo II, <em>Laborem exercens</em>, no. 19 (cursiva en el original).</p>
<p><sup>11</sup> Papa Francisco, <em>Evangelii gaudium</em>, no. 59.</p>
<p><sup>12</sup> <em>Catecismo de la Iglesia Católica</em>, no. 2426.</p>
<p><sup>13</sup> <em>CIC</em>, no. 2432.</p>
<p><sup>14</sup> <em>CIC</em>, no. 2434.</p>
<p><sup>15</sup> Papa Francisco, <em>Gaudete et exultate</em>, no. 14.</p>
<p><sup>16</sup> <em>Gaudete et exultate</em>, no. 23.</p>
<p><sup>17</sup> Papa Francisco, Discurso a los participantes en el Congreso Nacional de la Federación de los Maestros del Trabajo de Italia (15 de junio de 2018), <a class="external link" title="//press.vatican.va/content/salastampa/es/bollettino/pubblico/2018/06/15/pers.html">https://press.vatican.va/content/salastampa/es/bollettino/pubblico/2018/06/15/pers.html</a><span class="icon" title="external link">. . . </span>.</p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p>
Date
Labor Day Statement from the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops
News Intro Text
Just Wages and Human Flourishing
News Item Content
<h3>
Just Wages and Human Flourishing</h3>
<h5>
Most Reverend Frank J. Dewane, Bishop of Venice<br />
Chairman of the Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development<br />
United States Conference of Catholic Bishops<br />
September 3, 2018</h5>
<p> </p>
<p>The plight of our brothers and sisters who work hard but struggle to make ends meet calls us all to reflect in a special way this Labor Day. Today, we read in St. Luke's Gospel how Jesus, upon returning home to Nazareth, read from the prophet Isaiah in the synagogue declaring, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring glad tidings to the poor."<sup>1</sup> Sadly, in our times too many people are excluded, marginalized, and politically and economically disenfranchised. The struggle of working people, of the poor, as Pope Francis reminds us, is not first a "social or political question. No! It is the Gospel, pure and simple."<sup>2</sup> There has been some notable progress in our economy in recent years, but it is also apparent that it is not where it should be for many, and we can all play a productive role in making sure it is a system that upholds the dignity of all people. </p>
<p>Recent economic news and data report that poverty continues to decline, unemployment is down to one of the lowest levels in decades and there has been economic growth with production, stocks and profits rising to record levels. But is this the whole story? Do these developments give an entirely accurate account of the daily lives and struggles of working people, those who are still without work, or the underemployed struggling with low wages?</p>
<p>It is encouraging that poverty has gone down, but still almost one in three persons have a family income below 200% of the federal poverty line.<sup>3</sup> Today, there are many families who, even if they have technically escaped poverty, nevertheless face significant difficulties in meeting basic needs. Wages for lower income workers are, by various accounts, insufficient to support a family and provide a secure future. A recent study examined whether a minimum wage earner could afford an average two-bedroom apartment in their state of residence. Shockingly, in all 50 states, the answer was no.<sup>4</sup> A recent report from the Federal Reserve shows that four in ten adults could not cover a $400 emergency expense, or would rely on borrowing or selling something to do so.<sup>5</sup></p>
<p>Although the national median income has increased over the last two years, it is still relatively stagnant when compared to top earners. Taking into account inflation and the rising cost of living, workers at the lower end of the income spectrum have seen their wages stagnate or even decrease over the last decade.<sup>6</sup> From 2014 to 2015, the rate of income growth was more pronounced at the lower end of the spectrum, possibly due to state increases in the minimum wage and increased employment. But from 2015 to 2016, the rate of growth was highest at the top.<sup>7</sup></p>
<p>Another alarming trend is the continuing disparities in median incomes between different racial and ethnic groups and between women and men. For example, in 2016, the median household income of non-Hispanic whites was $25,500 more than that of blacks, and the real median earnings of women were $10,000 lower than that of men.<sup>8</sup>Clearly no examination of our economy, in light of justice, can exclude consideration of how discrimination based on race and sex impacts the just distribution of wages.</p>
<p>Every worker has a right to a just wage according to the criterion of justice, which St. John XXIII described as wages that, "give the worker and his family a standard of living in keeping with the dignity of the human person."<sup>9</sup> St. John Paul II elaborated on the systematic implications of just wages, describing them as "the concrete means of <em>verifying the justice</em> of the whole socioeconomic system."<sup>10</sup> However, when a society fails in the task of ensuring workers are paid justly, questions arise as to the underlying assumptions of that system. A society that is willing to exclude its most vulnerable members, Pope Francis suggests in <em>Evangelii Gaudium</em>, is one where "the socioeconomic system is unjust at its root."<sup>11</sup> Pope Francis warns that absent a just response, these disparities can lead to deep societal divisions and even violence.</p>
<p>The Church's traditional teaching holds that wages must honor a person's dignity and ability to contribute to the common good of civil society and family well-being. As the Catechism states, "The development of economic activity and growth in production are meant to provide for the needs of human beings. Economic life is not meant solely to multiply goods produced and increase profit or power; it is ordered first of all to the service of persons, of the whole man, and of the entire human community."<sup>12</sup> The economy must serve people, not the other way around. Work is more than a way to make a living; it is a form of participating in God's creation. If the dignity of work is to be protected, then the basic rights of workers must be respected, including the right to productive work, to decent and fair wages, to organizing and joining unions, to private property, and to economic initiative.</p>
<p>All persons can help build an economy that recognizes the dignity of every life. Business owners and managers have a duty to seek profits to ensure the stability and long-term success of their businesses. However, they also "have an obligation to consider the good of persons and not only the increase of profits."<sup>13</sup> A part of this obligation is to pay a just wage, which provides a dignified livelihood for workers and their families to meet their basic needs. A just wage not only provides for workers' financial well-being, but fosters their social, cultural and spiritual dimensions as individuals and members of society. This is the essence of what the Church refers to when speaking of integral human development.</p>
<p>The traditional teaching of the Church also recalls that the mere fact that workers and employers have agreed to a certain wage "is not sufficient to justify morally the amount to be received in wages."<sup>14</sup> Questions of justice and wages need to be examined in the context of the well-being and flourishing of the individual, the family and society. The cost of severe wage inequality, besides injury to the dignity of the person, is ultimately society's peace and harmony.</p>
<p>How are we as Christians, who are members of society, called to respond to the question of wages and justice? First, we are called to live justly in our own lives whether as business owners or workers. Secondly, we are called to stand in solidarity with our poor and vulnerable brothers and sisters. Lastly, we should all work to reform and build a more just society, one which promotes human life and dignity and the common good of all. We also need to recognize the gifts and responsibilities that God has entrusted to each of us. In his recent Apostolic Exhortation <em>Gaudete et Exultate</em>, Pope Francis asks us to reflect on the following: "Do you work for a living? Be holy by laboring with integrity and skill in the service of your brothers and sisters. . . . Are you in a position of authority? Be holy by working for the common good and renouncing personal gain."<sup>15 </sup></p>
<p>For reform to be possible, Pope Francis calls us to see our "life as a mission," and to "ask the Spirit what Jesus expects from you at every moment of your life and in every decision you must make, so as to discern its place in the mission you have received."<sup>16</sup> This will require personal conversion and corresponding action in civil society. Practically speaking, in the setting of wages, there must be due consideration for what justly ensures security for employees to establish and maintain all significant aspects of family life, and care for family members into the future. Likewise, those engaged in public policy and finance should consider the structural causes of low wages, especially in the way that corporations distribute profits, and respond by working to address unjust disparities. The rights of workers to organize should be respected, as should the rights of unions and worker centers to advocate for just wages, health benefits that respect life and dignity, and time for rest, and to guard against wage theft. Labor too, must pursue its mission with integrity, as Pope Francis recently said, "Renewing labour in an ethical sense means in fact renewing the whole of society, banishing fraud and lies which poison the market, civil coexistence and the lives of people, especially the weakest."<sup>17 </sup></p>
<p>As Christians, we believe that conflict or enmity between the rich and the poor is not necessary or inevitable. These divisions are in fact sinful. But we live in the hope that our society can become ever more just when there is conversion of heart and mind so that people recognize the inherent dignity of all and work together for the common good. This Labor Day, let us all commit ourselves to personal conversion of heart and mind and stand in solidarity with workers by advocating for just wages, and in so doing, "bring glad tidings to the poor." </p>
<hr align="left" size="1" width="33%" />
<p><sup>1</sup> <em>Lk</em>. 4:18. </p>
<p><sup>2</sup> "Pope Francis dedicates Mass to 'noble Chinese people,'" Vatican News (May 24, 2018) <a class="external link" title="//www.vaticannews.va/en/pope-francis/mass-casa-santa-marta/2018-05/pope-francis-mass-chinese-people-sheshan.html">https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope-francis/mass-casa-santa-marta/2018-05/pope-francis-mass-chinese-people-sheshan.html</a><span class="icon" title="external link">. . . </span>.</p>
<p><sup>3</sup> U.S. Dep't of Comm'r, U.S. Census Bureau, Income and Poverty in the United States: 2016, 17 (Sept. 2017).</p>
<p><sup>4</sup> Tracy Jan, "A minimum wage worker can't afford a 2-bedroom apartment anywhere in the U.S.," <em>The Washington Post</em> (June 13, 2018). </p>
<p><sup>5</sup> Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, Report on the Economic Well-Being of U.S. Households in 2017, 21 (May 2018).</p>
<p><sup>6</sup> <em>See, e.g.</em>,U.S. Dep't of Comm'r, U.S. Census Bureau, Income and Poverty in the United States: 2016, 31 (Table-A2) (Sept. 2017); Patricia Cohen, "Paychecks Lag as Profits Soar, and Prices Erode Wage Gains," <em>The New York Times</em> (July 13, 2018).</p>
<p><sup>7</sup> <em>See id</em>.</p>
<p><sup>8</sup> U.S. Dep't of Comm'r, U.S. Census Bureau, Income and Poverty in the United States: 2016, at 5 (Figure 1); 10 (Figure 2). </p>
<p><sup>9</sup> Pope John XXII, <em>Pacem in Terris</em>, no. 20.</p>
<p><sup>10</sup> Pope John Paul II, <em>Laborem Exercens</em>, no. 19 (emphasis in original).</p>
<p><sup>11</sup> Pope Francis, <em>Evangelii Gaudium</em>, no. 59. </p>
<p><sup>12</sup> <em>Catechism of the Catholic Church</em>, no. 2426. </p>
<p><sup>13</sup> <em>CCC</em>, no. 2432. </p>
<p><sup>14</sup> <em>CCC</em>, no. 2434. </p>
<p><sup>15</sup> Pope Francis, <em>Gaudete et Exultate</em>, no. 14. </p>
<p><sup>16</sup> <em>Gaudete et Exultate</em>, no. 23. </p>
<p><sup>17</sup> Pope Francis, Address to Participants at the National Convention of the Italian Masters of Labour Federation (June 15, 2018) <a class="external link" title="//w2.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/speeches/2018/june/documents/papa-francesco_20180615_federazione-maestri-dellavoro.html">http://w2.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/speeches/2018/june/documents/papa-francesco_20180615_federazione-maestri-dellavoro.html</a><span class="icon" title="external link">. . . </span>. </p>
<div>
<a href="http://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/human-life-and-dignity/labor-employment/labor-day-statement-2018.cfm">READ MORE>></a></div>
Just Wages and Human Flourishing</h3>
<h5>
Most Reverend Frank J. Dewane, Bishop of Venice<br />
Chairman of the Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development<br />
United States Conference of Catholic Bishops<br />
September 3, 2018</h5>
<p> </p>
<p>The plight of our brothers and sisters who work hard but struggle to make ends meet calls us all to reflect in a special way this Labor Day. Today, we read in St. Luke's Gospel how Jesus, upon returning home to Nazareth, read from the prophet Isaiah in the synagogue declaring, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring glad tidings to the poor."<sup>1</sup> Sadly, in our times too many people are excluded, marginalized, and politically and economically disenfranchised. The struggle of working people, of the poor, as Pope Francis reminds us, is not first a "social or political question. No! It is the Gospel, pure and simple."<sup>2</sup> There has been some notable progress in our economy in recent years, but it is also apparent that it is not where it should be for many, and we can all play a productive role in making sure it is a system that upholds the dignity of all people. </p>
<p>Recent economic news and data report that poverty continues to decline, unemployment is down to one of the lowest levels in decades and there has been economic growth with production, stocks and profits rising to record levels. But is this the whole story? Do these developments give an entirely accurate account of the daily lives and struggles of working people, those who are still without work, or the underemployed struggling with low wages?</p>
<p>It is encouraging that poverty has gone down, but still almost one in three persons have a family income below 200% of the federal poverty line.<sup>3</sup> Today, there are many families who, even if they have technically escaped poverty, nevertheless face significant difficulties in meeting basic needs. Wages for lower income workers are, by various accounts, insufficient to support a family and provide a secure future. A recent study examined whether a minimum wage earner could afford an average two-bedroom apartment in their state of residence. Shockingly, in all 50 states, the answer was no.<sup>4</sup> A recent report from the Federal Reserve shows that four in ten adults could not cover a $400 emergency expense, or would rely on borrowing or selling something to do so.<sup>5</sup></p>
<p>Although the national median income has increased over the last two years, it is still relatively stagnant when compared to top earners. Taking into account inflation and the rising cost of living, workers at the lower end of the income spectrum have seen their wages stagnate or even decrease over the last decade.<sup>6</sup> From 2014 to 2015, the rate of income growth was more pronounced at the lower end of the spectrum, possibly due to state increases in the minimum wage and increased employment. But from 2015 to 2016, the rate of growth was highest at the top.<sup>7</sup></p>
<p>Another alarming trend is the continuing disparities in median incomes between different racial and ethnic groups and between women and men. For example, in 2016, the median household income of non-Hispanic whites was $25,500 more than that of blacks, and the real median earnings of women were $10,000 lower than that of men.<sup>8</sup>Clearly no examination of our economy, in light of justice, can exclude consideration of how discrimination based on race and sex impacts the just distribution of wages.</p>
<p>Every worker has a right to a just wage according to the criterion of justice, which St. John XXIII described as wages that, "give the worker and his family a standard of living in keeping with the dignity of the human person."<sup>9</sup> St. John Paul II elaborated on the systematic implications of just wages, describing them as "the concrete means of <em>verifying the justice</em> of the whole socioeconomic system."<sup>10</sup> However, when a society fails in the task of ensuring workers are paid justly, questions arise as to the underlying assumptions of that system. A society that is willing to exclude its most vulnerable members, Pope Francis suggests in <em>Evangelii Gaudium</em>, is one where "the socioeconomic system is unjust at its root."<sup>11</sup> Pope Francis warns that absent a just response, these disparities can lead to deep societal divisions and even violence.</p>
<p>The Church's traditional teaching holds that wages must honor a person's dignity and ability to contribute to the common good of civil society and family well-being. As the Catechism states, "The development of economic activity and growth in production are meant to provide for the needs of human beings. Economic life is not meant solely to multiply goods produced and increase profit or power; it is ordered first of all to the service of persons, of the whole man, and of the entire human community."<sup>12</sup> The economy must serve people, not the other way around. Work is more than a way to make a living; it is a form of participating in God's creation. If the dignity of work is to be protected, then the basic rights of workers must be respected, including the right to productive work, to decent and fair wages, to organizing and joining unions, to private property, and to economic initiative.</p>
<p>All persons can help build an economy that recognizes the dignity of every life. Business owners and managers have a duty to seek profits to ensure the stability and long-term success of their businesses. However, they also "have an obligation to consider the good of persons and not only the increase of profits."<sup>13</sup> A part of this obligation is to pay a just wage, which provides a dignified livelihood for workers and their families to meet their basic needs. A just wage not only provides for workers' financial well-being, but fosters their social, cultural and spiritual dimensions as individuals and members of society. This is the essence of what the Church refers to when speaking of integral human development.</p>
<p>The traditional teaching of the Church also recalls that the mere fact that workers and employers have agreed to a certain wage "is not sufficient to justify morally the amount to be received in wages."<sup>14</sup> Questions of justice and wages need to be examined in the context of the well-being and flourishing of the individual, the family and society. The cost of severe wage inequality, besides injury to the dignity of the person, is ultimately society's peace and harmony.</p>
<p>How are we as Christians, who are members of society, called to respond to the question of wages and justice? First, we are called to live justly in our own lives whether as business owners or workers. Secondly, we are called to stand in solidarity with our poor and vulnerable brothers and sisters. Lastly, we should all work to reform and build a more just society, one which promotes human life and dignity and the common good of all. We also need to recognize the gifts and responsibilities that God has entrusted to each of us. In his recent Apostolic Exhortation <em>Gaudete et Exultate</em>, Pope Francis asks us to reflect on the following: "Do you work for a living? Be holy by laboring with integrity and skill in the service of your brothers and sisters. . . . Are you in a position of authority? Be holy by working for the common good and renouncing personal gain."<sup>15 </sup></p>
<p>For reform to be possible, Pope Francis calls us to see our "life as a mission," and to "ask the Spirit what Jesus expects from you at every moment of your life and in every decision you must make, so as to discern its place in the mission you have received."<sup>16</sup> This will require personal conversion and corresponding action in civil society. Practically speaking, in the setting of wages, there must be due consideration for what justly ensures security for employees to establish and maintain all significant aspects of family life, and care for family members into the future. Likewise, those engaged in public policy and finance should consider the structural causes of low wages, especially in the way that corporations distribute profits, and respond by working to address unjust disparities. The rights of workers to organize should be respected, as should the rights of unions and worker centers to advocate for just wages, health benefits that respect life and dignity, and time for rest, and to guard against wage theft. Labor too, must pursue its mission with integrity, as Pope Francis recently said, "Renewing labour in an ethical sense means in fact renewing the whole of society, banishing fraud and lies which poison the market, civil coexistence and the lives of people, especially the weakest."<sup>17 </sup></p>
<p>As Christians, we believe that conflict or enmity between the rich and the poor is not necessary or inevitable. These divisions are in fact sinful. But we live in the hope that our society can become ever more just when there is conversion of heart and mind so that people recognize the inherent dignity of all and work together for the common good. This Labor Day, let us all commit ourselves to personal conversion of heart and mind and stand in solidarity with workers by advocating for just wages, and in so doing, "bring glad tidings to the poor." </p>
<hr align="left" size="1" width="33%" />
<p><sup>1</sup> <em>Lk</em>. 4:18. </p>
<p><sup>2</sup> "Pope Francis dedicates Mass to 'noble Chinese people,'" Vatican News (May 24, 2018) <a class="external link" title="//www.vaticannews.va/en/pope-francis/mass-casa-santa-marta/2018-05/pope-francis-mass-chinese-people-sheshan.html">https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope-francis/mass-casa-santa-marta/2018-05/pope-francis-mass-chinese-people-sheshan.html</a><span class="icon" title="external link">. . . </span>.</p>
<p><sup>3</sup> U.S. Dep't of Comm'r, U.S. Census Bureau, Income and Poverty in the United States: 2016, 17 (Sept. 2017).</p>
<p><sup>4</sup> Tracy Jan, "A minimum wage worker can't afford a 2-bedroom apartment anywhere in the U.S.," <em>The Washington Post</em> (June 13, 2018). </p>
<p><sup>5</sup> Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, Report on the Economic Well-Being of U.S. Households in 2017, 21 (May 2018).</p>
<p><sup>6</sup> <em>See, e.g.</em>,U.S. Dep't of Comm'r, U.S. Census Bureau, Income and Poverty in the United States: 2016, 31 (Table-A2) (Sept. 2017); Patricia Cohen, "Paychecks Lag as Profits Soar, and Prices Erode Wage Gains," <em>The New York Times</em> (July 13, 2018).</p>
<p><sup>7</sup> <em>See id</em>.</p>
<p><sup>8</sup> U.S. Dep't of Comm'r, U.S. Census Bureau, Income and Poverty in the United States: 2016, at 5 (Figure 1); 10 (Figure 2). </p>
<p><sup>9</sup> Pope John XXII, <em>Pacem in Terris</em>, no. 20.</p>
<p><sup>10</sup> Pope John Paul II, <em>Laborem Exercens</em>, no. 19 (emphasis in original).</p>
<p><sup>11</sup> Pope Francis, <em>Evangelii Gaudium</em>, no. 59. </p>
<p><sup>12</sup> <em>Catechism of the Catholic Church</em>, no. 2426. </p>
<p><sup>13</sup> <em>CCC</em>, no. 2432. </p>
<p><sup>14</sup> <em>CCC</em>, no. 2434. </p>
<p><sup>15</sup> Pope Francis, <em>Gaudete et Exultate</em>, no. 14. </p>
<p><sup>16</sup> <em>Gaudete et Exultate</em>, no. 23. </p>
<p><sup>17</sup> Pope Francis, Address to Participants at the National Convention of the Italian Masters of Labour Federation (June 15, 2018) <a class="external link" title="//w2.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/speeches/2018/june/documents/papa-francesco_20180615_federazione-maestri-dellavoro.html">http://w2.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/speeches/2018/june/documents/papa-francesco_20180615_federazione-maestri-dellavoro.html</a><span class="icon" title="external link">. . . </span>. </p>
<div>
<a href="http://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/human-life-and-dignity/labor-employment/labor-day-statement-2018.cfm">READ MORE>></a></div>
Date
JSRI is hiring!
News Intro Text
JSRI is hiring an Economic Policy Specialist!
News Item Content
<p>Economic Policy Specialist, Jesuit Social Research Institute, Loyola University New Orleans The Jesuit Social Research Institute (JSRI), College of Arts and Sciences, Loyola University New Orleans invites applications for the position of Economic Policy Specialist holding non tenure track faculty rank as professional staff of the Institute. Qualifications include: advanced degree in economics, public policy, or related field in a social justice-oriented discipline relating to our mission foci (Catholic social thought, migration, poverty, racism) and appropriate for JSRI’s core activities (primarily research and education); a record of experience and collaborative participation in social justice oriented research and education; interest in and ability to work in a team approach; ability to work collaboratively on issues of race and poverty; preferably a member of the Roman Catholic community with a strong background in contemporary Roman Catholic social thought and action; preferably with experience in, or the study of, the Gulf South. Application letter, résumé, three reference letters, one writing example, and an official transcript of highest degree should be addressed to: Executive Director, Jesuit Social Research Institute, Loyola University New Orleans, Campus Box 94, 6363 St. Charles Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70118, email jsri@loyno.edu. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Position available August 1, 2018. Loyola University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer. Women and ethnic minorities are encouraged to apply. Please visit our website at www.loyno.edu/jsri</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Economic Policy Specialist-Position Ad-0718-stf_0.pdf">Economic Policy Specialist-Position Ad-0718-stf</a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Economic Policy Specialist-Position Ad-0718-stf_0.pdf">Economic Policy Specialist-Position Ad-0718-stf</a></p>
Date
CELAM Letter to Donald Trump Regarding Migrant Children
News Intro Text
[July 5, 2018]
News Item Content
<p><strong>Bogota, Colombia, June 19, 2018</strong></p>
<p><strong>Mr. Donald Trump</strong></p>
<p><strong>President of the United States of America</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Mr. President, the undersigned are a group of bishops, priests, consecrated women and men and lay persons who belong to the Latin American and the Caribbean Network of Migration, Refuge and Treatment of Persons (CLAMOR).</p>
<p>We lift our voices on behalf of hundreds of child immigrants who have been separated from their family members, and who are receiving inhumane treatment, as if they were animals, in some border cities of your great Nation. This is a grave sin, which calls out to heaven for justice.</p>
<p>We pray that God will give you a heart of flesh and fill your insides with mercy, that will make it possible for you to hear the cries of so many children and their families and the cries of millions of human beings throughout the entire world.</p>
<p>We also ask God that you, Mr. President, will go down in history as a wise leader who will fill his road with Christian-centered humanity and will know how to guide your Nation in the holistic development of all persons, a development of the totality of every person and of all persons.</p>
<p>On behalf of <em>La Red Latinoamericana Y Caribeña de Migración, Refugio y Trata de Personas, CLAMOR</em>.</p>
<p>+José Luis Azuaje +Gustavo Rodríguez Vega<br />
Archbishop of Maracaibo [Venezuela] Archbishop of Yucatán [Mexico]<br />
President of SELACC President of DEJUSOL</p>
<p><a href="http://www.celam.org/carta-a-presidente-donald-trump-en-defensa-de-ninos-migrantes-2485.html">READ MORE >>></a></p>
<p><strong>Mr. Donald Trump</strong></p>
<p><strong>President of the United States of America</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Mr. President, the undersigned are a group of bishops, priests, consecrated women and men and lay persons who belong to the Latin American and the Caribbean Network of Migration, Refuge and Treatment of Persons (CLAMOR).</p>
<p>We lift our voices on behalf of hundreds of child immigrants who have been separated from their family members, and who are receiving inhumane treatment, as if they were animals, in some border cities of your great Nation. This is a grave sin, which calls out to heaven for justice.</p>
<p>We pray that God will give you a heart of flesh and fill your insides with mercy, that will make it possible for you to hear the cries of so many children and their families and the cries of millions of human beings throughout the entire world.</p>
<p>We also ask God that you, Mr. President, will go down in history as a wise leader who will fill his road with Christian-centered humanity and will know how to guide your Nation in the holistic development of all persons, a development of the totality of every person and of all persons.</p>
<p>On behalf of <em>La Red Latinoamericana Y Caribeña de Migración, Refugio y Trata de Personas, CLAMOR</em>.</p>
<p>+José Luis Azuaje +Gustavo Rodríguez Vega<br />
Archbishop of Maracaibo [Venezuela] Archbishop of Yucatán [Mexico]<br />
President of SELACC President of DEJUSOL</p>
<p><a href="http://www.celam.org/carta-a-presidente-donald-trump-en-defensa-de-ninos-migrantes-2485.html">READ MORE >>></a></p>
Date
Statement from Hope Border Institute about the Immigration Policy Debate
News Intro Text
[June 28, 2018]
News Item Content
<p><span>The decision by the U.S. District Court for the </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://hopeborder.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u%3D0fe4d3ae2cfdbb1cbacfae7ca%26id%3D8097b4b14d%26e%3D769ec8d8fd&source=gmail&ust=1530277285510000&usg=AFQjCNEPJsjBRHC_poRyRVkmcdW2wsoJmQ" href="https://hopeborder.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=0fe4d3ae2cfdbb1cbacfae7ca&id=8097b4b14d&e=769ec8d8fd" target="_blank">Southern District of California in Ms. L. et. al vs. ICE</a><span> to order a halt to the Trump administration’s family separation policy and to require that the government take immediate steps to reunify affected families is an important initial victory. This contrasts sharply with the Supreme Court’s deeply regrettable 5-4 decision in </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://hopeborder.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u%3D0fe4d3ae2cfdbb1cbacfae7ca%26id%3Da183094b0d%26e%3D769ec8d8fd&source=gmail&ust=1530277285510000&usg=AFQjCNEUbqpxBSr7R_2ZIil4_I7okxxSZA" href="https://hopeborder.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=0fe4d3ae2cfdbb1cbacfae7ca&id=a183094b0d&e=769ec8d8fd" target="_blank">Trump vs. Hawaii</a><span> to uphold Trump’s travel ban. Each of the three versions of the travel ban have primarily targeted Muslims and countries with Muslim majorities. These policies embody a discriminatory breach of basic freedoms including religious liberty and violations of internationally recognized human rights.</span></p>
<p><span><span><span>The California decision still does not directly address whether the Trump administration’s insistence on family detention as a “solution” for family separation in its recent Executive Order is lawful. Hope Border Institute will continue to insist that the administration’s family separation and family detention policies violate basic human rights and are unethical and immoral.</span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span><span>The Supreme Court’s majority insists that the current travel ban is different from the detention of persons of Japanese origin during the Second World War upheld in the notorious Korematsu case in 1944. This decision, along with the Dred Scott and Plessy v. Ferguson cases, which reaffirmed the unequal status in the U.S. of African-Americans persons,</span></span></span><span><span><span> are</span></span></span><span><span><span> ranked among the most regressive ever handed down by the Supreme Court. Chief Justice Roberts’ majority opinion even goes so far as to finally overrule Korematsu in an essentially symbolic gesture. However, Justice Sotomayor’s dissent warns that “the Court redeploys the same dangerous logic underlying” in that case, “and merely replaces one ‘gravely wrong’ decision with another.”</span></span></span></p>
<p><a href="https://mailchi.mp/hopeborder.org/hope-statement-high-stakes-immigration?e=769ec8d8fd"><span>READ MORE >></span></a></p>
<p><span><span><span>The California decision still does not directly address whether the Trump administration’s insistence on family detention as a “solution” for family separation in its recent Executive Order is lawful. Hope Border Institute will continue to insist that the administration’s family separation and family detention policies violate basic human rights and are unethical and immoral.</span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span><span>The Supreme Court’s majority insists that the current travel ban is different from the detention of persons of Japanese origin during the Second World War upheld in the notorious Korematsu case in 1944. This decision, along with the Dred Scott and Plessy v. Ferguson cases, which reaffirmed the unequal status in the U.S. of African-Americans persons,</span></span></span><span><span><span> are</span></span></span><span><span><span> ranked among the most regressive ever handed down by the Supreme Court. Chief Justice Roberts’ majority opinion even goes so far as to finally overrule Korematsu in an essentially symbolic gesture. However, Justice Sotomayor’s dissent warns that “the Court redeploys the same dangerous logic underlying” in that case, “and merely replaces one ‘gravely wrong’ decision with another.”</span></span></span></p>
<p><a href="https://mailchi.mp/hopeborder.org/hope-statement-high-stakes-immigration?e=769ec8d8fd"><span>READ MORE >></span></a></p>
Date
Letter from Sister Donna Markham OP To Secretary Nielsen
News Intro Text
[June 22, 2018]
News Item Content
<p>Dear Secretary Nielsen:</p>
<p>I write to you today on behalf of Catholic Charities USA expressing my strong concern over ongoing systemic efforts to separate immigrant children from their parents.</p>
<p>Catholic Charities USA is a national organization representing 166 diocesan Catholic Charities agencies that see first-hand the devastating, life-long impact separation can have on children. Agency staff see the trauma in the foster care children we serve, they see it in the children missing a father or mother, and now they see it in the migrant children placed into foster care and group facilities because they have been taken away from their parents.</p>
<p>As a clinical psychologist, I have also seen the consequences that not having a parent can have on a child, and it is deeply troubling that the administration has chosen to create a generation of traumatized children in the name of border security. Surely as a nation we can debate the best way to secure our border without resorting to creating life-long trauma for children, some of whom are mere toddlers.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.catholiccharitiesusa.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Letter-secretary-Nielsen-regarding-family-separation-003.pdf">READ MORE>></a></p>
<p>I write to you today on behalf of Catholic Charities USA expressing my strong concern over ongoing systemic efforts to separate immigrant children from their parents.</p>
<p>Catholic Charities USA is a national organization representing 166 diocesan Catholic Charities agencies that see first-hand the devastating, life-long impact separation can have on children. Agency staff see the trauma in the foster care children we serve, they see it in the children missing a father or mother, and now they see it in the migrant children placed into foster care and group facilities because they have been taken away from their parents.</p>
<p>As a clinical psychologist, I have also seen the consequences that not having a parent can have on a child, and it is deeply troubling that the administration has chosen to create a generation of traumatized children in the name of border security. Surely as a nation we can debate the best way to secure our border without resorting to creating life-long trauma for children, some of whom are mere toddlers.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.catholiccharitiesusa.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Letter-secretary-Nielsen-regarding-family-separation-003.pdf">READ MORE>></a></p>
Date
Stop family separation!
News Intro Text
[June 20, 2018]
News Item Content
<p><strong><span class="maroon">The separation of children from their parents at the border is an unconscionable violation of the most basic of human rights</span></strong>—<strong><span class="maroon">the right of children and parents to be a family. It is a cruel and inhumane policy that brings great shame to our nation while doing untold damage to the emotional, spiritual, and physical development of vulnerable children.</span></strong> Separating children from their parents is mean-spirited, un-American, and un-Christian and a betrayal of American values. The fact that cruelty to children and their parents is the goal and purpose of the policy—in order to prevent persecuted families from applying for asylum—reveals a stunning lack of respect for the humanity of our immigrant sisters and brothers, who like all of us are Children of God. JSRI calls on all Catholics and People of Good Will to call their Congresspersons (at 202-224-3121) to demand that the Trump Administration end this cruel and destructive policy.</p>
Date
Reconciling with Creation
News Intro Text
[May 30, 2018]
News Item Content
<p>By Ted Arroyo, S.J.</p>
<p>Since JSRI’s founding in 2007, our mission has focused on research, education, and advocacy in the three social justice-related areas of poverty, migration, and racism, especially in the Gulf South region of the United States. </p>
<p>As Jesuits continue our ongoing international mission planning, in the past 25 years three Jesuit General Congregations (34, 35 and 36) have shown a heightened concern about environmental issues and our mission. Citing Pope Francis, the most recent of these general congregations (GC36) calls us to integrate a mission of “reconciliation with creation” as “Companions in a Mission of Reconciliation and Justice,” relating ecological issues as they impact the poor. Especially relevant for JSRI’s mission is the mandate that “experts should contribute to the rigorous analysis of the roots of and solutions to the (environmental) crisis."</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/reconciling-creation">READ MORE >></a></p>
<p>Since JSRI’s founding in 2007, our mission has focused on research, education, and advocacy in the three social justice-related areas of poverty, migration, and racism, especially in the Gulf South region of the United States. </p>
<p>As Jesuits continue our ongoing international mission planning, in the past 25 years three Jesuit General Congregations (34, 35 and 36) have shown a heightened concern about environmental issues and our mission. Citing Pope Francis, the most recent of these general congregations (GC36) calls us to integrate a mission of “reconciliation with creation” as “Companions in a Mission of Reconciliation and Justice,” relating ecological issues as they impact the poor. Especially relevant for JSRI’s mission is the mandate that “experts should contribute to the rigorous analysis of the roots of and solutions to the (environmental) crisis."</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/reconciling-creation">READ MORE >></a></p>
Date
JSRI Advocates for EITC in Louisiana
News Intro Text
[May 24, 2018]
News Item Content
<p>Along with 15 other organizations, JSRI signed a letter to the Louisiana legislature advocating for EITC to be included in the revenue package </p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.labudget.org/lbp/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/EITC-Sign-On-Letter-5.23.pdf">READ THE LETTER >></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.labudget.org/lbp/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/EITC-Sign-On-Letter-5.23.pdf">READ THE LETTER >></a></p>
Date
Contact Your House Representative to Support Unanimous Juries!
News Intro Text
[May 9, 2018]
News Item Content
<p><span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;">As you may know, Louisiana is one of only two states in the country where someone can be convicted of a felony “beyond a reasonable doubt,” even if up to two jurors vote to acquit. (See the </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.theadvocate.com/new_orleans/news/courts/article_85b28154-3492-11e8-bfd2-07fee9f093d2.html&source=gmail&ust=1525978756638000&usg=AFQjCNFIa9oFDCHTl9H3gW0ZJwJZUpKWFA" href="http://www.theadvocate.com/new_orleans/news/courts/article_85b28154-3492-11e8-bfd2-07fee9f093d2.html" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;" target="_blank">excellent reporting on non-unanimous juries by<em> The Advocate</em></a><span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;">.) Examination of historical evidence shows that Louisiana’s non-unanimous jury law was intended by white supremacists to weaken the influence of black voters in jury trials. Louisiana’s split-verdict law is one reason why Louisiana incarcerates more of its citizens per capita than any other state.</span><br style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;" />
<br style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;" />
<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.legis.la.gov/legis/BillInfo.aspx?s%3D18RS%26b%3DSB243%26sbi%3Dy&source=gmail&ust=1525978756638000&usg=AFQjCNEwRUMK4WpXdzE-1Vkh7CV2M2D3fQ" href="http://www.legis.la.gov/legis/BillInfo.aspx?s=18RS&b=SB243&sbi=y" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;" target="_blank">SB 243</a><span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;">, by Senator Try Carter, seeks to change this historic wrong by proposing a constitutional amendment to require unanimous juries for felony convictions in Louisiana. SB 243 is scheduled for a debate and vote on the House floor this </span><span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1536536874" style="border-bottom: 1px dashed rgb(204, 204, 204); position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">Friday, May 11</span></span><span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;">. Because it is a constitutional amendment, it will need a two-thirds majority to pass.</span><br style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;" />
<br style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;" />
<span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;">Please call or email your state representative with this simple message:</span><br style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;" />
<br style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;" />
<em style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;"><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Hello. My name is _______ and I am your constituent residing at ________________. Please support SB 243, which proposes a constitutional amendment to end non-unanimous jury verdicts in Louisiana, when it comes up for vote on the House floor this <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1536536875" style="border-bottom: 1px dashed rgb(204, 204, 204); position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">Friday, May 11</span></span>. Thank you for voting “yes” on SB 243.</span></em><br style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;" />
<br style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;" />
<span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;">Click</span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.legis.la.gov/legis/FindMyLegislators.aspx&source=gmail&ust=1525978756638000&usg=AFQjCNEcRPnGTESVG0izKTG762B2ZvI3xQ" href="http://www.legis.la.gov/legis/FindMyLegislators.aspx" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;" target="_blank"> here</a><span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;"> for the name, phone number, and email of your state representative:</span><br style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;" />
<span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;">Please share this message widely and help make historic change happen!</span><br style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;" />
<span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;"> </span><br style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;" />
<span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;">UPDATE: SB 269, which would have expanded parole eligibility, failed on the Senate floor by a vote of 11-24.</span><br style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;" />
<br style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;" />
<span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;">UPDATE: HB 265, which would restore voting rights to persons on probation and parole after five years, was not passed even though it had more yes than no votes - it had 51 yes votes but needed 53 yes votes to achieve a majority of House votes. It will be heard again on the House floor this </span><span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1536536876" style="border-bottom: 1px dashed rgb(204, 204, 204); position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">Thursday, May 10</span></span><span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;">.</span><span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"> Please also call/email your state representative to support HB 265.</span><br style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;" />
<span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;"> </span><br style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;" />
<span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;">Thank you!</span></p>
<br style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;" />
<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.legis.la.gov/legis/BillInfo.aspx?s%3D18RS%26b%3DSB243%26sbi%3Dy&source=gmail&ust=1525978756638000&usg=AFQjCNEwRUMK4WpXdzE-1Vkh7CV2M2D3fQ" href="http://www.legis.la.gov/legis/BillInfo.aspx?s=18RS&b=SB243&sbi=y" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;" target="_blank">SB 243</a><span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;">, by Senator Try Carter, seeks to change this historic wrong by proposing a constitutional amendment to require unanimous juries for felony convictions in Louisiana. SB 243 is scheduled for a debate and vote on the House floor this </span><span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1536536874" style="border-bottom: 1px dashed rgb(204, 204, 204); position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">Friday, May 11</span></span><span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;">. Because it is a constitutional amendment, it will need a two-thirds majority to pass.</span><br style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;" />
<br style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;" />
<span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;">Please call or email your state representative with this simple message:</span><br style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;" />
<br style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;" />
<em style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;"><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Hello. My name is _______ and I am your constituent residing at ________________. Please support SB 243, which proposes a constitutional amendment to end non-unanimous jury verdicts in Louisiana, when it comes up for vote on the House floor this <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1536536875" style="border-bottom: 1px dashed rgb(204, 204, 204); position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">Friday, May 11</span></span>. Thank you for voting “yes” on SB 243.</span></em><br style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;" />
<br style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;" />
<span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;">Click</span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.legis.la.gov/legis/FindMyLegislators.aspx&source=gmail&ust=1525978756638000&usg=AFQjCNEcRPnGTESVG0izKTG762B2ZvI3xQ" href="http://www.legis.la.gov/legis/FindMyLegislators.aspx" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204); font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;" target="_blank"> here</a><span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;"> for the name, phone number, and email of your state representative:</span><br style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;" />
<span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;">Please share this message widely and help make historic change happen!</span><br style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;" />
<span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;"> </span><br style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;" />
<span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;">UPDATE: SB 269, which would have expanded parole eligibility, failed on the Senate floor by a vote of 11-24.</span><br style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;" />
<br style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;" />
<span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;">UPDATE: HB 265, which would restore voting rights to persons on probation and parole after five years, was not passed even though it had more yes than no votes - it had 51 yes votes but needed 53 yes votes to achieve a majority of House votes. It will be heard again on the House floor this </span><span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1536536876" style="border-bottom: 1px dashed rgb(204, 204, 204); position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">Thursday, May 10</span></span><span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;">.</span><span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"> Please also call/email your state representative to support HB 265.</span><br style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;" />
<span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;"> </span><br style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;" />
<span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;">Thank you!</span></p>
Date
JSRI Hosts Press Release of JustSouth Index 2017
News Intro Text
[May 3, 2018]
News Item Content
<p>Today, JSRI will host a press conference to release the <em>JustSouth Index </em>reort 2017 in Room 421 0f the Canon House Office Building at Geargetown University from 1-2 PM. </p>
<p>Catholic social principles call us to identify and address structural injustices that undermine human dignity and the common good. Inspired by the United Nations’ Human Development Index, the JustSouth Index is intended to stimulate dialogue, foster accountability, and shape solutions to poverty, racial disparities, and immigrant exclusion across the country. This briefing will bring together experts from Loyola University New Orleans, Georgetown University, University of Notre Dame and Catholic Charities USA to discuss the systemic factors that contribute to inequity and innovative approaches for building evidence informed responses.</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JustSouth_Index_2017_press_release.pdf">READ MORE >></a></p>
<p>Catholic social principles call us to identify and address structural injustices that undermine human dignity and the common good. Inspired by the United Nations’ Human Development Index, the JustSouth Index is intended to stimulate dialogue, foster accountability, and shape solutions to poverty, racial disparities, and immigrant exclusion across the country. This briefing will bring together experts from Loyola University New Orleans, Georgetown University, University of Notre Dame and Catholic Charities USA to discuss the systemic factors that contribute to inequity and innovative approaches for building evidence informed responses.</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JustSouth_Index_2017_press_release.pdf">READ MORE >></a></p>
Date
JustSouth Index 2017 Interactive Map
News Intro Text
[May 3, 2018]
News Item Content
<p>This interactive map includes JustSouth Index 2017 findings for all 50 states. Click <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/indicators-map">here</a>.</p>
Date
JSRI Releases JustSouth Index 2017
News Intro Text
[May 3, 2018]
News Item Content
<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2c8aa57f-2677-37b5-c5fa-f0c6d8475170"><span>The 2017 </span><span>JustSouth Index</span><span> report issued today by Loyola University New Orleans’ Jesuit Social Research Institute (JSRI) reveals that states in the Gulf South of the U.S. all fall near the bottom of the index on measures of social justice. The </span><span>JustSouth Index</span><span> measures and compares states’ performance on nine quantitative indicators that fall under the dimensions of poverty, racial disparity and immigrant exclusion—three of the most challenging issues facing the Gulf South today. </span></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2c8aa57f-2677-37b5-c5fa-f0c6d8475170"><span>JSRI officially released the updated </span><span>JustSouth Index </span><span>report and </span><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/indicators-map"><span>interactive website</span></a><span> today during a Congressional briefing in Washington, D.C., held at 1 p.m., Thursday, May 3, 2018 sponsored by Rep. Cedric Richmond (D-LA 2nd District). The </span><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JustSouth_Index_2017.pdf"><span>full report</span></a><span> and an online media packet, as well as an </span><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/indicators-map"><span>interactive website</span></a><span> showing results for all 50 states and Washington, D.C., can be found online.</span></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2c8aa57f-2677-37b5-c5fa-f0c6d8475170"><span>According to the report, the five Gulf South states all ranked especially low, with Louisiana lowest at 51</span><span>st</span><span>, Texas at 49</span><span>th</span><span>, Alabama at 47</span><span>th</span><span>, Mississippi at 46</span><span>th</span><span> and Florida slightly higher in 35</span><span>th</span><span>. Vermont ranked highest in the nation.</span></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2c8aa57f-2677-37b5-c5fa-f0c6d8475170"><span>“The </span><span>JustSouth Index</span><span> serves as a measure of social justice examining key dimensions that must be addressed to improve lives and enhance human dignity</span><span>,” </span><span>said </span><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/bio/fr-fred-kammer-sj-j-d"><span>the Rev. Fred Kammer</span></a><span>, S.J., J.D., executive director of Loyola’s Jesuit Social Research Institute. “Our purposes, rooted deeply in the Scriptures and Catholic social justice traditions, are to educate the people of this region and to point out how we together can make the kind of changes that promote far greater social justice, equity, and inclusion for all of us who live here.” </span></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2c8aa57f-2677-37b5-c5fa-f0c6d8475170"><span>The </span><span>JustSouth Index,</span><span> made possible by a grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, establishes a measure of social justice and provides policymakers, employers and residents with a better understanding of how residents of the Gulf South are faring with regard to basic human rights and needs. </span></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2c8aa57f-2677-37b5-c5fa-f0c6d8475170"><span>“Striving for a socially just society requires critical analyses of the structures of our society to determine if they perpetuate inequity or enhance justice,” JSRI said in the study. “By measuring and comparing all 50 states and Washington D.C. on nine social justice-related indicators, the </span><span>JustSouth Index</span><span> provides a strong starting point for determining not only where inequity is most problematic, but also what systemic factors contribute to the inequity.”</span></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2c8aa57f-2677-37b5-c5fa-f0c6d8475170"><span>The </span><span>Just South Index </span><span>examines nine social indicators that cut across the three key measures that address fundamental concerns of human development: health, education and income. The holistic report is not simply an economic report—it also provides a roadmap for changing the social environment.</span></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2c8aa57f-2677-37b5-c5fa-f0c6d8475170"><span>Key findings for the Gulf South include:</span></span></p>
<ul dir="ltr">
<li>
<p>On nine quantitative indicators related to social justice, Louisiana ranked 51st compared to all other states and Washington D.C. The other Gulf South states ranked similarly low, with Texas at 49th, Alabama at 47th, Mississippi at 46th position, and Florida at 35th.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Mississippi and Louisiana have the lowest average incomes of households among low-income households in the U.S.—$11,051 and $11,076 per year in 2016 respectively. This is compared to the national average of $15,384 per year and $22,970 per year in Alaska, the state that ranked highest on that indicator. Currently, the federal poverty line is $25,100 a year for a family of four.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Texas and Mississippi have the highest shares of low-income people without health insurance the U.S., 34.7% and 32.4% respectively. This compares to a national average of 18.7% and a low of 4.6% in Vermont.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama have three of the top 5 highest gaps in annual earnings between white and minority workers of similar age, level of education, and occupation. Minority workers earn 18.5%, 16.1% and 14.2% less than their white counterparts respectively, compared to a national average gap of 6.1%.</p>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr">One in five of immigrant youth in Texas ages 18 to 25 are considered “disconnected,” meaning that these young people are not attending school and do not have regular employment. This is often the result of inadequate accommodations in public high schools for English language learners and lack of job training or GED services for immigrant youth who have left the public education system.</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr">More than two in ten public schools in Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi are racially segregated, 22.8%, 22.7% and 22.4% respectively. This is compared to the national average of 13.8% and only 1% in Hawaii, the state that ranked highest on that indicator.</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr">More than seven in ten Florida households that are in the lowest income quartile have a “housing cost burden,” meaning that they spend 30 percent or more of their income on housing.</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr">States that have raised the minimum wage, implemented a state Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), expanded Medicaid eligibility, and invested in housing assistance outperformed states that have not. It is imperative that the state lawmakers continue and enhance efforts to address economic and social injustices.</p>
</li>
</ul>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2c8aa57f-2677-37b5-c5fa-f0c6d8475170"><span>Recommendations for improving social justice and equity in the Gulf South include:</span></span></p>
<ul>
<li>
<p>extend Medicaid eligibility under the Affordable Care Act to include households with incomes below 138% of the federal poverty level;</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>raise the minimum wage;</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>strengthen investments in child care assistance and the state Earned Income Tax Credit;</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>create state and local incentives for the development of affordable housing and invest state funds in low-income housing assistance;</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>improve access to English as a Second Language (ESL) and adult education classes;</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>revisit policies that improved integration of schools in the 1970s and 1980s;</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>increase resources to schools that serve primarily minority and immigrant students, and</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>combat employment discrimination and workers’ rights violations through enhanced enforcement efforts by federal, state, and nonprofit entities.</p>
</li>
</ul>
<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2c8aa57f-2677-37b5-c5fa-f0c6d8475170"><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/bio/ali-r-bustamante"><span>Alí R. Bustamante, Ph.D.</span></a><span>, JSRI economic policy specialist and principal investigator on the report, stated that state and local governments as well as nonprofits and employers have the ability to improve social justice for individuals and families in the Gulf South. </span></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2c8aa57f-2677-37b5-c5fa-f0c6d8475170"><span>“The </span><span>JustSouth Index</span><span> finds that states in the Gulf South continue to rank low in the social justice dimensions of poverty, racial disparity, and immigrant exclusion. However, positive societal change is possible when we identify and overcome the systemic factors that contribute to inequity,” Bustamante said. “Inclusive economic and social progress is possible if we focus on equity and justice. The Gulf South states are no exception.”</span></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2c8aa57f-2677-37b5-c5fa-f0c6d8475170"><span>JSRI officially released the updated </span><span>JustSouth Index </span><span>report and </span><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/indicators-map"><span>interactive website</span></a><span> today during a Congressional briefing in Washington, D.C., held at 1 p.m., Thursday, May 3, 2018 sponsored by Rep. Cedric Richmond (D-LA 2nd District). The </span><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JustSouth_Index_2017.pdf"><span>full report</span></a><span> and an online media packet, as well as an </span><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/indicators-map"><span>interactive website</span></a><span> showing results for all 50 states and Washington, D.C., can be found online.</span></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2c8aa57f-2677-37b5-c5fa-f0c6d8475170"><span>According to the report, the five Gulf South states all ranked especially low, with Louisiana lowest at 51</span><span>st</span><span>, Texas at 49</span><span>th</span><span>, Alabama at 47</span><span>th</span><span>, Mississippi at 46</span><span>th</span><span> and Florida slightly higher in 35</span><span>th</span><span>. Vermont ranked highest in the nation.</span></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2c8aa57f-2677-37b5-c5fa-f0c6d8475170"><span>“The </span><span>JustSouth Index</span><span> serves as a measure of social justice examining key dimensions that must be addressed to improve lives and enhance human dignity</span><span>,” </span><span>said </span><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/bio/fr-fred-kammer-sj-j-d"><span>the Rev. Fred Kammer</span></a><span>, S.J., J.D., executive director of Loyola’s Jesuit Social Research Institute. “Our purposes, rooted deeply in the Scriptures and Catholic social justice traditions, are to educate the people of this region and to point out how we together can make the kind of changes that promote far greater social justice, equity, and inclusion for all of us who live here.” </span></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2c8aa57f-2677-37b5-c5fa-f0c6d8475170"><span>The </span><span>JustSouth Index,</span><span> made possible by a grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, establishes a measure of social justice and provides policymakers, employers and residents with a better understanding of how residents of the Gulf South are faring with regard to basic human rights and needs. </span></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2c8aa57f-2677-37b5-c5fa-f0c6d8475170"><span>“Striving for a socially just society requires critical analyses of the structures of our society to determine if they perpetuate inequity or enhance justice,” JSRI said in the study. “By measuring and comparing all 50 states and Washington D.C. on nine social justice-related indicators, the </span><span>JustSouth Index</span><span> provides a strong starting point for determining not only where inequity is most problematic, but also what systemic factors contribute to the inequity.”</span></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2c8aa57f-2677-37b5-c5fa-f0c6d8475170"><span>The </span><span>Just South Index </span><span>examines nine social indicators that cut across the three key measures that address fundamental concerns of human development: health, education and income. The holistic report is not simply an economic report—it also provides a roadmap for changing the social environment.</span></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2c8aa57f-2677-37b5-c5fa-f0c6d8475170"><span>Key findings for the Gulf South include:</span></span></p>
<ul dir="ltr">
<li>
<p>On nine quantitative indicators related to social justice, Louisiana ranked 51st compared to all other states and Washington D.C. The other Gulf South states ranked similarly low, with Texas at 49th, Alabama at 47th, Mississippi at 46th position, and Florida at 35th.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Mississippi and Louisiana have the lowest average incomes of households among low-income households in the U.S.—$11,051 and $11,076 per year in 2016 respectively. This is compared to the national average of $15,384 per year and $22,970 per year in Alaska, the state that ranked highest on that indicator. Currently, the federal poverty line is $25,100 a year for a family of four.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Texas and Mississippi have the highest shares of low-income people without health insurance the U.S., 34.7% and 32.4% respectively. This compares to a national average of 18.7% and a low of 4.6% in Vermont.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama have three of the top 5 highest gaps in annual earnings between white and minority workers of similar age, level of education, and occupation. Minority workers earn 18.5%, 16.1% and 14.2% less than their white counterparts respectively, compared to a national average gap of 6.1%.</p>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr">One in five of immigrant youth in Texas ages 18 to 25 are considered “disconnected,” meaning that these young people are not attending school and do not have regular employment. This is often the result of inadequate accommodations in public high schools for English language learners and lack of job training or GED services for immigrant youth who have left the public education system.</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr">More than two in ten public schools in Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi are racially segregated, 22.8%, 22.7% and 22.4% respectively. This is compared to the national average of 13.8% and only 1% in Hawaii, the state that ranked highest on that indicator.</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr">More than seven in ten Florida households that are in the lowest income quartile have a “housing cost burden,” meaning that they spend 30 percent or more of their income on housing.</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr">States that have raised the minimum wage, implemented a state Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), expanded Medicaid eligibility, and invested in housing assistance outperformed states that have not. It is imperative that the state lawmakers continue and enhance efforts to address economic and social injustices.</p>
</li>
</ul>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2c8aa57f-2677-37b5-c5fa-f0c6d8475170"><span>Recommendations for improving social justice and equity in the Gulf South include:</span></span></p>
<ul>
<li>
<p>extend Medicaid eligibility under the Affordable Care Act to include households with incomes below 138% of the federal poverty level;</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>raise the minimum wage;</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>strengthen investments in child care assistance and the state Earned Income Tax Credit;</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>create state and local incentives for the development of affordable housing and invest state funds in low-income housing assistance;</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>improve access to English as a Second Language (ESL) and adult education classes;</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>revisit policies that improved integration of schools in the 1970s and 1980s;</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>increase resources to schools that serve primarily minority and immigrant students, and</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>combat employment discrimination and workers’ rights violations through enhanced enforcement efforts by federal, state, and nonprofit entities.</p>
</li>
</ul>
<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2c8aa57f-2677-37b5-c5fa-f0c6d8475170"><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/bio/ali-r-bustamante"><span>Alí R. Bustamante, Ph.D.</span></a><span>, JSRI economic policy specialist and principal investigator on the report, stated that state and local governments as well as nonprofits and employers have the ability to improve social justice for individuals and families in the Gulf South. </span></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2c8aa57f-2677-37b5-c5fa-f0c6d8475170"><span>“The </span><span>JustSouth Index</span><span> finds that states in the Gulf South continue to rank low in the social justice dimensions of poverty, racial disparity, and immigrant exclusion. However, positive societal change is possible when we identify and overcome the systemic factors that contribute to inequity,” Bustamante said. “Inclusive economic and social progress is possible if we focus on equity and justice. The Gulf South states are no exception.”</span></span></p>
Date
Center for Migration Studies Podcast with His Eminence Joseph William Cardinal Tobin
News Intro Text
[April 26, 2018]
News Item Content
<p>Center for Migration Studies</p>
<p>This episode features a conversation with His Eminence Joseph William Cardinal Tobin, Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Newark, New Jersey.</p>
<p>Cardinal Tobin is well-known for his support of migrants and refugees – accompanying immigrants to deportation hearings and speaking out against unjust immigration policies. In 2015, as Archbishop of Indianapolis, he famously directed Catholic Charities of Indianapolis to resettle a Syrian refugee family in the Archdiocese, against the wishes of then-Indiana governor, and now Vice-President, Mike Pence.</p>
<p>In this interview with CMS’s Executive Director, Donald Kerwin, Cardinal Tobin discusses Catholic teaching on migrants and refugees, developments in immigration and refugee policy, ideological polarization surrounding immigration in the United States, the provision of sanctuary to migrants, and how faith communities can become more involved on immigration issues.</p>
<p><a href="http://cmsny.org/multimedia/cmsonair-cardinal-tobin/">LISTEN HERE >></a></p>
<p>This episode features a conversation with His Eminence Joseph William Cardinal Tobin, Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Newark, New Jersey.</p>
<p>Cardinal Tobin is well-known for his support of migrants and refugees – accompanying immigrants to deportation hearings and speaking out against unjust immigration policies. In 2015, as Archbishop of Indianapolis, he famously directed Catholic Charities of Indianapolis to resettle a Syrian refugee family in the Archdiocese, against the wishes of then-Indiana governor, and now Vice-President, Mike Pence.</p>
<p>In this interview with CMS’s Executive Director, Donald Kerwin, Cardinal Tobin discusses Catholic teaching on migrants and refugees, developments in immigration and refugee policy, ideological polarization surrounding immigration in the United States, the provision of sanctuary to migrants, and how faith communities can become more involved on immigration issues.</p>
<p><a href="http://cmsny.org/multimedia/cmsonair-cardinal-tobin/">LISTEN HERE >></a></p>
Date
Building a Culture of Encounter
News Intro Text
[April 24, 2018]
News Item Content
<p>Read Dr. Sue Weishar's article for the April 2018 edition of <em>JustSouth Monthly </em>about our latest Ignatian Teach-In on Mass Incarceration. </p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/building-culture-encounter">READ MORE >></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/building-culture-encounter">READ MORE >></a></p>
Date
It's Loyola Loyal Day
News Intro Text
[April 11, 2018]
News Item Content
<p>Today is Loyola Loyal Day!</p>
<p>Join the Loyola community in the third annual Loyola Loyal Day, a 24-hour fundraising campaign, to celebrate the founding of Loyola University New Orleans. The celebration starts today at noon and concludes April 12th at noon (CST). Will you help us reach our goal of 500 gifts in 24 hours?</p>
<p>GIVE</p>
<p>Make your gift to the Loyola Fund, the University's unrestricted fund, which helps fill the gap between tuition revenue and operating expenses OR designate your gift to the program of your choice. Each gift, no matter the amount, puts us one step closer to our goal of 500 gifts in 24 hours. <a href="https://spark.loyno.edu/pages/jsri">Click here</a> to make your gift to JSRI.</p>
<p>SHARE</p>
<p>As faculty and staff members, you interact with our students daily, and the close relationships you make with students go on to be one of the hallmarks of a Loyola New Orleans education. We hope you will help share the Loyola Loyal Day message with your network of current and former students, as well as your friends. Click here to see the social media toolkit and help share our message.</p>
<p>CELEBRATE</p>
<p>Join the Loyola Alumni Association at the Loyola tent at YLC Wednesday at the Square. The celebration starts at 5:00 p.m. at Lafayette Square. We will be dancing to Flow Tribe and celebrating Loyola’s 106th birthday. We’ll be raffling off some great Loyola prizes each hour. Learn more here.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Give. Share. Celebrate!</p>
<p>Join the Loyola community in the third annual Loyola Loyal Day, a 24-hour fundraising campaign, to celebrate the founding of Loyola University New Orleans. The celebration starts today at noon and concludes April 12th at noon (CST). Will you help us reach our goal of 500 gifts in 24 hours?</p>
<p>GIVE</p>
<p>Make your gift to the Loyola Fund, the University's unrestricted fund, which helps fill the gap between tuition revenue and operating expenses OR designate your gift to the program of your choice. Each gift, no matter the amount, puts us one step closer to our goal of 500 gifts in 24 hours. <a href="https://spark.loyno.edu/pages/jsri">Click here</a> to make your gift to JSRI.</p>
<p>SHARE</p>
<p>As faculty and staff members, you interact with our students daily, and the close relationships you make with students go on to be one of the hallmarks of a Loyola New Orleans education. We hope you will help share the Loyola Loyal Day message with your network of current and former students, as well as your friends. Click here to see the social media toolkit and help share our message.</p>
<p>CELEBRATE</p>
<p>Join the Loyola Alumni Association at the Loyola tent at YLC Wednesday at the Square. The celebration starts at 5:00 p.m. at Lafayette Square. We will be dancing to Flow Tribe and celebrating Loyola’s 106th birthday. We’ll be raffling off some great Loyola prizes each hour. Learn more here.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Give. Share. Celebrate!</p>
Date
JSRI Co-Sponsors Border Immersion Trip
News Intro Text
[April 5, 2018]
News Item Content
<p>Here to Learn: El Paso Border Immersion Experience and the Grace of “Encounter”</p>
<p>In the heart of El Paso’s Segundo Barrio neighborhood, at the edge of the United States – Mexico border, Sacred Heart Parish is a source of help and hope for its community. A Jesuit parish since its founding 120 years ago, Sacred Heart, or Parroquia Sagrado Corazón, is more than a religious home; it also provides programs for the immigrant community, a food bank and a weekend food service and catering project. This March, it was a focal point for a border immersion experience, welcoming 18 Jesuit partners in mission who came to learn more about immigration and the experiences of people who seek to start new lives in the United States.</p>
<p>Father Rafael García, SJ, associate pastor of Sacred Heart Parish, and Mary Baudouin, USA Central and Southern Province’s provincial assistant for social ministry, organized and led the border immersion in El Paso and Ciudad Juárez, Mexico, March 15-18. The trip included four full days of opportunities to hear diverse perspectives about immigration, encounter migrants who have come to the United States seeking asylum, safety and stability and learn about some of the organizations migrants encounter.</p>
<p>Immersion trip participants traveled to El Paso from all over the Jesuits USA Central and Southern Province and beyond. Some were members of Jesuit parishes in Kansas City, Mo.; New Orleans, Saint Louis and San Antonio, Texas. Other participants are employees of Jesuit apostolates, including the Ignatian Solidarity Network, Loyola University and Jesuit Volunteer Corps. Two Jesuit novices who are ministering in El Paso also joined the group. Participants’ ages ranged from 22 to 81, establishing a foundation for rich, intergenerational dialogue and reflection. The convent of the Sisters of St. Joseph, where the group stayed, provided a welcoming and reflective space to unpack each day.</p>
<p>The Spanish word for “encounter” – encuentro – translates more precisely to “discovery.” Indeed, immersion participants related that their experiences on the trip revealed the deeper aspect of the word, as they not only encountered new facts and ideas, but also felt authentic connections, kindled by meeting people where they were on their journey.</p>
<p>While visiting the border wall between El Paso and Ciudad Juárez, participants met with a Border Patrol agent who discussed his work. His was the first of many varied points of view on migration that the visitors would hear. Members of the group also visited El Paso nonprofits like Diocesan Migrant and Refugee Services and Manos Amigas, each of which provides important services to immigrants and refugees, from safe shelter to legal assistance.</p>
<div>
<p>Anna Hey of Diocesan Migrant and Refugee Services, Dylan Corbett of Hope Border Institute, and Ruben Garcia of Annunciation House, each offered their expertise and knowledge to aid the visitors in understanding the complexity and challenges of the U.S. immigration system. </p>
<p>Hey, an attorney, presented on the challenges and myths about the immigration system, noting that in El Paso, only about 2% of applicants are granted asylum, compared to the national average of 50%. </p>
<p>“Seeking asylum is not a crime, and denial in an asylum case can be a death sentence” when people are fleeing violence, threats, extortion, political instability and extreme poverty, Hey noted.</p>
<p>Across the border in Anapra, one of several impoverished neighborhoods in Juárez, the group toured a construction site where nearly 40 young volunteers from the community were helping to build sustainable, low-cost houses, and visited a parish, a nonprofit and a support group for impoverished women with cancer. Members of the support group, housed at Centro Mujeres Tonantzin, shared their testimonies and experiences with the health care system. The system, they said, looks great on paper, but fails to meet the needs of those on the margins. Citing one example of unforeseen challenges, the women explained that chemotherapy can only be received in the capital city four hours away. That requires the sick woman to arrange for child care, then pay the $70 bus fare just to make it to the treatment center. If they also have to pay for lodging, it can become an insurmountable burden for women in rural areas. This is one of the many “problems that come from being a poor woman with cancer,” said one member of the support group.</p>
<p>While in Anapra, the group also visited the Kansas City organization Manos Amigas, which supports ministry to students and the elderly, and has been accompanying this community for over 25 years.</p>
<div>
<p>One beautiful and challenging encounter was a visit to the El Paso U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention center where migrants are held while they await trial. Father Garcia regularly provides pastoral care there. Father García and Fr. Eddie Gros, pastor of Holy Name Parish, New Orleans, concelebrated two masses for detainees. </p>
<p><span>Participants also learned about the many ways in which the combined community of El Paso and Ciudad Juárez accompanies those who are affected by the issues and challenges of life on the border. The two cities, nestled together, divided only by a border, are forever encountering each other. Many people live as if there is no border and see El Paso and Ciudad Juárez as one community that will not be isolated by a border. In some areas, like Anapra, that border is an 18-foot steel fence, and in others, it is a natural boundary such as a river.</span></p>
<p>Ruben Garcia, director of Annunciation House, a hospitality home for migrants, said, “The world will no longer allow us to live in isolation.” It is imperative, Garcia urged, that U.S. citizens come to see the nation’s “intimate relationship” with migrants, many of whom are fleeing their home countries for reasons not unconnected to American foreign policy, the drug trade and a low standard of living.</p>
<div>
<p>The group had ample time to reflect on their experiences, the moments of challenge, confusion, discomfort and joy throughout the trip, and the pull to be more radically welcoming to all God’s people.</p>
<p>Father García and Mary Baudouin hope this immersion will be the first of many opportunities to experience encuentro at the border. At the end of their stay, the group was invited to question: What am I being called to do in response to what I have seen? What can I do to continue to learn about borders in my community? </p>
<p>The border immersion experience was a collaboration between the USA Central and Southern Province and the Jesuit Social Research Institute (JSRI). JSRI, which this year celebrates its tenth anniversary, is itself a collaboration between the UCS Province and Loyola University New Orleans. Based at the university, JSRI seeks to educate and advocate on issues of race, poverty and migration. Father García, who ministers to immigrants and refugees in El Paso, is also an associate of JSRI.</p>
<p><a href="http://jesuitscentralsouthern.org/story?TN=PROJECT-20180403032150">SEE PICTURES >></a></p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p>
<p>In the heart of El Paso’s Segundo Barrio neighborhood, at the edge of the United States – Mexico border, Sacred Heart Parish is a source of help and hope for its community. A Jesuit parish since its founding 120 years ago, Sacred Heart, or Parroquia Sagrado Corazón, is more than a religious home; it also provides programs for the immigrant community, a food bank and a weekend food service and catering project. This March, it was a focal point for a border immersion experience, welcoming 18 Jesuit partners in mission who came to learn more about immigration and the experiences of people who seek to start new lives in the United States.</p>
<p>Father Rafael García, SJ, associate pastor of Sacred Heart Parish, and Mary Baudouin, USA Central and Southern Province’s provincial assistant for social ministry, organized and led the border immersion in El Paso and Ciudad Juárez, Mexico, March 15-18. The trip included four full days of opportunities to hear diverse perspectives about immigration, encounter migrants who have come to the United States seeking asylum, safety and stability and learn about some of the organizations migrants encounter.</p>
<p>Immersion trip participants traveled to El Paso from all over the Jesuits USA Central and Southern Province and beyond. Some were members of Jesuit parishes in Kansas City, Mo.; New Orleans, Saint Louis and San Antonio, Texas. Other participants are employees of Jesuit apostolates, including the Ignatian Solidarity Network, Loyola University and Jesuit Volunteer Corps. Two Jesuit novices who are ministering in El Paso also joined the group. Participants’ ages ranged from 22 to 81, establishing a foundation for rich, intergenerational dialogue and reflection. The convent of the Sisters of St. Joseph, where the group stayed, provided a welcoming and reflective space to unpack each day.</p>
<p>The Spanish word for “encounter” – encuentro – translates more precisely to “discovery.” Indeed, immersion participants related that their experiences on the trip revealed the deeper aspect of the word, as they not only encountered new facts and ideas, but also felt authentic connections, kindled by meeting people where they were on their journey.</p>
<p>While visiting the border wall between El Paso and Ciudad Juárez, participants met with a Border Patrol agent who discussed his work. His was the first of many varied points of view on migration that the visitors would hear. Members of the group also visited El Paso nonprofits like Diocesan Migrant and Refugee Services and Manos Amigas, each of which provides important services to immigrants and refugees, from safe shelter to legal assistance.</p>
<div>
<p>Anna Hey of Diocesan Migrant and Refugee Services, Dylan Corbett of Hope Border Institute, and Ruben Garcia of Annunciation House, each offered their expertise and knowledge to aid the visitors in understanding the complexity and challenges of the U.S. immigration system. </p>
<p>Hey, an attorney, presented on the challenges and myths about the immigration system, noting that in El Paso, only about 2% of applicants are granted asylum, compared to the national average of 50%. </p>
<p>“Seeking asylum is not a crime, and denial in an asylum case can be a death sentence” when people are fleeing violence, threats, extortion, political instability and extreme poverty, Hey noted.</p>
<p>Across the border in Anapra, one of several impoverished neighborhoods in Juárez, the group toured a construction site where nearly 40 young volunteers from the community were helping to build sustainable, low-cost houses, and visited a parish, a nonprofit and a support group for impoverished women with cancer. Members of the support group, housed at Centro Mujeres Tonantzin, shared their testimonies and experiences with the health care system. The system, they said, looks great on paper, but fails to meet the needs of those on the margins. Citing one example of unforeseen challenges, the women explained that chemotherapy can only be received in the capital city four hours away. That requires the sick woman to arrange for child care, then pay the $70 bus fare just to make it to the treatment center. If they also have to pay for lodging, it can become an insurmountable burden for women in rural areas. This is one of the many “problems that come from being a poor woman with cancer,” said one member of the support group.</p>
<p>While in Anapra, the group also visited the Kansas City organization Manos Amigas, which supports ministry to students and the elderly, and has been accompanying this community for over 25 years.</p>
<div>
<p>One beautiful and challenging encounter was a visit to the El Paso U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention center where migrants are held while they await trial. Father Garcia regularly provides pastoral care there. Father García and Fr. Eddie Gros, pastor of Holy Name Parish, New Orleans, concelebrated two masses for detainees. </p>
<p><span>Participants also learned about the many ways in which the combined community of El Paso and Ciudad Juárez accompanies those who are affected by the issues and challenges of life on the border. The two cities, nestled together, divided only by a border, are forever encountering each other. Many people live as if there is no border and see El Paso and Ciudad Juárez as one community that will not be isolated by a border. In some areas, like Anapra, that border is an 18-foot steel fence, and in others, it is a natural boundary such as a river.</span></p>
<p>Ruben Garcia, director of Annunciation House, a hospitality home for migrants, said, “The world will no longer allow us to live in isolation.” It is imperative, Garcia urged, that U.S. citizens come to see the nation’s “intimate relationship” with migrants, many of whom are fleeing their home countries for reasons not unconnected to American foreign policy, the drug trade and a low standard of living.</p>
<div>
<p>The group had ample time to reflect on their experiences, the moments of challenge, confusion, discomfort and joy throughout the trip, and the pull to be more radically welcoming to all God’s people.</p>
<p>Father García and Mary Baudouin hope this immersion will be the first of many opportunities to experience encuentro at the border. At the end of their stay, the group was invited to question: What am I being called to do in response to what I have seen? What can I do to continue to learn about borders in my community? </p>
<p>The border immersion experience was a collaboration between the USA Central and Southern Province and the Jesuit Social Research Institute (JSRI). JSRI, which this year celebrates its tenth anniversary, is itself a collaboration between the UCS Province and Loyola University New Orleans. Based at the university, JSRI seeks to educate and advocate on issues of race, poverty and migration. Father García, who ministers to immigrants and refugees in El Paso, is also an associate of JSRI.</p>
<p><a href="http://jesuitscentralsouthern.org/story?TN=PROJECT-20180403032150">SEE PICTURES >></a></p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p>
Date
JustSouth Monthly: Arming Teachers
News Intro Text
[April 4, 2018]
News Item Content
<p>by Nicholas Mitchell, Ph.D.</p>
<p>On February 14, 2018, 17 people were murdered and 17 people were wounded at Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida.[1] None of the victims had walked into their school that day expecting to be the victim of a mass shooting. None of the family members of the victims said goodbye to their loved ones that morning expecting it to be the last time. Most people never will experience the horror that the students and faculty of Stoneman Douglas were confronted with; but, because of the availability of social media, the world got to witness the horror of those trapped in the school in real time.[2] The Parkland mass shooting has proven to be a catalyst for a new phase of the very public intergenerational discourse about gun control and school safety. A policy suggestion that has emerged on both the local and national levels is the arming of teachers to protect students from an attacker.</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/arming-teachers">READ MORE >></a></p>
<p>On February 14, 2018, 17 people were murdered and 17 people were wounded at Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida.[1] None of the victims had walked into their school that day expecting to be the victim of a mass shooting. None of the family members of the victims said goodbye to their loved ones that morning expecting it to be the last time. Most people never will experience the horror that the students and faculty of Stoneman Douglas were confronted with; but, because of the availability of social media, the world got to witness the horror of those trapped in the school in real time.[2] The Parkland mass shooting has proven to be a catalyst for a new phase of the very public intergenerational discourse about gun control and school safety. A policy suggestion that has emerged on both the local and national levels is the arming of teachers to protect students from an attacker.</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/arming-teachers">READ MORE >></a></p>
Date
Letters: Support increase in minimum wage
News Intro Text
[March 16, 2018]
News Item Content
<p>by Alí Bustamante, Ph.D.</p>
<p>Soon, Louisiana's Senate Labor and Industrial Committee will hear multiple bills from state Sens. Troy Carter and J.P. Morrell that promote human dignity in Louisiana by allowing workers to support themselves, their families and the common good through livable wages and equal pay.</p>
<p>Catholic social thought highlights two fundamental principles with regards to wages: First, a just wage must provide a dignified livelihood for the worker and his or her family; and second, government is responsible for protecting the rights of workers.</p>
<p>Despite this moral imperative for employers and obligation on governments, wages in Louisiana are among the lowest in the country. Low wages contribute to deep and pervasive poverty. In 2016, one in five residents and one in seven families was in poverty in Louisiana. Without sufficient incomes, a dignified livelihood is not within the reach of many working Louisianians and their families.</p>
<p>The response from state legislators to the injustice of working people earning poverty wages has been woefully lacking. State legislators ought to support minimum wage laws and equal pay while also strengthening labor protections. In actuality, many state legislators have made the lives of workers more difficult by passing laws that pre-empt cities and counties from legislating their own local minimum wage laws.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/opinion/letters/article_4a8b1cbe-27de-11e8-9aad-9f2ecd7e29f5.html">READ MORE >></a></p>
<p>Soon, Louisiana's Senate Labor and Industrial Committee will hear multiple bills from state Sens. Troy Carter and J.P. Morrell that promote human dignity in Louisiana by allowing workers to support themselves, their families and the common good through livable wages and equal pay.</p>
<p>Catholic social thought highlights two fundamental principles with regards to wages: First, a just wage must provide a dignified livelihood for the worker and his or her family; and second, government is responsible for protecting the rights of workers.</p>
<p>Despite this moral imperative for employers and obligation on governments, wages in Louisiana are among the lowest in the country. Low wages contribute to deep and pervasive poverty. In 2016, one in five residents and one in seven families was in poverty in Louisiana. Without sufficient incomes, a dignified livelihood is not within the reach of many working Louisianians and their families.</p>
<p>The response from state legislators to the injustice of working people earning poverty wages has been woefully lacking. State legislators ought to support minimum wage laws and equal pay while also strengthening labor protections. In actuality, many state legislators have made the lives of workers more difficult by passing laws that pre-empt cities and counties from legislating their own local minimum wage laws.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/opinion/letters/article_4a8b1cbe-27de-11e8-9aad-9f2ecd7e29f5.html">READ MORE >></a></p>
Date
JSRI Releases JustSouth Quarterly Winter 2018
News Intro Text
[March 6, 2018]
News Item Content
<p>JSRI recently published our <em>JustSouth Quarterly </em>Winter 2018 edition. To read the full edition click <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/justsouth-quarterly">here</a>. To subscribe to our publications and receive our publications right to your mailbox, sign-up <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/subscribe-jsri-publications">here</a>.</p>
Date
Update: Dozens of Catholics arrested as they ask Congress to help 'Dreamers'
News Intro Text
[February 28, 2018]
News Item Content
<p>By Rhina Guidos, Catholic News Service</p>
<div>
<p>WASHINGTON (CNS) -- Dozens of Catholics, including men and women religious, were arrested near the U.S. Capitol Feb. 27 in the rotunda of a Senate building in Washington as they called on lawmakers to help young undocumented adults brought to the U.S. as minors obtain some sort of permanent legal status.</p>
<p>Some of them sang and prayed, and many of them -- such as Dominican Sister Elise Garcia and Mercy Sister JoAnn Persch -- said they had no option but to participate in the act of civil disobedience to speak out against the failure of Congress and the Trump administration to help the young adults.</p>
<p>"I have never been arrested in my life, but with the blessing of my community, I am joining with two dozen other Catholic sisters and Catholic allies to risk arrest today as an act of solidarity with our nation's wonderful, beautiful Dreamers," said Sister Garcia. "To our leaders in Congress and in the White House, I say 'arrest a nun, not a Dreamer.'"</p>
<p>She said she was there to support those like Daniel Neri, a Catholic from Indiana who was present at the event and would benefit from any legislation to help the 1.8 million estimated young adults in the country facing an uncertain future.</p>
<p>"What are we doing to the body of Christ when are hurting families? When we are hurting people?" he asked.</p>
<p>He also said, he wanted people to know that "we are not criminals, we are not rapists, we are good people."</p>
<p>Young adults called "Dreamers" -- a reference to the DREAM Act, one of the proposed pieces of legislation that could help them stay in the country legally -- have to go through extensive background checks, he said, and they wouldn't pass those checks if they were troublemakers.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.catholicnews.com/services/englishnews/2018/dozens-of-catholics-arrested-as-they-call-on-congress-to-help-dreamers.cfm">READ MORE >></a></p>
</div>
<p> </p>
<div>
<p>WASHINGTON (CNS) -- Dozens of Catholics, including men and women religious, were arrested near the U.S. Capitol Feb. 27 in the rotunda of a Senate building in Washington as they called on lawmakers to help young undocumented adults brought to the U.S. as minors obtain some sort of permanent legal status.</p>
<p>Some of them sang and prayed, and many of them -- such as Dominican Sister Elise Garcia and Mercy Sister JoAnn Persch -- said they had no option but to participate in the act of civil disobedience to speak out against the failure of Congress and the Trump administration to help the young adults.</p>
<p>"I have never been arrested in my life, but with the blessing of my community, I am joining with two dozen other Catholic sisters and Catholic allies to risk arrest today as an act of solidarity with our nation's wonderful, beautiful Dreamers," said Sister Garcia. "To our leaders in Congress and in the White House, I say 'arrest a nun, not a Dreamer.'"</p>
<p>She said she was there to support those like Daniel Neri, a Catholic from Indiana who was present at the event and would benefit from any legislation to help the 1.8 million estimated young adults in the country facing an uncertain future.</p>
<p>"What are we doing to the body of Christ when are hurting families? When we are hurting people?" he asked.</p>
<p>He also said, he wanted people to know that "we are not criminals, we are not rapists, we are good people."</p>
<p>Young adults called "Dreamers" -- a reference to the DREAM Act, one of the proposed pieces of legislation that could help them stay in the country legally -- have to go through extensive background checks, he said, and they wouldn't pass those checks if they were troublemakers.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.catholicnews.com/services/englishnews/2018/dozens-of-catholics-arrested-as-they-call-on-congress-to-help-dreamers.cfm">READ MORE >></a></p>
</div>
<p> </p>
Date
Of Guns, Dreamers, and Politics
News Intro Text
[February 23, 2018]
News Item Content
<p>by Fred Kammer, S.J., J.D.</p>
<p>The headlines staring from my morning newspapers are all too familiar: Another unstable person uses an automatic weapon to slaughter teenagers at their high school and the U.S. Senate stumbles again on immigration reforms. We have been down both roads far too many times and bemoaned our inability to take common sense steps to remove combat weapons from our communities or to reasonably accommodate people fleeing poverty, starvation, and war. The world’s oldest continuous democracy flails about in the face of real but not insoluble problems.</p>
<div>
<p>Despair is not an option. While almost everyone acknowledges the current heightened political polarization, we must not abandon the political process. Political participation is one essential way in which we exercise our responsibility for co-creating the world entrusted to us by God and through which we express the communitarian nature of the human person. “Justice is both the aim and the intrinsic criterion of all politics.”[1] Political participation also enhances human freedom because, “Freedom acquires new strength … when a person consents to the unavoidable requirements of social life, takes on the manifold demands of human partnership, and commits himself to the service of the humancommunity.”[2]</p>
<p>As the U.S. Bishops put it recently, “In the Catholic Tradition, responsible citizenship is a virtue, and participation in political life is a moral obligation.”[3] This obligation flows from our duty to promote the common good and “is inherent in the dignity of the human person.”[4] </p>
<p>When we look at the issues facing us now, despair tempts us powerfully. Yes, the National Rifle Association repeatedly has used its disproportionate wealth and power in servitude to gun manufacturers to block the expressed desire of the American people for safer streets and safer schools. Yes, unwarranted fears of dark-skinned foreigners have been stoked intentionally for political gain, even from the highest offices in the land. But there is an antidote to despair.</p>
<p>It is hope. Hope tells us that we must go to the public square again and again, demanding what is right and just from policy-makers—whose fundamental moral responsibility is the common good. They must be reminded continually that they are to serve “we the people,” not party, nor donor, nor career. If that is too high a moral standard for them, they should step down; or we the people must remove them from office. Hope tells us that “no” is not an acceptable answer and failure is not an acceptable endpoint.</p>
<p>In 1986, in the face of the Communist oppression of his homeland, Czech poet Václav Havel described hope this way:</p>
<p class="rteindent1">Hope, in this deep and powerful sense, is not the same as joy that things are going well, or willingness to invest in enterprises that are obviously headed for early success, but rather, an ability to work for something because it is good, not just because it stands a chance to succeed.</p>
<p class="rteindent1">Hope is definitely not the same thing as optimism. It is not the conviction that something will turn out well, but the certainty that something makes sense, regardless of how it turns out. . . . It is this hope, above all, which gives us the strength to live and continually try new things, even in conditions that seem as hopeless as ours do, here and now.[5]</p>
<p>This irrepressible hope must renew and sustain our ceaseless efforts to create the just and peaceful world longed for by people of good will here and across the world.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>[1] Pope Benedict XVI. (2005). Deus Caritas Est: God Is Love, 28.</p>
<p>[2] Second Vatican Council. (1965). Gaudium et Spes: The Church in the Modern World, 31.</p>
<p>[3] U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. (2015). Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship: A Call to Political Responsibility, 13.</p>
<p>[4] United States Catholic Conference. (1995). Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1913.</p>
<p>[5] Havel, V. (1991). Disturbing the Peace: A Conversation with Karel Huizdala (Chap. 5). New York: Vintage Books.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/justsouth_monthly_february_2018_kammer.pdf">READ MORE >></a></p>
</div>
<p> </p>
<p>The headlines staring from my morning newspapers are all too familiar: Another unstable person uses an automatic weapon to slaughter teenagers at their high school and the U.S. Senate stumbles again on immigration reforms. We have been down both roads far too many times and bemoaned our inability to take common sense steps to remove combat weapons from our communities or to reasonably accommodate people fleeing poverty, starvation, and war. The world’s oldest continuous democracy flails about in the face of real but not insoluble problems.</p>
<div>
<p>Despair is not an option. While almost everyone acknowledges the current heightened political polarization, we must not abandon the political process. Political participation is one essential way in which we exercise our responsibility for co-creating the world entrusted to us by God and through which we express the communitarian nature of the human person. “Justice is both the aim and the intrinsic criterion of all politics.”[1] Political participation also enhances human freedom because, “Freedom acquires new strength … when a person consents to the unavoidable requirements of social life, takes on the manifold demands of human partnership, and commits himself to the service of the humancommunity.”[2]</p>
<p>As the U.S. Bishops put it recently, “In the Catholic Tradition, responsible citizenship is a virtue, and participation in political life is a moral obligation.”[3] This obligation flows from our duty to promote the common good and “is inherent in the dignity of the human person.”[4] </p>
<p>When we look at the issues facing us now, despair tempts us powerfully. Yes, the National Rifle Association repeatedly has used its disproportionate wealth and power in servitude to gun manufacturers to block the expressed desire of the American people for safer streets and safer schools. Yes, unwarranted fears of dark-skinned foreigners have been stoked intentionally for political gain, even from the highest offices in the land. But there is an antidote to despair.</p>
<p>It is hope. Hope tells us that we must go to the public square again and again, demanding what is right and just from policy-makers—whose fundamental moral responsibility is the common good. They must be reminded continually that they are to serve “we the people,” not party, nor donor, nor career. If that is too high a moral standard for them, they should step down; or we the people must remove them from office. Hope tells us that “no” is not an acceptable answer and failure is not an acceptable endpoint.</p>
<p>In 1986, in the face of the Communist oppression of his homeland, Czech poet Václav Havel described hope this way:</p>
<p class="rteindent1">Hope, in this deep and powerful sense, is not the same as joy that things are going well, or willingness to invest in enterprises that are obviously headed for early success, but rather, an ability to work for something because it is good, not just because it stands a chance to succeed.</p>
<p class="rteindent1">Hope is definitely not the same thing as optimism. It is not the conviction that something will turn out well, but the certainty that something makes sense, regardless of how it turns out. . . . It is this hope, above all, which gives us the strength to live and continually try new things, even in conditions that seem as hopeless as ours do, here and now.[5]</p>
<p>This irrepressible hope must renew and sustain our ceaseless efforts to create the just and peaceful world longed for by people of good will here and across the world.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>[1] Pope Benedict XVI. (2005). Deus Caritas Est: God Is Love, 28.</p>
<p>[2] Second Vatican Council. (1965). Gaudium et Spes: The Church in the Modern World, 31.</p>
<p>[3] U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. (2015). Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship: A Call to Political Responsibility, 13.</p>
<p>[4] United States Catholic Conference. (1995). Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1913.</p>
<p>[5] Havel, V. (1991). Disturbing the Peace: A Conversation with Karel Huizdala (Chap. 5). New York: Vintage Books.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/justsouth_monthly_february_2018_kammer.pdf">READ MORE >></a></p>
</div>
<p> </p>
Date
SOCIAL JUSTICE LENTEN SERIES UNITES VOICES FROM JESUIT NETWORK
News Intro Text
[February 16, 2018]
News Item Content
<p>During the 2018 Lenten season, the Ignatian Solidarity Network will bring together more than forty contributors from the national Jesuit network for a Lenten series titled “Break Forth,” exploring a response to systemic injustice from a Catholic perspective.</p>
<p>Hosted by the Ignatian Solidarity Network, the blog will feature reflections from February 14 (Ash Wednesday) through April 2 (Easter Monday). Uniting individuals engaged in work for immigration advocacy, racial equality, criminal justice reform, alleviation of poverty, and environmental justice, “Break Forth” will offer reflections through the lens of daily readings and Ignatian spirituality.</p>
<p>Contributors to the 2018 series include Jesuit priests, religious sisters, students and alumni of Jesuit institutions, community advocates, grassroots organizers, professors, authors, and social ministry leaders.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="https://ignatiansolidarity.net/blog/2018/02/05/break-forth-lenten-series-jesuit-network/">READ MORE >></a></p>
<p>Hosted by the Ignatian Solidarity Network, the blog will feature reflections from February 14 (Ash Wednesday) through April 2 (Easter Monday). Uniting individuals engaged in work for immigration advocacy, racial equality, criminal justice reform, alleviation of poverty, and environmental justice, “Break Forth” will offer reflections through the lens of daily readings and Ignatian spirituality.</p>
<p>Contributors to the 2018 series include Jesuit priests, religious sisters, students and alumni of Jesuit institutions, community advocates, grassroots organizers, professors, authors, and social ministry leaders.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="https://ignatiansolidarity.net/blog/2018/02/05/break-forth-lenten-series-jesuit-network/">READ MORE >></a></p>
Date
Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018 Includes Significant Health Care Improvements, and Congress Has More Work to Do
News Intro Text
[February 8, 2017]
News Item Content
<div>
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE</div>
<div>
February 8, 2018</div>
<div>
Contact: Ashley Ridlon</div>
<div>
aridlon@bpcaction.org</div>
<p> </p>
<p>Washington, D.C. – BPC Action supports the significant health care improvements included in the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018, and commends congressional leaders for including in its legislation policies to:</p>
<ul>
<li>
<p>Support rural health care delivery under the Medicare program, including extensions of special Medicare payments to certain small and low-volume hospitals and rural ambulance services; and of the National Health Service Corps (NHSC) program which plays a vital role in bolstering the health care workforce for rural and other underserved areas.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Provide a ten-year extension of the bipartisan Children’s Health Insurance Program. The long-term extension provides the level of certainty eligible families need to provide for their health care and for states to operate stable and efficient programs.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Provide two-year funding for Community Health Centers (CHC), which provide community-based, comprehensive health services to medically underserved populations, and serve one in every 13 Americans. BPC has recommended multi-year funding for CHIP, CHCs, and the NHSC.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Devote $6 billion to fight the national opioid epidemic and treat mental health issues. BPC has published recommendations on how to prioritize these critically-needed resources.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Provide multi-year funding for the Maternal, Infant and Early Childhood Home Visiting Program, as in the bipartisan Strong Families Act of 2017. This program provides grants to states, territories, and tribal entities to develop and implement evidence-based, voluntary programs to improve maternal and child health, prevent child abuse, and promote child development and school readiness.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Improve care for patients with complex needs, including provisions of the bipartisan Senate-passed Creating High-Quality Results and Outcomes Necessary to Improve Chronic (CHRONIC) Care Act of 2017. BPC has proposed and testified before Congress on several of these, including:</p>
<ul>
<li>
<p>Allowing Medicare Advantage greater flexibility for providing health-related services to improve or maintain the health or overall function of chronically ill individuals;</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Providing Medicare beneficiaries with greater incentives to participate in high-value health care while preserving patients’ choices of health care providers;</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Permanently extending the Medicare Advantage Special Needs Program (SNP), to support millions of vulnerable Americans including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid and those living with chronic conditions;</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Expanding the successful Independence at Home demonstration program to help seniors access quality, team-based care in the home; and</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Expanding access to telehealth services under Medicare Advantage, and in certain accountable care organizations (ACOs) that bear risk for quality and cost savings, as well as for dialysis and stroke patients.</p>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<p><em>We call on Congress to also advance provisions that would:</em></p>
<ul>
<li>
<p>Make health insurance more affordable for individuals not benefiting under the current subsidy system. Providing reinsurance funds and increasing states’ flexibility to design lower-cost plans would begin to address the needs of these individuals, help to stabilize individual market premiums in the short-term and pave the way for longer-term bipartisan solutions.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Promote competition and lower costs of prescription drugs. For example, the bipartisan Creating and Restoring Equal Access to Equivalent Samples (CREATES) Act of 2016 aims to prevent drug companies from unnecessarily delaying entry by generic competitors by denying access to drug samples or denying their participation in shared risk evaluation and mitigation strategies (REMS) processes to assure safe use of the drug. This policy could not only save money but also save lives and is consistent with the administration’s goals of lowering drug prices.</p>
</li>
</ul>
<p>As Congress proceeds to the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018 and works toward a resolution on spending legislation leading up to the new March 23 deadline, we call on their support for all of these important provisions to improve health care in America. Congress must also face the fiscal realities of unprecedented deficits stemming from this legislation and the recently-enacted tax bill, and must come together to set the country on a more sustainable path.</p>
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE</div>
<div>
February 8, 2018</div>
<div>
Contact: Ashley Ridlon</div>
<div>
aridlon@bpcaction.org</div>
<p> </p>
<p>Washington, D.C. – BPC Action supports the significant health care improvements included in the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018, and commends congressional leaders for including in its legislation policies to:</p>
<ul>
<li>
<p>Support rural health care delivery under the Medicare program, including extensions of special Medicare payments to certain small and low-volume hospitals and rural ambulance services; and of the National Health Service Corps (NHSC) program which plays a vital role in bolstering the health care workforce for rural and other underserved areas.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Provide a ten-year extension of the bipartisan Children’s Health Insurance Program. The long-term extension provides the level of certainty eligible families need to provide for their health care and for states to operate stable and efficient programs.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Provide two-year funding for Community Health Centers (CHC), which provide community-based, comprehensive health services to medically underserved populations, and serve one in every 13 Americans. BPC has recommended multi-year funding for CHIP, CHCs, and the NHSC.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Devote $6 billion to fight the national opioid epidemic and treat mental health issues. BPC has published recommendations on how to prioritize these critically-needed resources.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Provide multi-year funding for the Maternal, Infant and Early Childhood Home Visiting Program, as in the bipartisan Strong Families Act of 2017. This program provides grants to states, territories, and tribal entities to develop and implement evidence-based, voluntary programs to improve maternal and child health, prevent child abuse, and promote child development and school readiness.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Improve care for patients with complex needs, including provisions of the bipartisan Senate-passed Creating High-Quality Results and Outcomes Necessary to Improve Chronic (CHRONIC) Care Act of 2017. BPC has proposed and testified before Congress on several of these, including:</p>
<ul>
<li>
<p>Allowing Medicare Advantage greater flexibility for providing health-related services to improve or maintain the health or overall function of chronically ill individuals;</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Providing Medicare beneficiaries with greater incentives to participate in high-value health care while preserving patients’ choices of health care providers;</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Permanently extending the Medicare Advantage Special Needs Program (SNP), to support millions of vulnerable Americans including those who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid and those living with chronic conditions;</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Expanding the successful Independence at Home demonstration program to help seniors access quality, team-based care in the home; and</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Expanding access to telehealth services under Medicare Advantage, and in certain accountable care organizations (ACOs) that bear risk for quality and cost savings, as well as for dialysis and stroke patients.</p>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<p><em>We call on Congress to also advance provisions that would:</em></p>
<ul>
<li>
<p>Make health insurance more affordable for individuals not benefiting under the current subsidy system. Providing reinsurance funds and increasing states’ flexibility to design lower-cost plans would begin to address the needs of these individuals, help to stabilize individual market premiums in the short-term and pave the way for longer-term bipartisan solutions.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Promote competition and lower costs of prescription drugs. For example, the bipartisan Creating and Restoring Equal Access to Equivalent Samples (CREATES) Act of 2016 aims to prevent drug companies from unnecessarily delaying entry by generic competitors by denying access to drug samples or denying their participation in shared risk evaluation and mitigation strategies (REMS) processes to assure safe use of the drug. This policy could not only save money but also save lives and is consistent with the administration’s goals of lowering drug prices.</p>
</li>
</ul>
<p>As Congress proceeds to the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018 and works toward a resolution on spending legislation leading up to the new March 23 deadline, we call on their support for all of these important provisions to improve health care in America. Congress must also face the fiscal realities of unprecedented deficits stemming from this legislation and the recently-enacted tax bill, and must come together to set the country on a more sustainable path.</p>
Date
Protect the ‘Dreamers’ and don’t build more walls
News Intro Text
[January 29, 2018]
News Item Content
<p>United Church youth group members</p>
<p>We are members of the Youth Initiation to Adulthood program at the United Church of Santa Fe, a United Church of Christ, and we believe Congress should act to protect “Dreamers” and not build more walls. We believe immigration authorities should not be allowed to do as they please with young people who grew up here, went to the same schools we do, have the same dreams, and are just like us.</p>
<p>Other than Native Americans, we are all immigrants from somewhere. Any of us could have been a Dreamer.</p>
<p>To send today’s Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals or Dreamers back to a country and to a language they do not know, where they do not have family or friends to help them, is not right. That story would be one of shock, horror and despair for them and for us.</p>
<p>The Dreamers’ stories are stories of hope — that they can have a happy and successful life, that society will accept them rather than disown them because they have no citizenship papers, and that we can make a difference in their lives.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.santafenewmexican.com/opinion/my_view/protect-the-dreamers-and-don-t-build-more-walls/article_4cb685d8-0ec4-5b0d-b092-b689f2964ee5.html?utm_content=buffer6109e&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook.com&utm_campaign=buffer">READ MORE >></a></p>
<p>We are members of the Youth Initiation to Adulthood program at the United Church of Santa Fe, a United Church of Christ, and we believe Congress should act to protect “Dreamers” and not build more walls. We believe immigration authorities should not be allowed to do as they please with young people who grew up here, went to the same schools we do, have the same dreams, and are just like us.</p>
<p>Other than Native Americans, we are all immigrants from somewhere. Any of us could have been a Dreamer.</p>
<p>To send today’s Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals or Dreamers back to a country and to a language they do not know, where they do not have family or friends to help them, is not right. That story would be one of shock, horror and despair for them and for us.</p>
<p>The Dreamers’ stories are stories of hope — that they can have a happy and successful life, that society will accept them rather than disown them because they have no citizenship papers, and that we can make a difference in their lives.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.santafenewmexican.com/opinion/my_view/protect-the-dreamers-and-don-t-build-more-walls/article_4cb685d8-0ec4-5b0d-b092-b689f2964ee5.html?utm_content=buffer6109e&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook.com&utm_campaign=buffer">READ MORE >></a></p>
Date
Five Things You Need to Know about Poverty in America
News Intro Text
[January 16, 2018]
News Item Content
<p>If Pope Francis has taught us anything during these last four years (and I would submit that he has taught us quite a few things), it is that “poverty in the world is a scandal.” It is a cry “in a world where there is so much wealth, so many resources to feed everyone.” It is especially a scandal in a nation like the United States, which, despite possessing more than enough money to end material poverty, consistently exhibits one of the highest rates of poverty in the “developed” world.</p>
<p>Recently released to little fanfare, the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2016 report on Income and Poverty in the United States reveals that 40.6 million, or 12.7 percent, of Americans live in poverty.</p>
<p>After spending several days pouring over this report and its close relative, The Supplemental Poverty Measure, I’d like to share five things that you should know about poverty in the United States.</p>
<p><a href="https://togoforth.org/2018/01/03/five-things-you-need-to-know-about-poverty-in-america/">READ MORE >></a></p>
<p>Recently released to little fanfare, the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2016 report on Income and Poverty in the United States reveals that 40.6 million, or 12.7 percent, of Americans live in poverty.</p>
<p>After spending several days pouring over this report and its close relative, The Supplemental Poverty Measure, I’d like to share five things that you should know about poverty in the United States.</p>
<p><a href="https://togoforth.org/2018/01/03/five-things-you-need-to-know-about-poverty-in-america/">READ MORE >></a></p>
Date
National Migration Week Toolkit
News Intro Text
[January 10, 2018]
News Item Content
<div>
For nearly a half century, the Catholic Church in the United States has celebrated National Migration Week, which is an opportunity for the Church to reflect on the circumstances confronting migrants, including immigrants, refugees, children, and victims and survivors of human trafficking. The theme for National Migration Week 2017 draws attention to the fact that each of our families have a migration story, some recent and others in the distant past. Regardless of where we are and where we came from, we remain part of the human family and are called to live in solidarity with one another.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Unfortunately, in our contemporary culture we often fail to encounter migrants as persons, and instead look at them as unknown others, if we even notice them at all. We do not take the time to engage migrants in a meaningful way, as fellow children of God, but remain aloof to their presence and suspicious or fearful of them. During this National Migration Week, let us all take the opportunity to engage migrants as community members, neighbors, and friends.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<a href="https://justiceforimmigrants.org/2016site/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/2018-NMW-Final-Toolkit.pdf">READ MORE >></a></div>
For nearly a half century, the Catholic Church in the United States has celebrated National Migration Week, which is an opportunity for the Church to reflect on the circumstances confronting migrants, including immigrants, refugees, children, and victims and survivors of human trafficking. The theme for National Migration Week 2017 draws attention to the fact that each of our families have a migration story, some recent and others in the distant past. Regardless of where we are and where we came from, we remain part of the human family and are called to live in solidarity with one another.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Unfortunately, in our contemporary culture we often fail to encounter migrants as persons, and instead look at them as unknown others, if we even notice them at all. We do not take the time to engage migrants in a meaningful way, as fellow children of God, but remain aloof to their presence and suspicious or fearful of them. During this National Migration Week, let us all take the opportunity to engage migrants as community members, neighbors, and friends.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<a href="https://justiceforimmigrants.org/2016site/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/2018-NMW-Final-Toolkit.pdf">READ MORE >></a></div>
Date
January is Poverty Awareness Month
News Intro Text
[January 9, 2018]
News Item Content
<div>
USCCB</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
During Poverty Awareness Month, join the U.S. Bishops, the Catholic Campaign for Human Development and the Catholic community in the United States in taking up Pope Francis' challenge to live in solidarity with the poor! In addition to the calendar below, longer daily reflections are also available. Share this liturgical aid with parish leaders to incorporate Poverty Awareness Month into the liturgy. All of these resources are also en Español. You can sign up. . . to have the daily reflections emailed to you during Poverty Awareness Month!</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.usccb.org/about/catholic-campaign-for-human-development/poverty-education/poverty-awareness-month.cfm">READ MORE >></a></div>
USCCB</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
During Poverty Awareness Month, join the U.S. Bishops, the Catholic Campaign for Human Development and the Catholic community in the United States in taking up Pope Francis' challenge to live in solidarity with the poor! In addition to the calendar below, longer daily reflections are also available. Share this liturgical aid with parish leaders to incorporate Poverty Awareness Month into the liturgy. All of these resources are also en Español. You can sign up. . . to have the daily reflections emailed to you during Poverty Awareness Month!</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.usccb.org/about/catholic-campaign-for-human-development/poverty-education/poverty-awareness-month.cfm">READ MORE >></a></div>
Date
Call Congress Before Friday to Include DACA in Continuing Resolution
News Intro Text
[December 6, 2017]
News Item Content
<p><strong><em>Today is a National Day of Action on DACA. Please see Call to Action below from our Metairie Indivisible friends and call your senators and representative TODAY!</em></strong><br />
<span> </span><br />
<span> </span><br />
<strong>DEMAND THAT DACA BE INCLUDED IN CONTINUING RESOLUTION SCHEDULED </strong><strong>FOR VOTE <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1838150467" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">ON FRIDAY</span></span>!</strong><br />
<span>------------------------------</span><wbr /><span>------------------------------</span><wbr /><span>------</span><br />
<span>To speak with the Washington, D.C. offices of both your Senators and your Representative, just call the following number </span><strong><a href="tel:(202)%20224-3121" target="_blank" value="+12022243121">202-224-3121</a> and enter your zip code.</strong><br />
<span> </span><br />
<span> </span><br />
<em>Reminders: Identify where you're calling from (town and zip code is fine) so they know you're an actual constituent. Be concise - the office will get through more calls that way. Be polite and don't argue with the staffer - they don't set policy. If you get a voicemail, then leave a message. And if you get a busy signal -- call back later!</em><br />
<em>******************************<wbr />********************</em><br />
<strong>SAMPLE SCRIPT:</strong><br />
<strong>I’m calling to ask that DACA be restored by including the program in the Continuing Resolution that will be considered this week. Dreamers, brought to this country as children, should be able to go on with their lives without fear of deportation.</strong><br />
<strong>------------------------------<wbr />------------------------------<wbr />------------------</strong><br />
<strong><em>Why you should make this call:</em></strong><br />
<span> </span><br />
<strong><em>Today undocumented youth all over the country are leading a campaign to demand that Congress stand for Dreamers. Trump terminated the DACA program in September, calling it an amnesty and giving Congress six months to enact a new plan. The President wants stronger crackdowns on so-called sanctuary cities, funding to build his wall and an overhaul of the country’s green card system. These conditions are non-starters for Democrats. With the continuing resolution (CR) the Democrats have real leverage. Sixty votes are needed to pass the CR. Without the CR, the government will shut down <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1838150468" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">December 8</span></span>. Let’s support the dreamers and get those phones ringing.<br />
<br />
Thank you!</em></strong></p>
<span> </span><br />
<span> </span><br />
<strong>DEMAND THAT DACA BE INCLUDED IN CONTINUING RESOLUTION SCHEDULED </strong><strong>FOR VOTE <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1838150467" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">ON FRIDAY</span></span>!</strong><br />
<span>------------------------------</span><wbr /><span>------------------------------</span><wbr /><span>------</span><br />
<span>To speak with the Washington, D.C. offices of both your Senators and your Representative, just call the following number </span><strong><a href="tel:(202)%20224-3121" target="_blank" value="+12022243121">202-224-3121</a> and enter your zip code.</strong><br />
<span> </span><br />
<span> </span><br />
<em>Reminders: Identify where you're calling from (town and zip code is fine) so they know you're an actual constituent. Be concise - the office will get through more calls that way. Be polite and don't argue with the staffer - they don't set policy. If you get a voicemail, then leave a message. And if you get a busy signal -- call back later!</em><br />
<em>******************************<wbr />********************</em><br />
<strong>SAMPLE SCRIPT:</strong><br />
<strong>I’m calling to ask that DACA be restored by including the program in the Continuing Resolution that will be considered this week. Dreamers, brought to this country as children, should be able to go on with their lives without fear of deportation.</strong><br />
<strong>------------------------------<wbr />------------------------------<wbr />------------------</strong><br />
<strong><em>Why you should make this call:</em></strong><br />
<span> </span><br />
<strong><em>Today undocumented youth all over the country are leading a campaign to demand that Congress stand for Dreamers. Trump terminated the DACA program in September, calling it an amnesty and giving Congress six months to enact a new plan. The President wants stronger crackdowns on so-called sanctuary cities, funding to build his wall and an overhaul of the country’s green card system. These conditions are non-starters for Democrats. With the continuing resolution (CR) the Democrats have real leverage. Sixty votes are needed to pass the CR. Without the CR, the government will shut down <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1838150468" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">December 8</span></span>. Let’s support the dreamers and get those phones ringing.<br />
<br />
Thank you!</em></strong></p>
Date
State of Texas Children 2017 Child Well-Being in the Rio Grande Valley
News Intro Text
[November 30, 2017]
News Item Content
<p>We all want a bright future for our children, and we want the Rio Grande Valley to be a place that makes that bright future possible. As the area’s economy and population grow, its future depends on the health, education, and financial security of all its children – across neighborhood, income, immigration status, race and ethnicity.1</p>
<p>Located on the U.S.-Mexico border, the Rio Grande Valley is a place of rich culture and possibilities. However, on many indicators of children’s health, education and financial security, the Valley is not doing as well as Texas overall, revealing a pattern of disinvestment in children’s futures.</p>
<p>In order to “raise the bar” in child well-being for all Rio Grande Valley area kids, we have to “close the gaps” in outcomes between children. Doing this means intentionally breaking down obstacles and creating equitable opportunities for good health, an excellent education, and economic security for every child. This is the only way to ensure the Rio Grande Valley’s economic future is strong for both businesses and families.</p>
<p>This Rio Grande Valley report is part of a larger series of reports in the Texas Kids Count project that focuses on equity in child well-being across Texas and in several of its major metro areas. See more at CPPP.org/kidscount.</p>
<p><a href="https://forabettertexas.org/images/2017_SOTC_RioGrande.pdf">READ MORE >></a></p>
<p>Located on the U.S.-Mexico border, the Rio Grande Valley is a place of rich culture and possibilities. However, on many indicators of children’s health, education and financial security, the Valley is not doing as well as Texas overall, revealing a pattern of disinvestment in children’s futures.</p>
<p>In order to “raise the bar” in child well-being for all Rio Grande Valley area kids, we have to “close the gaps” in outcomes between children. Doing this means intentionally breaking down obstacles and creating equitable opportunities for good health, an excellent education, and economic security for every child. This is the only way to ensure the Rio Grande Valley’s economic future is strong for both businesses and families.</p>
<p>This Rio Grande Valley report is part of a larger series of reports in the Texas Kids Count project that focuses on equity in child well-being across Texas and in several of its major metro areas. See more at CPPP.org/kidscount.</p>
<p><a href="https://forabettertexas.org/images/2017_SOTC_RioGrande.pdf">READ MORE >></a></p>
Date
Press Conference Nov. 15 and Prayer Vigil Nov. 17 for Immigrant Justice
News Intro Text
[November 13, 2017]
News Item Content
<p>Please see announcement, below, from the Congress of Day Laborers and the Greater New Orleans Interfaith Sanctuary Coalition about important events addressing the terror confronting the New Orleans immigrant community. Both actitivities are at First Grace Methodist Church in New Orleans, 3401 Canal Street. We especially need faith leaders and people of faith to make every effort to attend! Thank you!</p>
<p>Immigrant Rights Leaders Under Attack: A Community Briefing, Strategy Session and Press Conference </p>
<p>Jose Torres is a Jefferson Parish dad and undocumented human rights leader who is taking a stand against the senseless destruction of his family and others.</p>
<p>We <u><em>urge you</em></u> to join the Congress of Day Laborers and Interfaith Sanctuary Coalition of New Orleans for a <a href="https://mail-attachment.googleusercontent.com/attachment/u/0/?ui=2&ik=d472feec9c&view=att&th=15fa750a1b256817&attid=0.1.0&disp=inline&safe=1&zw&saddbat=ANGjdJ_dh65aJRzHLrzRSVv4izbQWuC9O_d6WfQeTl5irpzU1mYBPJ8ItL-9f6Osb_VtIlxboftFP80FGYLwe3hXkrN178wIof2O1Aeb2LdcJHb0433Rk5Vt-hyTptiEcw6_H1Dp1Y1IlA6FrUqJeFhJyOJWik-zrejCHA8rJa3sF-sHORR1JOBh2AfL4SFdkHVYgGW5oubEnGcx1lTOpE_bEAF8RLxfzO3jhOeIrarKHPSF2pho34V3f1DaeKu2qzlPPAmmi_JLnbE_mYrSBK1mhMYpCdu9K02Esq13ZJibpEEXmg2bdbMq5HN2pkiegkYqL54XRTuikunv9kudvP1VpLcQpMi1z1mo_EGXhq7R9ierXVzx2fLsEtcltQMEvHdPCxxzxDEHHm9DOQmrjRL4HnKDjFDGiuNk2O7-55O2gJy4tQ28bemdt6ZifAQR0fSRA9FYvxtXsmMJPSpVFVL2V8B2d6_fwxUjhMrlkRLjHYSTAFtl9MonIy7AiULpirnx5VlN60U4oQKya9eQteUNbaRihd8ueEeAJ0RqjBDRoYduTlELukbUQV5XJzcviGYpky9EydnRX_ywBHp4XAR0OP5HLAU1jmoFjYMhbQ">Briefing and Strategy Session on the local state of immigrant rights</a> one year into Donald Trump’s election, and to hear directly from Jose Torres, an undocumented leader facing immediate deportation. </p>
<p>Jose survived human trafficking upon arrival to the US, and escaped to join the New Orleans community to help us rebuild after the storm. Jose continued on to build his dream in our community, raising his family here. Jose is a longtime civil rights leader who helped establish designated spaces for Day Laborers to safely seek work in Gretna, has actively fought for New Orleans’ Anti-Bias policies, and supports families with loved ones in detention. </p>
<p>Jose’s U.S. citizen daughters Kimberly, 2, and Julissa, 8, are both chronically ill and rely on him to survive. Due to this, Jose was granted prosecutorial discretion by ICE just last year. But now, ICE now has given Jose just days to leave the country. His next ICE check-in is November 15th. </p>
<p>Even in the face of this injustice, Jose continues to resist and speak out against ICE’s immorality, which impacts thousands of other New Orleans-area families. </p>
<p>We urge you to join us on November 15th at 10 AM at 3401 Canal Street to hear how you can stand with Jose and all of the immigrant community in New Orleans!</p>
<p>Please also mark your calendar for a follow-up action on Friday the 17th at 4:30 pm at 3401 Canal Street New Orleans, LA. </p>
<p>Immigrant Rights Leaders Under Attack: A Community Briefing, Strategy Session and Press Conference </p>
<p>Jose Torres is a Jefferson Parish dad and undocumented human rights leader who is taking a stand against the senseless destruction of his family and others.</p>
<p>We <u><em>urge you</em></u> to join the Congress of Day Laborers and Interfaith Sanctuary Coalition of New Orleans for a <a href="https://mail-attachment.googleusercontent.com/attachment/u/0/?ui=2&ik=d472feec9c&view=att&th=15fa750a1b256817&attid=0.1.0&disp=inline&safe=1&zw&saddbat=ANGjdJ_dh65aJRzHLrzRSVv4izbQWuC9O_d6WfQeTl5irpzU1mYBPJ8ItL-9f6Osb_VtIlxboftFP80FGYLwe3hXkrN178wIof2O1Aeb2LdcJHb0433Rk5Vt-hyTptiEcw6_H1Dp1Y1IlA6FrUqJeFhJyOJWik-zrejCHA8rJa3sF-sHORR1JOBh2AfL4SFdkHVYgGW5oubEnGcx1lTOpE_bEAF8RLxfzO3jhOeIrarKHPSF2pho34V3f1DaeKu2qzlPPAmmi_JLnbE_mYrSBK1mhMYpCdu9K02Esq13ZJibpEEXmg2bdbMq5HN2pkiegkYqL54XRTuikunv9kudvP1VpLcQpMi1z1mo_EGXhq7R9ierXVzx2fLsEtcltQMEvHdPCxxzxDEHHm9DOQmrjRL4HnKDjFDGiuNk2O7-55O2gJy4tQ28bemdt6ZifAQR0fSRA9FYvxtXsmMJPSpVFVL2V8B2d6_fwxUjhMrlkRLjHYSTAFtl9MonIy7AiULpirnx5VlN60U4oQKya9eQteUNbaRihd8ueEeAJ0RqjBDRoYduTlELukbUQV5XJzcviGYpky9EydnRX_ywBHp4XAR0OP5HLAU1jmoFjYMhbQ">Briefing and Strategy Session on the local state of immigrant rights</a> one year into Donald Trump’s election, and to hear directly from Jose Torres, an undocumented leader facing immediate deportation. </p>
<p>Jose survived human trafficking upon arrival to the US, and escaped to join the New Orleans community to help us rebuild after the storm. Jose continued on to build his dream in our community, raising his family here. Jose is a longtime civil rights leader who helped establish designated spaces for Day Laborers to safely seek work in Gretna, has actively fought for New Orleans’ Anti-Bias policies, and supports families with loved ones in detention. </p>
<p>Jose’s U.S. citizen daughters Kimberly, 2, and Julissa, 8, are both chronically ill and rely on him to survive. Due to this, Jose was granted prosecutorial discretion by ICE just last year. But now, ICE now has given Jose just days to leave the country. His next ICE check-in is November 15th. </p>
<p>Even in the face of this injustice, Jose continues to resist and speak out against ICE’s immorality, which impacts thousands of other New Orleans-area families. </p>
<p>We urge you to join us on November 15th at 10 AM at 3401 Canal Street to hear how you can stand with Jose and all of the immigrant community in New Orleans!</p>
<p>Please also mark your calendar for a follow-up action on Friday the 17th at 4:30 pm at 3401 Canal Street New Orleans, LA. </p>
Date
Symposium for Systemic Change Oct. 20 Baton Rouge
News Intro Text
[October 20, 2017]
News Item Content
<p>The annual Symposium on Systemic Change will be held this year at the Bishop Tracy Center, 1800 South Acadian Thruway in Baton Rouge this Friday, October 20, 2017, from 9 am to 2:30pm.</p>
<p>Rotating Workshops will engage the following topics:</p>
<p>Respect Life, Human Trafficking and Immigration</p>
<p>Faithful Citizenship: Voting your Conscience</p>
<p>Criminal Justice Reform in Louisiana</p>
<p>In addition, Rob Tasman, Executive Director of the Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops, will provide a Legislative Agenda and Report.</p>
<p>Conference sponsors include the Archdiocese of New Orleans, Diocese of Baton Rouge, Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New Orleans, and Catholic Charities Diocese of Baton Rouge.</p>
<p>Pre-registration is preferred and can be accomplished by using the following link.</p>
<p><a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/18FIFwt2WrxiFhT0lMZjTF7DUjh8Wb6hy_HkmPG2OnrY/viewform?edit_requested=true">https://docs.google.com/forms/d/18FIFwt2WrxiFhT0lMZjTF7DUjh8Wb6hy_HkmPG2OnrY/viewform?edit_requested=true</a></p>
<p>There is no fee to attend this conference.</p>
<p>Come join other people of faith and pray, learn, and work together to create a better, more just Louisiana!</p>
<p>If you have any questions about the Symposium for Systemic Change please contact Angela Wattler at 985-966-9846 or SystemicChangeSymposium@gmail.com.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Thank you!</p>
<p>Rotating Workshops will engage the following topics:</p>
<p>Respect Life, Human Trafficking and Immigration</p>
<p>Faithful Citizenship: Voting your Conscience</p>
<p>Criminal Justice Reform in Louisiana</p>
<p>In addition, Rob Tasman, Executive Director of the Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops, will provide a Legislative Agenda and Report.</p>
<p>Conference sponsors include the Archdiocese of New Orleans, Diocese of Baton Rouge, Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New Orleans, and Catholic Charities Diocese of Baton Rouge.</p>
<p>Pre-registration is preferred and can be accomplished by using the following link.</p>
<p><a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/18FIFwt2WrxiFhT0lMZjTF7DUjh8Wb6hy_HkmPG2OnrY/viewform?edit_requested=true">https://docs.google.com/forms/d/18FIFwt2WrxiFhT0lMZjTF7DUjh8Wb6hy_HkmPG2OnrY/viewform?edit_requested=true</a></p>
<p>There is no fee to attend this conference.</p>
<p>Come join other people of faith and pray, learn, and work together to create a better, more just Louisiana!</p>
<p>If you have any questions about the Symposium for Systemic Change please contact Angela Wattler at 985-966-9846 or SystemicChangeSymposium@gmail.com.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Thank you!</p>
Date
Expert: Executive order could disproportionately affect Louisianans
News Intro Text
[October 12, 2017]
News Item Content
<p>WVUE</p>
<p>President Trump's latest executive order is aimed at undoing key parts of the Affordable Care Act. The White House calls it a way to give Americans more choice and greater access to lower-priced plans. Yet, experts say not everyone will benefit.</p>
<p>"This is something millions and millions will be signing up for and they're going to be very happy. This will be great healthcare," said President Trump just before he signed the executive order.</p>
<p>It comes after multiple failed attempts from Congress to pass a healthcare reform bill. The executive order allows people to purchase insurance across state lines and aims to expand access to small business plans, for example. Plus, it looks to ease restrictions on some short-term policies.</p>
<p>"The president's trying to improve the ability of a family to cover themselves. That's a good thing," said Republican Louisiana Sen. Bill Cassidy (R).</p>
<p>Lawmakers like Cassidy are hailing the executive order as a victory.</p>
<p>"Folks are paying $40,000 a year for health insurance. You cannot afford that if you're a middle-class family," Cassidy said.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fox8live.com/story/36587200/expert-executive-order-could-disproportionately-affect-louisianans">WATCH HERE >></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>President Trump's latest executive order is aimed at undoing key parts of the Affordable Care Act. The White House calls it a way to give Americans more choice and greater access to lower-priced plans. Yet, experts say not everyone will benefit.</p>
<p>"This is something millions and millions will be signing up for and they're going to be very happy. This will be great healthcare," said President Trump just before he signed the executive order.</p>
<p>It comes after multiple failed attempts from Congress to pass a healthcare reform bill. The executive order allows people to purchase insurance across state lines and aims to expand access to small business plans, for example. Plus, it looks to ease restrictions on some short-term policies.</p>
<p>"The president's trying to improve the ability of a family to cover themselves. That's a good thing," said Republican Louisiana Sen. Bill Cassidy (R).</p>
<p>Lawmakers like Cassidy are hailing the executive order as a victory.</p>
<p>"Folks are paying $40,000 a year for health insurance. You cannot afford that if you're a middle-class family," Cassidy said.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fox8live.com/story/36587200/expert-executive-order-could-disproportionately-affect-louisianans">WATCH HERE >></a></p>
<p> </p>
Date
How does Trump’s tax plan line up with Catholic social teaching?
News Intro Text
[October 05, 2017]
News Item Content
<p>by Kevin Clarke </p>
<p>Criticism has trailed the recent White House proposal for cuts in corporate and personal income tax rates, but few have been as direct as Jesuit Father Fred Kammer’s assessment. “The whole thing is basically—what can I call it?—a scam to pay back wealthy donors with more tax breaks,” he says. The plan has been promoted by the White House as a reform meant to simplify the tax code and lower the burden on working and middle-class taxpayers.</p>
<p>Father Kammer is convinced the measures proposed by the president will not achieve the advertised outcome. Analysts at the Tax Policy Center, a joint project of the Brookings Institution and the Urban Institute, agree, refusing even to refer to the Trump plan as a tax reform, but just a new round of tax breaks.</p>
<p>Referring to the center’s analysis, Father Kammer points out that the lion’s share of the tax relief offered by the plan will be consumed by the nation’s top 1 percent—the same folks who have already enjoyed previous and substantial rounds of tax reductions under the Reagan and Bush administrations. Those cuts had been similarly promoted as tax “reforms” aimed at the middle class.</p>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<a href="https://www.americamagazine.org/politics-society/2017/10/05/how-does-trumps-tax-plan-line-catholic-social-teaching?utm_content=buffer4bc65&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook.com&utm_campaign=buffer">READ MORE >></a></div>
<p>Criticism has trailed the recent White House proposal for cuts in corporate and personal income tax rates, but few have been as direct as Jesuit Father Fred Kammer’s assessment. “The whole thing is basically—what can I call it?—a scam to pay back wealthy donors with more tax breaks,” he says. The plan has been promoted by the White House as a reform meant to simplify the tax code and lower the burden on working and middle-class taxpayers.</p>
<p>Father Kammer is convinced the measures proposed by the president will not achieve the advertised outcome. Analysts at the Tax Policy Center, a joint project of the Brookings Institution and the Urban Institute, agree, refusing even to refer to the Trump plan as a tax reform, but just a new round of tax breaks.</p>
<p>Referring to the center’s analysis, Father Kammer points out that the lion’s share of the tax relief offered by the plan will be consumed by the nation’s top 1 percent—the same folks who have already enjoyed previous and substantial rounds of tax reductions under the Reagan and Bush administrations. Those cuts had been similarly promoted as tax “reforms” aimed at the middle class.</p>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<a href="https://www.americamagazine.org/politics-society/2017/10/05/how-does-trumps-tax-plan-line-catholic-social-teaching?utm_content=buffer4bc65&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook.com&utm_campaign=buffer">READ MORE >></a></div>
Date
'We feel attacked': Protesters decry immigration enforcement tactics at Gardendale court
News Intro Text
[September 15, 2017]
News Item Content
<p>by Connor Sheets</p>
<p>Alabama.com</p>
<div>
Gardendale has swiftly emerged as ground zero for aggressive immigration enforcement in Alabama, according to local advocacy groups.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Police officers, through the city's municipal court, have since June reportedly detained numerous Latinos and turned them over to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, a practice that was largely unheard of until recently of and that remains rare but increasingly common across the nation, advocates say.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
On Friday morning, representatives of two Birmingham-area immigrant rights groups staged a protest outside Gardendale Municipal Court aimed at raising awareness of the immigration enforcement tactics that have been deployed there, which they describe as egregious and discriminatory.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
The action featured speeches by representatives of the Adelante Alabama Worker Center and the Alabama Coalition for Immigrant Justice, as well as impassioned pleas for justice from area residents who have been impacted by the tactics.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
"We want the police here in Gardendale to stop working with ICE," local Latino resident Flores Vega said through a translator. "I'm a worried mother. My son came to court here - he's a U.S. citizen - and they turned him right over to ICE ... We feel scared, we feel attacked and we want this to stop now."</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.al.com/news/index.ssf/2017/09/we_feel_attacked_protesters_de.html">READ MORE >></a></div>
<p>Alabama.com</p>
<div>
Gardendale has swiftly emerged as ground zero for aggressive immigration enforcement in Alabama, according to local advocacy groups.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Police officers, through the city's municipal court, have since June reportedly detained numerous Latinos and turned them over to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, a practice that was largely unheard of until recently of and that remains rare but increasingly common across the nation, advocates say.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
On Friday morning, representatives of two Birmingham-area immigrant rights groups staged a protest outside Gardendale Municipal Court aimed at raising awareness of the immigration enforcement tactics that have been deployed there, which they describe as egregious and discriminatory.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
The action featured speeches by representatives of the Adelante Alabama Worker Center and the Alabama Coalition for Immigrant Justice, as well as impassioned pleas for justice from area residents who have been impacted by the tactics.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
"We want the police here in Gardendale to stop working with ICE," local Latino resident Flores Vega said through a translator. "I'm a worried mother. My son came to court here - he's a U.S. citizen - and they turned him right over to ICE ... We feel scared, we feel attacked and we want this to stop now."</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.al.com/news/index.ssf/2017/09/we_feel_attacked_protesters_de.html">READ MORE >></a></div>
Date
SNAP Helps 1 in 8 Workers in Louisiana Put Food on the Table
News Intro Text
[September 12, 2017]
News Item Content
<p>Center on Budget and Policy Priorities </p>
<p> </p>
<p>SNAP plays a crucial role in helping workers in low-paying jobs afford a basic diet in Louisiana. Roughly 238,500 Louisianian workers live in households that participated in SNAP in the last year, Census data show.</p>
<p>Millions of Americans work in jobs with low wages, inconsistent schedules, and no benefits such as paid sick leave — all of which contribute to high turnover and spells of unemployment. Many of these workers get help putting food on the table through SNAP.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.cbpp.org/snap-helps-workers-put-food-on-the-table?utm_source=CBPP+Email+Updates&utm_campaign=edea5c0b4d-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2017_09_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_ee3f6da374-edea5c0b4d-50655441#Louisiana">READ MORE >></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>SNAP plays a crucial role in helping workers in low-paying jobs afford a basic diet in Louisiana. Roughly 238,500 Louisianian workers live in households that participated in SNAP in the last year, Census data show.</p>
<p>Millions of Americans work in jobs with low wages, inconsistent schedules, and no benefits such as paid sick leave — all of which contribute to high turnover and spells of unemployment. Many of these workers get help putting food on the table through SNAP.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.cbpp.org/snap-helps-workers-put-food-on-the-table?utm_source=CBPP+Email+Updates&utm_campaign=edea5c0b4d-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2017_09_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_ee3f6da374-edea5c0b4d-50655441#Louisiana">READ MORE >></a></p>
Date
USCCB Labor Day Statement 2017
News Intro Text
[September 4, 2017]
News Item Content
<div>
Most Reverend Frank J. Dewane</div>
<div>
Bishop of Venice</div>
<div>
Chairman of the Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development</div>
<div>
United States Conference of Catholic Bishops</div>
<p>This Labor Day, we find ourselves at a time of kairos, a moment of crisis as well as opportunity. Over the past year, Pope Francis has drawn our attention to problems in the world of work that seek to undermine our understanding of the dignity of the person and threaten the stability of society. The Pope has also called us to action based on the truth about the nature of work which is intended to support the flourishing of the family. As the Holy Father recently remarked, work "comes from the first command that God gave to Adam . . . . There has always been friendship between the Church and work, starting with a working Jesus. Where there is a worker, there is the interest and the gaze of love of the Lord and of the Church."1 </p>
<p>What does our Lord's "gaze of love" see today? Surely he honors the parents and grandparents who offer their work as "prayers said with the hands"2 for their family and future. In turn, we thank God for the vocation of work, which, when healthy, "anoints" with dignity, helps children grow into adults, and strengthens cooperation across all people in our society.3 "Brother work," in Pope Francis' words, is formational and sustaining for every human life and community, and is essential to our faith.4 </p>
<p>God's "gaze of love" also receives all those who are struggling with work. A lack of work can be devastating to the human person, and it can undermine solidarity and destabilize society. "[T]he entire social pact is built around work," Pope Francis told a gathering of factory workers in Genoa. "This is the core of the problem. Because when you do not work, or you work badly, you work little or you work too much, it is democracy that enters into crisis, and the entire social pact."5 </p>
<p><a href="http://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/human-life-and-dignity/labor-employment/labor-day-statement-2017.cfm">READ MORE >></a></p>
Most Reverend Frank J. Dewane</div>
<div>
Bishop of Venice</div>
<div>
Chairman of the Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development</div>
<div>
United States Conference of Catholic Bishops</div>
<p>This Labor Day, we find ourselves at a time of kairos, a moment of crisis as well as opportunity. Over the past year, Pope Francis has drawn our attention to problems in the world of work that seek to undermine our understanding of the dignity of the person and threaten the stability of society. The Pope has also called us to action based on the truth about the nature of work which is intended to support the flourishing of the family. As the Holy Father recently remarked, work "comes from the first command that God gave to Adam . . . . There has always been friendship between the Church and work, starting with a working Jesus. Where there is a worker, there is the interest and the gaze of love of the Lord and of the Church."1 </p>
<p>What does our Lord's "gaze of love" see today? Surely he honors the parents and grandparents who offer their work as "prayers said with the hands"2 for their family and future. In turn, we thank God for the vocation of work, which, when healthy, "anoints" with dignity, helps children grow into adults, and strengthens cooperation across all people in our society.3 "Brother work," in Pope Francis' words, is formational and sustaining for every human life and community, and is essential to our faith.4 </p>
<p>God's "gaze of love" also receives all those who are struggling with work. A lack of work can be devastating to the human person, and it can undermine solidarity and destabilize society. "[T]he entire social pact is built around work," Pope Francis told a gathering of factory workers in Genoa. "This is the core of the problem. Because when you do not work, or you work badly, you work little or you work too much, it is democracy that enters into crisis, and the entire social pact."5 </p>
<p><a href="http://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/human-life-and-dignity/labor-employment/labor-day-statement-2017.cfm">READ MORE >></a></p>
Date
JOINT STATEMENT ON TRUMP ADMINISTRATION'S ROLLBACK OF PROTECTIONS FOR DREAMERS
News Intro Text
[September 5, 2017]
News Item Content
<p>HOPE BORDER INSTITUTE</p>
<p>BISHOP OSCAR CANTU, DIOCESE OF LAS CRUCES</p>
<p>BISHOP MARK J. SEITZ, DIOCESE OF EL PASO</p>
<p><strong>A Betrayal of Leadership. The Need for a Moratorium on Deportations.</strong></p>
<p>Jesus taught that law should be at the service of human beings and communities (Mk. 2:27). Jesus showed that leadership is about transcending petty divides, defending the vulnerable, and guaranteeing human dignity.</p>
<p>The devastating news that the Trump administration has rolled back basic protections from deportation for young immigrants is a betrayal of the law’s greater purpose, a betrayal of leadership’s duty to protect the innocent, and a betrayal of the compassion the President Trump promised Dreamers. </p>
<p>Our border communities know the contributions, hopes and character of our Dreamers, forged in a climate of endless anxiety, uncertainty and political turmoil. Nearly one million strong across the country, Dreamers are leaders in our parishes, graduates from our schools, veterans of our armed services, and first responders who have provided brave service in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey.</p>
<p><a href="http://mailchi.mp/hopeborder.org/statement-on-daca-rollback?e=769ec8d8fd">READ MORE >></a></p>
<div>
</div>
<p>BISHOP OSCAR CANTU, DIOCESE OF LAS CRUCES</p>
<p>BISHOP MARK J. SEITZ, DIOCESE OF EL PASO</p>
<p><strong>A Betrayal of Leadership. The Need for a Moratorium on Deportations.</strong></p>
<p>Jesus taught that law should be at the service of human beings and communities (Mk. 2:27). Jesus showed that leadership is about transcending petty divides, defending the vulnerable, and guaranteeing human dignity.</p>
<p>The devastating news that the Trump administration has rolled back basic protections from deportation for young immigrants is a betrayal of the law’s greater purpose, a betrayal of leadership’s duty to protect the innocent, and a betrayal of the compassion the President Trump promised Dreamers. </p>
<p>Our border communities know the contributions, hopes and character of our Dreamers, forged in a climate of endless anxiety, uncertainty and political turmoil. Nearly one million strong across the country, Dreamers are leaders in our parishes, graduates from our schools, veterans of our armed services, and first responders who have provided brave service in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey.</p>
<p><a href="http://mailchi.mp/hopeborder.org/statement-on-daca-rollback?e=769ec8d8fd">READ MORE >></a></p>
<div>
</div>
Date
JSRI Releases State of Working Florida Report
News Intro Text
[August 31, 2017]
News Item Content
<p>Press Release</p>
<p>August 31, 2017</p>
<p>The State of Working Florida 2017 finds that, while Florida’s economic and employment levels have recovered from the Great Recession, levels of economic security have not improved. The report shows that increases in the share of low-wage employment and the persistence of wage disparities for women and people of color after the Great Recession enabled an uneven economic recovery and fueled greater income inequality. In 2015, 26.6 percent of all Floridians were either poor or near poverty. This means that more than a quarter of Floridians earn income that is 150 percent or less than the federal poverty line.</p>
<p>“Increasingly in the United States, workers and their families are not able to achieve this security, especially minority households. This pattern is particularly prevalent in Florida, where more than a quarter of working families remain near or below the poverty line,” said Ali Bustamante, Ph.D., JSRI economic policy specialist and principal investigator on the report. “Moreover, the impacts are disproportionate across racial lines and place the heaviest burden on the state’s most vulnerable.”</p>
<p>“As a social justice research and action group, JSRI aims to spotlight the issues, in hopes that civic, political, and business leaders, as well as advocates, nonprofits, volunteers and residents, can help to relieve stress and reverse this troubling trend,” said Fr. Fred Kammer, S.J., J.D., executive director of Loyola’s Jesuit Social Research Institute.</p>
<p>Research finds that the scarcity of good jobs in Florida has eroded economic security due to downward pressures on wages and incomes. In 2016, Florida’s median wage of $16.03 was the lowest median wage the state had experienced in 11 years. Additionally, in 2016, 1 in 5 Florida workers, or 20.1 percent of the workforce, was paid at or below $10 an hour, the highest share of low-wage workers in the past 11 years. Between 2005 and 2016, 44.5 percent of all new employment in Florida was in low-wage jobs, accounting for nearly 1 in every 2 jobs created. Of the 883,000 jobs created during this period, more than 392,000 paid $10 an hour or less. Data also show that people of color and women in Florida experience more severe levels of economic security due to the prevalence of disproportionately lower wages.</p>
<p>The prevalence of economic insecurity in Florida is reflected in the low incomes of typical households, which have not recovered from the Great Recession. In 2015, Florida’s median household income was $49,688, $5,630 less than it was in 2007 (in 2016 inflation-adjusted dollars). Low household incomes have also contributed to rising inequality. In 2015, the bottom 90 percent of income earners in Florida took home 64.2 percent of the income earned in the state, the lowest amount in 11 years studied.</p>
<p>The report concludes with a recommendation that Florida’s leaders make strategic public investments and policy changes that improve the economic reality of all workers and their families. Increasing the minimum wage, promoting union membership, improving enforcement of existing anti-discrimination laws, implementing transparency in pay structures, and increasing educational spending are some key initiatives that Florida policymakers should consider.</p>
<p>Research for the State of Working Florida 2017 was conducted by the Jesuit Social Research Institute (JSRI) at Loyola University New Orleans in partnership with the Center for Labor Research and Studies and the Research Institute on Social and Economic Policy (RISEP) at Florida International University.</p>
<h2>
<span class="maroon"><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JSRI-state-of-working-fl-2017_0.pdf">READ REPORT HERE >></a></span></h2>
<p>August 31, 2017</p>
<p>The State of Working Florida 2017 finds that, while Florida’s economic and employment levels have recovered from the Great Recession, levels of economic security have not improved. The report shows that increases in the share of low-wage employment and the persistence of wage disparities for women and people of color after the Great Recession enabled an uneven economic recovery and fueled greater income inequality. In 2015, 26.6 percent of all Floridians were either poor or near poverty. This means that more than a quarter of Floridians earn income that is 150 percent or less than the federal poverty line.</p>
<p>“Increasingly in the United States, workers and their families are not able to achieve this security, especially minority households. This pattern is particularly prevalent in Florida, where more than a quarter of working families remain near or below the poverty line,” said Ali Bustamante, Ph.D., JSRI economic policy specialist and principal investigator on the report. “Moreover, the impacts are disproportionate across racial lines and place the heaviest burden on the state’s most vulnerable.”</p>
<p>“As a social justice research and action group, JSRI aims to spotlight the issues, in hopes that civic, political, and business leaders, as well as advocates, nonprofits, volunteers and residents, can help to relieve stress and reverse this troubling trend,” said Fr. Fred Kammer, S.J., J.D., executive director of Loyola’s Jesuit Social Research Institute.</p>
<p>Research finds that the scarcity of good jobs in Florida has eroded economic security due to downward pressures on wages and incomes. In 2016, Florida’s median wage of $16.03 was the lowest median wage the state had experienced in 11 years. Additionally, in 2016, 1 in 5 Florida workers, or 20.1 percent of the workforce, was paid at or below $10 an hour, the highest share of low-wage workers in the past 11 years. Between 2005 and 2016, 44.5 percent of all new employment in Florida was in low-wage jobs, accounting for nearly 1 in every 2 jobs created. Of the 883,000 jobs created during this period, more than 392,000 paid $10 an hour or less. Data also show that people of color and women in Florida experience more severe levels of economic security due to the prevalence of disproportionately lower wages.</p>
<p>The prevalence of economic insecurity in Florida is reflected in the low incomes of typical households, which have not recovered from the Great Recession. In 2015, Florida’s median household income was $49,688, $5,630 less than it was in 2007 (in 2016 inflation-adjusted dollars). Low household incomes have also contributed to rising inequality. In 2015, the bottom 90 percent of income earners in Florida took home 64.2 percent of the income earned in the state, the lowest amount in 11 years studied.</p>
<p>The report concludes with a recommendation that Florida’s leaders make strategic public investments and policy changes that improve the economic reality of all workers and their families. Increasing the minimum wage, promoting union membership, improving enforcement of existing anti-discrimination laws, implementing transparency in pay structures, and increasing educational spending are some key initiatives that Florida policymakers should consider.</p>
<p>Research for the State of Working Florida 2017 was conducted by the Jesuit Social Research Institute (JSRI) at Loyola University New Orleans in partnership with the Center for Labor Research and Studies and the Research Institute on Social and Economic Policy (RISEP) at Florida International University.</p>
<h2>
<span class="maroon"><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JSRI-state-of-working-fl-2017_0.pdf">READ REPORT HERE >></a></span></h2>
Date
The Real Threat of White Supremacy
News Intro Text
[August 2017]
News Item Content
<p>by Nicholas Mitchell, Ph.D.</p>
<p>The Guidelines for the Study and Teaching of the Church’s Social Doctrine in the Formation of Priests states that people are required to denounce unjust situations, which includes describing social evils in their totality.[1] Following this maxim, we must recognize that on August 12, 2017, Heather Heyer was murdered during a White race riot, when a member of the racist mob tried to kill scores of people with a car—a preferred tactic of recent terrorist attacks in Europe. In addition, Deandre Harris was nearly beaten to death in a parking garage. They were the victims of one of the most consequentially destructive ideologies in human history—White supremacy. From the Americas to Africa and Asia to Europe, the historical record shows that everywhere White supremacy has spread it has brought havoc. </p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/real-threat-white-supremacy">READ MORE >></a></p>
<p>The Guidelines for the Study and Teaching of the Church’s Social Doctrine in the Formation of Priests states that people are required to denounce unjust situations, which includes describing social evils in their totality.[1] Following this maxim, we must recognize that on August 12, 2017, Heather Heyer was murdered during a White race riot, when a member of the racist mob tried to kill scores of people with a car—a preferred tactic of recent terrorist attacks in Europe. In addition, Deandre Harris was nearly beaten to death in a parking garage. They were the victims of one of the most consequentially destructive ideologies in human history—White supremacy. From the Americas to Africa and Asia to Europe, the historical record shows that everywhere White supremacy has spread it has brought havoc. </p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/real-threat-white-supremacy">READ MORE >></a></p>
Date
MAINTAIN DEFERRED ACTION FOR CHILDHOOD ARRIVALS (DACA) Sign-On Letter for Educators in the Ignatian Network
News Intro Text
[August 16, 2017]
News Item Content
<div>
From Christopher Kerr, Executive Director, Ignatian Solidarity Network</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
I am writing with an invitation specifically for educators at Jesuit institutions to stand with young people as the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) faces threats from petitions for its termination. As you may know the Department of Justice has received petitions from a number of state governors and attorneys general calling for the immediate termination of the DACA program. As you know, the DACA program has provided access to hundreds of thousands of young people, including many at Jesuit institutions.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
In partnership with the Jesuit Conference's Office of Justice and Ecology, ISN has initiated a letter addressed to John F. Kelly, former DHS Secretary and current White House chief of staff, who is a Catholic, which calls upon the Administration to "maintain DACA as an essential program for the well being of young people and our communities." The letter lifts up Catholic Bishop Joe S. Vásquez's recent statement in support of young immigrants who are part of the DACA program. </div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<div>
Currently, more than 140 educators at Jesuit institutions have signed the letter including the presidents of sixteen Jesuit universities and a number of secondary and middle school institutions. </div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Please note that the letter is open to any educator at a Jesuit institution — faculty and administrators. The letter will be sent to the White House toward the end of this month.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<a href="https://ignatiansolidarity.net/maintain-daca/?utm_source=Immigration%3A%20Supporting%20Undocumented%20Persons&utm_campaign=78f0e40ab4-14.10.15%20ISN%20Updates&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_ddecad9f5a-78f0e40ab4-255754721">SIGN THE LETTER >></a></div>
</div>
<p> </p>
From Christopher Kerr, Executive Director, Ignatian Solidarity Network</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
I am writing with an invitation specifically for educators at Jesuit institutions to stand with young people as the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) faces threats from petitions for its termination. As you may know the Department of Justice has received petitions from a number of state governors and attorneys general calling for the immediate termination of the DACA program. As you know, the DACA program has provided access to hundreds of thousands of young people, including many at Jesuit institutions.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
In partnership with the Jesuit Conference's Office of Justice and Ecology, ISN has initiated a letter addressed to John F. Kelly, former DHS Secretary and current White House chief of staff, who is a Catholic, which calls upon the Administration to "maintain DACA as an essential program for the well being of young people and our communities." The letter lifts up Catholic Bishop Joe S. Vásquez's recent statement in support of young immigrants who are part of the DACA program. </div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<div>
Currently, more than 140 educators at Jesuit institutions have signed the letter including the presidents of sixteen Jesuit universities and a number of secondary and middle school institutions. </div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Please note that the letter is open to any educator at a Jesuit institution — faculty and administrators. The letter will be sent to the White House toward the end of this month.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<a href="https://ignatiansolidarity.net/maintain-daca/?utm_source=Immigration%3A%20Supporting%20Undocumented%20Persons&utm_campaign=78f0e40ab4-14.10.15%20ISN%20Updates&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_ddecad9f5a-78f0e40ab4-255754721">SIGN THE LETTER >></a></div>
</div>
<p> </p>
Date
Recovering the Human Face of Immigration in the U.S. South Support Materials Released
News Intro Text
[August 8, 2018]
News Item Content
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana;">The Center for Latin American Studies at the University of Florida, Jesuit Social Research Institute (JSRI), and Program for Immigration Religion & Social Change came together to produce </span><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Recovering%20human%20face-0317-final%20final-carUFL.pdf"><em style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: Verdana; vertical-align: baseline;">Recovering the Human Face of Immigration in the U.S. South</em></a><span style="font-family: Verdana;"> in October of 2016. The effort was made possible by a grant from the Carnegie Foundation and with religious leaders throughout the country giving insight into inclusive immigrant practices (namely, Ann Cass Williams; PJ Edwards; Michael Mata; Alexia Salvatierra; Msgr. Dan Stack). Today, JSRI released the supporting documents to host a presentation in your own community. </span></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Recovering%20the%20Human%20Face%20of%20Immigration%20PowerPoint.pdf"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Recovering the Human Face of Immigration PowerPoint</span></a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Recovering%20the%20Human%20Face%20of%20Immigration%20Script%20for%20PowerPoint.pdf"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Recovering the Human Face of Immigration Script for PowerPoint</span></a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Recovering%20the%20Human%20Face%20of%20Immigration%20PowerPoint.pdf"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Recovering the Human Face of Immigration PowerPoint</span></a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Recovering%20the%20Human%20Face%20of%20Immigration%20Script%20for%20PowerPoint.pdf"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Recovering the Human Face of Immigration Script for PowerPoint</span></a></p>
Date
Black women have to work 7 months into 2017 to be paid the same as white men in 2016
News Intro Text
[July 28, 2017]
News Item Content
<div>
July 31st is Black Women’s Equal Pay Day, the day that marks how long into 2017 an African American woman would have to work in order to be paid the same wages as her white male counterpart was paid last year. Black women are uniquely positioned to be subjected to both a racial pay gap and a gender pay gap. In fact, on average, black women workers are paid only 67 cents on the dollar relative to white non-Hispanic men, even after controlling for education, years of experience, and location.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<strong>Why does this wage gap exist for black women?</strong></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Pay inequity directly touches the lives of black women in at least three distinct ways. Since few black women are among the top 5 percent of earners in this country, they have experienced the relatively slow wage growth that characterizes growing class inequality along with the vast majority of other Americans. But in addition to this class inequality, they also experience lower pay due to gender and race bias.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.epi.org/blog/black-women-have-to-work-7-months-into-2017-to-be-paid-the-same-as-white-men-in-2016/?utm_source=Economic+Policy+Institute&utm_campaign=82917e119e-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2017_07_28&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_e7c5826c50-82917e119e-55871785&mc_cid=82917e119e&mc_eid=7b9221669f">READ MORE>></a></div>
July 31st is Black Women’s Equal Pay Day, the day that marks how long into 2017 an African American woman would have to work in order to be paid the same wages as her white male counterpart was paid last year. Black women are uniquely positioned to be subjected to both a racial pay gap and a gender pay gap. In fact, on average, black women workers are paid only 67 cents on the dollar relative to white non-Hispanic men, even after controlling for education, years of experience, and location.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<strong>Why does this wage gap exist for black women?</strong></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Pay inequity directly touches the lives of black women in at least three distinct ways. Since few black women are among the top 5 percent of earners in this country, they have experienced the relatively slow wage growth that characterizes growing class inequality along with the vast majority of other Americans. But in addition to this class inequality, they also experience lower pay due to gender and race bias.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.epi.org/blog/black-women-have-to-work-7-months-into-2017-to-be-paid-the-same-as-white-men-in-2016/?utm_source=Economic+Policy+Institute&utm_campaign=82917e119e-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2017_07_28&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_e7c5826c50-82917e119e-55871785&mc_cid=82917e119e&mc_eid=7b9221669f">READ MORE>></a></div>
Date
Health Care Again
News Intro Text
[July 21, 2017]
News Item Content
<p>By Rev. Kevin Wildes, S.J., Ph.D.</p>
<div>
America is once again facing questions of health care policy and law. Six times in the 20th century — beginning with the presidency of Teddy Roosevelt, a progressive Republican, and ending with that of Bill Clinton, a conservative Democrat — America tried to address the issue of health insurance for all people. Six times we failed. Important progress was made during the presidency of Lyndon B. Johnson, when Medicare and Medicaid became part of the U.S. health care system. For more than 100 years, the United States has struggled with health care issues, considering (and reconsidering) who should benefit and how much. The issues have only gotten more challenging over time.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Health care is a double-edged sword, in practice and in politics. On the one hand, the U.S. health care system is a complex set of policy issues that shape the daily health care realities for millions of people. On the other hand, these policies have real, immediate impacts on the lives of men and women when they or their loved ones are sick and vulnerable. People don’t think of their health care in terms of group insurance or a pool. They think of it as “my” health care. And this mindset has colored the debate for more than a century.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/health-care-again_us_59723102e4b0f1feb89b430c?utm_content=bufferbbbe5&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook.com&utm_campaign=buffer">READ MORE >></a></div>
<div>
America is once again facing questions of health care policy and law. Six times in the 20th century — beginning with the presidency of Teddy Roosevelt, a progressive Republican, and ending with that of Bill Clinton, a conservative Democrat — America tried to address the issue of health insurance for all people. Six times we failed. Important progress was made during the presidency of Lyndon B. Johnson, when Medicare and Medicaid became part of the U.S. health care system. For more than 100 years, the United States has struggled with health care issues, considering (and reconsidering) who should benefit and how much. The issues have only gotten more challenging over time.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Health care is a double-edged sword, in practice and in politics. On the one hand, the U.S. health care system is a complex set of policy issues that shape the daily health care realities for millions of people. On the other hand, these policies have real, immediate impacts on the lives of men and women when they or their loved ones are sick and vulnerable. People don’t think of their health care in terms of group insurance or a pool. They think of it as “my” health care. And this mindset has colored the debate for more than a century.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/health-care-again_us_59723102e4b0f1feb89b430c?utm_content=bufferbbbe5&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook.com&utm_campaign=buffer">READ MORE >></a></div>
Date
Shredding the Health Safety Net
News Intro Text
[July 21, 2017]
News Item Content
<div>
By Fred Kammer, S.J.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Over the past 50 years, Medicare, Medicaid, and other measures moved our health care system closer to the Catholic principle that health care is a natural right rooted in the sanctity and dignity of the human person. </div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Most recently, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) of 2010 added protection of that right for more than 24 million Americans[1] who still did not have affordable and comprehensive care and protected 52 million people with pre-existing medical conditions. Now, the American Health Care Act, passed on May 4 by the U.S. House, and the Better Care Reconciliation Act, introduced in June into the U.S. Senate, have threatened not just to roll back the ACA and its protections but to deny coverage under the ACA and Medicaid to 23 (House) or 22 (Senate) million Americans. It also will upend insurance markets, savage state budgets, drive up unemployment, and badly impact rural communities.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Senators promised that their bill would be different from that of the House, and President Trump termed the House Bill “mean.” The Senate, however, kept most of the terrible House provisions and their negative consequences[2]:</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
• Tens of millions of people lose health coverage.</div>
<div>
• Millions of low-income adults lose Medicaid expansion.</div>
<div>
• Medicaid for seniors, people with disabilities, and children is capped and cut.</div>
<div>
• Tax credits are cut and premiums raised by thousands of dollars for many older people.</div>
<div>
• Individual market premiums rise by 20 percent for 2018.</div>
<div>
• Insurers can drop coverage for maternity care, mental health, and substance abuse.</div>
<div>
• Opioid addiction coverage is cut by billions of dollars.</div>
<div>
• Survival of rural hospitals dependent on Medicaid is threatened.</div>
<div>
• Employer and individual mandates to purchase insurance will be ended.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/7clkq/0494c35167ab42b1d6a79a4bf343f5e8">READ MORE>></a></div>
By Fred Kammer, S.J.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Over the past 50 years, Medicare, Medicaid, and other measures moved our health care system closer to the Catholic principle that health care is a natural right rooted in the sanctity and dignity of the human person. </div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Most recently, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) of 2010 added protection of that right for more than 24 million Americans[1] who still did not have affordable and comprehensive care and protected 52 million people with pre-existing medical conditions. Now, the American Health Care Act, passed on May 4 by the U.S. House, and the Better Care Reconciliation Act, introduced in June into the U.S. Senate, have threatened not just to roll back the ACA and its protections but to deny coverage under the ACA and Medicaid to 23 (House) or 22 (Senate) million Americans. It also will upend insurance markets, savage state budgets, drive up unemployment, and badly impact rural communities.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Senators promised that their bill would be different from that of the House, and President Trump termed the House Bill “mean.” The Senate, however, kept most of the terrible House provisions and their negative consequences[2]:</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
• Tens of millions of people lose health coverage.</div>
<div>
• Millions of low-income adults lose Medicaid expansion.</div>
<div>
• Medicaid for seniors, people with disabilities, and children is capped and cut.</div>
<div>
• Tax credits are cut and premiums raised by thousands of dollars for many older people.</div>
<div>
• Individual market premiums rise by 20 percent for 2018.</div>
<div>
• Insurers can drop coverage for maternity care, mental health, and substance abuse.</div>
<div>
• Opioid addiction coverage is cut by billions of dollars.</div>
<div>
• Survival of rural hospitals dependent on Medicaid is threatened.</div>
<div>
• Employer and individual mandates to purchase insurance will be ended.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/7clkq/0494c35167ab42b1d6a79a4bf343f5e8">READ MORE>></a></div>
Date
Encounter with immigrants seen as ‘eye-opening’
News Intro Text
[June 30, 2017]
News Item Content
<p>By Joseph Kenny</p>
<div>
Sitting down with an immigrant who has come to America for a better life was eye-opening for Sister Joan Klass.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Sister Joan, who attended a "Catholic Teach-In on Migration: Creating a Culture of Encounter" June 26 with six other Sisters of the Most Precious Blood, said her group was impressed with the immigrants who attended and gave testimony during discussions in a small-group setting. "We really are impressed the immigrants are putting themselves out there," she said. "It added a very special dimension to the evening."</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
The woman she spoke with had fled a rural area of Mexico because of economic pressures that made it difficult for her and her husband and young child to survive. The trek across the border was treacherous. "They went through a terrible time, separated from their child," Sister Joan said.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
A study led by Center for Economic and Policy Research economist Mark Weisbrot estimates that the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) put almost 2 million small-scale Mexican farmers out of work, in turn driving illegal migration to the United States.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<a href="http://stlouisreview.com/article/2017-06-30/encounter-immigrants?utm_content=buffer9a6cf&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter.com&utm_campaign=buffer">READ MORE >></a></div>
<div>
Sitting down with an immigrant who has come to America for a better life was eye-opening for Sister Joan Klass.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Sister Joan, who attended a "Catholic Teach-In on Migration: Creating a Culture of Encounter" June 26 with six other Sisters of the Most Precious Blood, said her group was impressed with the immigrants who attended and gave testimony during discussions in a small-group setting. "We really are impressed the immigrants are putting themselves out there," she said. "It added a very special dimension to the evening."</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
The woman she spoke with had fled a rural area of Mexico because of economic pressures that made it difficult for her and her husband and young child to survive. The trek across the border was treacherous. "They went through a terrible time, separated from their child," Sister Joan said.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
A study led by Center for Economic and Policy Research economist Mark Weisbrot estimates that the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) put almost 2 million small-scale Mexican farmers out of work, in turn driving illegal migration to the United States.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<a href="http://stlouisreview.com/article/2017-06-30/encounter-immigrants?utm_content=buffer9a6cf&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter.com&utm_campaign=buffer">READ MORE >></a></div>
Date
U.S. Bishops Chairman Calls Senate To “Reject Changes” To Social Safety Net
News Intro Text
[June 27, 2017]
News Item Content
<div>
WASHINGTON—Bishop Frank J. Dewane of Venice, Florida, Chairman of the U.S. Bishops' Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development, has provided a more detailed critique of the Senate "discussion draft" health care bill, dubbed the "Better Care Reconciliation Act" (BCRA).</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
"Removing vital coverage for those most in need is not the answer to our nation's health care problems, and doing so will not help us build toward the common good," said Bishop Dewane. "For the sake of persons living on the margins of our health care system, we call on the Senate to reject changes intended to fundamentally alter the social safety net for millions of people."</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
The BCRA was introduced in discussion draft format on June 22, 2017, and is the Senate's working heath care proposal. Bishop Dewane again highlighted the need for lawmakers to withhold support for provisions that would harm poor and vulnerable people, including changes to Medicaid, in the June 27 letter. He also stressed the need for protections for the unborn in the bill, indicating that "[s]afeguards pertaining to the use of tax credits for plans that include abortion face steep challenges," and that the BCRA "needs to be strengthened to fully apply the longstanding and widely-supported Hyde amendment protections." Bishop Dewane also noted that coverage for immigrants and conscience protections were lacking in the BCRA.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
"The BCRA's restructuring of Medicaid will adversely impact those already in deep health poverty," warned Bishop Dewane. "At a time when tax cuts that would seem to benefit the wealthy and increases in other areas of federal spending, such as defense, are being contemplated, placing a 'per capita cap' on medical coverage for the poor is unconscionable."</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/human-life-and-dignity/health-care/letter-to-senate-on-better-care-reconciliation-act-2017-06-27.cfm">READ MORE>></a></div>
WASHINGTON—Bishop Frank J. Dewane of Venice, Florida, Chairman of the U.S. Bishops' Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development, has provided a more detailed critique of the Senate "discussion draft" health care bill, dubbed the "Better Care Reconciliation Act" (BCRA).</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
"Removing vital coverage for those most in need is not the answer to our nation's health care problems, and doing so will not help us build toward the common good," said Bishop Dewane. "For the sake of persons living on the margins of our health care system, we call on the Senate to reject changes intended to fundamentally alter the social safety net for millions of people."</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
The BCRA was introduced in discussion draft format on June 22, 2017, and is the Senate's working heath care proposal. Bishop Dewane again highlighted the need for lawmakers to withhold support for provisions that would harm poor and vulnerable people, including changes to Medicaid, in the June 27 letter. He also stressed the need for protections for the unborn in the bill, indicating that "[s]afeguards pertaining to the use of tax credits for plans that include abortion face steep challenges," and that the BCRA "needs to be strengthened to fully apply the longstanding and widely-supported Hyde amendment protections." Bishop Dewane also noted that coverage for immigrants and conscience protections were lacking in the BCRA.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
"The BCRA's restructuring of Medicaid will adversely impact those already in deep health poverty," warned Bishop Dewane. "At a time when tax cuts that would seem to benefit the wealthy and increases in other areas of federal spending, such as defense, are being contemplated, placing a 'per capita cap' on medical coverage for the poor is unconscionable."</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/human-life-and-dignity/health-care/letter-to-senate-on-better-care-reconciliation-act-2017-06-27.cfm">READ MORE>></a></div>
Date
The Disabled Fight for Health Care
News Intro Text
[July 10, 2017]
News Item Content
<div>
Recently, 43 disabled protesters were arrested outside of Senate majority leader Mitch McConnell's office, and the clips went viral on social media. Since then, activists have kept up the pressure on the Republican health bill with similar actions across the country. For this short documentary, The Atlantic traveled to the heart of the disability rights movement in the San Francisco Bay Area to learn why some people with disabilities fear the Republican health plan. Mary Lou Breslin of the Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund says cuts to Medicaid could ultimately cost 3 million people with disabilities their freedom, and erode "40 years of hard won gains by the disability rights movement."</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
This documentary was produced as a project for the USC Center for Health Journalism’s California Fellowship.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<a href="https://www.theatlantic.com/video/index/533001/the-disabled-fight-for-health-care/">WATCH VIDEO >></a></div>
Recently, 43 disabled protesters were arrested outside of Senate majority leader Mitch McConnell's office, and the clips went viral on social media. Since then, activists have kept up the pressure on the Republican health bill with similar actions across the country. For this short documentary, The Atlantic traveled to the heart of the disability rights movement in the San Francisco Bay Area to learn why some people with disabilities fear the Republican health plan. Mary Lou Breslin of the Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund says cuts to Medicaid could ultimately cost 3 million people with disabilities their freedom, and erode "40 years of hard won gains by the disability rights movement."</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
This documentary was produced as a project for the USC Center for Health Journalism’s California Fellowship.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<a href="https://www.theatlantic.com/video/index/533001/the-disabled-fight-for-health-care/">WATCH VIDEO >></a></div>
Date
Travel ban could take effect Thursday; migration expert and travelers weigh in
News Intro Text
[Sabrina Wilson, June 28, 2017]
News Item Content
<p>Written by: Sabrina Wilson, Reporter [WVUE]</p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">A portion of President Trump’s controversial travel ban could be implemented Thursday, and travelers and a local migration expert weighed in on whether it could be effective in keeping Americans more safe.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">"It was great, you know, I felt very safe the whole time I was traveling, flying, airports," said Donna Maques, who just traveled from Amsterdam.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">She was honest about her own concerns about terrorism.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">"When people are boarding the plane, you find yourself looking around at anyone to see if there's something about the person that makes you feel not too comfortable, and things like that,” said Marques.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">In anticipation of the implementation of a portion of President Trump’s revised travel ban, federal agencies did not allow much when contacted Wednesday.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">“We continue to work with the Departments of State and Justice on the way forward for implementation of the Executive Order based on the Supreme Court's ruling. We’ll release additional information tomorrow,” said a spokeswoman for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Earlier this week the Supreme Court said the 90-day ban on visitors from six majority Muslim countries, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen entering the U.S. could be enforced, at least for now, unless the travelers have bona fide relationships with a person or entity in the U.S.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Another traveler who flies abroad likes the idea.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">"If they're coming from a problem country like that, I mean fly a lot so, I don't want to get blown out of the sky… so I think it's a good idea,” said Richard Barrera.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">"I don't think anyone should be profiled, but I think it should be everyone. When I travel to a foreign country I have to prove I'm going over there just for leisure, or whatever,” said Marques.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">When the president's initial travel ban went into effect back in January with little warning, many airports around the country experienced a lot of chaos and confusion. Some think implementing a portion of the ban now will result in the same.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><span class="maroon">"I think there's definitely going to be some confusion about what a bona fide relationship means,” said Dr. Susan Weishar, a Mitigation specialist and Fellow at the Jesuit Social Research Institute at Loyola University.</span></p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><span class="maroon">Dr. Weishar has worked to resettle refugees, but she does not think they will be significantly impacted by the part of the travel ban that is to take effect.</span></p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><span class="maroon">"If somebody has a relative in the United States, they could come to accept a job, to attend a university or to deliver a speech at university…It's really not clear how this travel ban is going to affect anybody but perhaps a small group of tourists, at this point,” said Weishar.</span></p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><span class="maroon">She said refugees normally meet the criteria of having bona-fide relationships.</span></p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><span class="maroon">"The most vetted people to come into our country are refugees…I don't think that it makes us safer at all,” Weishar stated.</span></p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Trump called the Supreme Court’s decision “a clear victory for our national security.”</p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Some travelers agree.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">"Lil safer, yeah, I think it will,” said Barrera.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">The Supreme Court will not hear oral arguments on the entire travel ban the president wants until October.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><a href="http://www.fox8live.com/story/35773848/travel-ban-could-take-effect-thursday-migration-expert-and-travelers-weigh-in">MORE>></a></p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">A portion of President Trump’s controversial travel ban could be implemented Thursday, and travelers and a local migration expert weighed in on whether it could be effective in keeping Americans more safe.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">"It was great, you know, I felt very safe the whole time I was traveling, flying, airports," said Donna Maques, who just traveled from Amsterdam.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">She was honest about her own concerns about terrorism.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">"When people are boarding the plane, you find yourself looking around at anyone to see if there's something about the person that makes you feel not too comfortable, and things like that,” said Marques.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">In anticipation of the implementation of a portion of President Trump’s revised travel ban, federal agencies did not allow much when contacted Wednesday.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">“We continue to work with the Departments of State and Justice on the way forward for implementation of the Executive Order based on the Supreme Court's ruling. We’ll release additional information tomorrow,” said a spokeswoman for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Earlier this week the Supreme Court said the 90-day ban on visitors from six majority Muslim countries, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen entering the U.S. could be enforced, at least for now, unless the travelers have bona fide relationships with a person or entity in the U.S.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Another traveler who flies abroad likes the idea.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">"If they're coming from a problem country like that, I mean fly a lot so, I don't want to get blown out of the sky… so I think it's a good idea,” said Richard Barrera.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">"I don't think anyone should be profiled, but I think it should be everyone. When I travel to a foreign country I have to prove I'm going over there just for leisure, or whatever,” said Marques.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">When the president's initial travel ban went into effect back in January with little warning, many airports around the country experienced a lot of chaos and confusion. Some think implementing a portion of the ban now will result in the same.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><span class="maroon">"I think there's definitely going to be some confusion about what a bona fide relationship means,” said Dr. Susan Weishar, a Mitigation specialist and Fellow at the Jesuit Social Research Institute at Loyola University.</span></p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><span class="maroon">Dr. Weishar has worked to resettle refugees, but she does not think they will be significantly impacted by the part of the travel ban that is to take effect.</span></p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><span class="maroon">"If somebody has a relative in the United States, they could come to accept a job, to attend a university or to deliver a speech at university…It's really not clear how this travel ban is going to affect anybody but perhaps a small group of tourists, at this point,” said Weishar.</span></p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><span class="maroon">She said refugees normally meet the criteria of having bona-fide relationships.</span></p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><span class="maroon">"The most vetted people to come into our country are refugees…I don't think that it makes us safer at all,” Weishar stated.</span></p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Trump called the Supreme Court’s decision “a clear victory for our national security.”</p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Some travelers agree.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">"Lil safer, yeah, I think it will,” said Barrera.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">The Supreme Court will not hear oral arguments on the entire travel ban the president wants until October.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 12px; margin-bottom: 12px; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><a href="http://www.fox8live.com/story/35773848/travel-ban-could-take-effect-thursday-migration-expert-and-travelers-weigh-in">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Urge Your Senator to Vote NO on the Better Care Reconciliation Act (BCRA)
News Intro Text
Contact your U.S. Senators today and remind them that health care is a right based in the sanctity and dignity of every human person. Tell them you will not stand for 23 million people losing insurance and cuts to health care for the most vulnerable of our society.
News Item Content
<p><font color="#585858" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><span>Last Thursday Senate Republicans revealed their version of the American Health Care Act, the unpopular House bill. The Senate bill retains much of the problematic provisions of the House bill, including massive reductions to Medicaid, higher insurance costs, and less coverage in order to cut taxes for the wealthy. According to the Congressional Budget Office report, by 2026, 15 million fewer Americans would have Medicaid, not to mention the 22 million more uninsured.</span></font></p>
<p><font color="#585858" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><span>Republicans in the Senate have followed their House colleagues in rushing a secret plan to repeal the Affordable Care Act onto the Senate floor. No committee hearings, no public debate and no expert testimony will take place before this extremely unpopular bill is likely to get a vote in the U.S. Senate.</span></font></p>
<p><font color="#585858" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><span>The bill threatens the health care of millions and would gut Medicaid, through a per capita cap funding mechanism. Medicaid insures one in five Americans. The proposed structural change would harm these older people, kids and their families, people with disabilities, and those suffering from substance abuse and mental health conditions.</span></font></p>
<p><font color="#585858" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><span>Contact your U.S. Senators today and tell them that you oppose the GOP repeal bill. Remind them that health care is a right based in the sanctity and dignity of the human person. Tell them you will not stand for 23 million people losing insurance and cuts to health care for the most vulnerable of our society.</span></font></p>
<p><font color="#585858" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><span>We recommend you take one of two actions detailed below. If you need assistance, please contact: Alí Bustamante, Ph.D., our economic policy specialist, at arbustam@loyno.edu or 504-864-7748. Thanks for your strong advocacy on behalf of millions of people. Remember that just one or two votes can swing this issue.</span></font></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/take-action?vvsrc=%2FCampaigns%2F53433%2FRespond"><font color="#585858" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><span>TAKE ACTION>>></span></font></a></p>
<p><font color="#585858" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><span>Republicans in the Senate have followed their House colleagues in rushing a secret plan to repeal the Affordable Care Act onto the Senate floor. No committee hearings, no public debate and no expert testimony will take place before this extremely unpopular bill is likely to get a vote in the U.S. Senate.</span></font></p>
<p><font color="#585858" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><span>The bill threatens the health care of millions and would gut Medicaid, through a per capita cap funding mechanism. Medicaid insures one in five Americans. The proposed structural change would harm these older people, kids and their families, people with disabilities, and those suffering from substance abuse and mental health conditions.</span></font></p>
<p><font color="#585858" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><span>Contact your U.S. Senators today and tell them that you oppose the GOP repeal bill. Remind them that health care is a right based in the sanctity and dignity of the human person. Tell them you will not stand for 23 million people losing insurance and cuts to health care for the most vulnerable of our society.</span></font></p>
<p><font color="#585858" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><span>We recommend you take one of two actions detailed below. If you need assistance, please contact: Alí Bustamante, Ph.D., our economic policy specialist, at arbustam@loyno.edu or 504-864-7748. Thanks for your strong advocacy on behalf of millions of people. Remember that just one or two votes can swing this issue.</span></font></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/take-action?vvsrc=%2FCampaigns%2F53433%2FRespond"><font color="#585858" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><span>TAKE ACTION>>></span></font></a></p>
Date
Deportation to deadly countries is an evil we can avoid
News Intro Text
[By Rafael Garcia, S.J.]
News Item Content
<div>
By Rafael Garcia, S.J.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Bishop Daniel Flores of Brownsville, Tex., last year questioned the morality of the United States deporting refugees seeking asylum, rightly treating their plight as a right-to-life issue. “I consider supporting the sending of an adult or child back to a place where he or she is marked for death, where there is lawlessness and societal collapse, to be formal cooperation with an intrinsic evil,” Bishop Flores said, “not unlike driving someone to an abortion clinic.”</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Honduras, El Salvador, Guatemala and Mexico have been experiencing massive violence from gangs, often with the collaboration of law enforcement officials and the military. But according to the American Immigration Council, U.S. immigration courts granted asylum to only 1 percent of applicants from Mexico in 2012, and less than 10 percent of applicants from the three Central American countries mentioned above. These figures contrasted with acceptance rates of over 80 percent for asylum applicants from Egypt, Iran and Somalia.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<a href="https://www.americamagazine.org/politics-society/2017/06/23/deportation-deadly-countries-evil-we-can-avoid">MORE>></a></div>
By Rafael Garcia, S.J.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Bishop Daniel Flores of Brownsville, Tex., last year questioned the morality of the United States deporting refugees seeking asylum, rightly treating their plight as a right-to-life issue. “I consider supporting the sending of an adult or child back to a place where he or she is marked for death, where there is lawlessness and societal collapse, to be formal cooperation with an intrinsic evil,” Bishop Flores said, “not unlike driving someone to an abortion clinic.”</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Honduras, El Salvador, Guatemala and Mexico have been experiencing massive violence from gangs, often with the collaboration of law enforcement officials and the military. But according to the American Immigration Council, U.S. immigration courts granted asylum to only 1 percent of applicants from Mexico in 2012, and less than 10 percent of applicants from the three Central American countries mentioned above. These figures contrasted with acceptance rates of over 80 percent for asylum applicants from Egypt, Iran and Somalia.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<a href="https://www.americamagazine.org/politics-society/2017/06/23/deportation-deadly-countries-evil-we-can-avoid">MORE>></a></div>
Date
A doctor's view of Louisiana Medicaid expansion is it's working
News Intro Text
[Opinion by Scott Martin, M.D., June 23, 2017]
News Item Content
<p><font color="#333333" face="Benton Sans, Arial, sans-serif"><span><b>Opinion by Scott Martin, M.D.</b></span></font></p>
<p><font color="#333333" face="Benton Sans, Arial, sans-serif"><span><b>I had the great misfortune to begin my career as a physician practicing in Louisiana without the initial expansion of Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act. Although many hundreds of thousands of people would have benefited significantly from the expansion, the gubernatorial politics of the time were firmly set against it. </b></span></font></p>
<p><font color="#333333" face="Benton Sans, Arial, sans-serif"><span><b>Instead I spent my three years of internal medicine residency in a busy, New Orleans hospital system routinely dealing with the uninsured. My patient population ran the spectrum from homeless schizophrenics and shackled prisoners to unemployed pipe-guys and working single mothers. We treated all comers, often dealing with a shocking level of poverty and disenfranchisement.</b></span></font></p>
<div>
<p><a href="http://www.nola.com/opinions/index.ssf/2017/06/medicaid_expansion.html">MORE>></a></p>
</div>
<p> </p>
<p><font color="#333333" face="Benton Sans, Arial, sans-serif"><span><b>I had the great misfortune to begin my career as a physician practicing in Louisiana without the initial expansion of Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act. Although many hundreds of thousands of people would have benefited significantly from the expansion, the gubernatorial politics of the time were firmly set against it. </b></span></font></p>
<p><font color="#333333" face="Benton Sans, Arial, sans-serif"><span><b>Instead I spent my three years of internal medicine residency in a busy, New Orleans hospital system routinely dealing with the uninsured. My patient population ran the spectrum from homeless schizophrenics and shackled prisoners to unemployed pipe-guys and working single mothers. We treated all comers, often dealing with a shocking level of poverty and disenfranchisement.</b></span></font></p>
<div>
<p><a href="http://www.nola.com/opinions/index.ssf/2017/06/medicaid_expansion.html">MORE>></a></p>
</div>
<p> </p>
Date
Louisiana Is First State To Ban Public Colleges From Asking About Criminal History
News Intro Text
[NPR, June 22, 2017]
News Item Content
<div>
<div>
ANYA KAMENETZ, NPR</div>
</div>
<div>
</div>
<p>Louisiana has become the first state to prohibit all public universities from asking applicants about their criminal history.</p>
<p>By some estimates, as many as 70 to 100 million Americans have some kind of criminal record.</p>
<p>And the proportion is far higher in some minority communities. The so called "ban the box" movement is intended to open opportunities to these Americans by preventing discrimination on the basis of one's past.</p>
<p>"When you educate yourself you become patient, you become wiser, you get off of welfare and become an asset to your society," said Karla Garner in public testimony to the Louisiana House of Representatives. "I was humiliated trying to go to computer school." Garner said she served eight years in prison for the death of her child.</p>
<p>Twenty-four states, Washington, D.C., and the federal government now prohibit asking about a criminal record on public job applications.</p>
<p>In 2016 the U.S. Department of Education asked colleges to voluntarily remove criminal history questions from their applications. So far, large public university systems including California's and New York's, as well as some private colleges, have complied.</p>
<p>But Louisiana's is the first statewide ban. The Republican governor of Maryland, Larry Hogan, vetoed a similar law for college applications in May, citing student safety. "Parents have an expectation that the school to which they entrust their child will do everything possible to keep their students safe," he wrote.</p>
<p>The fact that this policy prevailed in Louisiana may be surprising at first glance. The state has the highest incarceration rate in the country, double the national average.</p>
<p>The fight to "ban the box" in Louisiana, for students and earlier for workers, was bipartisan, led by a coalition of civil rights advocates and Christian groups.</p>
<p>Annie Freitas of the Louisiana Prison Education Coalition, which helped write and advocate for the bill, said that after her group brought in people to testify who had gone from prison to college, or been thwarted in their dreams to do so, "conservative Republican senators who have not voted for any criminal justice reform in the past were crying, were hugging, were asking to testify in favor of the bill." The bill passed the house floor 90 to 0, Freitas said.</p>
<p>Freitas says that university presidents asked for an exception to inquire if applicants have a history of stalking or aggravated sexual assault. Also, after students are admitted, colleges can ask about criminal history when making determinations about counseling, student aid and campus housing.</p>
<p>LPEC and other groups will be helping create accountability measures and offering resources to colleges to help them comply with the new law.</p>
<div>
</div>
<p><a href="http://www.npr.org/sections/ed/2017/06/22/533833428/louisiana-is-first-state-to-ban-public-colleges-from-asking-about-criminal-histo">MORE>></a></p>
<div>
ANYA KAMENETZ, NPR</div>
</div>
<div>
</div>
<p>Louisiana has become the first state to prohibit all public universities from asking applicants about their criminal history.</p>
<p>By some estimates, as many as 70 to 100 million Americans have some kind of criminal record.</p>
<p>And the proportion is far higher in some minority communities. The so called "ban the box" movement is intended to open opportunities to these Americans by preventing discrimination on the basis of one's past.</p>
<p>"When you educate yourself you become patient, you become wiser, you get off of welfare and become an asset to your society," said Karla Garner in public testimony to the Louisiana House of Representatives. "I was humiliated trying to go to computer school." Garner said she served eight years in prison for the death of her child.</p>
<p>Twenty-four states, Washington, D.C., and the federal government now prohibit asking about a criminal record on public job applications.</p>
<p>In 2016 the U.S. Department of Education asked colleges to voluntarily remove criminal history questions from their applications. So far, large public university systems including California's and New York's, as well as some private colleges, have complied.</p>
<p>But Louisiana's is the first statewide ban. The Republican governor of Maryland, Larry Hogan, vetoed a similar law for college applications in May, citing student safety. "Parents have an expectation that the school to which they entrust their child will do everything possible to keep their students safe," he wrote.</p>
<p>The fact that this policy prevailed in Louisiana may be surprising at first glance. The state has the highest incarceration rate in the country, double the national average.</p>
<p>The fight to "ban the box" in Louisiana, for students and earlier for workers, was bipartisan, led by a coalition of civil rights advocates and Christian groups.</p>
<p>Annie Freitas of the Louisiana Prison Education Coalition, which helped write and advocate for the bill, said that after her group brought in people to testify who had gone from prison to college, or been thwarted in their dreams to do so, "conservative Republican senators who have not voted for any criminal justice reform in the past were crying, were hugging, were asking to testify in favor of the bill." The bill passed the house floor 90 to 0, Freitas said.</p>
<p>Freitas says that university presidents asked for an exception to inquire if applicants have a history of stalking or aggravated sexual assault. Also, after students are admitted, colleges can ask about criminal history when making determinations about counseling, student aid and campus housing.</p>
<p>LPEC and other groups will be helping create accountability measures and offering resources to colleges to help them comply with the new law.</p>
<div>
</div>
<p><a href="http://www.npr.org/sections/ed/2017/06/22/533833428/louisiana-is-first-state-to-ban-public-colleges-from-asking-about-criminal-histo">MORE>></a></p>
Date
WKKF Funds Project to Improve Family Economic Security in Gulf South
News Intro Text
[June 17, 2017]
News Item Content
<p>The <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/" target="_self">Jesuit Social Research Institute</a> at <a href="http://www.loyno.edu/" target="_self">Loyola University New Orleans</a> has announced a grant of $263,480 over two years from the <a href="http://wkkf.org/" target="_self">W.K. Kellogg Foundation</a> for a project to improve child and family-centered economic security in Louisiana and Mississippi.</p>
<p>Designed to engage communities and faith-based organizations in the two states in efforts to improve child and family-centered economic security, the Economic Security for Vulnerable Families project will work to expand the reach of JSRI's research and education efforts around racial equity, including family income, health insurance coverage, housing affordability, school segregation, wage equity, unemployment, education gaps and equity, and food insecurity.</p>
<p>The project also will conduct a comparison of how the educational needs of families in the region, particularly those of color, are being met and will support the development of new hunger-specific research focused on Louisiana, and on educational equity in Louisiana and Mississippi, two states that rank low on social justice measures.</p>
<p>"Poverty, racial injustice, education gaps, and food insecurity continue to be key issues facing families in Louisiana and Mississippi, two of the most economically poor states in the nation, and with better information, our communities can provide better solutions," said the Rev. Fred Kammer, executive director of JSRI and one of the nation's leading social justice advocates. "Through the Economic Security for Vulnerable Families project, and with generous support of the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, JSRI will further explore these imbalances, providing new data and research to help public officials, faith-based organizations, and residents better serve our nation's most vulnerable."</p>
<p><a href="http://philanthropynewsdigest.org/news/wkkf-funds-project-to-improve-family-economic-security-in-gulf-south">MORE>></a></p>
<p>Designed to engage communities and faith-based organizations in the two states in efforts to improve child and family-centered economic security, the Economic Security for Vulnerable Families project will work to expand the reach of JSRI's research and education efforts around racial equity, including family income, health insurance coverage, housing affordability, school segregation, wage equity, unemployment, education gaps and equity, and food insecurity.</p>
<p>The project also will conduct a comparison of how the educational needs of families in the region, particularly those of color, are being met and will support the development of new hunger-specific research focused on Louisiana, and on educational equity in Louisiana and Mississippi, two states that rank low on social justice measures.</p>
<p>"Poverty, racial injustice, education gaps, and food insecurity continue to be key issues facing families in Louisiana and Mississippi, two of the most economically poor states in the nation, and with better information, our communities can provide better solutions," said the Rev. Fred Kammer, executive director of JSRI and one of the nation's leading social justice advocates. "Through the Economic Security for Vulnerable Families project, and with generous support of the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, JSRI will further explore these imbalances, providing new data and research to help public officials, faith-based organizations, and residents better serve our nation's most vulnerable."</p>
<p><a href="http://philanthropynewsdigest.org/news/wkkf-funds-project-to-improve-family-economic-security-in-gulf-south">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Conflict of Interest
News Intro Text
Protecting Retirement is in the Common Good
News Item Content
<p>by Alí Bustamante, PhD</p>
<p>Retirement savers lose $17 billion annually from conflicted investment advice.[1] In the Gulf South, conflicted financial advice costs retirement savers from $54 million in Mississippi to $1 billion in Texas. However, retirement savers may get a reprieve if the Trump administration supports the “fiduciary rule,” also known as the “conflict of interest rule,” from the U.S. Department of Labor.</p>
<div>
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/b0fba650de04f974b8e13e65_900x354.jpg" style="width: 600px; height: 200px;" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p><em>Source: Shierholz, Heidi and Ben Zipper. 2017. Here Is What’s At Stake With The Conflict of Interest (“Fiduciary”) Rule. Economic Policy Institute. Note: Based on data from the U.S. Census Bureau: Survey of Income and Program Participation (SIPP) 2008.</em></p>
<p>Currently, financial advisors need only to recommend “suitable” investment options that fit their clients’ defined needs. When financial advisers are paid through fees and commissions, they are incentivized to recommend more expensive and potentially riskier investment options. All too often, financial advisors sell investment products that benefit themselves at the expense of their clients. However, most consumers are largely unaware of this conflict of interest and of the cost that these conflicts impose.The fiduciary rule is a common-sense consumer protection requiring that financial advisors (brokers, planners, and insurance agents) put their clients' interests ahead of their own when working on retirement plans and accounts such as 401(k) plans, pensions, and individual retirement accounts (IRAs). This rule would penalize financial advisors that recommend products that bring them the most money but that may not be best for their clients.</p>
<p>Introduced by President Obama’s administration in 2015, the fiduciary rule was subject to several months of public comment, four days of public hearings, and several court challenges brought by the financial services industry. [2] After nearly two years, the rule was set to take effect in April. However, in March, the Trump administration issued a 60-day delay to the rule. Despite the severe financial losses that retirement savers face when acting on advice from financial advisers who have conflicts of interest, the Trump administration has stood with the financial services and insurance industries in opposition to the fiduciary rule.</p>
<p>Catholic Social Thought tells us that private wealth becomes illegitimate when it is the result of exploitation or at the expense of the wealth of society. [3] Furthermore, it is the responsibility of men and women to prescribe economic policies that solve the vast and complex problems connected with work – as is retirement – and further the common good while “leaving behind concerns imposed by special or personal interests.”[4] </p>
<p>It is important to protect retirement savers from harm by the financial industry and support the fiduciary rule. The Trump administration should stand with retirement savers and abandon its efforts to delay enforcement and rescind consumer protections. The fiduciary rule is a just policy that serves the common good. It is time to protect retirement savers and not special or personal interests.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/message/vfjnp/vr8mje">MORE>></a></p>
</div>
<p> </p>
<p>Retirement savers lose $17 billion annually from conflicted investment advice.[1] In the Gulf South, conflicted financial advice costs retirement savers from $54 million in Mississippi to $1 billion in Texas. However, retirement savers may get a reprieve if the Trump administration supports the “fiduciary rule,” also known as the “conflict of interest rule,” from the U.S. Department of Labor.</p>
<div>
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/b0fba650de04f974b8e13e65_900x354.jpg" style="width: 600px; height: 200px;" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p><em>Source: Shierholz, Heidi and Ben Zipper. 2017. Here Is What’s At Stake With The Conflict of Interest (“Fiduciary”) Rule. Economic Policy Institute. Note: Based on data from the U.S. Census Bureau: Survey of Income and Program Participation (SIPP) 2008.</em></p>
<p>Currently, financial advisors need only to recommend “suitable” investment options that fit their clients’ defined needs. When financial advisers are paid through fees and commissions, they are incentivized to recommend more expensive and potentially riskier investment options. All too often, financial advisors sell investment products that benefit themselves at the expense of their clients. However, most consumers are largely unaware of this conflict of interest and of the cost that these conflicts impose.The fiduciary rule is a common-sense consumer protection requiring that financial advisors (brokers, planners, and insurance agents) put their clients' interests ahead of their own when working on retirement plans and accounts such as 401(k) plans, pensions, and individual retirement accounts (IRAs). This rule would penalize financial advisors that recommend products that bring them the most money but that may not be best for their clients.</p>
<p>Introduced by President Obama’s administration in 2015, the fiduciary rule was subject to several months of public comment, four days of public hearings, and several court challenges brought by the financial services industry. [2] After nearly two years, the rule was set to take effect in April. However, in March, the Trump administration issued a 60-day delay to the rule. Despite the severe financial losses that retirement savers face when acting on advice from financial advisers who have conflicts of interest, the Trump administration has stood with the financial services and insurance industries in opposition to the fiduciary rule.</p>
<p>Catholic Social Thought tells us that private wealth becomes illegitimate when it is the result of exploitation or at the expense of the wealth of society. [3] Furthermore, it is the responsibility of men and women to prescribe economic policies that solve the vast and complex problems connected with work – as is retirement – and further the common good while “leaving behind concerns imposed by special or personal interests.”[4] </p>
<p>It is important to protect retirement savers from harm by the financial industry and support the fiduciary rule. The Trump administration should stand with retirement savers and abandon its efforts to delay enforcement and rescind consumer protections. The fiduciary rule is a just policy that serves the common good. It is time to protect retirement savers and not special or personal interests.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/message/vfjnp/vr8mje">MORE>></a></p>
</div>
<p> </p>
Date
For a growing share of Louisiana's inmates, only chance for release rests with the governor — or the grave
News Intro Text
[BY BRYN STOLE, JUNE 11, 2017]
News Item Content
<p>[BY BRYN STOLE, JUNE 11, 2017]</p>
<p>Thousands of tourists stream down the winding roads of West Feliciana Parish each spring and fall for the prison rodeo at the Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola.</p>
<p>Alongside the raucous rodeo events, the crowds are drawn to the outdoor crafts fair set up outside the ring, where prisoners sell artwork, leather goods and furniture while mixing with relatives and customers. All the inmates allowed to take part have records of good behavior. Many have earned degrees — high school equivalency diplomas, vocational certifications, even advanced seminary degrees.</p>
<p>Most are serving life sentences. Nearly all of those inmates will die behind prison walls, barring a major change in Louisiana law. And the number of men and women serving life without parole in Louisiana prisons keeps growing, now approaching 5,000.</p>
<p>Even after the total number of prisoners serving sentences in Louisiana's sprawling and infamously swollen prison system peaked in 2012, the number sentenced to live out the remainder of their time incarcerated has continued to climb.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.theadvocate.com/article_b24f3d18-4b1f-11e7-8d3c-ab34cf4c3d51.html">MORE>></a></p>
<p> </p>
<div>
</div>
<p>Thousands of tourists stream down the winding roads of West Feliciana Parish each spring and fall for the prison rodeo at the Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola.</p>
<p>Alongside the raucous rodeo events, the crowds are drawn to the outdoor crafts fair set up outside the ring, where prisoners sell artwork, leather goods and furniture while mixing with relatives and customers. All the inmates allowed to take part have records of good behavior. Many have earned degrees — high school equivalency diplomas, vocational certifications, even advanced seminary degrees.</p>
<p>Most are serving life sentences. Nearly all of those inmates will die behind prison walls, barring a major change in Louisiana law. And the number of men and women serving life without parole in Louisiana prisons keeps growing, now approaching 5,000.</p>
<p>Even after the total number of prisoners serving sentences in Louisiana's sprawling and infamously swollen prison system peaked in 2012, the number sentenced to live out the remainder of their time incarcerated has continued to climb.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.theadvocate.com/article_b24f3d18-4b1f-11e7-8d3c-ab34cf4c3d51.html">MORE>></a></p>
<p> </p>
<div>
</div>
Date
World Day of the Poor Announced
News Intro Text
[Vatican, June 13, 2017]
News Item Content
<div class="titolo" style="font-family: Tahoma, Verdana, Segoe, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px;">
<div class="bulltitledate titolo">
<center>
<font color="#663300" size="5">Holy Father’s Message for the First World Day of the Poor, 13.06.2017</font></center>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p>
<div class="notizia" style="font-family: Tahoma, Verdana, Segoe, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px;">
<div class="notizie bullnews">
<p style="font-size: 11pt;">The following is the full text of the Message of the Holy Father Francis for the First World Day of the Poor, to be held on the 33rd Sunday of Ordinary Time – this year on 19 November 2017 – on the theme, <i>Let us love, not with words but with deeds:</i></p>
<p style="font-size: 11pt;"> </p>
<p style="font-size: 11pt;"><b><u>Message of the Holy Father</u></b></p>
<p style="font-size: 11pt;"><b><i>Let us love, not with words but with deeds</i></b></p>
<p style="font-size: 11pt;">1. “Little children, let us not love in word or speech, but in deed and in truth” (<i>1 Jn</i> 3:18). These words of the Apostle John voice an imperative that no Christian may disregard. The seriousness with which the “beloved disciple” hands down Jesus’ command to our own day is made even clearer by the contrast between the <i>empty words</i> so frequently on our lips and the <i>concrete deeds</i> against which we are called to measure ourselves. Love has no alibi. Whenever we set out to love as Jesus loved, we have to take the Lord as our example; especially when it comes to loving the poor. The Son of God’s way of loving is well-known, and John spells it out clearly. It stands on two pillars: God loved us first (cf. <i>1 Jn</i> 4:10.19), and he loved us by giving completely of himself, even to laying down his life (cf. <i>1 Jn</i> 3:16).</p>
<p style="font-size: 11pt;"><a href="http://press.vatican.va/content/salastampa/en/bollettino/pubblico/2017/06/13/170613c.html">FULL MESSAGE>></a></p>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p>
<div class="bulltitledate titolo">
<center>
<font color="#663300" size="5">Holy Father’s Message for the First World Day of the Poor, 13.06.2017</font></center>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p>
<div class="notizia" style="font-family: Tahoma, Verdana, Segoe, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px;">
<div class="notizie bullnews">
<p style="font-size: 11pt;">The following is the full text of the Message of the Holy Father Francis for the First World Day of the Poor, to be held on the 33rd Sunday of Ordinary Time – this year on 19 November 2017 – on the theme, <i>Let us love, not with words but with deeds:</i></p>
<p style="font-size: 11pt;"> </p>
<p style="font-size: 11pt;"><b><u>Message of the Holy Father</u></b></p>
<p style="font-size: 11pt;"><b><i>Let us love, not with words but with deeds</i></b></p>
<p style="font-size: 11pt;">1. “Little children, let us not love in word or speech, but in deed and in truth” (<i>1 Jn</i> 3:18). These words of the Apostle John voice an imperative that no Christian may disregard. The seriousness with which the “beloved disciple” hands down Jesus’ command to our own day is made even clearer by the contrast between the <i>empty words</i> so frequently on our lips and the <i>concrete deeds</i> against which we are called to measure ourselves. Love has no alibi. Whenever we set out to love as Jesus loved, we have to take the Lord as our example; especially when it comes to loving the poor. The Son of God’s way of loving is well-known, and John spells it out clearly. It stands on two pillars: God loved us first (cf. <i>1 Jn</i> 4:10.19), and he loved us by giving completely of himself, even to laying down his life (cf. <i>1 Jn</i> 3:16).</p>
<p style="font-size: 11pt;"><a href="http://press.vatican.va/content/salastampa/en/bollettino/pubblico/2017/06/13/170613c.html">FULL MESSAGE>></a></p>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p>
Date
Race and the Death Penalty in Louisiana: An Actuarial Analysis
News Intro Text
Tim Lyman, Northeastern University, Institute for Security and Public Policy at the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice
News Item Content
<div class="authors" style="box-sizing: border-box; max-width: 570px; color: rgb(80, 80, 80); font-family: NexusSansWebPro; font-size: 16px;">
<h2 style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); margin-top: 14px; font-size: 18px;">
<a href="https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/cf_dev/AbsByAuth.cfm?per_id=1603675" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(31, 123, 223);" target="_blank" title="View other papers by this author">Tim Lyman</a></h2>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">Northeastern University, Institute for Security and Public Policy at the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice</p>
</div>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-family: NexusSansWebPro; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px; color: rgb(80, 80, 80);">Date Written: May 23, 2017</p>
<div class="abstract-text" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(80, 80, 80); font-family: NexusSansWebPro; font-size: 16px;">
<h3 style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 30px; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); margin-top: 20px; margin-bottom: 5px;">
Abstract</h3>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; line-height: 22px;">This analysis of race and the death penalty in Louisiana looks at death-eligible cases, half of which were reduced to non-murder final charges, in addition to death penalty cases. It finds that black-on-black cases are under-represented in every category of outcome, and black-on white cases over-represented, leading all variances, at every outcome; whereas white defendant cases are mixed, over or under depending on outcome severity. Odds of a death sentence for a black defendant are eleven times greater if the victim is white rather than black.<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />
<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />
Death-eligible cases in five jurisdictions that are disparate in race mix and population density are found to have these same race category traits of variance in each, traits also shared by the death penalty cases. The hypothesis of race neutrality must be rejected in every jurisdiction, and a new hypothesis of uniformity of variance patterns, even with the death penalty group, is found viable.<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />
<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />
Felony aggravator homicide data is gathered inconsistently by jurisdictions, and the only sure aggravators, the 41% of aggravators coming from a coroner, show white-on-white over-representation leading the variance. Thus, race-of-victim analysis masks extreme differences between white victim cases, such as the fact that 31% of black-on-white homicides result in overcharged cases (death eligible cases finishing with non-murder charges), whereas only 11% of white-on-white cases do.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; line-height: 22px;"> </p>
</div>
<center style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(80, 80, 80); font-family: NexusSansWebPro; font-size: 16px;">
</center>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-family: NexusSansWebPro; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px; color: rgb(80, 80, 80);"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">Keywords:</span> Race, Death Penalty, Race and the Death Penalty, Louisiana, Risk Analysis, Death Eligible, Race Neutrality, Felony Aggravator, Race-Of-Victim, Overcharging, Aggravators</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-family: NexusSansWebPro; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px; color: rgb(80, 80, 80);"> </p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-family: NexusSansWebPro; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px; color: rgb(80, 80, 80);"><a href="https://poseidon01.ssrn.com/delivery.php?ID=676067083085098081124026070115070078034050019023060074029023104088102018030127090099032060018032059046053102102093020018119014126023030041068069029117099025069003004063087010025077082109120073025066003065101027127029086016082086025107007004073126067087&EXT=pdf">FULL ARTICLE>></a></p>
<h2 style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); margin-top: 14px; font-size: 18px;">
<a href="https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/cf_dev/AbsByAuth.cfm?per_id=1603675" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(31, 123, 223);" target="_blank" title="View other papers by this author">Tim Lyman</a></h2>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">Northeastern University, Institute for Security and Public Policy at the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice</p>
</div>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-family: NexusSansWebPro; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px; color: rgb(80, 80, 80);">Date Written: May 23, 2017</p>
<div class="abstract-text" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(80, 80, 80); font-family: NexusSansWebPro; font-size: 16px;">
<h3 style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 30px; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); margin-top: 20px; margin-bottom: 5px;">
Abstract</h3>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; line-height: 22px;">This analysis of race and the death penalty in Louisiana looks at death-eligible cases, half of which were reduced to non-murder final charges, in addition to death penalty cases. It finds that black-on-black cases are under-represented in every category of outcome, and black-on white cases over-represented, leading all variances, at every outcome; whereas white defendant cases are mixed, over or under depending on outcome severity. Odds of a death sentence for a black defendant are eleven times greater if the victim is white rather than black.<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />
<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />
Death-eligible cases in five jurisdictions that are disparate in race mix and population density are found to have these same race category traits of variance in each, traits also shared by the death penalty cases. The hypothesis of race neutrality must be rejected in every jurisdiction, and a new hypothesis of uniformity of variance patterns, even with the death penalty group, is found viable.<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />
<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />
Felony aggravator homicide data is gathered inconsistently by jurisdictions, and the only sure aggravators, the 41% of aggravators coming from a coroner, show white-on-white over-representation leading the variance. Thus, race-of-victim analysis masks extreme differences between white victim cases, such as the fact that 31% of black-on-white homicides result in overcharged cases (death eligible cases finishing with non-murder charges), whereas only 11% of white-on-white cases do.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; line-height: 22px;"> </p>
</div>
<center style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(80, 80, 80); font-family: NexusSansWebPro; font-size: 16px;">
</center>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-family: NexusSansWebPro; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px; color: rgb(80, 80, 80);"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">Keywords:</span> Race, Death Penalty, Race and the Death Penalty, Louisiana, Risk Analysis, Death Eligible, Race Neutrality, Felony Aggravator, Race-Of-Victim, Overcharging, Aggravators</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-family: NexusSansWebPro; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px; color: rgb(80, 80, 80);"> </p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-family: NexusSansWebPro; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px; color: rgb(80, 80, 80);"><a href="https://poseidon01.ssrn.com/delivery.php?ID=676067083085098081124026070115070078034050019023060074029023104088102018030127090099032060018032059046053102102093020018119014126023030041068069029117099025069003004063087010025077082109120073025066003065101027127029086016082086025107007004073126067087&EXT=pdf">FULL ARTICLE>></a></p>
Date
TAKE ACTION!
News Intro Text
Stop the Deportation of Juan Rodriguez
News Item Content
<p>On Tuesday we posted a story about the Rodriguez family. Juan Rodriguez is the father of three daughters, two of whom, Rebecca and Karen, are students at Cristo Rey Jesuit College Preparatory of Houston. Since 2007, Juan has been going to periodic check-ins at the Immigration and Customs Enforcement headquarters in Houston because he is in the United States illegally. Because he has a family and no criminal record, Mr. Rodriguez became the beneficiary of prosecutorial discretion under the Obama administration, and the number of check-ins was reduced to one per year. But when he showed up for his annual check-in this February he was told that he would be deported back to El Salvador. He was given a reprieve to attend Rebecca’s graduation from Cristo Rey Jesuit, but now he is expected to be deported by the end of June.</p>
<p>FIEL Headquarters is doing everything they can to STOP the deportation of Mr. Rodriguez but they NEED YOUR HELP!</p>
<p>Please take a moment to sign the attached petition to STOP the deportation of Mr. Rodriguez and advocate for his family to stay together.</p>
<p><a href="https://fielhouston.org/rodriguez/"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Rodriquez.jpg" /></a></p>
<p>FIEL Headquarters is doing everything they can to STOP the deportation of Mr. Rodriguez but they NEED YOUR HELP!</p>
<p>Please take a moment to sign the attached petition to STOP the deportation of Mr. Rodriguez and advocate for his family to stay together.</p>
<p><a href="https://fielhouston.org/rodriguez/"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Rodriquez.jpg" /></a></p>
Date
States with more black people have less generous welfare benefits, study says
News Intro Text
[By Tracy Jan, June 6, 2017]
News Item Content
<p>By Tracy Jan</p>
<p>How much cash welfare assistance families in poverty receive largely depends on where they live, with welfare eroding in every state except Oregon during the past 20 years, according to a new study by the Urban Institute. </p>
<p>The study, released Tuesday, unveils wide racial and geographic disparities in how states distribute cash welfare, known as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF).</p>
<div>
<p>Two decades after President Bill Clinton carried out the welfare overhaul that created TANF, states with a larger share of African Americans tend to have less generous welfare benefits and more restrictive policies, the study found.</p>
<p>These states also have shorter periods of eligibility for assistance, stricter requirements to maintain benefits and more severe sanctions for people who don’t abide by state welfare rules.</p>
<p>The findings should serve as a cautionary flag as congressional Republicans propose overhauling other federal poverty programs, said Heather Hahn, a senior fellow at the Urban Institute and one of the study’s authors. She warns that such changes are likely to exacerbate existing racial disparities.</p>
<p>“I would predict, based on TANF’s history, that if we were to block grant other programs, we would see similar results, with racial differences and fewer families receiving assistance,” Hahn said in an interview with The Washington Post.</p>
<p>TANF is funded by the federal government in the form of state “block grants,” enabling states to establish their own eligibility rules and giving them flexibility to determine how the federal money is used.</p>
<p>President Trump, in his budget released last month, and Republicans in Congress want to turn other federal assistance to the poor into state block grants, ending the federal guarantee of assistance.</p>
<p>The proposals echo the Clinton-era 1996 welfare reforms that required those receiving cash welfare to work or look for work and imposed the first federal government caps on how long families could receive the benefit.</p>
<p>It capped benefits at 60 months in one's adult lifetime, but some states instituted shorter limits while other states continue to provide cash assistance for children even after adults household members are cut off.</p>
<div>
<p>The Urban Institute researchers say that many poor families are worse off under this system than they were 20 years ago. The amount states receive in TANF block grants has not changed in that time — not even to account for inflation.</p>
<p>Today, for every 100 poor families in America, just 24 families receive cash assistance, compared with 64 in 1996. Only a quarter of TANF money now goes toward cash payments, down from 71 percent in 1997. Instead, states increased their TANF spending on promoting work activities, providing child care and preschool education, and offering other services not limited to low-income families.</p>
<div>
<p>State welfare policies subject all families, regardless of their race, to the same rules.</p>
<p>But the majority of black people live in states with the lowest proportion of families receiving cash assistance. African Americans are at a practical disadvantage as a result of that population distribution, Hahn said.</p>
<p>“The effects of these policies are not race neutral, because we aren’t geographically dispersed evenly by race,” she said.</p>
<div>
<p><strong>A poor family in Vermont, where 94 percent of residents are white and only 1 percent are black, is 20 times as likely to receive welfare as compared with if that same family lived in Louisiana, where 61 percent are white and nearly a third of residents are black, according to a previous analysis by the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Vermont has the most generous welfare benefits of all 50 states, with 78 out of every 100 families in poverty receiving cash assistance. In comparison, Louisiana, the least generous state, gives welfare cash assistance to only four out of every 100 poor families. </strong></p>
<p><strong>The disparity does not end there. Vermont offers a maximum monthly benefit of $640 to a family of three, and allows families earning up to $1,053 to qualify for cash assistance. Louisiana only offers a maximum cash benefit of just $240 a month, and families must make less than $360 a month to qualify.</strong></p>
<p><strong>In other words, a family must be the poorest of the poor to qualify for cash assistance in Louisiana, and even then, they would only receive less than half of what Americans living in Vermont would get.</strong></p>
</div>
<div>
<a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/wonk/wp/2017/06/06/states-with-more-black-people-have-less-generous-welfare-benefits-study-says/?hpid=hp_hp-more-top-stories_welfare-720a%3Ahomepage%2Fstory&utm_term=.eb0f29952005">MORE>></a></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p>
<p>How much cash welfare assistance families in poverty receive largely depends on where they live, with welfare eroding in every state except Oregon during the past 20 years, according to a new study by the Urban Institute. </p>
<p>The study, released Tuesday, unveils wide racial and geographic disparities in how states distribute cash welfare, known as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF).</p>
<div>
<p>Two decades after President Bill Clinton carried out the welfare overhaul that created TANF, states with a larger share of African Americans tend to have less generous welfare benefits and more restrictive policies, the study found.</p>
<p>These states also have shorter periods of eligibility for assistance, stricter requirements to maintain benefits and more severe sanctions for people who don’t abide by state welfare rules.</p>
<p>The findings should serve as a cautionary flag as congressional Republicans propose overhauling other federal poverty programs, said Heather Hahn, a senior fellow at the Urban Institute and one of the study’s authors. She warns that such changes are likely to exacerbate existing racial disparities.</p>
<p>“I would predict, based on TANF’s history, that if we were to block grant other programs, we would see similar results, with racial differences and fewer families receiving assistance,” Hahn said in an interview with The Washington Post.</p>
<p>TANF is funded by the federal government in the form of state “block grants,” enabling states to establish their own eligibility rules and giving them flexibility to determine how the federal money is used.</p>
<p>President Trump, in his budget released last month, and Republicans in Congress want to turn other federal assistance to the poor into state block grants, ending the federal guarantee of assistance.</p>
<p>The proposals echo the Clinton-era 1996 welfare reforms that required those receiving cash welfare to work or look for work and imposed the first federal government caps on how long families could receive the benefit.</p>
<p>It capped benefits at 60 months in one's adult lifetime, but some states instituted shorter limits while other states continue to provide cash assistance for children even after adults household members are cut off.</p>
<div>
<p>The Urban Institute researchers say that many poor families are worse off under this system than they were 20 years ago. The amount states receive in TANF block grants has not changed in that time — not even to account for inflation.</p>
<p>Today, for every 100 poor families in America, just 24 families receive cash assistance, compared with 64 in 1996. Only a quarter of TANF money now goes toward cash payments, down from 71 percent in 1997. Instead, states increased their TANF spending on promoting work activities, providing child care and preschool education, and offering other services not limited to low-income families.</p>
<div>
<p>State welfare policies subject all families, regardless of their race, to the same rules.</p>
<p>But the majority of black people live in states with the lowest proportion of families receiving cash assistance. African Americans are at a practical disadvantage as a result of that population distribution, Hahn said.</p>
<p>“The effects of these policies are not race neutral, because we aren’t geographically dispersed evenly by race,” she said.</p>
<div>
<p><strong>A poor family in Vermont, where 94 percent of residents are white and only 1 percent are black, is 20 times as likely to receive welfare as compared with if that same family lived in Louisiana, where 61 percent are white and nearly a third of residents are black, according to a previous analysis by the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Vermont has the most generous welfare benefits of all 50 states, with 78 out of every 100 families in poverty receiving cash assistance. In comparison, Louisiana, the least generous state, gives welfare cash assistance to only four out of every 100 poor families. </strong></p>
<p><strong>The disparity does not end there. Vermont offers a maximum monthly benefit of $640 to a family of three, and allows families earning up to $1,053 to qualify for cash assistance. Louisiana only offers a maximum cash benefit of just $240 a month, and families must make less than $360 a month to qualify.</strong></p>
<p><strong>In other words, a family must be the poorest of the poor to qualify for cash assistance in Louisiana, and even then, they would only receive less than half of what Americans living in Vermont would get.</strong></p>
</div>
<div>
<a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/wonk/wp/2017/06/06/states-with-more-black-people-have-less-generous-welfare-benefits-study-says/?hpid=hp_hp-more-top-stories_welfare-720a%3Ahomepage%2Fstory&utm_term=.eb0f29952005">MORE>></a></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p>
Date
Housing: The Key to Successful Reentry for People with Criminal Records
News Intro Text
[By Kate Walz and Marie Claire Tran-Leung, June 5, 2017]
News Item Content
<p class="graf graf--p graf--startsWithDoubleQuote graf-after--p" name="bc0e" style="margin-top: 29px; margin-bottom: 0px; --baseline-multiplier:0.179; font-family: medium-content-serif-font, Georgia, Cambria, "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 21px; line-height: 1.58; letter-spacing: -0.003em; text-indent: -0.4em; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.8);">By Kate Walz and Marie Claire Tran-Leung</p>
<p class="graf graf--p graf--startsWithDoubleQuote graf-after--p" id="bc0e" name="bc0e" style="margin-top: 29px; margin-bottom: 0px; --baseline-multiplier:0.179; font-family: medium-content-serif-font, Georgia, Cambria, "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 21px; line-height: 1.58; letter-spacing: -0.003em; text-indent: -0.4em; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.8);"><span class="markup--strong markup--p-strong" style="font-weight: 700;"><em class="markup--em markup--p-em" style="font-feature-settings: 'liga' 1, 'salt' 1;">“Where will I sleep tonight?”</em></span></p>
<p class="graf graf--p graf-after--p" id="2e82" name="2e82" style="margin-top: 29px; margin-bottom: 0px; --baseline-multiplier:0.179; font-family: medium-content-serif-font, Georgia, Cambria, "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 21px; line-height: 1.58; letter-spacing: -0.003em; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.8);">Every year, <a class="markup--anchor markup--p-anchor" data-="" href="https://www.prisonpolicy.org/reports/pie2017.html" rel="noopener" style="background-color: transparent; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.44); background-image: linear-gradient(rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.6) 50%, rgba(0, 0, 0, 0) 50%); background-repeat: repeat-x; background-size: 2px 0.1em; background-position: 0px 1.07em;" target="_blank">roughly 640,000 people</a> — about the population of Washington, D.C. — leave federal and state prisons. Eleven million are processed through local jails annually. On the day they are released, and indeed for the years to come, the answer these people have to that question above will dramatically affect their ability to successfully rejoin their communities and lead healthy, productive lives.</p>
<p class="graf graf--p graf-after--p" id="c6d3" name="c6d3" style="margin-top: 29px; margin-bottom: 0px; --baseline-multiplier:0.179; font-family: medium-content-serif-font, Georgia, Cambria, "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 21px; line-height: 1.58; letter-spacing: -0.003em; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.8);"><a class="markup--anchor markup--p-anchor" data-="" href="https://www.huduser.gov/portal/periodicals/cityscpe/vol15num3/ch3.pdf" rel="noopener" style="background-color: transparent; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.44); background-image: linear-gradient(rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.6) 50%, rgba(0, 0, 0, 0) 50%); background-repeat: repeat-x; background-size: 2px 0.1em; background-position: 0px 1.07em;" target="_blank">Research shows</a> that safe, stable, and affordable housing plays a crucial role in successful re-entry. But unfortunately, far too many people with criminal records remain locked out.</p>
<h3 class="graf graf--h3 graf-after--p" id="242b" name="242b" style="font-family: medium-content-sans-serif-font, "Lucida Grande", "Lucida Sans Unicode", "Lucida Sans", Geneva, Arial, sans-serif; letter-spacing: -0.02em; margin-top: 56px; margin-left: -2px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.8); --baseline-multiplier:0.157; font-size: 32px; line-height: 1.15;">
<span class="markup--strong markup--h3-strong">People with criminal records face a host of barriers to safe and affordable housing.</span></h3>
<p class="graf graf--p graf-after--h3" id="0a08" name="0a08" style="margin-top: 8px; margin-bottom: 0px; --baseline-multiplier:0.179; font-family: medium-content-serif-font, Georgia, Cambria, "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 21px; line-height: 1.58; letter-spacing: -0.003em; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.8);">While lack of access to affordable housing is <a class="markup--anchor markup--p-anchor" data-="" href="https://www.citylab.com/equity/2015/06/every-single-county-in-america-is-facing-an-affordable-housing-crisis/396284/" rel="noopener" style="background-color: transparent; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.44); background-image: linear-gradient(rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.6) 50%, rgba(0, 0, 0, 0) 50%); background-repeat: repeat-x; background-size: 2px 0.1em; background-position: 0px 1.07em;" target="_blank">a problem of epidemic proportions nationwide</a>, it is particularly severe for the <a class="markup--anchor markup--p-anchor" data-="" href="https://cdn.americanprogress.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/09060720/CriminalRecords-report2.pdf" rel="noopener" style="background-color: transparent; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.44); background-image: linear-gradient(rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.6) 50%, rgba(0, 0, 0, 0) 50%); background-repeat: repeat-x; background-size: 2px 0.1em; background-position: 0px 1.07em;" target="_blank">more than 70 million people in this country</a> who have criminal records. <a class="markup--anchor markup--p-anchor" data-="" href="https://www.nij.gov/journals/270/Pages/criminal-records.aspx" rel="noopener" style="background-color: transparent; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.44); background-image: linear-gradient(rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.6) 50%, rgba(0, 0, 0, 0) 50%); background-repeat: repeat-x; background-size: 2px 0.1em; background-position: 0px 1.07em;" target="_blank">Because justice-involved individuals often struggle to secure and maintain employment</a> after exiting the criminal justice system, federally subsidized housing is a crucial lifeline. But, by both <a class="markup--anchor markup--p-anchor" data-="" href="http://www.povertylaw.org/wdmd" rel="noopener" style="background-color: transparent; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.44); background-image: linear-gradient(rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.6) 50%, rgba(0, 0, 0, 0) 50%); background-repeat: repeat-x; background-size: 2px 0.1em; background-position: 0px 1.07em;" target="_blank">federally subsidized housing providers</a> and <a class="markup--anchor markup--p-anchor" data-="" href="https://talkpoverty.org/2016/05/17/when-landlords-discriminate/" rel="noopener" style="background-color: transparent; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.44); background-image: linear-gradient(rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.6) 50%, rgba(0, 0, 0, 0) 50%); background-repeat: repeat-x; background-size: 2px 0.1em; background-position: 0px 1.07em;" target="_blank">landlords in the private marketplace</a>, justice-involved individuals are often turned away because of their records. In a <a class="markup--anchor markup--p-anchor" data-="" href="http://ellabakercenter.org/who-pays-the-true-cost-of-incarceration-on-families" rel="noopener" style="background-color: transparent; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.44); background-image: linear-gradient(rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.6) 50%, rgba(0, 0, 0, 0) 50%); background-repeat: repeat-x; background-size: 2px 0.1em; background-position: 0px 1.07em;" target="_blank">2015 survey of formerly incarcerated people</a>, about 4 out of every 5 respondents said they had experienced such treatment.</p>
<p class="graf graf--p graf-after--p" id="be1d" name="be1d" style="margin-top: 29px; margin-bottom: 0px; --baseline-multiplier:0.179; font-family: medium-content-serif-font, Georgia, Cambria, "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 21px; line-height: 1.58; letter-spacing: -0.003em; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.8);">What’s worse, because <a class="markup--anchor markup--p-anchor" data-="" href="https://theshriverbrief.org/celebrating-black-history-by-ensuring-a-future-for-tomorrow-s-leaders-b5266103df1e" style="background-color: transparent; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.44); background-image: linear-gradient(rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.6) 50%, rgba(0, 0, 0, 0) 50%); background-repeat: repeat-x; background-size: 2px 0.1em; background-position: 0px 1.07em;" target="_blank">people of color disproportionately bear the brunt of our overly punitive and expansive criminal justice system</a>, admission rejections based on criminal records are often used as proxies for racial discrimination, causing the devastating consequences of housing instability and homelessness to fall ever-more hard on African Americans and Latino/as.</p>
<h3 class="graf graf--h3 graf-after--p" id="81ca" name="81ca" style="font-family: medium-content-sans-serif-font, "Lucida Grande", "Lucida Sans Unicode", "Lucida Sans", Geneva, Arial, sans-serif; letter-spacing: -0.02em; margin-top: 56px; margin-left: -2px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.8); --baseline-multiplier:0.157; font-size: 32px; line-height: 1.15;">
<span class="markup--strong markup--h3-strong">The consequences of lack of access to housing are particularly acute for justice-involved individuals.</span></h3>
<p class="graf graf--p graf-after--h3" id="6c32" name="6c32" style="margin-top: 8px; margin-bottom: 0px; --baseline-multiplier:0.179; font-family: medium-content-serif-font, Georgia, Cambria, "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 21px; line-height: 1.58; letter-spacing: -0.003em; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.8);">Anyone facing homelessness or housing instability is likely to experience significant physical and financial turmoil, but the stakes are even higher for people with records. Barriers to housing can layer on top of and exacerbate other collateral consequences associated with a criminal record — <a class="markup--anchor markup--p-anchor" data-="" href="http://scholar.harvard.edu/files/pager/files/asr_pager_etal09.pdf?m=1392395629" rel="noopener" style="background-color: transparent; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.44); background-image: linear-gradient(rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.6) 50%, rgba(0, 0, 0, 0) 50%); background-repeat: repeat-x; background-size: 2px 0.1em; background-position: 0px 1.07em;" target="_blank">like barriers to employment</a> — further undermining one’s ability to reenter the community. Moreover, <a class="markup--anchor markup--p-anchor" data-="" href="http://ps.psychiatryonline.org/doi/pdf/10.1176/ps.2008.59.2.170" rel="noopener" style="background-color: transparent; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.44); background-image: linear-gradient(rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.6) 50%, rgba(0, 0, 0, 0) 50%); background-repeat: repeat-x; background-size: 2px 0.1em; background-position: 0px 1.07em;" target="_blank">people who are homeless are also more likely to face incarceration</a>, making it more likely that justice-involved people without stable housing will recidivate.</p>
<p class="graf graf--p graf-after--h3" name="6c32" style="margin-top: 8px; margin-bottom: 0px; --baseline-multiplier:0.179; font-family: medium-content-serif-font, Georgia, Cambria, "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 21px; line-height: 1.58; letter-spacing: -0.003em; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.8);"><a href="https://theshriverbrief.org/housing-the-key-to-successful-reentry-for-people-with-criminal-records-8eb2f12d491c">MORE>></a></p>
<p class="graf graf--p graf--startsWithDoubleQuote graf-after--p" id="bc0e" name="bc0e" style="margin-top: 29px; margin-bottom: 0px; --baseline-multiplier:0.179; font-family: medium-content-serif-font, Georgia, Cambria, "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 21px; line-height: 1.58; letter-spacing: -0.003em; text-indent: -0.4em; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.8);"><span class="markup--strong markup--p-strong" style="font-weight: 700;"><em class="markup--em markup--p-em" style="font-feature-settings: 'liga' 1, 'salt' 1;">“Where will I sleep tonight?”</em></span></p>
<p class="graf graf--p graf-after--p" id="2e82" name="2e82" style="margin-top: 29px; margin-bottom: 0px; --baseline-multiplier:0.179; font-family: medium-content-serif-font, Georgia, Cambria, "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 21px; line-height: 1.58; letter-spacing: -0.003em; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.8);">Every year, <a class="markup--anchor markup--p-anchor" data-="" href="https://www.prisonpolicy.org/reports/pie2017.html" rel="noopener" style="background-color: transparent; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.44); background-image: linear-gradient(rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.6) 50%, rgba(0, 0, 0, 0) 50%); background-repeat: repeat-x; background-size: 2px 0.1em; background-position: 0px 1.07em;" target="_blank">roughly 640,000 people</a> — about the population of Washington, D.C. — leave federal and state prisons. Eleven million are processed through local jails annually. On the day they are released, and indeed for the years to come, the answer these people have to that question above will dramatically affect their ability to successfully rejoin their communities and lead healthy, productive lives.</p>
<p class="graf graf--p graf-after--p" id="c6d3" name="c6d3" style="margin-top: 29px; margin-bottom: 0px; --baseline-multiplier:0.179; font-family: medium-content-serif-font, Georgia, Cambria, "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 21px; line-height: 1.58; letter-spacing: -0.003em; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.8);"><a class="markup--anchor markup--p-anchor" data-="" href="https://www.huduser.gov/portal/periodicals/cityscpe/vol15num3/ch3.pdf" rel="noopener" style="background-color: transparent; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.44); background-image: linear-gradient(rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.6) 50%, rgba(0, 0, 0, 0) 50%); background-repeat: repeat-x; background-size: 2px 0.1em; background-position: 0px 1.07em;" target="_blank">Research shows</a> that safe, stable, and affordable housing plays a crucial role in successful re-entry. But unfortunately, far too many people with criminal records remain locked out.</p>
<h3 class="graf graf--h3 graf-after--p" id="242b" name="242b" style="font-family: medium-content-sans-serif-font, "Lucida Grande", "Lucida Sans Unicode", "Lucida Sans", Geneva, Arial, sans-serif; letter-spacing: -0.02em; margin-top: 56px; margin-left: -2px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.8); --baseline-multiplier:0.157; font-size: 32px; line-height: 1.15;">
<span class="markup--strong markup--h3-strong">People with criminal records face a host of barriers to safe and affordable housing.</span></h3>
<p class="graf graf--p graf-after--h3" id="0a08" name="0a08" style="margin-top: 8px; margin-bottom: 0px; --baseline-multiplier:0.179; font-family: medium-content-serif-font, Georgia, Cambria, "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 21px; line-height: 1.58; letter-spacing: -0.003em; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.8);">While lack of access to affordable housing is <a class="markup--anchor markup--p-anchor" data-="" href="https://www.citylab.com/equity/2015/06/every-single-county-in-america-is-facing-an-affordable-housing-crisis/396284/" rel="noopener" style="background-color: transparent; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.44); background-image: linear-gradient(rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.6) 50%, rgba(0, 0, 0, 0) 50%); background-repeat: repeat-x; background-size: 2px 0.1em; background-position: 0px 1.07em;" target="_blank">a problem of epidemic proportions nationwide</a>, it is particularly severe for the <a class="markup--anchor markup--p-anchor" data-="" href="https://cdn.americanprogress.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/09060720/CriminalRecords-report2.pdf" rel="noopener" style="background-color: transparent; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.44); background-image: linear-gradient(rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.6) 50%, rgba(0, 0, 0, 0) 50%); background-repeat: repeat-x; background-size: 2px 0.1em; background-position: 0px 1.07em;" target="_blank">more than 70 million people in this country</a> who have criminal records. <a class="markup--anchor markup--p-anchor" data-="" href="https://www.nij.gov/journals/270/Pages/criminal-records.aspx" rel="noopener" style="background-color: transparent; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.44); background-image: linear-gradient(rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.6) 50%, rgba(0, 0, 0, 0) 50%); background-repeat: repeat-x; background-size: 2px 0.1em; background-position: 0px 1.07em;" target="_blank">Because justice-involved individuals often struggle to secure and maintain employment</a> after exiting the criminal justice system, federally subsidized housing is a crucial lifeline. But, by both <a class="markup--anchor markup--p-anchor" data-="" href="http://www.povertylaw.org/wdmd" rel="noopener" style="background-color: transparent; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.44); background-image: linear-gradient(rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.6) 50%, rgba(0, 0, 0, 0) 50%); background-repeat: repeat-x; background-size: 2px 0.1em; background-position: 0px 1.07em;" target="_blank">federally subsidized housing providers</a> and <a class="markup--anchor markup--p-anchor" data-="" href="https://talkpoverty.org/2016/05/17/when-landlords-discriminate/" rel="noopener" style="background-color: transparent; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.44); background-image: linear-gradient(rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.6) 50%, rgba(0, 0, 0, 0) 50%); background-repeat: repeat-x; background-size: 2px 0.1em; background-position: 0px 1.07em;" target="_blank">landlords in the private marketplace</a>, justice-involved individuals are often turned away because of their records. In a <a class="markup--anchor markup--p-anchor" data-="" href="http://ellabakercenter.org/who-pays-the-true-cost-of-incarceration-on-families" rel="noopener" style="background-color: transparent; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.44); background-image: linear-gradient(rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.6) 50%, rgba(0, 0, 0, 0) 50%); background-repeat: repeat-x; background-size: 2px 0.1em; background-position: 0px 1.07em;" target="_blank">2015 survey of formerly incarcerated people</a>, about 4 out of every 5 respondents said they had experienced such treatment.</p>
<p class="graf graf--p graf-after--p" id="be1d" name="be1d" style="margin-top: 29px; margin-bottom: 0px; --baseline-multiplier:0.179; font-family: medium-content-serif-font, Georgia, Cambria, "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 21px; line-height: 1.58; letter-spacing: -0.003em; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.8);">What’s worse, because <a class="markup--anchor markup--p-anchor" data-="" href="https://theshriverbrief.org/celebrating-black-history-by-ensuring-a-future-for-tomorrow-s-leaders-b5266103df1e" style="background-color: transparent; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.44); background-image: linear-gradient(rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.6) 50%, rgba(0, 0, 0, 0) 50%); background-repeat: repeat-x; background-size: 2px 0.1em; background-position: 0px 1.07em;" target="_blank">people of color disproportionately bear the brunt of our overly punitive and expansive criminal justice system</a>, admission rejections based on criminal records are often used as proxies for racial discrimination, causing the devastating consequences of housing instability and homelessness to fall ever-more hard on African Americans and Latino/as.</p>
<h3 class="graf graf--h3 graf-after--p" id="81ca" name="81ca" style="font-family: medium-content-sans-serif-font, "Lucida Grande", "Lucida Sans Unicode", "Lucida Sans", Geneva, Arial, sans-serif; letter-spacing: -0.02em; margin-top: 56px; margin-left: -2px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.8); --baseline-multiplier:0.157; font-size: 32px; line-height: 1.15;">
<span class="markup--strong markup--h3-strong">The consequences of lack of access to housing are particularly acute for justice-involved individuals.</span></h3>
<p class="graf graf--p graf-after--h3" id="6c32" name="6c32" style="margin-top: 8px; margin-bottom: 0px; --baseline-multiplier:0.179; font-family: medium-content-serif-font, Georgia, Cambria, "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 21px; line-height: 1.58; letter-spacing: -0.003em; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.8);">Anyone facing homelessness or housing instability is likely to experience significant physical and financial turmoil, but the stakes are even higher for people with records. Barriers to housing can layer on top of and exacerbate other collateral consequences associated with a criminal record — <a class="markup--anchor markup--p-anchor" data-="" href="http://scholar.harvard.edu/files/pager/files/asr_pager_etal09.pdf?m=1392395629" rel="noopener" style="background-color: transparent; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.44); background-image: linear-gradient(rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.6) 50%, rgba(0, 0, 0, 0) 50%); background-repeat: repeat-x; background-size: 2px 0.1em; background-position: 0px 1.07em;" target="_blank">like barriers to employment</a> — further undermining one’s ability to reenter the community. Moreover, <a class="markup--anchor markup--p-anchor" data-="" href="http://ps.psychiatryonline.org/doi/pdf/10.1176/ps.2008.59.2.170" rel="noopener" style="background-color: transparent; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.44); background-image: linear-gradient(rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.6) 50%, rgba(0, 0, 0, 0) 50%); background-repeat: repeat-x; background-size: 2px 0.1em; background-position: 0px 1.07em;" target="_blank">people who are homeless are also more likely to face incarceration</a>, making it more likely that justice-involved people without stable housing will recidivate.</p>
<p class="graf graf--p graf-after--h3" name="6c32" style="margin-top: 8px; margin-bottom: 0px; --baseline-multiplier:0.179; font-family: medium-content-serif-font, Georgia, Cambria, "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 21px; line-height: 1.58; letter-spacing: -0.003em; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.8);"><a href="https://theshriverbrief.org/housing-the-key-to-successful-reentry-for-people-with-criminal-records-8eb2f12d491c">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Out of Time
News Intro Text
For a Houston Family, ICE crackdown shatters the good life they knew
News Item Content
<div>
Story by Olivia P. Tallet</div>
<div>
Multimedia by Marie D. De Jesús</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<p>Juan Rodríguez was pulled from the shadows more than a decade ago. Then life began to revolve around meetings with federal authorities.</p>
<p>Twenty-five times, he and his family went in and came back out. But this last time, they knew.</p>
<p>"This time was going to be different," Celia Rodríguez recalled, her right hand pressing against her chest, the left one hurrying to cover her face as a delicate cascade of tears fell.</p>
<p>Celia doesn't like her daughters to see her that way, so she doesn't make any noise when she cries. The girls, Karen, Rebecca and Kimberly, were squeezed next to her on a loveseat in the den.</p>
<p>The house fell quiet.</p>
<p>It's a spacious home near the University of Houston in a majority Latino neighborhood. At the front, manicured grass gives way to a line of sages and young pink velour myrtles, a Texas favorite because they always bloom this time of the year, no matter the heat. Light filters in from the back of the house, and clean floors glow like mirrors.</p>
<p>Juan broke the silence cautiously, patting his wife's back. Then he looked into Celia's eyes. "Vamos, vamos … ," come on, he said one night last week. They didn't have much time to tell their story.</p>
<div class="asset_photo asset-photo " data-config-asset-position="5">
<p><img alt=" Marie D. De Jesus, Staff / © 2017 Houston Chronicle" id="premiumchron-photo-13018766" src="http://ww3.hdnux.com/photos/61/52/32/13018766/5/920x1240.jpg" style="width: 400px; height: 300px;" /></p>
<div class="asset_info_container asset-info-container">
<p><span class="credit">Photo: Marie D. De Jesus, Staff</span></p>
</div>
<p class="caption">Juan Rodríguez and his family - wife Celia and daughters Karen, Kimberly and Rebecca - have built a life in Houston. That could change at month's end because Juan has been ordered to turn himself in to be deported to El Salvador. </p>
</div>
</div>
<p><a href="http://www.houstonchronicle.com/news/houston-texas/houston/article/The-rules-have-changed-Houston-family-surprised-11192377.php?cmpid=email-mobile">MORE>></a></p>
Story by Olivia P. Tallet</div>
<div>
Multimedia by Marie D. De Jesús</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<p>Juan Rodríguez was pulled from the shadows more than a decade ago. Then life began to revolve around meetings with federal authorities.</p>
<p>Twenty-five times, he and his family went in and came back out. But this last time, they knew.</p>
<p>"This time was going to be different," Celia Rodríguez recalled, her right hand pressing against her chest, the left one hurrying to cover her face as a delicate cascade of tears fell.</p>
<p>Celia doesn't like her daughters to see her that way, so she doesn't make any noise when she cries. The girls, Karen, Rebecca and Kimberly, were squeezed next to her on a loveseat in the den.</p>
<p>The house fell quiet.</p>
<p>It's a spacious home near the University of Houston in a majority Latino neighborhood. At the front, manicured grass gives way to a line of sages and young pink velour myrtles, a Texas favorite because they always bloom this time of the year, no matter the heat. Light filters in from the back of the house, and clean floors glow like mirrors.</p>
<p>Juan broke the silence cautiously, patting his wife's back. Then he looked into Celia's eyes. "Vamos, vamos … ," come on, he said one night last week. They didn't have much time to tell their story.</p>
<div class="asset_photo asset-photo " data-config-asset-position="5">
<p><img alt=" Marie D. De Jesus, Staff / © 2017 Houston Chronicle" id="premiumchron-photo-13018766" src="http://ww3.hdnux.com/photos/61/52/32/13018766/5/920x1240.jpg" style="width: 400px; height: 300px;" /></p>
<div class="asset_info_container asset-info-container">
<p><span class="credit">Photo: Marie D. De Jesus, Staff</span></p>
</div>
<p class="caption">Juan Rodríguez and his family - wife Celia and daughters Karen, Kimberly and Rebecca - have built a life in Houston. That could change at month's end because Juan has been ordered to turn himself in to be deported to El Salvador. </p>
</div>
</div>
<p><a href="http://www.houstonchronicle.com/news/houston-texas/houston/article/The-rules-have-changed-Houston-family-surprised-11192377.php?cmpid=email-mobile">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Two bills aiming to protect Confederate monuments killed in Louisiana Legislature
News Intro Text
[BY MARK BALLARD, MAY 31, 2017]
News Item Content
<p>BY MARK BALLARD, MAY 31, 2017</p>
<div class="asset-content subscriber-premium" itemprop="articleBody" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "Open Sans", "Helvetica Neue", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">Legislative efforts to protect Confederate monuments in Louisiana failed Wednesday when a state Senate committee shot down two measures.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">Senate Bill 198 would have required legislative approval prior to removal of statutory. House Bill 71 would require a public referendum before memorials are taken down.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">Voting 4-2 for each bill, the Senate & Governmental Affairs Committee rejected both proposals, making the success of either measure nearly impossible at this point in the legislative session. The session must adjourn a week from Thursday on June 8.</p>
<div class="tncms-region hidden-print" id="tncms-region-article_instory_top" style="box-sizing: border-box;">
</div>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">The issue exposed barely covered anger between the races and the legislators. After HB71 was approved in the Louisiana House two weeks ago, the Legislative Black Caucus walked out.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">State Sen. Beth Mizell, R-Franklinton, said her SB198 never mentioned the Civil War. She felt the testimony Wednesday took the intent of her legislation down a different path than the protections of military and historical monuments that she wanted.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">Sen. Gregory Tarver, D-Shreveport, noted that the two-year fight to remove monuments in New Orleans is over. Still, most of testimony Wednesday refought the recent removal of the four statues.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">New Orleans Sen. Karen Carter Peterson, the committee's chairwoman and head of the Louisiana Democratic Party, said at their essence both bills are about whether state government should overrule decisions local government makes about the monuments it owns sitting on property it owns and to decide who to celebrate with those memorials,</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">Nevertheless, Peterson allowed witnesses freehand to discuss their diametrically different takes on the history and impact of slavery to the origins and meaning of the Civil War.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">Peterson said many supporters were impassioned by the belief they were protecting the memories of their Confederate soldier ancestors. But she also wanted to remember the experiences of opponents whose ancestors were enslaved.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">When the HB71 was sent to Peterson’s committee, supporters erupted in the blog-o-sphere claiming that she would never allow a fair hearing.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">Peterson said she received dozens of vitriolic emails. But she also was determined that everyone would get a chance to have their say.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">Unlike the House committee hearing – where the chairman used an egg timer to limit testimony – Peterson let everyone talk as long as they wanted. The hearing lasted about six and half hours.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">Rob Maness, a former U.S. Senate candidate who testified in favor of the legislation, complimented Peterson for her handling of the hearing.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">All 13 of the supporters who testified in favor of the two bills were white. The audience groaned or clapped to various points made during testimony until scolded by Sergeant at Arms who were tasked with keeping order.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">Some supporters argued that slavery wasn't really a racial issue. Dana Farley, of New Orleans, for instance, argued that tribal leaders in Africa sold slaves.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">Sen. JP Morrell, D-New Orleans, countered that was like saying South American coca farmers were more culpable for the sale of illegal drugs in America than crime lords.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">Several witnesses were making their first foray and were taken aback at senators on the panel talking among themselves or checking their smart phones.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">Jenna Bernstein was angered that some of the senators were absent. “I came a long way, from Florida. I want them all here when I speak,” she said standing at the testimony table and yelling at Peterson.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">The chairwoman explained that a few members also were attending a Senate Finance committee hearing at the same time.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">Sen. Wesley Bishop, D-New Orleans, said he was concerned about the precedent that would set if a referendum was called whenever a group of people disagreed with the decisions made by local government.</p>
<div class="tncms-region hidden-print" id="tncms-region-article_instory_middle" style="box-sizing: border-box;">
<div class="tncms-block" id="tncms-block-502786" style="box-sizing: border-box;">
<div class="nativo-ap" style="box-sizing: border-box;">
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">The issue in New Orleans was vetted by two commissions, which approved the removal of the statuary. Then the City Council voted 6-1 to remove the monuments. The procedure was challenged in court and upheld.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;"> “Where does it end?” he asked.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">Bishop said he was elected to be the voice his constituents. And every four years the voters can replace him if they don’t like what he says.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">“That’s the way representative Democracy works,” Bishop said.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;"><span class="gold">Nicholas Mitchell, with the Jesuit Social Research Institute at LoyolaUniversity in New Orleans, provided something of a history lesson. He said the monuments were put up after the Confederate States of America had lost the war as a reminder to people of color that white people were in charge. The memorials were erected as Louisiana was passing laws that restricted voting, housing and other rights for African Americans, he said.</span></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">Voting for both bills was identical and broke along racial and party lines.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">Voting against SB198 and HB71 were Democratic Sens. Bishop, Morrell, Tarver and Troy Carter, of New Orleans.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">Voting for both measures were Republican Sens. Neil Riser, of Columbia, and Mike Walsworth, of West Monroe.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">State Rep. Thomas Carmody Jr., the Shreveport Republican who sponsored HB71, said he would bring the legislation back again next year.</p>
</div>
<p><a href="http://www.theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/news/politics/legislature/article_e4bffe64-4641-11e7-a01f-0b9cb6bb5a3e.html">MORE>></a></p>
<div class="asset-content subscriber-premium" itemprop="articleBody" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "Open Sans", "Helvetica Neue", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">Legislative efforts to protect Confederate monuments in Louisiana failed Wednesday when a state Senate committee shot down two measures.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">Senate Bill 198 would have required legislative approval prior to removal of statutory. House Bill 71 would require a public referendum before memorials are taken down.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">Voting 4-2 for each bill, the Senate & Governmental Affairs Committee rejected both proposals, making the success of either measure nearly impossible at this point in the legislative session. The session must adjourn a week from Thursday on June 8.</p>
<div class="tncms-region hidden-print" id="tncms-region-article_instory_top" style="box-sizing: border-box;">
</div>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">The issue exposed barely covered anger between the races and the legislators. After HB71 was approved in the Louisiana House two weeks ago, the Legislative Black Caucus walked out.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">State Sen. Beth Mizell, R-Franklinton, said her SB198 never mentioned the Civil War. She felt the testimony Wednesday took the intent of her legislation down a different path than the protections of military and historical monuments that she wanted.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">Sen. Gregory Tarver, D-Shreveport, noted that the two-year fight to remove monuments in New Orleans is over. Still, most of testimony Wednesday refought the recent removal of the four statues.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">New Orleans Sen. Karen Carter Peterson, the committee's chairwoman and head of the Louisiana Democratic Party, said at their essence both bills are about whether state government should overrule decisions local government makes about the monuments it owns sitting on property it owns and to decide who to celebrate with those memorials,</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">Nevertheless, Peterson allowed witnesses freehand to discuss their diametrically different takes on the history and impact of slavery to the origins and meaning of the Civil War.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">Peterson said many supporters were impassioned by the belief they were protecting the memories of their Confederate soldier ancestors. But she also wanted to remember the experiences of opponents whose ancestors were enslaved.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">When the HB71 was sent to Peterson’s committee, supporters erupted in the blog-o-sphere claiming that she would never allow a fair hearing.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">Peterson said she received dozens of vitriolic emails. But she also was determined that everyone would get a chance to have their say.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">Unlike the House committee hearing – where the chairman used an egg timer to limit testimony – Peterson let everyone talk as long as they wanted. The hearing lasted about six and half hours.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">Rob Maness, a former U.S. Senate candidate who testified in favor of the legislation, complimented Peterson for her handling of the hearing.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">All 13 of the supporters who testified in favor of the two bills were white. The audience groaned or clapped to various points made during testimony until scolded by Sergeant at Arms who were tasked with keeping order.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">Some supporters argued that slavery wasn't really a racial issue. Dana Farley, of New Orleans, for instance, argued that tribal leaders in Africa sold slaves.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">Sen. JP Morrell, D-New Orleans, countered that was like saying South American coca farmers were more culpable for the sale of illegal drugs in America than crime lords.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">Several witnesses were making their first foray and were taken aback at senators on the panel talking among themselves or checking their smart phones.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">Jenna Bernstein was angered that some of the senators were absent. “I came a long way, from Florida. I want them all here when I speak,” she said standing at the testimony table and yelling at Peterson.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">The chairwoman explained that a few members also were attending a Senate Finance committee hearing at the same time.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">Sen. Wesley Bishop, D-New Orleans, said he was concerned about the precedent that would set if a referendum was called whenever a group of people disagreed with the decisions made by local government.</p>
<div class="tncms-region hidden-print" id="tncms-region-article_instory_middle" style="box-sizing: border-box;">
<div class="tncms-block" id="tncms-block-502786" style="box-sizing: border-box;">
<div class="nativo-ap" style="box-sizing: border-box;">
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">The issue in New Orleans was vetted by two commissions, which approved the removal of the statuary. Then the City Council voted 6-1 to remove the monuments. The procedure was challenged in court and upheld.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;"> “Where does it end?” he asked.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">Bishop said he was elected to be the voice his constituents. And every four years the voters can replace him if they don’t like what he says.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">“That’s the way representative Democracy works,” Bishop said.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;"><span class="gold">Nicholas Mitchell, with the Jesuit Social Research Institute at LoyolaUniversity in New Orleans, provided something of a history lesson. He said the monuments were put up after the Confederate States of America had lost the war as a reminder to people of color that white people were in charge. The memorials were erected as Louisiana was passing laws that restricted voting, housing and other rights for African Americans, he said.</span></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">Voting for both bills was identical and broke along racial and party lines.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">Voting against SB198 and HB71 were Democratic Sens. Bishop, Morrell, Tarver and Troy Carter, of New Orleans.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">Voting for both measures were Republican Sens. Neil Riser, of Columbia, and Mike Walsworth, of West Monroe.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, "Libre Baskerville", Georgia, serif;">State Rep. Thomas Carmody Jr., the Shreveport Republican who sponsored HB71, said he would bring the legislation back again next year.</p>
</div>
<p><a href="http://www.theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/news/politics/legislature/article_e4bffe64-4641-11e7-a01f-0b9cb6bb5a3e.html">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Recipients Fear Cuts to Food Stamps and Disability Aid in Trump Budget
News Intro Text
[By YAMICHE ALCINDOR and CAMPBELL ROBERTSON, MAY 31, 2017]
News Item Content
<p>[By YAMICHE ALCINDOR and CAMPBELL ROBERTSON, MAY 31, 2017]</p>
<p>JACKSON, Miss. — Hoyt Cantrell drove a truck for more than 20 years before seizures — 23 of them since 2009 — cost him his livelihood. His two-bedroom house in the heart of this Southern state capital is partly boarded up, with no running water or electricity, but he cannot afford much better.</p>
<p>He has tried hard to qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance and food stamps. So far, he has failed.</p>
<p>To President Trump, people like Mr. Cantrell are the exceptions in the expanding world of American poverty. In the view of his administration, access to food stamps is far too easy, and being on disability is just a matter of finding a friendly judge.</p>
<p>The budget that the president has proposed for the coming fiscal year would expand a work requirement for “able-bodied” adults receiving help from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, known as food stamps, slicing $192 billion over 10 years. He would also trim $70 billion from Social Security’s disability program by tightening access.</p>
<p>“We need people to go to work,” said Mick Mulvaney, the White House’s budget director and the proposal’s chief architect. “If you’re on food stamps, and you’re able-bodied, we need you to go to work. If you’re on disability insurance, and you’re not supposed to be — if you’re not truly disabled, we need you to go back to work. We need everybody pulling in the same direction.”</p>
<p><a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2017/05/31/us/politics/food-stamps-disability-benefits-trump-budget.html?_r=2">MORE>></a></p>
<p>JACKSON, Miss. — Hoyt Cantrell drove a truck for more than 20 years before seizures — 23 of them since 2009 — cost him his livelihood. His two-bedroom house in the heart of this Southern state capital is partly boarded up, with no running water or electricity, but he cannot afford much better.</p>
<p>He has tried hard to qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance and food stamps. So far, he has failed.</p>
<p>To President Trump, people like Mr. Cantrell are the exceptions in the expanding world of American poverty. In the view of his administration, access to food stamps is far too easy, and being on disability is just a matter of finding a friendly judge.</p>
<p>The budget that the president has proposed for the coming fiscal year would expand a work requirement for “able-bodied” adults receiving help from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, known as food stamps, slicing $192 billion over 10 years. He would also trim $70 billion from Social Security’s disability program by tightening access.</p>
<p>“We need people to go to work,” said Mick Mulvaney, the White House’s budget director and the proposal’s chief architect. “If you’re on food stamps, and you’re able-bodied, we need you to go to work. If you’re on disability insurance, and you’re not supposed to be — if you’re not truly disabled, we need you to go back to work. We need everybody pulling in the same direction.”</p>
<p><a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2017/05/31/us/politics/food-stamps-disability-benefits-trump-budget.html?_r=2">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Half of criminal justice reform package clears tricky Louisiana House, full package still alive
News Intro Text
[By Rebekah Allen, May 30, 2017]
News Item Content
<p><strong>By Rebekah Allen, May 30, 2017 </strong></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, 'Libre Baskerville', Georgia, serif; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;">It was a good sign for advocates pushing to overhaul Louisiana's criminal justice system – half of the bills in prison revamp package passed the state House and headed to the Senate where they're expected to have a smoother ride.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, 'Libre Baskerville', Georgia, serif; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;">With two weeks left in the session, the <a dir="ltr" href="x-apple-data-detectors://5" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: transparent; -webkit-text-decoration-color: rgba(51, 51, 51, 0.258824);" x-apple-data-detectors="true" x-apple-data-detectors-result="5" x-apple-data-detectors-type="calendar-event">Tuesday night</a> vote means all 10 bills in the ambitious revamp are still alive and it suggests that a majority of Republicans and Democrats in the Legislature are still generally warm to a sweeping plan to reduce the state's prison population. </p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, 'Libre Baskerville', Georgia, serif; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;">The <a dir="ltr" href="x-apple-data-detectors://6" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: transparent; -webkit-text-decoration-color: rgba(51, 51, 51, 0.258824);" x-apple-data-detectors="true" x-apple-data-detectors-result="6" x-apple-data-detectors-type="calendar-event">Tuesday night</a> votes were a sort of litmus test, because it was the first time the House was able to weigh in on some of the meatiest parts of the criminal justice package. The more conservative House has a reputation for being more difficult to get the consensus necessary to pass laws than the Senate. </p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, 'Libre Baskerville', Georgia, serif; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;"><a href="http://www.theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/news/politics/legislature/article_c425bd12-458b-11e7-8733-23b957644fa7.html">MORE>></a></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, 'Libre Baskerville', Georgia, serif; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;">It was a good sign for advocates pushing to overhaul Louisiana's criminal justice system – half of the bills in prison revamp package passed the state House and headed to the Senate where they're expected to have a smoother ride.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, 'Libre Baskerville', Georgia, serif; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;">With two weeks left in the session, the <a dir="ltr" href="x-apple-data-detectors://5" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: transparent; -webkit-text-decoration-color: rgba(51, 51, 51, 0.258824);" x-apple-data-detectors="true" x-apple-data-detectors-result="5" x-apple-data-detectors-type="calendar-event">Tuesday night</a> vote means all 10 bills in the ambitious revamp are still alive and it suggests that a majority of Republicans and Democrats in the Legislature are still generally warm to a sweeping plan to reduce the state's prison population. </p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, 'Libre Baskerville', Georgia, serif; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;">The <a dir="ltr" href="x-apple-data-detectors://6" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: transparent; -webkit-text-decoration-color: rgba(51, 51, 51, 0.258824);" x-apple-data-detectors="true" x-apple-data-detectors-result="6" x-apple-data-detectors-type="calendar-event">Tuesday night</a> votes were a sort of litmus test, because it was the first time the House was able to weigh in on some of the meatiest parts of the criminal justice package. The more conservative House has a reputation for being more difficult to get the consensus necessary to pass laws than the Senate. </p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 24px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6; font-family: Lora, 'Libre Baskerville', Georgia, serif; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;"><a href="http://www.theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/news/politics/legislature/article_c425bd12-458b-11e7-8733-23b957644fa7.html">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Watching a Confederate Monument's Removal: One of Many Battles to Come in a Nation of Alternative Facts
News Intro Text
By Nicholas Mitchell
News Item Content
<p><em>By</em><span> </span><em><a href="http://www.alternet.org/authors/nicholas-mitchell">Nicholas Mitchell</a></em><span> </span></p>
<p>I arrived at Lee Circle just before 10:15 on the night before the statue was scheduled to be removed. Amid the smells of cigarette smoke, the street, sweat, and the murmur of bad historical arguments beneath the beating of drums, I glanced up at the likeness of Lee cast against the fast-moving clouds of a humid New Orleans night. As I stood there looking at the oxidized face of Robert E. Lee illuminated by the blue strobe of police lights, I realized that one day we will have to do the hardest thing a previous generation can do for a rising one: give them the proper context. America doesn’t really do well with context.</p>
<p>In this current round of the debate about Confederate iconography, context is lost. There are no participation trophies in the South; they are victory trophies celebrating the collapse of Reconstructed governments. The Lee statue, the first of the four monuments, was erected in 1884; and the final monument, to P.G.T. Beauregard, was erected in 1915. The dedications of the four monuments are book-ended by the 1883 U.S. Supreme Court decision striking down the section of the Civil Rights Act of 1875 that made racial discrimination in any public accommodation or service illegal and the release of the film "Birth of a Nation" in 1915. The film sparked the resurgence and rise of the Ku Klux Klan to a national political power and terrorist group. The context makes it clear that these statues enshrine a promise to maintain white supremacy; and if one looks around Louisiana and America, that promise has been kept.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.alternet.org/activism/firsthand-confederate-robert-lee-statue-taken-down-new-orleans">MORE>></a></p>
<p>I arrived at Lee Circle just before 10:15 on the night before the statue was scheduled to be removed. Amid the smells of cigarette smoke, the street, sweat, and the murmur of bad historical arguments beneath the beating of drums, I glanced up at the likeness of Lee cast against the fast-moving clouds of a humid New Orleans night. As I stood there looking at the oxidized face of Robert E. Lee illuminated by the blue strobe of police lights, I realized that one day we will have to do the hardest thing a previous generation can do for a rising one: give them the proper context. America doesn’t really do well with context.</p>
<p>In this current round of the debate about Confederate iconography, context is lost. There are no participation trophies in the South; they are victory trophies celebrating the collapse of Reconstructed governments. The Lee statue, the first of the four monuments, was erected in 1884; and the final monument, to P.G.T. Beauregard, was erected in 1915. The dedications of the four monuments are book-ended by the 1883 U.S. Supreme Court decision striking down the section of the Civil Rights Act of 1875 that made racial discrimination in any public accommodation or service illegal and the release of the film "Birth of a Nation" in 1915. The film sparked the resurgence and rise of the Ku Klux Klan to a national political power and terrorist group. The context makes it clear that these statues enshrine a promise to maintain white supremacy; and if one looks around Louisiana and America, that promise has been kept.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.alternet.org/activism/firsthand-confederate-robert-lee-statue-taken-down-new-orleans">MORE>></a></p>
Date
10 key points from the CBO report on Obamacare repeal
News Intro Text
By JOANNE KENEN 05/24/2017
News Item Content
<p class="byline">By <span class="vcard"><span itemprop="author" itemscope="" itemtype="https://schema.org/Person"><a class="url fn" href="http://www.politico.com/staff/joanne-kenen" rel="author" target="_top"><span itemprop="name">JOANNE KENEN</span> </a></span></span></p>
<p>Here are some key facts and figures from the <a href="https://www.cbo.gov/system/files/115th-congress-2017-2018/costestimate/hr1628aspassed.pdf" target="_blank">new CBO report </a>on the American Health Care Act, the House-passed bill to repeal and replace Obamacare. CBO stressed the uncertainty of its estimates, given that it's hard to know which states would take up the chance to opt out of certain key parts of Obamacare. All figures are for the decade spanning 2017-2026 unless otherwise specified.</p>
<div class="story_block">
<div class="title">
<h3>
14 million</h3>
</div>
<div class="text">
<p>14 million fewer people will be insured one year after passage.</p>
</div>
</div>
<div class="story_block">
<div class="title">
<h3>
23 million</h3>
</div>
<div class="text">
<p>23 million fewer will be insured in 10 years.</p>
</div>
</div>
<div class="story_block">
<div class="title">
<h3>
$834 billion in Medicaid cuts</h3>
</div>
<div class="text">
<p>AHCA would cut spending on Medicaid, the joint federal-state health program for low-income people, by $834 billion. The program would cover 14 million fewer people.</p>
</div>
</div>
<div class="story_block">
<div class="title">
<h3>
Premiums will go up in 2018 and 2019</h3>
</div>
<div class="text">
<p>Premiums will go up in 2018 and 2019. After that, there will be significant variation depending on whether someone lives in a state that opts out of key Obamacare insurance rules.</p>
</div>
</div>
<div class="story_block">
<div class="title">
<h3>
In some states, premiums would decline</h3>
</div>
<div class="text">
<p>In states that waive some Obamacare rules, premiums would decline by 20 percent over a decade compared to current law.</p>
</div>
</div>
<div class="story_block">
<div class="title">
<h3>
Relatively stable markets</h3>
</div>
<div class="text">
<p>One out of 6 Americans will live in an area with an unstable insurance market in 2020 where sick people could have trouble finding coverage. But 5 out of 6 would have access to relatively stable markets.</p>
</div>
</div>
<div class="story_block">
<div class="title">
<h3>
Older Americans face much higher premiums</h3>
</div>
<div class="text">
<p>Poor, older Americans would be hit especially hard. The average 64-year-old earning just above the poverty line would have to pay about 9 times more in premiums.</p>
</div>
</div>
<div class="story_block">
<div class="title">
<h3>
Twice as many uninsured</h3>
</div>
<div class="text">
<p>In 2026, 51 million people under age 65 would be uninsured — almost twice as many as the 28 million who would have lacked coverage under Obamacare.</p>
</div>
</div>
<div class="story_block">
<div class="title">
<h3>
Less savings</h3>
</div>
<div class="text">
<p>The bill will save $119 billion, which is $32 billion less than a previous version of AHCA.</p>
</div>
</div>
<div class="story_block">
<div class="title">
<h3>
$664 billion</h3>
</div>
<div class="text">
<p>It repeals $664 billion worth of taxes and fees that had financed Obamacare.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.politico.com/story/2017/05/24/cbo-obamacare-repeal-health-care-238795">MORE>></a></p>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p>
<p>Here are some key facts and figures from the <a href="https://www.cbo.gov/system/files/115th-congress-2017-2018/costestimate/hr1628aspassed.pdf" target="_blank">new CBO report </a>on the American Health Care Act, the House-passed bill to repeal and replace Obamacare. CBO stressed the uncertainty of its estimates, given that it's hard to know which states would take up the chance to opt out of certain key parts of Obamacare. All figures are for the decade spanning 2017-2026 unless otherwise specified.</p>
<div class="story_block">
<div class="title">
<h3>
14 million</h3>
</div>
<div class="text">
<p>14 million fewer people will be insured one year after passage.</p>
</div>
</div>
<div class="story_block">
<div class="title">
<h3>
23 million</h3>
</div>
<div class="text">
<p>23 million fewer will be insured in 10 years.</p>
</div>
</div>
<div class="story_block">
<div class="title">
<h3>
$834 billion in Medicaid cuts</h3>
</div>
<div class="text">
<p>AHCA would cut spending on Medicaid, the joint federal-state health program for low-income people, by $834 billion. The program would cover 14 million fewer people.</p>
</div>
</div>
<div class="story_block">
<div class="title">
<h3>
Premiums will go up in 2018 and 2019</h3>
</div>
<div class="text">
<p>Premiums will go up in 2018 and 2019. After that, there will be significant variation depending on whether someone lives in a state that opts out of key Obamacare insurance rules.</p>
</div>
</div>
<div class="story_block">
<div class="title">
<h3>
In some states, premiums would decline</h3>
</div>
<div class="text">
<p>In states that waive some Obamacare rules, premiums would decline by 20 percent over a decade compared to current law.</p>
</div>
</div>
<div class="story_block">
<div class="title">
<h3>
Relatively stable markets</h3>
</div>
<div class="text">
<p>One out of 6 Americans will live in an area with an unstable insurance market in 2020 where sick people could have trouble finding coverage. But 5 out of 6 would have access to relatively stable markets.</p>
</div>
</div>
<div class="story_block">
<div class="title">
<h3>
Older Americans face much higher premiums</h3>
</div>
<div class="text">
<p>Poor, older Americans would be hit especially hard. The average 64-year-old earning just above the poverty line would have to pay about 9 times more in premiums.</p>
</div>
</div>
<div class="story_block">
<div class="title">
<h3>
Twice as many uninsured</h3>
</div>
<div class="text">
<p>In 2026, 51 million people under age 65 would be uninsured — almost twice as many as the 28 million who would have lacked coverage under Obamacare.</p>
</div>
</div>
<div class="story_block">
<div class="title">
<h3>
Less savings</h3>
</div>
<div class="text">
<p>The bill will save $119 billion, which is $32 billion less than a previous version of AHCA.</p>
</div>
</div>
<div class="story_block">
<div class="title">
<h3>
$664 billion</h3>
</div>
<div class="text">
<p>It repeals $664 billion worth of taxes and fees that had financed Obamacare.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.politico.com/story/2017/05/24/cbo-obamacare-repeal-health-care-238795">MORE>></a></p>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p>
Date
Remembering A Soldier Who Died For His Country Before Becoming A Citizen
News Intro Text
[Morning Edition, May 26, 2017]
News Item Content
<p>Memorial Day weekend is a time when a lot of Americans remember those who have served and lost their lives during war — and not all of those individuals were U.S. citizens.</p>
<p>When the Iraq war started, nearly 40,000 members of the military were not U.S. citizens. Army Pfc. Diego Rincon was one of them.</p>
<p>In 1989, his family immigrated to the U.S. from Colombia. In 2003, he was killed by a suicide bomber in Iraq. He died for his country even though he wasn't a citizen.</p>
<p>His parents, George Rincon and Yolanda Reyes still remember their son and how quickly he adapted to his home in the U.S.</p>
<p>"We came here when he was 5-years-old," Reyes says. "Diego started speaking English faster than we did. He was often letting me know, 'When I finish high school, I'm going to join the Army.' "</p>
<p>Diego did go on to join the Army and he was on his way to becoming a citizen, along with his parents.</p>
<p>"Before he went to Iraq, he got the green card," George says. "But he said to me, 'Dad, don't do the citizenship until I return. We'll do it together.' "</p>
<p>Reyes says the last time she spoke to Diego, he told her he had written her a letter, but instructed her not to open it until she was ready.</p>
<p>"A week later I got the letter, and it was different from the rest," Reyes says. "He was talking about this feeling that he had that he was going to die. He asked for forgiveness for anything wrong that he had done, and he said that he loves me. This letter was like a bucket of icy water."</p>
<p>Diego died on March 29, 2003.</p>
<p>While his mother was sitting on the steps of the family's home, a chaplain walked into the house.</p>
<p>"He said, 'Mr. Rincon, I'm sorry. Your son is dead,' " George says.</p>
<p>Reyes says she didn't believe the news at first.</p>
<p>"I called the Army and asked for pictures of his body," she says. "I looked at the pictures and I destroyed them."</p>
<p>It is still hard for the couple to believe that their son is gone.</p>
<p>"Sometimes I wake up in the morning thinking that this is a nightmare and he's coming back," George says. "But I had my baby for 19 years and it was a blessing."</p>
<p>Reyes says they also wonder what might have happened if the family hadn't left Colombia.</p>
<p>"At least he was doing something with honor, with pride," she says. "He was doing something for America."</p>
<p>In the end, Diego did get citizenship. It came the day of the his funeral.</p>
<p>His death also helped get a bill passed that grants immediate citizenship to immigrant soldiers who die in combat.</p>
<p>"It's a piece of paper, but it means a lot for us," George says. "He will always be our hero."</p>
<p> </p>
<p><em>Audio produced for Morning Edition by Liyna Anwar and Jud Esty-Kendall.</em></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.npr.org/2017/05/26/530026309/remembering-a-soldier-who-died-for-his-country-before-becoming-a-citizen?utm_campaign=storyshare&utm_source=twitter.com&utm_medium=social"><em>MORE>></em></a></p>
<p>When the Iraq war started, nearly 40,000 members of the military were not U.S. citizens. Army Pfc. Diego Rincon was one of them.</p>
<p>In 1989, his family immigrated to the U.S. from Colombia. In 2003, he was killed by a suicide bomber in Iraq. He died for his country even though he wasn't a citizen.</p>
<p>His parents, George Rincon and Yolanda Reyes still remember their son and how quickly he adapted to his home in the U.S.</p>
<p>"We came here when he was 5-years-old," Reyes says. "Diego started speaking English faster than we did. He was often letting me know, 'When I finish high school, I'm going to join the Army.' "</p>
<p>Diego did go on to join the Army and he was on his way to becoming a citizen, along with his parents.</p>
<p>"Before he went to Iraq, he got the green card," George says. "But he said to me, 'Dad, don't do the citizenship until I return. We'll do it together.' "</p>
<p>Reyes says the last time she spoke to Diego, he told her he had written her a letter, but instructed her not to open it until she was ready.</p>
<p>"A week later I got the letter, and it was different from the rest," Reyes says. "He was talking about this feeling that he had that he was going to die. He asked for forgiveness for anything wrong that he had done, and he said that he loves me. This letter was like a bucket of icy water."</p>
<p>Diego died on March 29, 2003.</p>
<p>While his mother was sitting on the steps of the family's home, a chaplain walked into the house.</p>
<p>"He said, 'Mr. Rincon, I'm sorry. Your son is dead,' " George says.</p>
<p>Reyes says she didn't believe the news at first.</p>
<p>"I called the Army and asked for pictures of his body," she says. "I looked at the pictures and I destroyed them."</p>
<p>It is still hard for the couple to believe that their son is gone.</p>
<p>"Sometimes I wake up in the morning thinking that this is a nightmare and he's coming back," George says. "But I had my baby for 19 years and it was a blessing."</p>
<p>Reyes says they also wonder what might have happened if the family hadn't left Colombia.</p>
<p>"At least he was doing something with honor, with pride," she says. "He was doing something for America."</p>
<p>In the end, Diego did get citizenship. It came the day of the his funeral.</p>
<p>His death also helped get a bill passed that grants immediate citizenship to immigrant soldiers who die in combat.</p>
<p>"It's a piece of paper, but it means a lot for us," George says. "He will always be our hero."</p>
<p> </p>
<p><em>Audio produced for Morning Edition by Liyna Anwar and Jud Esty-Kendall.</em></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.npr.org/2017/05/26/530026309/remembering-a-soldier-who-died-for-his-country-before-becoming-a-citizen?utm_campaign=storyshare&utm_source=twitter.com&utm_medium=social"><em>MORE>></em></a></p>
Date
“Truth: Remarks on the Removal of Confederate Monuments in New Orleans”
News Intro Text
Friday, May 19, 2017
News Item Content
<p><em>I WANT TO TRY TO GENTLY PEEL FROM YOUR HANDS THE GRIP ON A FALSE NARRATIVE OF OUR HISTORY THAT I THINK WEAKENS US. AND MAKE STRAIGHT A WRONG TURN WE MADE MANY YEARS AGO --- SO WE CAN MORE CLOSELY CONNECT WITH INTEGRITY TO THE FOUNDING PRINCIPLES OF OUR NATION AND FORGE A CLEARER AND STRAIGHTER PATH TOWARD A BETTER CITY AND A MORE PERFECT UNION. </em></p>
<p><a href="https://www.nola.gov/getattachment/Mayor/Press-Conferences/5-19-17-Speech-Truth_Removing-Confederate-Monuments-in-New-Orleans_Mayor-Mitch-Landrieu.pdf/">FULL TRANSCRIPT>></a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-uJ0Kp9X4eI">VIDEO>></a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.nola.gov/getattachment/Mayor/Press-Conferences/5-19-17-Speech-Truth_Removing-Confederate-Monuments-in-New-Orleans_Mayor-Mitch-Landrieu.pdf/">FULL TRANSCRIPT>></a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-uJ0Kp9X4eI">VIDEO>></a></p>
Date
The Cruel Consequences of Hyper-Incarceration
News Intro Text
The case of Thomas Johnson
News Item Content
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: Verdana; vertical-align: baseline;">by Sue Weishar, PhD</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: Verdana; vertical-align: baseline;">I met Thomas Johnson* in Ronnie Moore’s office at Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New Orleans (CCANO) on a rainy Wednesday recently. Ronnie, a long-time civil rights activist, founded Cornerstone Builders at CCANO seven years ago. The program helps formerly incarcerated men and women re-enter society through service projects and also provides immediate help to those who have just been released from prison, including shelter, employment, and a support network.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: Verdana; vertical-align: baseline;">Thomas arrived at Ronnie’s office after being released from a prison in North Louisiana early that same day. Because Ronnie had another meeting to attend, I offered to help. From 1999 to 2003 I ran a re-entry program at CCANO for formerly incarcerated immigrants, so I knew “the ropes” and how important it is to provide someone assistance within the first 72 hours of leaving prison.</p>
<div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 16px; font-family: Verdana; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">Thomas was released at one minute after midnight, a cruel but common practice at Louisiana penal institutions, which allows prison operators to collect a full-day’s per diem. He left without a pair of shoes on his feet—just a cheap pair of plastic sandals—and a white plastic garbage bag to carry his few possessions. He was cold, tired, and hungry. In the trunk of my car I was able to find him a sweatshirt and a cloth bag, but my spare pair of tennis shoes were too small. Our first stop after Catholic Charities was the Greyhound bus station, conveniently located across the street, where we got lunch and a ticket to a small town in Georgia where Thomas planned to stay with an elderly relative, leaving early the next morning. Our next destination was Ozanam Inn, a homeless shelter on Camp Street where Thomas would stay that night. </p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">Along the way to Ozanam Inn Thomas told me what landed him in prison. One evening after work at a French Quarter restaurant, a friend was driving Thomas to his apartment when their car was pulled over due to expired brake tags. A records check revealed that Thomas had failed to register with a parole officer when he moved to Louisiana many years earlier. For this infraction, despite over 15 years of crime-free living, he was sentenced to three years in prison.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">Thomas briefly described his life in prison. He lived in a large dormitory room where it was loud all the time and young men were “always fighting.” The food was terrible and the portions meager. He was always hungry and lost 60 pounds. There were no training or rehabilitation programs, so all there was to do all day was watch soap operas and reality shows. He made friends with two other gentlemen and they would often sit together and pray and talk. However, the guards became suspicious whenever people hung out together and would try and break up such friendships.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">The morning Thomas was released he got down on his knees and thanked God he was finally leaving.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">Thomas’s case illustrates many of the problems with Louisiana’s criminal justice system. Revocations of parole or probation account for nearly 60 percent of prison admissions a year, and over 85 percent of persons admitted have a primary offense that is not violent.[1] Over half of offenders are housed in local prisons, which sheriffs run as cheaply as possible, offering few services. This lack of attention to rehabilitation and training programs contributes to a 43 percent rate of recidivism over five years.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">At a Philadelphia jail in 2015 Pope Francis told a group of prisoners, “Any society, any family that cannot share or take seriously the pain of its children, and views that pain as something normal or expected, is a society condemned to remain hostage to itself, prey to the very things which cause that pain.” For decades Louisiana’s criminal justice system has been held hostage to “tough on crime” policies that have ruined lives and decimated communities. For this to end we need to continue to hope, pray, and advocate that Louisiana legislators have the courage and wisdom to embrace major reforms outlined by the Louisiana Justice Reinvestment Task Force in the current legislative session.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">*I have changed his name to protect his identity.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">[1] Pew Charitable Trusts, Louisiana Data Analysis Part II and Survey of Research, October 21, 2016, author’s files. </p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/message/rgpdp/vr8mje" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"><font face="inherit" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">MORE>></font></a></p>
</div>
<p> </p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: Verdana; vertical-align: baseline;">I met Thomas Johnson* in Ronnie Moore’s office at Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New Orleans (CCANO) on a rainy Wednesday recently. Ronnie, a long-time civil rights activist, founded Cornerstone Builders at CCANO seven years ago. The program helps formerly incarcerated men and women re-enter society through service projects and also provides immediate help to those who have just been released from prison, including shelter, employment, and a support network.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: Verdana; vertical-align: baseline;">Thomas arrived at Ronnie’s office after being released from a prison in North Louisiana early that same day. Because Ronnie had another meeting to attend, I offered to help. From 1999 to 2003 I ran a re-entry program at CCANO for formerly incarcerated immigrants, so I knew “the ropes” and how important it is to provide someone assistance within the first 72 hours of leaving prison.</p>
<div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 16px; font-family: Verdana; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">Thomas was released at one minute after midnight, a cruel but common practice at Louisiana penal institutions, which allows prison operators to collect a full-day’s per diem. He left without a pair of shoes on his feet—just a cheap pair of plastic sandals—and a white plastic garbage bag to carry his few possessions. He was cold, tired, and hungry. In the trunk of my car I was able to find him a sweatshirt and a cloth bag, but my spare pair of tennis shoes were too small. Our first stop after Catholic Charities was the Greyhound bus station, conveniently located across the street, where we got lunch and a ticket to a small town in Georgia where Thomas planned to stay with an elderly relative, leaving early the next morning. Our next destination was Ozanam Inn, a homeless shelter on Camp Street where Thomas would stay that night. </p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">Along the way to Ozanam Inn Thomas told me what landed him in prison. One evening after work at a French Quarter restaurant, a friend was driving Thomas to his apartment when their car was pulled over due to expired brake tags. A records check revealed that Thomas had failed to register with a parole officer when he moved to Louisiana many years earlier. For this infraction, despite over 15 years of crime-free living, he was sentenced to three years in prison.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">Thomas briefly described his life in prison. He lived in a large dormitory room where it was loud all the time and young men were “always fighting.” The food was terrible and the portions meager. He was always hungry and lost 60 pounds. There were no training or rehabilitation programs, so all there was to do all day was watch soap operas and reality shows. He made friends with two other gentlemen and they would often sit together and pray and talk. However, the guards became suspicious whenever people hung out together and would try and break up such friendships.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">The morning Thomas was released he got down on his knees and thanked God he was finally leaving.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">Thomas’s case illustrates many of the problems with Louisiana’s criminal justice system. Revocations of parole or probation account for nearly 60 percent of prison admissions a year, and over 85 percent of persons admitted have a primary offense that is not violent.[1] Over half of offenders are housed in local prisons, which sheriffs run as cheaply as possible, offering few services. This lack of attention to rehabilitation and training programs contributes to a 43 percent rate of recidivism over five years.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">At a Philadelphia jail in 2015 Pope Francis told a group of prisoners, “Any society, any family that cannot share or take seriously the pain of its children, and views that pain as something normal or expected, is a society condemned to remain hostage to itself, prey to the very things which cause that pain.” For decades Louisiana’s criminal justice system has been held hostage to “tough on crime” policies that have ruined lives and decimated communities. For this to end we need to continue to hope, pray, and advocate that Louisiana legislators have the courage and wisdom to embrace major reforms outlined by the Louisiana Justice Reinvestment Task Force in the current legislative session.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">*I have changed his name to protect his identity.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">[1] Pew Charitable Trusts, Louisiana Data Analysis Part II and Survey of Research, October 21, 2016, author’s files. </p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/message/rgpdp/vr8mje" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"><font face="inherit" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">MORE>></font></a></p>
</div>
<p> </p>
Date
Ministry on California’s Death Row – an Ignatian Meditation
News Intro Text
By Fr. George Williams, SJ, San Quentin State Prison chaplain
News Item Content
<p><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">By </span><a href="http://jesuits.org/story?TN=PROJECT-20150211090952" style="cursor: pointer; font-weight: bold; font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Fr. George Williams, SJ</a><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">, San Quentin State Prison chaplain</span></p>
<p style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">I lift the Blessed Sacrament for the men inside the cage to see. “This is my body, which is given for you.” God is here in this awful place.</p>
<p style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">The “chapel” on San Quentin’s Death Row is a windowless old shower room encased in a heavy metal cage. There are six wooden benches bolted to the floor for the congregation. I stand outside their cage, having padlocked myself inside my own cage as required by the department, wearing my black bulletproof, stab-proof vest<b>.</b></p>
<p style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">There is a harsh fluorescent ceiling light over me, and as I raise the host, the light illuminates it. The men are quiet and focused, and I imagine as I am standing there facing them, separated by the steel mesh and padlocks, that the light of Christ is streaming forth from that host, dispelling the dark shadows of “East Block,” San Quentin’s Death Row for men.</p>
<p style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><img align="right" alt="" src="http://image.jesuits.org/USA/media/death-row-caption.jpg" />St. Ignatius, founder of the Jesuits, said, “See God present in you just as God is present in a temple. See yourself as God’s own image and divine likeness.” Much of my work with prisoners is to help them see the presence of God in themselves.</p>
<p style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">The major spiritual illness of most prisoners is shame. At the deepest level, they believe that they are “no good.” Many have learned to identify themselves by what others have labeled them: criminals, murderers, even monsters. This radical sense of being worthless, bad, a “nothing,” lies at the root of most antisocial behavior. I believe we must reject the lie that says we are nothing but the worst sin we have committed.</p>
<p style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">What they seem to long for the most is forgiveness. As a priest, I bear witness to God’s forgiveness. God’s mercy is greater than our worst sins. The love and mercy of God, expressed through the death and resurrection of Jesus, makes forgiveness and healing possible for all of us, even the most despised and outcast members of our society.</p>
<p> </p>
<p style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Since my first experiences in prison ministry as a Jesuit novice, I have seen over and over the face of Christ in the prisoners, as well as in those who guard them. Ironically, it is in the darkness of prison that I encounter most vividly the light of God shining forth.</p>
<p style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><a href="http://jesuits.org/news-detail?TN=NEWS-20170516114253&utm_source=Jesuit+eNews+May+18%2C+2017&utm_campaign=May+18%2C+2017+eNewsletter&utm_medium=email">MORE>></a></p>
<p style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">I lift the Blessed Sacrament for the men inside the cage to see. “This is my body, which is given for you.” God is here in this awful place.</p>
<p style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">The “chapel” on San Quentin’s Death Row is a windowless old shower room encased in a heavy metal cage. There are six wooden benches bolted to the floor for the congregation. I stand outside their cage, having padlocked myself inside my own cage as required by the department, wearing my black bulletproof, stab-proof vest<b>.</b></p>
<p style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">There is a harsh fluorescent ceiling light over me, and as I raise the host, the light illuminates it. The men are quiet and focused, and I imagine as I am standing there facing them, separated by the steel mesh and padlocks, that the light of Christ is streaming forth from that host, dispelling the dark shadows of “East Block,” San Quentin’s Death Row for men.</p>
<p style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><img align="right" alt="" src="http://image.jesuits.org/USA/media/death-row-caption.jpg" />St. Ignatius, founder of the Jesuits, said, “See God present in you just as God is present in a temple. See yourself as God’s own image and divine likeness.” Much of my work with prisoners is to help them see the presence of God in themselves.</p>
<p style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">The major spiritual illness of most prisoners is shame. At the deepest level, they believe that they are “no good.” Many have learned to identify themselves by what others have labeled them: criminals, murderers, even monsters. This radical sense of being worthless, bad, a “nothing,” lies at the root of most antisocial behavior. I believe we must reject the lie that says we are nothing but the worst sin we have committed.</p>
<p style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">What they seem to long for the most is forgiveness. As a priest, I bear witness to God’s forgiveness. God’s mercy is greater than our worst sins. The love and mercy of God, expressed through the death and resurrection of Jesus, makes forgiveness and healing possible for all of us, even the most despised and outcast members of our society.</p>
<p> </p>
<p style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Since my first experiences in prison ministry as a Jesuit novice, I have seen over and over the face of Christ in the prisoners, as well as in those who guard them. Ironically, it is in the darkness of prison that I encounter most vividly the light of God shining forth.</p>
<p style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><a href="http://jesuits.org/news-detail?TN=NEWS-20170516114253&utm_source=Jesuit+eNews+May+18%2C+2017&utm_campaign=May+18%2C+2017+eNewsletter&utm_medium=email">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Advocates call for more "sanctuary congregations" ahead of new Texas law
News Intro Text
Before Senate Bill 4, a far-reaching immigration law, goes into effect on Sept. 1, opponents are mobilizing across Texas, including those hoping to see more Texas churches offer "sanctuary" to the undocumented.
News Item Content
<p><span class="byline--item" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; padding-right: 1.1rem; color: rgb(121, 121, 121); font-family: "Open Sans", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.6px; letter-spacing: 0.68px; text-transform: uppercase;">BY <a href="https://www.texastribune.org/about/staff/julian-aguilar/" style="box-sizing: border-box; outline: 0px; color: rgb(83, 155, 174); font-weight: 700;">JULIÁN AGUILAR</a></span><span style="color: rgb(121, 121, 121); font-family: "Open Sans", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.6px; letter-spacing: 0.68px; text-transform: uppercase;"> </span></p>
<time class="byline--item" datetime="Tue, 16 May 2017 00:01:00 -0500" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; padding-right: 1.1rem; color: rgb(121, 121, 121); font-family: "Open Sans", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.6px; letter-spacing: 0.68px; text-transform: uppercase;" title="2017-05-16 00:01">
MAY 16, 2017</time>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.1rem; font-size: 1.1rem; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: "PT Serif", Georgia, serif; line-height: 1.4;">The backdrop for Rev. Noel Andersen's sermon last week wasn’t a church dais but the gates of the Governor’s Mansion in Austin. The unusual setting didn’t stop him from preaching about his disappointment in Gov. <a href="https://www.texastribune.org/directory/greg-abbott/" style="box-sizing: border-box; border-bottom: 1px solid rgb(161, 210, 223); box-shadow: rgb(161, 210, 223) 0px -1px 0px 0px inset;">Greg Abbott</a> for signing one of the most aggressive state-based immigration laws in the country the night before.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.1rem; font-size: 1.1rem; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: "PT Serif", Georgia, serif; line-height: 1.4;">“Somebody told me once that the Bible was important here,” Andersen said, ginning up an already fiery crowd of opponents that have, since January, railed against Senate Bill 4.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.1rem; font-size: 1.1rem; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: "PT Serif", Georgia, serif; line-height: 1.4;">Andersen is from Washington, D.C., where his nonprofit, Church World Service, is based. But he said he expects to spend much of the summer in Texas, working to reignite a movement of churches offering "sanctuary" to the undocumented, an effort that has taken on a new urgency since Abbott signed SB 4, which goes into effect Sept. 1.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.1rem; font-size: 1.1rem; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: "PT Serif", Georgia, serif; line-height: 1.4;">“We do expect to see a greater need now as immigrants are being more targeted through SB 4 and through President Trump’s policies,” Andersen said. “[The goal is] helping stop a deportation order and creating space to create a legal campaign to be able to stop that deportation and keep those people with their families.”</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.1rem; font-size: 1.1rem; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: "PT Serif", Georgia, serif; line-height: 1.4;"><a href="https://www.texastribune.org/2017/05/16/after-sb4-faith-based-groups-work-spread-message-sanctuary-congregatio/?utm_campaign=trib-social-buttons&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social">MORE>></a></p>
<time class="byline--item" datetime="Tue, 16 May 2017 00:01:00 -0500" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; padding-right: 1.1rem; color: rgb(121, 121, 121); font-family: "Open Sans", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.6px; letter-spacing: 0.68px; text-transform: uppercase;" title="2017-05-16 00:01">
MAY 16, 2017</time>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.1rem; font-size: 1.1rem; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: "PT Serif", Georgia, serif; line-height: 1.4;">The backdrop for Rev. Noel Andersen's sermon last week wasn’t a church dais but the gates of the Governor’s Mansion in Austin. The unusual setting didn’t stop him from preaching about his disappointment in Gov. <a href="https://www.texastribune.org/directory/greg-abbott/" style="box-sizing: border-box; border-bottom: 1px solid rgb(161, 210, 223); box-shadow: rgb(161, 210, 223) 0px -1px 0px 0px inset;">Greg Abbott</a> for signing one of the most aggressive state-based immigration laws in the country the night before.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.1rem; font-size: 1.1rem; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: "PT Serif", Georgia, serif; line-height: 1.4;">“Somebody told me once that the Bible was important here,” Andersen said, ginning up an already fiery crowd of opponents that have, since January, railed against Senate Bill 4.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.1rem; font-size: 1.1rem; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: "PT Serif", Georgia, serif; line-height: 1.4;">Andersen is from Washington, D.C., where his nonprofit, Church World Service, is based. But he said he expects to spend much of the summer in Texas, working to reignite a movement of churches offering "sanctuary" to the undocumented, an effort that has taken on a new urgency since Abbott signed SB 4, which goes into effect Sept. 1.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.1rem; font-size: 1.1rem; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: "PT Serif", Georgia, serif; line-height: 1.4;">“We do expect to see a greater need now as immigrants are being more targeted through SB 4 and through President Trump’s policies,” Andersen said. “[The goal is] helping stop a deportation order and creating space to create a legal campaign to be able to stop that deportation and keep those people with their families.”</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.1rem; font-size: 1.1rem; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: "PT Serif", Georgia, serif; line-height: 1.4;"><a href="https://www.texastribune.org/2017/05/16/after-sb4-faith-based-groups-work-spread-message-sanctuary-congregatio/?utm_campaign=trib-social-buttons&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Tobin calls Trump immigration policies ‘cruelty on innocent people’
News Intro Text
“What if every cardinal accompanied a person who crossed our paths to a deportation hearing? Every bishop? Every mayor?”
News Item Content
<p><a class="author authorCHANGE" href="https://cruxnow.com/author/shannon-levitt/" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; outline: none; font-size: 17px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; box-sizing: border-box; float: left; color: rgb(203, 0, 0);" title="Shannon Levitt">Shannon Levitt <span style="color: rgb(124, 124, 124);">May 17, 2017</span></a></p>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">Cardinal Joseph Tobin of Newark, N.J., issued a strong call on Wednesday for American Catholic leaders to resist the immigration stance of the Trump administration, saying “you really have to believe in inflicting cruelty on innocent people to choose to support the policies we’ve seen in recent months.”</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">Tobin, a Pope Francis appointee, urged Catholic and political leaders alike to get involved in the defense of immigrants.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">He asked, “What if every cardinal accompanied a person who crossed our paths to a deportation hearing? Every bishop? Every mayor?”</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">Tobin challenged people to see immigrants as they are, and not as distorted stereotypes, saying that by doing so, “we show our face.”</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">His remarks came as part of a May 17 celebration of World Communications Day hosted by the Diocese of Brooklyn and its DeSales Media Group, the diocese’s communications and technology arm. (The DeSales Media Group is also a <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">Crux</em> sponsor.)</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">Tobin has long been among the most outspoken bishops on the immigration issue. He made news in March when he went along with a 59-year-old grandfather facing deportation, Catalino Guerrero, to a federal court for his hearing.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">Tobin talked about the case in his keynote speech on Wednesday.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">He said that his accompaniment of the man “wasn’t a conscious strategy … but praying with him and his family … and with other religious groups in New Jersey … these actions taken together provided a lens” for others to understand the events, and inspire them to action.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">Because of the essentially one-party rule by Republicans at the moment, he said, “Congress and the president could pass comprehensive immigration reform if they wanted to.”</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">But until that happens, Tobin doesn’t want people to sit back and watch things unfold, but rather talks about a “call to faith” and how it can motivate people to act.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">The day he went with Guerrero, “God’s grace broke through” for at least two reasons according to Tobin.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">“It put a face on people who are frequently dehumanized … secondly, it put a face on us and the call to solidarity,” he said.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">He said that day was “an act of compassion on my part,” but for some “it was an act of hope …that the Church, the body of Christ has a right to a voice in the public square…and we must claim that voice.”</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">Tobin said that he doesn’t believe the media should be a “punching bag” for people, but challenged them to report the news in a straight-forward fashion rather than ascribe to the fear-based idea that “if it bleeds, it leads.”</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">One week after his inauguration, President Donald Trump moved on his promise to restrict immigration and deport people already here without documentation. His first executive order on the subject caused chaos at airports as those attempting to enforce the order were not clear about green card holders and people with visas from the countries explicitly banned. There were also large protests against the order around the country’s airports.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">The U.S. bishops were part of that quick pushback.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">Bishop Joe S. Vásquez of Austin, Texas, chairman of the Committee on Migration, stated: “We strongly disagree with the Executive Order’s halting refugee admissions. We believe that now more than ever, welcoming newcomers and refugees is an act of love and hope.”</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">After the initial order was overturned by a federal district judge, Trump signed a second Executive Order March 6 removing Iraq from the list of banned nations and changing the indefinite ban on Syrian immigration. It also specified that people from those nations with valid visas were still able to come to the U.S.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">Once again a restraining order preventing the measure from taking effect was put into place, and is currently still being reviewed by the courts.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">Although the intensity of the opposition to the executive orders fell out of the headlines, the U.S. bishops continued to be publicly opposed in their own press releases and interviews with the press. Some even notched up their language in describing the new atmosphere the administration has created.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">For example, on Telemundo on March 19, Cardinal Blasé Cupich of Chicago said, “I am here today to assure you that we stand with those made fearful by the hatred expressed and threats made during the past year toward immigrants and refugees.”</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">The other part of Trump’s vision is massive deportations of people currently in the U.S. without documentation.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) was “newly emboldened, newly empowered” according to the <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">New York Times</em> by Trump’s removal of the rules under Obama keeping them focused only on dangerous criminals.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">The White House press secretary, Sean Spicer, said the president wanted to “take the shackles off” the agents, and that seems to have cleared the path for ICE to go after anyone suspected of being in the country illegally regardless of their lack of criminal history, age, health or family circumstances.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">The <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">NYT</em> reported in February that during the dramatic ICE arrest raids ICE even bystanders are being arrested and are known as “collateral” arrests.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">At a Vatican sponsored conference in California earlier this year, Los Angeles Archbishop Jose Gomez stated bluntly, “They’re playing with people’s emotions and toying with their lives and futures, and that is not right.”</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;"><a href="https://cruxnow.com/church-in-the-usa/2017/05/17/tobin-calls-trump-immigration-policies-cruelty-innocent-people/">ORIGINAL ARTICLE>></a></p>
</div>
<p> </p>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">Cardinal Joseph Tobin of Newark, N.J., issued a strong call on Wednesday for American Catholic leaders to resist the immigration stance of the Trump administration, saying “you really have to believe in inflicting cruelty on innocent people to choose to support the policies we’ve seen in recent months.”</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">Tobin, a Pope Francis appointee, urged Catholic and political leaders alike to get involved in the defense of immigrants.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">He asked, “What if every cardinal accompanied a person who crossed our paths to a deportation hearing? Every bishop? Every mayor?”</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">Tobin challenged people to see immigrants as they are, and not as distorted stereotypes, saying that by doing so, “we show our face.”</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">His remarks came as part of a May 17 celebration of World Communications Day hosted by the Diocese of Brooklyn and its DeSales Media Group, the diocese’s communications and technology arm. (The DeSales Media Group is also a <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">Crux</em> sponsor.)</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">Tobin has long been among the most outspoken bishops on the immigration issue. He made news in March when he went along with a 59-year-old grandfather facing deportation, Catalino Guerrero, to a federal court for his hearing.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">Tobin talked about the case in his keynote speech on Wednesday.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">He said that his accompaniment of the man “wasn’t a conscious strategy … but praying with him and his family … and with other religious groups in New Jersey … these actions taken together provided a lens” for others to understand the events, and inspire them to action.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">Because of the essentially one-party rule by Republicans at the moment, he said, “Congress and the president could pass comprehensive immigration reform if they wanted to.”</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">But until that happens, Tobin doesn’t want people to sit back and watch things unfold, but rather talks about a “call to faith” and how it can motivate people to act.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">The day he went with Guerrero, “God’s grace broke through” for at least two reasons according to Tobin.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">“It put a face on people who are frequently dehumanized … secondly, it put a face on us and the call to solidarity,” he said.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">He said that day was “an act of compassion on my part,” but for some “it was an act of hope …that the Church, the body of Christ has a right to a voice in the public square…and we must claim that voice.”</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">Tobin said that he doesn’t believe the media should be a “punching bag” for people, but challenged them to report the news in a straight-forward fashion rather than ascribe to the fear-based idea that “if it bleeds, it leads.”</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">One week after his inauguration, President Donald Trump moved on his promise to restrict immigration and deport people already here without documentation. His first executive order on the subject caused chaos at airports as those attempting to enforce the order were not clear about green card holders and people with visas from the countries explicitly banned. There were also large protests against the order around the country’s airports.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">The U.S. bishops were part of that quick pushback.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">Bishop Joe S. Vásquez of Austin, Texas, chairman of the Committee on Migration, stated: “We strongly disagree with the Executive Order’s halting refugee admissions. We believe that now more than ever, welcoming newcomers and refugees is an act of love and hope.”</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">After the initial order was overturned by a federal district judge, Trump signed a second Executive Order March 6 removing Iraq from the list of banned nations and changing the indefinite ban on Syrian immigration. It also specified that people from those nations with valid visas were still able to come to the U.S.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">Once again a restraining order preventing the measure from taking effect was put into place, and is currently still being reviewed by the courts.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">Although the intensity of the opposition to the executive orders fell out of the headlines, the U.S. bishops continued to be publicly opposed in their own press releases and interviews with the press. Some even notched up their language in describing the new atmosphere the administration has created.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">For example, on Telemundo on March 19, Cardinal Blasé Cupich of Chicago said, “I am here today to assure you that we stand with those made fearful by the hatred expressed and threats made during the past year toward immigrants and refugees.”</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">The other part of Trump’s vision is massive deportations of people currently in the U.S. without documentation.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) was “newly emboldened, newly empowered” according to the <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">New York Times</em> by Trump’s removal of the rules under Obama keeping them focused only on dangerous criminals.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">The White House press secretary, Sean Spicer, said the president wanted to “take the shackles off” the agents, and that seems to have cleared the path for ICE to go after anyone suspected of being in the country illegally regardless of their lack of criminal history, age, health or family circumstances.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">The <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">NYT</em> reported in February that during the dramatic ICE arrest raids ICE even bystanders are being arrested and are known as “collateral” arrests.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">At a Vatican sponsored conference in California earlier this year, Los Angeles Archbishop Jose Gomez stated bluntly, “They’re playing with people’s emotions and toying with their lives and futures, and that is not right.”</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 14px; padding-bottom: 14px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 20px; font-family: Rokkitt, serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(62, 62, 62); line-height: 24px; box-sizing: border-box; letter-spacing: 0.5px;"><a href="https://cruxnow.com/church-in-the-usa/2017/05/17/tobin-calls-trump-immigration-policies-cruelty-innocent-people/">ORIGINAL ARTICLE>></a></p>
</div>
<p> </p>
Date
Employers steal billions from workers’ paychecks each year
News Intro Text
Survey data show millions of workers are paid less than the minimum wage, at significant cost to taxpayers and state economies.
News Item Content
<p><span class="loop-type" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-weight: bold; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 16px; line-height: inherit; font-family: proxima-nova, "Proxima Nova", sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"><a href="http://www.epi.org/types/report/" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; background: transparent; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgb(255, 94, 153);">Report</a></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: proxima-nova, "Proxima Nova", sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> • By </span><a href="http://www.epi.org/people/david-cooper/" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; font-size: 16px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-position: initial; background-size: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; color: rgb(190, 30, 46); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgb(255, 94, 153); font-weight: bold; font-family: proxima-nova, "Proxima Nova", sans-serif;">David Cooper</a><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: proxima-nova, "Proxima Nova", sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> and </span><a href="http://www.epi.org/people/teresa-kroeger/" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; font-size: 16px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-position: initial; background-size: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; color: rgb(190, 30, 46); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgb(255, 94, 153); font-weight: bold; font-family: proxima-nova, "Proxima Nova", sans-serif;">Teresa Kroeger</a><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: proxima-nova, "Proxima Nova", sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> • May 10, 2017</span></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.4em; font-family: proxima-nova, "Proxima Nova", sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><strong style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: inherit; line-height: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">What this report finds:</strong> This report assesses the prevalence and magnitude of one form of wage theft—minimum wage violations (workers being paid at an effective hourly rate below the binding minimum wage)—in the 10 most populous U.S. states. We find that, in these states, 2.4 million workers lose $8 billion annually (an average of $3,300 per year for year-round workers) to minimum wage violations—nearly a quarter of their earned wages. This form of wage theft affects 17 percent of low-wage workers, with workers in all demographic categories being cheated out of pay.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.4em; font-family: proxima-nova, "Proxima Nova", sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><strong style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: inherit; line-height: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">Why it matters:</strong> Minimum wage violations, by definition, affect the lowest-wage workers—those who can least afford to lose earnings. This form of wage theft causes many families to fall below the poverty line, and it increases workers’ reliance on public assistance, costing taxpayers money. Lost wages can hurt state and local economies, and it hurts other workers in affected industries by putting downward pressure on wages.</p>
<p> </p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.4em; font-family: proxima-nova, "Proxima Nova", sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><strong style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: inherit; line-height: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">What can be done about it:</strong> Strengthen states’ legal protections against wage theft, increase penalties for violators, bolster enforcement capacities, and protect workers from retaliation when violations are reported.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.4em; font-family: proxima-nova, "Proxima Nova", sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><a href="http://www.epi.org/publication/employers-steal-billions-from-workers-paychecks-each-year-survey-data-show-millions-of-workers-are-paid-less-than-the-minimum-wage-at-significant-cost-to-taxpayers-and-state-economies/">Full Report>></a></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.4em; font-family: proxima-nova, "Proxima Nova", sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><strong style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: inherit; line-height: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">What this report finds:</strong> This report assesses the prevalence and magnitude of one form of wage theft—minimum wage violations (workers being paid at an effective hourly rate below the binding minimum wage)—in the 10 most populous U.S. states. We find that, in these states, 2.4 million workers lose $8 billion annually (an average of $3,300 per year for year-round workers) to minimum wage violations—nearly a quarter of their earned wages. This form of wage theft affects 17 percent of low-wage workers, with workers in all demographic categories being cheated out of pay.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.4em; font-family: proxima-nova, "Proxima Nova", sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><strong style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: inherit; line-height: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">Why it matters:</strong> Minimum wage violations, by definition, affect the lowest-wage workers—those who can least afford to lose earnings. This form of wage theft causes many families to fall below the poverty line, and it increases workers’ reliance on public assistance, costing taxpayers money. Lost wages can hurt state and local economies, and it hurts other workers in affected industries by putting downward pressure on wages.</p>
<p> </p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.4em; font-family: proxima-nova, "Proxima Nova", sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><strong style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: inherit; line-height: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">What can be done about it:</strong> Strengthen states’ legal protections against wage theft, increase penalties for violators, bolster enforcement capacities, and protect workers from retaliation when violations are reported.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.4em; font-family: proxima-nova, "Proxima Nova", sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><a href="http://www.epi.org/publication/employers-steal-billions-from-workers-paychecks-each-year-survey-data-show-millions-of-workers-are-paid-less-than-the-minimum-wage-at-significant-cost-to-taxpayers-and-state-economies/">Full Report>></a></p>
Date
Shrinking the Safety Net
News Intro Text
Jeanie Donovan, M.P.A., M.P.H.
News Item Content
<p><strong>Jeanie Donovan, M.P.A., M.P.H.</strong></p>
<p>Turning safety net programs into “block grants” has historically been a way for the federal government to cut program funding under the guise of increasing flexibility and innovation among states. The problem for those in Congress who are proposing block grants now is that many Americans, including governors on both sides of the political aisle, are familiar with this tired tactic and are unwilling to be duped.[1] What’s more, cutting programs that benefit the poor runs counter to the principles of most faith traditions, including Catholic social teaching.<br />
Since the Trump administration took office and Congress returned to Washington in January, there has been growing discussion about turning Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) into block grants. Although these discussions are occurring in the context of a new administration, they are anything but new. Elected officials concerned with trimming federal spending have long advocated for turning entitlement programs into block grants. In some instances, they have been successful. By analyzing data and outcomes from programs converted into block grants in years past, one can project what might happen to existing entitlement programs should they meet the same fate.[2]</p>
<p>The Aid to Families with Dependent Children (AFDC) program offers the most illustrative example of what happens when an entitlement program is turned into a block grant. Congress converted AFDC to a federal block grant in 1996 and renamed it Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). The mission of AFDC was to provide financial relief to poor, singleparent families by guaranteeing cash assistance to all families who fell below a certain income threshold. In 1994, in a typical state, a one-parent family of three was eligible for TANF if they earned below $938 per month.[3] The average benefit level for a family of three was $366 per month, the equivalent of $566 today.4 In 1996 AFDC served 4.[4] million families, and 68 of every 100 families who lived below the poverty line received AFDC cash assistance.[5]</p>
<p>Today TANF is a shell of the once robust and responsive safety net program that was AFDC. In 2014 TANF provided cash assistance to only 1.6 million families, despite higher rates of poverty than when the block grant was created.[6] In 2015 just 23 of every 100 families living in poverty received TANF and the average monthly benefit was just $429 per month.[7]</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/jsri-justsouth-shrinking-safety-net-jeanie-donovan.pdf">MORE >> </a></p>
<p>Turning safety net programs into “block grants” has historically been a way for the federal government to cut program funding under the guise of increasing flexibility and innovation among states. The problem for those in Congress who are proposing block grants now is that many Americans, including governors on both sides of the political aisle, are familiar with this tired tactic and are unwilling to be duped.[1] What’s more, cutting programs that benefit the poor runs counter to the principles of most faith traditions, including Catholic social teaching.<br />
Since the Trump administration took office and Congress returned to Washington in January, there has been growing discussion about turning Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) into block grants. Although these discussions are occurring in the context of a new administration, they are anything but new. Elected officials concerned with trimming federal spending have long advocated for turning entitlement programs into block grants. In some instances, they have been successful. By analyzing data and outcomes from programs converted into block grants in years past, one can project what might happen to existing entitlement programs should they meet the same fate.[2]</p>
<p>The Aid to Families with Dependent Children (AFDC) program offers the most illustrative example of what happens when an entitlement program is turned into a block grant. Congress converted AFDC to a federal block grant in 1996 and renamed it Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). The mission of AFDC was to provide financial relief to poor, singleparent families by guaranteeing cash assistance to all families who fell below a certain income threshold. In 1994, in a typical state, a one-parent family of three was eligible for TANF if they earned below $938 per month.[3] The average benefit level for a family of three was $366 per month, the equivalent of $566 today.4 In 1996 AFDC served 4.[4] million families, and 68 of every 100 families who lived below the poverty line received AFDC cash assistance.[5]</p>
<p>Today TANF is a shell of the once robust and responsive safety net program that was AFDC. In 2014 TANF provided cash assistance to only 1.6 million families, despite higher rates of poverty than when the block grant was created.[6] In 2015 just 23 of every 100 families living in poverty received TANF and the average monthly benefit was just $429 per month.[7]</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/jsri-justsouth-shrinking-safety-net-jeanie-donovan.pdf">MORE >> </a></p>
Date
Prison Capital of the Universe
News Intro Text
Dr. Sue Weishar, PhD
News Item Content
<p><strong>Dr. Sue Weishar, PhD </strong></p>
<p>Louisiana is the prison capital of the known universe. The Pelican State incarcerates more of its residents per capita than any other state, in a country that leads the world in incarceration rates. Louisiana’s incarceration rate of 816 inmates per 100,000 residents is almost twice the national average,[1] three times Brazil’s, seven times China’s, and ten times Germany’s.[2] The impact of Louisiana’s bloated and costly criminal justice system on African American communities has been particularly devastating. One in 20 African American adult males in Louisiana is incarcerated, a rate exceeded by only six states. Although only 32 percent of Louisiana’s population is Black, 67.8 percent of its prison population is Black, the second highest proportion of Black inmates in the U.S. (Maryland is first).[3] The state is in dire financial straits, yet Louisiana spends an astronomical amount of money on its criminal justice system: almost $700 million a year,[4] with poor returns—42.5 percent of offenders return to state custody in five years.[5] Every dollar spent on prisons is a dollar not spent on schools, hospitals, and coastal restoration. The status quo of Louisiana as the “Incarceration Capital of the World” is financially unsustainable and morally unacceptable. Fortunately, major change is within reach.</p>
<p>In June, 2016, Governor John Bel Edwards convened the Justice Reinvestment Task Force, a bi-partisan group of cross-sector criminal justice experts and stakeholders and charged them with taking a hard look at what is working and what is broken in Louisiana. Evidence presented to the Justice Reinvestment Task Force at five public hearings held between June 2016 and November 2016 has clearly shown that policy choice— not crime—explain Louisiana’s obscenely high incarceration rates. While other Southern states have crime rates similar to Louisiana’s, Louisianans are sent to prison for nonviolent offenses at much higher rates. Indeed, the top ten most common crimes that land someone in prison in Louisiana are all nonviolent, and the most common by far is possession of drugs.6 Louisiana’s Justice Reinvestment Task Force was advised by criminal justice reform experts with the Pew Charitable Trusts as part of the Justice Reinvestment Initiative (JRI). The JRI is a public-private partnership that includes the U.S. Justice Department’s Bureau of Justice Assistance, the Pew Charitable Trust, Vera Institute for Justice, and other organizations.</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Prison Capital of the Universe.pdf">MORE>></a></p>
<p>Louisiana is the prison capital of the known universe. The Pelican State incarcerates more of its residents per capita than any other state, in a country that leads the world in incarceration rates. Louisiana’s incarceration rate of 816 inmates per 100,000 residents is almost twice the national average,[1] three times Brazil’s, seven times China’s, and ten times Germany’s.[2] The impact of Louisiana’s bloated and costly criminal justice system on African American communities has been particularly devastating. One in 20 African American adult males in Louisiana is incarcerated, a rate exceeded by only six states. Although only 32 percent of Louisiana’s population is Black, 67.8 percent of its prison population is Black, the second highest proportion of Black inmates in the U.S. (Maryland is first).[3] The state is in dire financial straits, yet Louisiana spends an astronomical amount of money on its criminal justice system: almost $700 million a year,[4] with poor returns—42.5 percent of offenders return to state custody in five years.[5] Every dollar spent on prisons is a dollar not spent on schools, hospitals, and coastal restoration. The status quo of Louisiana as the “Incarceration Capital of the World” is financially unsustainable and morally unacceptable. Fortunately, major change is within reach.</p>
<p>In June, 2016, Governor John Bel Edwards convened the Justice Reinvestment Task Force, a bi-partisan group of cross-sector criminal justice experts and stakeholders and charged them with taking a hard look at what is working and what is broken in Louisiana. Evidence presented to the Justice Reinvestment Task Force at five public hearings held between June 2016 and November 2016 has clearly shown that policy choice— not crime—explain Louisiana’s obscenely high incarceration rates. While other Southern states have crime rates similar to Louisiana’s, Louisianans are sent to prison for nonviolent offenses at much higher rates. Indeed, the top ten most common crimes that land someone in prison in Louisiana are all nonviolent, and the most common by far is possession of drugs.6 Louisiana’s Justice Reinvestment Task Force was advised by criminal justice reform experts with the Pew Charitable Trusts as part of the Justice Reinvestment Initiative (JRI). The JRI is a public-private partnership that includes the U.S. Justice Department’s Bureau of Justice Assistance, the Pew Charitable Trust, Vera Institute for Justice, and other organizations.</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Prison Capital of the Universe.pdf">MORE>></a></p>
Date
End Capital Punishment Now
News Intro Text
In support of SB 142 and HB 141
News Item Content
<p>by Nik Mitchell, PhD</p>
<p>Senate Bill 142 and House Bill 141 propose to eliminate capital punishment in Louisiana during this Legislative session. Overall, capital punishment is inherently immoral because it violates the condemned’s right to life. It is also a pointless practice, not a deterrent for crime, and a waste of money, time, and manpower. In conceptualization and practice, capital punishment is a continued exercise in futility and too often is an expression of White privilege.</p>
<p>With regard to the conceptualization of capital punishment, it is a faulty practice that relies on the infallibility of the criminal justice system which does not exist; this makes the entire endeavor futile. According to Frank R. Baumgartner and Tim Lyman, from 1976 to 2015 out of 155 resolved death-sentence cases in Louisiana, 127 were reversed, which includes nine exonerations’ and 28 ended in execution.[1] Nine people were wrongly convicted and sentenced to death by the State since 1976. It is inhumane and immoral to continue a practice in light of a criminal justice system that cannot guarantee that no innocent person will not be put to death. There is no acceptable margin of error in this regard. </p>
<div>
<p><font face="Helvetica">With regard to the practice of capital punishment being an expression of White privilege, it has been and continues to be a racist practice. The last White person in Louisiana to be executed when the victim was Black was a soldier found guilty of stabbing two enslaved Black Women with a bayonet in 1752, which predates the French and Indian War. The data provided by Baumgartner and Lymann shows that between 1976 and 2015 the capital punishment rate for cases in which a Black male killed a Black male was .52 percent, a Black male killed a Black female was 1.44 percent, a Black male killed a White male was 4.27 percent, and a Black male killed a White female was 15.56 percent.</font></p>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="e2ma-block-outer" id="block_ylyaipom" width="100%">
</table>
<p><font face="Helvetica">Comparatively, the capital punishment rate for cases in which a White male killed a Black male was .87 percent, a White male killed a Black female was 6.25 percent, a White male Killed a White male was 3.08 percent, and a White male killed a White female was 4.04 percent. The data show that a Black male convicted of killing a White female is 29.9 times more likely to result in the capital punishment than when a Black male kills a Black male and is 10.8 times more likely to than when a Black male kills a Black female. This reveals a racial bias in the application of the capital punishment.</font></p>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="e2ma-block-outer" id="block_ylyaipom" width="100%">
</table>
<p><font face="Helvetica">Either argument—faulty practice or expression of White privilege—provides sufficient grounds for abolishing capital punishment in the State of Louisiana. I understand why capital punishment invokes so much emotion. It is understandable to want revenge when a loved one has been violated or killed. The crimes that trigger capital punishment rightly cause revulsion in society. The anger and outrage is just and the pain is real. It is safe to say that the majority of the people of Louisiana support capital punishment is some circumstances. They are wrong.</font></p>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="e2ma-block-outer" id="block_ylyaipom" width="100%">
</table>
<p><em><font face="Helvetica">N.B. Senate Bill 142 was passed by a Senate Judiciary Committee by a 6 to 1 vote on April 26th and now goes to the Senate for a vote. </font></em></p>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="e2ma-block-outer" id="block_ylyaipom" width="100%">
</table>
<p><font face="Helvetica">[1] Baumgartner, Frank and Lyman, Tim, Louisiana Death Sentenced Cases and Their Reversals, 1976-2015 (April 26, 2016). The Southern University Law Center Journal of Race, Gender, and Poverty, Vol. 7, 2016 . Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2770761</font></p>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="e2ma-block-outer" id="block_ylyaipom" width="100%">
</table>
</div>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/rceqo/f81a0bc94a8b5136450e58743872df69">MORE>></a></p>
<p>Senate Bill 142 and House Bill 141 propose to eliminate capital punishment in Louisiana during this Legislative session. Overall, capital punishment is inherently immoral because it violates the condemned’s right to life. It is also a pointless practice, not a deterrent for crime, and a waste of money, time, and manpower. In conceptualization and practice, capital punishment is a continued exercise in futility and too often is an expression of White privilege.</p>
<p>With regard to the conceptualization of capital punishment, it is a faulty practice that relies on the infallibility of the criminal justice system which does not exist; this makes the entire endeavor futile. According to Frank R. Baumgartner and Tim Lyman, from 1976 to 2015 out of 155 resolved death-sentence cases in Louisiana, 127 were reversed, which includes nine exonerations’ and 28 ended in execution.[1] Nine people were wrongly convicted and sentenced to death by the State since 1976. It is inhumane and immoral to continue a practice in light of a criminal justice system that cannot guarantee that no innocent person will not be put to death. There is no acceptable margin of error in this regard. </p>
<div>
<p><font face="Helvetica">With regard to the practice of capital punishment being an expression of White privilege, it has been and continues to be a racist practice. The last White person in Louisiana to be executed when the victim was Black was a soldier found guilty of stabbing two enslaved Black Women with a bayonet in 1752, which predates the French and Indian War. The data provided by Baumgartner and Lymann shows that between 1976 and 2015 the capital punishment rate for cases in which a Black male killed a Black male was .52 percent, a Black male killed a Black female was 1.44 percent, a Black male killed a White male was 4.27 percent, and a Black male killed a White female was 15.56 percent.</font></p>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="e2ma-block-outer" id="block_ylyaipom" width="100%">
</table>
<p><font face="Helvetica">Comparatively, the capital punishment rate for cases in which a White male killed a Black male was .87 percent, a White male killed a Black female was 6.25 percent, a White male Killed a White male was 3.08 percent, and a White male killed a White female was 4.04 percent. The data show that a Black male convicted of killing a White female is 29.9 times more likely to result in the capital punishment than when a Black male kills a Black male and is 10.8 times more likely to than when a Black male kills a Black female. This reveals a racial bias in the application of the capital punishment.</font></p>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="e2ma-block-outer" id="block_ylyaipom" width="100%">
</table>
<p><font face="Helvetica">Either argument—faulty practice or expression of White privilege—provides sufficient grounds for abolishing capital punishment in the State of Louisiana. I understand why capital punishment invokes so much emotion. It is understandable to want revenge when a loved one has been violated or killed. The crimes that trigger capital punishment rightly cause revulsion in society. The anger and outrage is just and the pain is real. It is safe to say that the majority of the people of Louisiana support capital punishment is some circumstances. They are wrong.</font></p>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="e2ma-block-outer" id="block_ylyaipom" width="100%">
</table>
<p><em><font face="Helvetica">N.B. Senate Bill 142 was passed by a Senate Judiciary Committee by a 6 to 1 vote on April 26th and now goes to the Senate for a vote. </font></em></p>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="e2ma-block-outer" id="block_ylyaipom" width="100%">
</table>
<p><font face="Helvetica">[1] Baumgartner, Frank and Lyman, Tim, Louisiana Death Sentenced Cases and Their Reversals, 1976-2015 (April 26, 2016). The Southern University Law Center Journal of Race, Gender, and Poverty, Vol. 7, 2016 . Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2770761</font></p>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="e2ma-block-outer" id="block_ylyaipom" width="100%">
</table>
</div>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/rceqo/f81a0bc94a8b5136450e58743872df69">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Low-Wage Work in Mississippi: Enhancing Opportunities for Families
News Intro Text
Dr. Kathleen Fitzergald studied the needs of low-wage workers in Mississippi, what the state is doing to address these needs, and what additional policies and programs can be implemented to address the myriad unmet needs of this vulnerable population.
News Item Content
<p>The purpose of this study is to understand the needs of low-wage workers in Mississippi, what the state is doing to address those needs, and what additional policies and programs can be implemented to address the myriad unmet needs of this vulnerable population. Mississippi is one of the poorest states in the country, with one of the lowest labor force participation rates; poverty, unemployment, and underemployment disproportionately affect racial minorities and women.</p>
<p>Mississippi ranks as the most dependent state; state dependency refers to how much each state receives back in federal dollars versus what they contribute to the federal treasury in taxes (Kiernan 2016). Mississippi gets $3.00 in federal funds for every dollar it contributes to the federal government (Tierney 2014). Neighboring Alabama and Louisiana also rank high as dependent states. This is primarily due to the high poverty rates in these states that result in them receiving a disproportionate share of federal funds through anti-poverty programs such as Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) (Tierney 2014).</p>
<p> The State of Mississippi is focused on helping residents find work. One of the primary investments the state has made is the introduction of MS Works in 2015, a website for job seekers and employers. In addition to listing open jobs and allowing people to apply directly through their website, the program is designed to help workers explore ways to increase their job market skills. Thus, an applicant can be directed to a community college program where they can increase their skill set and marketability. This is designed to help the state address what they perceive as a shortage of mid-skill level workers. Mississippi has also made employment, job training, or volunteering a requirement for SNAP (food stamps) beneficiaries who are able-bodied and not caring for dependents and whose eligibility is running out.</p>
<p>Additional public policies are necessary to help meet the needs of low-wage workers in Mississippi. Expanding Medicaid will benefit employers because it will help workers stay healthy, which allows them to be more reliable employees. Implementing a state Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and increasing the minimum wage are policies that put more money directly into the hands of low-wage workers, which will ultimately boost the economy when these workers spend their increased income.</p>
<p>Another suggestion is that Mississippi take the millions of dollars in unspent funds associated with their Child Development Block Grant and TANF (Temporary Aid for Needy Families) and spend it on child care assistance. This will allow more low-wage women to enter the paid labor force. Currently, states spend only slightly more than one-quarter of their combined federal and state TANF funds on basic assistance for families, 8% on work-related activities and support, and 16% on childcare (Schott, Pavetti, and Floyd 2015). These choices have weakened the safety net for poor families nationwide. Additionally, there has been significant erosion of TANF benefits in terms of purchasing power; due to inflation, the real value of TANF block grants has declined by 32.5% since the program was implemented in 1997 (Falk 2016; Stanley, Floyd, and Hill 2016). Cash assistance for 99% of recipients, the nation’s poorest families, has a purchasing power that is below 1996 levels (Stanley, Floyd, and Hill 2016). There have been no increases in federal TANF spending to adjust for inflation or increasing population size in two decades; federal TANF spending has remained at $16.5 billion for two decades (Vallas and Boteach 2015). </p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Oxfam%20MS%20report%202.pdf">FULL REPORT>></a></p>
<p>Mississippi ranks as the most dependent state; state dependency refers to how much each state receives back in federal dollars versus what they contribute to the federal treasury in taxes (Kiernan 2016). Mississippi gets $3.00 in federal funds for every dollar it contributes to the federal government (Tierney 2014). Neighboring Alabama and Louisiana also rank high as dependent states. This is primarily due to the high poverty rates in these states that result in them receiving a disproportionate share of federal funds through anti-poverty programs such as Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) (Tierney 2014).</p>
<p> The State of Mississippi is focused on helping residents find work. One of the primary investments the state has made is the introduction of MS Works in 2015, a website for job seekers and employers. In addition to listing open jobs and allowing people to apply directly through their website, the program is designed to help workers explore ways to increase their job market skills. Thus, an applicant can be directed to a community college program where they can increase their skill set and marketability. This is designed to help the state address what they perceive as a shortage of mid-skill level workers. Mississippi has also made employment, job training, or volunteering a requirement for SNAP (food stamps) beneficiaries who are able-bodied and not caring for dependents and whose eligibility is running out.</p>
<p>Additional public policies are necessary to help meet the needs of low-wage workers in Mississippi. Expanding Medicaid will benefit employers because it will help workers stay healthy, which allows them to be more reliable employees. Implementing a state Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and increasing the minimum wage are policies that put more money directly into the hands of low-wage workers, which will ultimately boost the economy when these workers spend their increased income.</p>
<p>Another suggestion is that Mississippi take the millions of dollars in unspent funds associated with their Child Development Block Grant and TANF (Temporary Aid for Needy Families) and spend it on child care assistance. This will allow more low-wage women to enter the paid labor force. Currently, states spend only slightly more than one-quarter of their combined federal and state TANF funds on basic assistance for families, 8% on work-related activities and support, and 16% on childcare (Schott, Pavetti, and Floyd 2015). These choices have weakened the safety net for poor families nationwide. Additionally, there has been significant erosion of TANF benefits in terms of purchasing power; due to inflation, the real value of TANF block grants has declined by 32.5% since the program was implemented in 1997 (Falk 2016; Stanley, Floyd, and Hill 2016). Cash assistance for 99% of recipients, the nation’s poorest families, has a purchasing power that is below 1996 levels (Stanley, Floyd, and Hill 2016). There have been no increases in federal TANF spending to adjust for inflation or increasing population size in two decades; federal TANF spending has remained at $16.5 billion for two decades (Vallas and Boteach 2015). </p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Oxfam%20MS%20report%202.pdf">FULL REPORT>></a></p>
Date
Louisiana shouldn't jail people because they're addicted or mentally ill: Opinion
News Intro Text
Opinion by Sheriff Craig Webre, April 23, 2017
News Item Content
<div>
<span style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-weight: 700; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 16px; line-height: inherit; font-family: "Benton Sans", Arial, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); letter-spacing: 0.208px;">Opinion by Sheriff Craig Webre</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<p>I have grown frustrated and weary of having people come into my jail and serve a life sentence six months or 30 days at a time.</p>
<p>In my 25 years as sheriff of Lafourche Parish and 35 total years in law enforcement, I've never had an ambulance or a police car pull up to the jail, present someone who's having a heart attack or who broke their leg and say, "He's your problem." But every day our jails are full of people who are bipolar, people who suffer from schizophrenia, and people who suffer from other mental health disorders. In jail, they're in the worst environment they can be in -- sapping precious resources -- rather than having their needs addressed in a community-based or inpatient treatment facility.</p>
<p>We shouldn't incarcerate people just because they're poor. Or just because they're addicted. Or just because they don't have a home. But we've done that for way too long.</p>
<p>Now we have an opportunity to reverse that trend.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.nola.com/opinions/index.ssf/2017/04/louisiana_prison_reform_2.html">MORE>></a></p>
<span style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-weight: 700; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 16px; line-height: inherit; font-family: "Benton Sans", Arial, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); letter-spacing: 0.208px;">Opinion by Sheriff Craig Webre</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<p>I have grown frustrated and weary of having people come into my jail and serve a life sentence six months or 30 days at a time.</p>
<p>In my 25 years as sheriff of Lafourche Parish and 35 total years in law enforcement, I've never had an ambulance or a police car pull up to the jail, present someone who's having a heart attack or who broke their leg and say, "He's your problem." But every day our jails are full of people who are bipolar, people who suffer from schizophrenia, and people who suffer from other mental health disorders. In jail, they're in the worst environment they can be in -- sapping precious resources -- rather than having their needs addressed in a community-based or inpatient treatment facility.</p>
<p>We shouldn't incarcerate people just because they're poor. Or just because they're addicted. Or just because they don't have a home. But we've done that for way too long.</p>
<p>Now we have an opportunity to reverse that trend.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.nola.com/opinions/index.ssf/2017/04/louisiana_prison_reform_2.html">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Medicaid and other antipoverty programs reward work, not indolence
News Intro Text
BY ROBERT MANN, COLUMNIST for The Times-Picayune
News Item Content
<header class="article__header" id="article__header">
<div class="byline" id="byline">
<p class="byline__author--noEmail" id="byline__author">BY <a href="http://connect.nola.com/user/robertmann/posts.html" id="byline__authorLink" title="Visit Robert Mann, Columnist's Author Page">ROBERT MANN, COLUMNIST</a></p>
</div>
</header>
<div class="article__story" id="article__story">
<div class="entry-content" id="entryContent">
<div>
It's a common delusion among some wealthy people that their success is a product of their industry and ingenuity. They regard poverty, therefore, as a consequence of indolence and ignorance. As the British journalist Walter Bagehot once observed, "Poverty is an anomaly to rich people; it is very difficult to make out why people who want dinner do not ring the bell."</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
I can understand the indifference of so many wealthy folks, particularly Republican politicians, toward the poor. What I don't comprehend, however, is their eagerness to vilify, ridicule and punish poverty.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
That's what Kansas Republican Gov. Sam Brownback did recently when he opposed the expansion of Medicaid, the federal-state program that supports health care for low-income families. Brownback explained he vetoed the bill "because it fails to serve the truly vulnerable before the able-bodied [and] lacks work requirements to help able-bodied Kansans escape poverty." In 2013, then-Gov. Bobby Jindal pushed a similar slur against the poor as he opposed Medicaid expansion.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
To the average person, Brownback's and Jindal's reasoning might make sense. Doesn't giving health care to poor people make them reluctant to find a job with health insurance? It might, if most of those who would benefit were unemployed, which they are not.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.nola.com/opinions/index.ssf/2017/04/medicaid_and_other_antipoverty.html">MORE>></a></div>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p>
<div class="byline" id="byline">
<p class="byline__author--noEmail" id="byline__author">BY <a href="http://connect.nola.com/user/robertmann/posts.html" id="byline__authorLink" title="Visit Robert Mann, Columnist's Author Page">ROBERT MANN, COLUMNIST</a></p>
</div>
</header>
<div class="article__story" id="article__story">
<div class="entry-content" id="entryContent">
<div>
It's a common delusion among some wealthy people that their success is a product of their industry and ingenuity. They regard poverty, therefore, as a consequence of indolence and ignorance. As the British journalist Walter Bagehot once observed, "Poverty is an anomaly to rich people; it is very difficult to make out why people who want dinner do not ring the bell."</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
I can understand the indifference of so many wealthy folks, particularly Republican politicians, toward the poor. What I don't comprehend, however, is their eagerness to vilify, ridicule and punish poverty.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
That's what Kansas Republican Gov. Sam Brownback did recently when he opposed the expansion of Medicaid, the federal-state program that supports health care for low-income families. Brownback explained he vetoed the bill "because it fails to serve the truly vulnerable before the able-bodied [and] lacks work requirements to help able-bodied Kansans escape poverty." In 2013, then-Gov. Bobby Jindal pushed a similar slur against the poor as he opposed Medicaid expansion.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
To the average person, Brownback's and Jindal's reasoning might make sense. Doesn't giving health care to poor people make them reluctant to find a job with health insurance? It might, if most of those who would benefit were unemployed, which they are not.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.nola.com/opinions/index.ssf/2017/04/medicaid_and_other_antipoverty.html">MORE>></a></div>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p>
Date
Catholic immigrants didn’t make it on their own. They shouldn’t expect others to.
News Intro Text
The Washington Post, April 18, 2017
News Item Content
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);"><span style="font-family: FranklinITCProBold, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">By </span><span itemprop="name" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: FranklinITCProBold, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Una Cadegan</span></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);">Recently, the results of the American National Election Survey (ANES) were released, showing troubling results: Convictions about the perceived failures of particular racial groups were a more certain predictor of votes than income inequality or authoritarianism. Specifically, the ANES found that <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/monkey-cage/wp/2017/04/17/racism-motivated-trump-voters-more-than-authoritarianism-or-income-inequality/?tid=sm_tw&utm_term=.3826b3bc0ed0" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(25, 85, 165); border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(213, 213, 213); zoom: 1; font-size: inherit; margin-bottom: 18px; line-height: 1.8em;">President Trump’s voters</a> tended to agree more than past Republican voters with the notion that “Italians, Irish” and other immigrants “overcame prejudice and worked their way up,” and that “Blacks should do the same without any special favors.”</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);">There are plenty of reasons to object to this way of thinking. But foremost among them is this: Many of those immigrants presumed to have pulled themselves up by their bootstraps without “any special favors” — especially primarily Catholic immigrants such as those from Italy and Ireland — relied upon government spending to help them get a start in the United States. For voters convinced of the myth of immigrant self-reliance, the story of these Catholic immigrants is worth considering.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);">In the final decades of the 19th century, the number of Catholics immigrating to the United States began increasing at a rapid rate. Catholics constituted about 13 percent of the population in 1900; by 1998, they were about 23 percent. The rise in the percentage of Catholics was not a smooth curve — there was a sharp jump between 1900 and 1920, a couple of decades of leveling off, and another sharp jump between 1940 and about 1970. These variations are not hard to explain: The first wave, from southern and eastern Europe, was cut off by the start of the Great War in 1914; when it began again at the end of the war, it was cut off by intentionally anti-Catholic legislation passed by Congress in 1921 and 1924. And so the large number of Catholics who had immigrated before the war assimilated as a cohort, and as a cohort contributed to the baby boom that took off after the Second World War.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);">In both eras of significant growth in the Catholic population, Catholics arriving in America benefited from great expansions in government intervention and government power. In the Progressive Era at the century’s beginning, both local and national government took increasing responsibility for urban infrastructure, public health and education, among other things — commitments that helped establish the stability necessary for the upward mobility of these immigrants over the subsequent generations. Good sanitation, municipal garbage collection, public schools, pure-food-and-drug laws and child labor laws all ensured that these newcomers could acquire stable footing in their new homes. In that way, large government investments helped facilitate the transition from immigrant generation to American-born and -raised.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);"><a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/posteverything/wp/2017/04/18/catholic-immigrants-didnt-make-it-on-their-own-they-shouldnt-expect-others-to/?tid=ss_mail&utm_term=.4a6c0e8106e8">MORE>></a></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);">Recently, the results of the American National Election Survey (ANES) were released, showing troubling results: Convictions about the perceived failures of particular racial groups were a more certain predictor of votes than income inequality or authoritarianism. Specifically, the ANES found that <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/monkey-cage/wp/2017/04/17/racism-motivated-trump-voters-more-than-authoritarianism-or-income-inequality/?tid=sm_tw&utm_term=.3826b3bc0ed0" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(25, 85, 165); border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(213, 213, 213); zoom: 1; font-size: inherit; margin-bottom: 18px; line-height: 1.8em;">President Trump’s voters</a> tended to agree more than past Republican voters with the notion that “Italians, Irish” and other immigrants “overcame prejudice and worked their way up,” and that “Blacks should do the same without any special favors.”</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);">There are plenty of reasons to object to this way of thinking. But foremost among them is this: Many of those immigrants presumed to have pulled themselves up by their bootstraps without “any special favors” — especially primarily Catholic immigrants such as those from Italy and Ireland — relied upon government spending to help them get a start in the United States. For voters convinced of the myth of immigrant self-reliance, the story of these Catholic immigrants is worth considering.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);">In the final decades of the 19th century, the number of Catholics immigrating to the United States began increasing at a rapid rate. Catholics constituted about 13 percent of the population in 1900; by 1998, they were about 23 percent. The rise in the percentage of Catholics was not a smooth curve — there was a sharp jump between 1900 and 1920, a couple of decades of leveling off, and another sharp jump between 1940 and about 1970. These variations are not hard to explain: The first wave, from southern and eastern Europe, was cut off by the start of the Great War in 1914; when it began again at the end of the war, it was cut off by intentionally anti-Catholic legislation passed by Congress in 1921 and 1924. And so the large number of Catholics who had immigrated before the war assimilated as a cohort, and as a cohort contributed to the baby boom that took off after the Second World War.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);">In both eras of significant growth in the Catholic population, Catholics arriving in America benefited from great expansions in government intervention and government power. In the Progressive Era at the century’s beginning, both local and national government took increasing responsibility for urban infrastructure, public health and education, among other things — commitments that helped establish the stability necessary for the upward mobility of these immigrants over the subsequent generations. Good sanitation, municipal garbage collection, public schools, pure-food-and-drug laws and child labor laws all ensured that these newcomers could acquire stable footing in their new homes. In that way, large government investments helped facilitate the transition from immigrant generation to American-born and -raised.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);"><a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/posteverything/wp/2017/04/18/catholic-immigrants-didnt-make-it-on-their-own-they-shouldnt-expect-others-to/?tid=ss_mail&utm_term=.4a6c0e8106e8">MORE>></a></p>
Date
IT IS TIME TO AFFIRM LIFE WITHOUT EXCEPTION: THE DEATH PENALTY IS NOT ACCEPTABLE
News Intro Text
(STATEMENT ISSUED APRIL 18, 2017)
News Item Content
<div class="page" title="Page 1">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>L</span><span>OUISIANA </span><span>C</span><span>ONFERENCE OF </span><span>C</span><span>ATHOLIC </span><span>B</span><span>ISHOPS</span></p>
<p><span>Three centuries ago in the year 1722 our state of Louisiana performed its first recorded legal execution. Since that act we have dealt with this stain of the death penalty carried out by our state in the names of its citizens. This current legislative session allows us in a renewed way to move beyond this dark reality of our state’s history and toward a state that affirms life without exception. Therefore the Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops unequivocally supports both Senator Claitor’s SB 142 and Representatives Landry and Pylant’s HB 101. </span></p>
<p><span>Saint Pope John Paul II, in his historic papal encyclical </span><span>Evangelium Vitae </span><span>(</span><span>The Gospel of Life</span><span>), discussed at great length the distinction between a culture of life and a culture of death. In truth, our culture oftentimes mirrors a culture of death rather than one of life. It is clear that the use of the death penalty does not serve as an instrument to address the deep-rooted issues that are the cause of widespread violent crime within our society. Instead it is a "solution" that seduces us into believing that the taking of a life solved a problem, and in fact forces us further into a culture of death. </span></p>
<p><span>Saint Pope John Paul II proclaims "that not even a murderer loses his personal dignity, as God himself pledges to guarantee this. For this reason whoever attacks human life, in some way attacks God himself" (</span><span>Evangelium Vitae</span><span>, #9). In making this statement, Saint Pope John Paul II reminds us of our call to the foundational theme of Catholic Social Teaching–The Life and Dignity of the Human Person–and that we are to uphold human dignity which does not discriminate between the innocent and guilty. Given that life is valued above and beyond all else, we must advocate for an alternative to the death penalty. </span></p>
<p><span>Strong statements of Pope Francis echoes the foundational principles laid out by Saint Pope John Paul II’s, </span><span>Evangelium Vitae</span><span>. In a 2015 letter to the president of the International Commission Against the Death Penalty, our Holy Father stated that the death penalty "is an offense against the inviolability of life and dignity of the human person, which contradicts God’s plan for man and society...It does not render justice to victims, but rather fosters vengeance. For the rule of law, the death penalty represents a failure, as it obliges the state to kill in the name of justice. Justice can never be wrought by killing a human being." To this end, we must ask ourselves whether or not there is vengeance in our hearts. In many ways that which we fear–violence itself–has forced us to become proponents of violence. Just as the pursuit of justice should never be perverted by vengeance, fear should never darken the ever-shining light of life. </span></p>
<p><span>We remain deeply aware of the pain and grief that victims suffer, especially those who have lost a loved one through the crime of murder or crimes of violence. We pledge to deepen our commitment to persons who have suffered such violence, anguish and pain. Our opposition to the death penalty is not intended in any way to diminish what victims and their families have suffered. On the contrary it is a statement which affirms the lives of those lost and the ultimate value of life in general. The stark reality is that capital punishment fails to bring back life that has been lost. It does not provide healing, reconciliation, or even peace to those impacted. Our merciful heavenly Father does provide such things to us when we turn to Him and ask for his love to be poured out onto us. </span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span>The </span><span>Catechism of the Catholic Church </span><span>calls us to recognize the balance that must exist between a state which needs to protect its citizenry as well as the appropriateness of the punishment it uses to do so. "If, however, non-lethal means are sufficient to defend and protect people’s safety from the aggressor, authority will limit itself to such means...Today,...the cases in which the execution of the offender is an absolute necessity are very rare, if not practically nonexistent" (</span><span>CCC </span><span>2267). We believe that in Louisiana, a just alternative to the death penalty already exists. In 1979, Louisiana adopted a statute requiring all persons convicted of first degree murder to serve a life sentence without benefit of parole if they were not executed for such crimes. Therefore life imprisonment is the appropriate alternative given that it reflects a culture of life by valuing life itself. </span></p>
<p><span>The Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops asks all men and women of good faith, especially those members of the Louisiana legislature, to search their heart in an effort to seek mercy and love to support the repeal of the death penalty and aid in building a culture of life. We renew the call issued in our 1994 statement </span><span>Violence in Our Society: Death is Not the Answer</span><span>. "We must believe in the all-powerful redemptive love of God which can change hearts, convert people, and renew all things...We must be a people who see the value of a human life that others might think to be worthless. We must be a people who give praise to the God of all possibilities whose powerful Spirit of Love can renew the face of the earth." The time is upon us to affirm life without exception here within our great state of Louisiana. </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>L</span><span>OUISIANA </span><span>C</span><span>ONFERENCE OF </span><span>C</span><span>ATHOLIC </span><span>B</span><span>ISHOPS</span></p>
<p><span>Three centuries ago in the year 1722 our state of Louisiana performed its first recorded legal execution. Since that act we have dealt with this stain of the death penalty carried out by our state in the names of its citizens. This current legislative session allows us in a renewed way to move beyond this dark reality of our state’s history and toward a state that affirms life without exception. Therefore the Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops unequivocally supports both Senator Claitor’s SB 142 and Representatives Landry and Pylant’s HB 101. </span></p>
<p><span>Saint Pope John Paul II, in his historic papal encyclical </span><span>Evangelium Vitae </span><span>(</span><span>The Gospel of Life</span><span>), discussed at great length the distinction between a culture of life and a culture of death. In truth, our culture oftentimes mirrors a culture of death rather than one of life. It is clear that the use of the death penalty does not serve as an instrument to address the deep-rooted issues that are the cause of widespread violent crime within our society. Instead it is a "solution" that seduces us into believing that the taking of a life solved a problem, and in fact forces us further into a culture of death. </span></p>
<p><span>Saint Pope John Paul II proclaims "that not even a murderer loses his personal dignity, as God himself pledges to guarantee this. For this reason whoever attacks human life, in some way attacks God himself" (</span><span>Evangelium Vitae</span><span>, #9). In making this statement, Saint Pope John Paul II reminds us of our call to the foundational theme of Catholic Social Teaching–The Life and Dignity of the Human Person–and that we are to uphold human dignity which does not discriminate between the innocent and guilty. Given that life is valued above and beyond all else, we must advocate for an alternative to the death penalty. </span></p>
<p><span>Strong statements of Pope Francis echoes the foundational principles laid out by Saint Pope John Paul II’s, </span><span>Evangelium Vitae</span><span>. In a 2015 letter to the president of the International Commission Against the Death Penalty, our Holy Father stated that the death penalty "is an offense against the inviolability of life and dignity of the human person, which contradicts God’s plan for man and society...It does not render justice to victims, but rather fosters vengeance. For the rule of law, the death penalty represents a failure, as it obliges the state to kill in the name of justice. Justice can never be wrought by killing a human being." To this end, we must ask ourselves whether or not there is vengeance in our hearts. In many ways that which we fear–violence itself–has forced us to become proponents of violence. Just as the pursuit of justice should never be perverted by vengeance, fear should never darken the ever-shining light of life. </span></p>
<p><span>We remain deeply aware of the pain and grief that victims suffer, especially those who have lost a loved one through the crime of murder or crimes of violence. We pledge to deepen our commitment to persons who have suffered such violence, anguish and pain. Our opposition to the death penalty is not intended in any way to diminish what victims and their families have suffered. On the contrary it is a statement which affirms the lives of those lost and the ultimate value of life in general. The stark reality is that capital punishment fails to bring back life that has been lost. It does not provide healing, reconciliation, or even peace to those impacted. Our merciful heavenly Father does provide such things to us when we turn to Him and ask for his love to be poured out onto us. </span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span>The </span><span>Catechism of the Catholic Church </span><span>calls us to recognize the balance that must exist between a state which needs to protect its citizenry as well as the appropriateness of the punishment it uses to do so. "If, however, non-lethal means are sufficient to defend and protect people’s safety from the aggressor, authority will limit itself to such means...Today,...the cases in which the execution of the offender is an absolute necessity are very rare, if not practically nonexistent" (</span><span>CCC </span><span>2267). We believe that in Louisiana, a just alternative to the death penalty already exists. In 1979, Louisiana adopted a statute requiring all persons convicted of first degree murder to serve a life sentence without benefit of parole if they were not executed for such crimes. Therefore life imprisonment is the appropriate alternative given that it reflects a culture of life by valuing life itself. </span></p>
<p><span>The Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops asks all men and women of good faith, especially those members of the Louisiana legislature, to search their heart in an effort to seek mercy and love to support the repeal of the death penalty and aid in building a culture of life. We renew the call issued in our 1994 statement </span><span>Violence in Our Society: Death is Not the Answer</span><span>. "We must believe in the all-powerful redemptive love of God which can change hearts, convert people, and renew all things...We must be a people who see the value of a human life that others might think to be worthless. We must be a people who give praise to the God of all possibilities whose powerful Spirit of Love can renew the face of the earth." The time is upon us to affirm life without exception here within our great state of Louisiana. </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p>
Date
Sins of the Past and Hope for the Future
News Intro Text
The Jesuit Post, April 18, 2017
News Item Content
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.25em; direction: ltr; font-family: Lato, Helvetica, Arial, san-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.85em; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility; color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"><span style="box-sizing: border-box;">“Oh honey, my family’s been working for the Church for a </span><i style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: inherit;">long </i><span style="box-sizing: border-box;">time.”</span></p>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.25em; direction: ltr; font-family: Lato, Helvetica, Arial, san-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.85em; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility; color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">
<span style="box-sizing: border-box;">I knew from the playful twinkle in her eyes, the seriousness on the rest of her face, and the way she said “long” that she didn’t mean her mother had been the parish secretary before her. She meant her family had been working for the Church for a very, very long time — and not by choice.</span></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.25em; direction: ltr; font-family: Lato, Helvetica, Arial, san-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.85em; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility; color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">
<span style="box-sizing: border-box;">I had just met a descendant of slaves. I, a Maryland Province Jesuit and alumnus of Georgetown University, was standing face-to-face with a woman whose biological forebears were the slaves of my spiritual forebears. I don’t think my jaw dropped, but my heart certainly fell.</span></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.25em; direction: ltr; font-family: Lato, Helvetica, Arial, san-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.85em; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility; color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">
<a href="https://thejesuitpost.org/2017/04/sins-of-the-past-and-hope-for-the-future/">FULL ARTICLE>></a></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.25em; direction: ltr; font-family: Lato, Helvetica, Arial, san-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.85em; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility; color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">
<span style="box-sizing: border-box;">I knew from the playful twinkle in her eyes, the seriousness on the rest of her face, and the way she said “long” that she didn’t mean her mother had been the parish secretary before her. She meant her family had been working for the Church for a very, very long time — and not by choice.</span></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.25em; direction: ltr; font-family: Lato, Helvetica, Arial, san-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.85em; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility; color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">
<span style="box-sizing: border-box;">I had just met a descendant of slaves. I, a Maryland Province Jesuit and alumnus of Georgetown University, was standing face-to-face with a woman whose biological forebears were the slaves of my spiritual forebears. I don’t think my jaw dropped, but my heart certainly fell.</span></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.25em; direction: ltr; font-family: Lato, Helvetica, Arial, san-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.85em; text-rendering: optimizeLegibility; color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">
<a href="https://thejesuitpost.org/2017/04/sins-of-the-past-and-hope-for-the-future/">FULL ARTICLE>></a></div>
Date
Easter Monday: Duty of Solidarity
News Intro Text
Ignatian Solidarity Network
News Item Content
<p>By Fr. Fred Kammer, SJ </p>
<p><span>To develop the “duty of solidarity,” Saint Pope John Paul II underscored the urgency of connecting action for justice to faith. For him, solidarity was the structural response demanded by Gospel love. Solidarity, as a social principle, involved fundamental economic and social changes. What does this solidarity require? </span></p>
<p> </p>
<p>John Paul’s answer connects us directly to the preferential love of the poor, a theme we have heard anew from Pope Francis, or, as John Paul describes them, “God’s beloved poor”:</p>
<blockquote>
<p><span>It is above all a question of interdependence, sensed as a system determining relationships in the contemporary world in its economic, cultural, political and religious elements, and accepted as a moral category. When interdependence becomes recognized in this way, the correlative response as a moral and social attitude, as a “virtue,” is solidarity. </span><em>This then is not a feeling of vague compassion or shallow distress at the misfortunes of so many people, both near and far. On the contrary, it is a firm and persevering determination to commit oneself to the common good</em><span>, that is to say, to the good of all and of each individual because we are all really responsible for all. [</span><em>Solicitudo</em><span>, </span><span>40, emphasis added]</span></p>
</blockquote>
<p>So, as we reflect this Easter Monday on social and political realities of our community, country, and world, it is not enough to bemoan this or that action by others. We have to make our own the “firm and persevering determination” to act on behalf of others in the interest of the common good.</p>
<p><a href="https://ignatiansolidarity.net/blog/2017/04/17/duty-of-solidarity/?utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=social-pug">MORE>></a></p>
<p><span>To develop the “duty of solidarity,” Saint Pope John Paul II underscored the urgency of connecting action for justice to faith. For him, solidarity was the structural response demanded by Gospel love. Solidarity, as a social principle, involved fundamental economic and social changes. What does this solidarity require? </span></p>
<p> </p>
<p>John Paul’s answer connects us directly to the preferential love of the poor, a theme we have heard anew from Pope Francis, or, as John Paul describes them, “God’s beloved poor”:</p>
<blockquote>
<p><span>It is above all a question of interdependence, sensed as a system determining relationships in the contemporary world in its economic, cultural, political and religious elements, and accepted as a moral category. When interdependence becomes recognized in this way, the correlative response as a moral and social attitude, as a “virtue,” is solidarity. </span><em>This then is not a feeling of vague compassion or shallow distress at the misfortunes of so many people, both near and far. On the contrary, it is a firm and persevering determination to commit oneself to the common good</em><span>, that is to say, to the good of all and of each individual because we are all really responsible for all. [</span><em>Solicitudo</em><span>, </span><span>40, emphasis added]</span></p>
</blockquote>
<p>So, as we reflect this Easter Monday on social and political realities of our community, country, and world, it is not enough to bemoan this or that action by others. We have to make our own the “firm and persevering determination” to act on behalf of others in the interest of the common good.</p>
<p><a href="https://ignatiansolidarity.net/blog/2017/04/17/duty-of-solidarity/?utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=social-pug">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Wayfaring Spirit: Welcoming the Stranger in Xenophobic Times
News Intro Text
Are we still a nation of immigrants?
News Item Content
<p><em>by Edward B. “Ted” Arroyo, S.J., Ph. D.</em></p>
<p align="center">“Immigration policy should be generous;<br />
it should be fair; it should be flexible.<br />
With such a policy we can turn to the world, and to our own past,<br />
with clean hands and a clear conscience.” <br />
― John F. Kennedy, <em><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/work/quotes/1423547">A Nation of Immigrants</a></em></p>
<p> The Christian season of Lent began on Ash Wednesday, this year at the start of March. It commemorates God’s people’s 40 years of wandering in the desert and Jesus’ 40 days in the wilderness. In this same season we are witnessing an explosion of Xenophobia in our country. Although, as President Kennedy wrote, the United States is a “nation of immigrants,” memories tend to become short when, generations after arrival on these shores, we may be tempted to distance ourselves from our wandering, wayfaring roots as people on the move.</p>
<p> For Christians, Lent is a time of movement into the desert for quiet listening, reflection and encounter, and a time to examine our demons and confront them for growth in the good spirit. In our Jesuit tradition, “examen” means taking some “desert time” for discernment about our own battles with evil, a time to contemplate our own thoughts, desires, and deeds, a time to pray and learn in the desert and look forward to a greater future: <em>ad majorem dei gloriam</em> (AMDG) (For the Greater Glory of God).</p>
<p> As our March reflection, JSRI offers this Xenophobia Examen as a faith resource for discovering and countering such anti-immigrant temptations on our own journeys through the desert this Lenten season so as to move along “with clean hands and a clear conscience.” Such examens could be done personally in private and also in a group context. Some Bible passages might be helpful resources, such as <em>Exodus 16</em>, <em>Psalm 51</em>, and <em>Mark 1:1-13</em>.</p>
<p> Here we propose in outline form a process of examen. </p>
<p><strong>Presence</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>
Come to a place/time of quiet</li>
<li>
Take a relaxing posture</li>
<li>
In the silence, ruminate on a word or phrase, maybe from a bible passage, such as the ones above, or “my father was a wandering Aramean.”</li>
<li>
Express your personal prayer for wisdom in your own desert journey.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Exploration</strong>:</p>
<ul>
<li>
Where and when have I encountered the stranger, or migrants in my own life?</li>
<li>
What differences did I notice: cultural differences? skin color? other bodily features? dress? language?</li>
<li>
How did I deal with this encounter? What feelings surfaced? What assumptions might lie underneath? What did I think? How did I judge</li>
<li>
How did I act or not act in response to this encounter? Attitude, body movement/language, engagement, or avoidance? Listening or shutting them off? Welcoming or distancing? Were there any mutual “gifts” shared and received?</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Celebration</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>
How might God have been present in this encounter?</li>
<li>
How might we celebrate an exchange of diverse gifts in such encounters?</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Looking Ahead</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>
How might I welcome others in the future?</li>
<li>
How can I foster a culture of welcoming in my local situation?</li>
<li>
How can we acknowledge and celebrate the gifts shared by people on the move?</li>
<li>
What public advocacy might help?</li>
</ul>
<p>In addition to insights you might gather from this examen, a wealth of resources for healing Xenophobia can be found on the internet, for example:</p>
<ul>
<li>
<a href="https://www.archchicago.org/statement/-/article/2017/02/28/the-letter-below-was-distributed-to-priests-of-the-archdiocese-on-february-28-2017">Cardinal Cupich’s recent letter on this topics</a></li>
<li>
<a href="http://www.caritas.org.nz/system/files/SJW%202016%20All%20Resources_1.pdf">Caritas New Zealand’s many educational resources</a></li>
<li>
And, of course, <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/migration">JSRI’s website resources on migration</a></li>
</ul>
<hr />
<p>Fr. Arroyo was the founding director of JSRI and is now a JSRI Associate. He is currently a retreat director at the White House Jesuit Retreat Center outside St. Louis. Cf. <a href="http://www.whretreat.org/">http://www.whretreat.org/</a></p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/message/ja70n/vr8mje">MORE>></a></p>
<p align="center">“Immigration policy should be generous;<br />
it should be fair; it should be flexible.<br />
With such a policy we can turn to the world, and to our own past,<br />
with clean hands and a clear conscience.” <br />
― John F. Kennedy, <em><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/work/quotes/1423547">A Nation of Immigrants</a></em></p>
<p> The Christian season of Lent began on Ash Wednesday, this year at the start of March. It commemorates God’s people’s 40 years of wandering in the desert and Jesus’ 40 days in the wilderness. In this same season we are witnessing an explosion of Xenophobia in our country. Although, as President Kennedy wrote, the United States is a “nation of immigrants,” memories tend to become short when, generations after arrival on these shores, we may be tempted to distance ourselves from our wandering, wayfaring roots as people on the move.</p>
<p> For Christians, Lent is a time of movement into the desert for quiet listening, reflection and encounter, and a time to examine our demons and confront them for growth in the good spirit. In our Jesuit tradition, “examen” means taking some “desert time” for discernment about our own battles with evil, a time to contemplate our own thoughts, desires, and deeds, a time to pray and learn in the desert and look forward to a greater future: <em>ad majorem dei gloriam</em> (AMDG) (For the Greater Glory of God).</p>
<p> As our March reflection, JSRI offers this Xenophobia Examen as a faith resource for discovering and countering such anti-immigrant temptations on our own journeys through the desert this Lenten season so as to move along “with clean hands and a clear conscience.” Such examens could be done personally in private and also in a group context. Some Bible passages might be helpful resources, such as <em>Exodus 16</em>, <em>Psalm 51</em>, and <em>Mark 1:1-13</em>.</p>
<p> Here we propose in outline form a process of examen. </p>
<p><strong>Presence</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>
Come to a place/time of quiet</li>
<li>
Take a relaxing posture</li>
<li>
In the silence, ruminate on a word or phrase, maybe from a bible passage, such as the ones above, or “my father was a wandering Aramean.”</li>
<li>
Express your personal prayer for wisdom in your own desert journey.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Exploration</strong>:</p>
<ul>
<li>
Where and when have I encountered the stranger, or migrants in my own life?</li>
<li>
What differences did I notice: cultural differences? skin color? other bodily features? dress? language?</li>
<li>
How did I deal with this encounter? What feelings surfaced? What assumptions might lie underneath? What did I think? How did I judge</li>
<li>
How did I act or not act in response to this encounter? Attitude, body movement/language, engagement, or avoidance? Listening or shutting them off? Welcoming or distancing? Were there any mutual “gifts” shared and received?</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Celebration</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>
How might God have been present in this encounter?</li>
<li>
How might we celebrate an exchange of diverse gifts in such encounters?</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Looking Ahead</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>
How might I welcome others in the future?</li>
<li>
How can I foster a culture of welcoming in my local situation?</li>
<li>
How can we acknowledge and celebrate the gifts shared by people on the move?</li>
<li>
What public advocacy might help?</li>
</ul>
<p>In addition to insights you might gather from this examen, a wealth of resources for healing Xenophobia can be found on the internet, for example:</p>
<ul>
<li>
<a href="https://www.archchicago.org/statement/-/article/2017/02/28/the-letter-below-was-distributed-to-priests-of-the-archdiocese-on-february-28-2017">Cardinal Cupich’s recent letter on this topics</a></li>
<li>
<a href="http://www.caritas.org.nz/system/files/SJW%202016%20All%20Resources_1.pdf">Caritas New Zealand’s many educational resources</a></li>
<li>
And, of course, <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/migration">JSRI’s website resources on migration</a></li>
</ul>
<hr />
<p>Fr. Arroyo was the founding director of JSRI and is now a JSRI Associate. He is currently a retreat director at the White House Jesuit Retreat Center outside St. Louis. Cf. <a href="http://www.whretreat.org/">http://www.whretreat.org/</a></p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/message/ja70n/vr8mje">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Louisiana Criminal Justice Reform
News Intro Text
Justice Reinvestment Task Force Report, March 2017
News Item Content
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px; color: rgb(27, 46, 84); font-family: 'Source Sans Pro', Helvetica, sans-serif;">Louisiana’s Justice Reinvestment Task Force was created to study the state’s criminal justice system and recommend strategic changes to get more public safety for each dollar spent. The inter-branch, bipartisan panel of experts found that, with the highest imprisonment rate in the United States, annual corrections spending at two-thirds of a billion dollars, and high recidivism rates, Louisiana’s taxpayers are not getting a good public safety return on investment.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px; color: rgb(27, 46, 84); font-family: 'Source Sans Pro', Helvetica, sans-serif;">Examining practices in states like Texas, Georgia, Alabama, and others that have adopted data-driven policy changes, the task force now recommends that Louisiana lawmakers adopt a comprehensive set of reforms to improve the performance of its criminal justice system. The reforms would ensure consistency in sentencing, focus prison beds on those who pose a serious threat to public safety, strengthen community supervision, clear away barriers to successful reentry, and reinvest a substantial portion of the savings into evidence-backed programs and prison alternatives and services that support victims of crime.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px; color: rgb(27, 46, 84); font-family: 'Source Sans Pro', Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://gov.louisiana.gov/assets/docs/Issues/Criminal-Justice/Justice-Reinvestment-Task-Force-Report_2017.pdf" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(217, 155, 37);" target="_blank">Click here to read the task force's full report.</a></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px; color: rgb(27, 46, 84); font-family: 'Source Sans Pro', Helvetica, sans-serif;">Examining practices in states like Texas, Georgia, Alabama, and others that have adopted data-driven policy changes, the task force now recommends that Louisiana lawmakers adopt a comprehensive set of reforms to improve the performance of its criminal justice system. The reforms would ensure consistency in sentencing, focus prison beds on those who pose a serious threat to public safety, strengthen community supervision, clear away barriers to successful reentry, and reinvest a substantial portion of the savings into evidence-backed programs and prison alternatives and services that support victims of crime.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px; color: rgb(27, 46, 84); font-family: 'Source Sans Pro', Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://gov.louisiana.gov/assets/docs/Issues/Criminal-Justice/Justice-Reinvestment-Task-Force-Report_2017.pdf" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(217, 155, 37);" target="_blank">Click here to read the task force's full report.</a></p>
Date
Second Line to Protect Our Care
News Intro Text
Saturday, March 18, 2017 1:00 PM New Orleans City Hall
News Item Content
<p><span style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Please join </span><a data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=1650620035244524&extragetparams=%7B%22directed_target_id%22%3A755020278005042%7D" data-hovercard-prefer-more-content-show="1" href="https://www.facebook.com/keepLAcovered/" style="color: rgb(54, 88, 153); cursor: pointer; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Keep Louisiana Covered</a><span style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"> and </span><a data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=1510590369239987&extragetparams=%7B%22directed_target_id%22%3A755020278005042%7D" data-hovercard-prefer-more-content-show="1" href="https://www.facebook.com/SoulBrassBandNola/" style="color: rgb(54, 88, 153); cursor: pointer; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Soul Brass Band</a><span style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"> for a second line in support for affordable, quality health care coverage in Louisiana!</span><br style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<br style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<span style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">*Congress is trying to eliminate Medicaid expansion, cut benefits for people on Medicaid, and decrease subsidies that help people pay for their health insurance*</span><br style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<br style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<span style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">This would affect the 400,000 people who have gained health insurance through Medicaid expansion, and over 1 million low-income Louisianans who rely on Medicaid.</span><br style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<br style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<span style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">We are responding by having speakers, musicians, and residents come together to show our legislators (</span><a data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=80987211775&extragetparams=%7B%22directed_target_id%22%3A755020278005042%7D" data-hovercard-prefer-more-content-show="1" href="https://www.facebook.com/billcassidy/" style="color: rgb(54, 88, 153); cursor: pointer; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Bill Cassidy</a><span style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"> </span><a data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=160513344045084&extragetparams=%7B%22directed_target_id%22%3A755020278005042%7D" data-hovercard-prefer-more-content-show="1" href="https://www.facebook.com/JohnKennedyLouisiana/" style="color: rgb(54, 88, 153); cursor: pointer; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">John Neely Kennedy</a><span style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"> and</span><a data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=50936151681&extragetparams=%7B%22directed_target_id%22%3A755020278005042%7D" data-hovercard-prefer-more-content-show="1" href="https://www.facebook.com/RepSteveScalise/" style="color: rgb(54, 88, 153); cursor: pointer; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Congressman Steve Scalise</a><span style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">) that we will not accept these harmful changes. Then we will second line with </span><a data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=1510590369239987&extragetparams=%7B%22directed_target_id%22%3A755020278005042%7D" data-hovercard-prefer-more-content-show="1" href="https://www.facebook.com/SoulBrassBandNola/" style="color: rgb(54, 88, 153); cursor: pointer; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Soul Brass Band</a><span style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"> to Saint Louis cemetery #2, to send a powerful message about the real hurt that these changes will have on our community. </span><br style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<br style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<span style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Keep Medicaid Expansion Rolling – Take it to the Streets to Protect Our Care!</span><br style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<br style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<br style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<a class="_58cn" data-ft="{"tn":"*N","type":104}" href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/protectourcare" style="color: rgb(54, 88, 153); cursor: pointer; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">#ProtectOurCare</a><span style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"> </span><br style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<a class="_58cn" data-ft="{"tn":"*N","type":104}" href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/keeplacovered" style="color: rgb(54, 88, 153); cursor: pointer; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">#keepLAcovered</a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/755020278005042/">MORE INFO>></a></p>
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Screen Shot 2017-03-14 at 10.19.00 AM.png" style="width: 500px; height: 700px;" /></p>
<br style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<span style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">*Congress is trying to eliminate Medicaid expansion, cut benefits for people on Medicaid, and decrease subsidies that help people pay for their health insurance*</span><br style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<br style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<span style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">This would affect the 400,000 people who have gained health insurance through Medicaid expansion, and over 1 million low-income Louisianans who rely on Medicaid.</span><br style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<br style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<span style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">We are responding by having speakers, musicians, and residents come together to show our legislators (</span><a data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=80987211775&extragetparams=%7B%22directed_target_id%22%3A755020278005042%7D" data-hovercard-prefer-more-content-show="1" href="https://www.facebook.com/billcassidy/" style="color: rgb(54, 88, 153); cursor: pointer; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Bill Cassidy</a><span style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"> </span><a data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=160513344045084&extragetparams=%7B%22directed_target_id%22%3A755020278005042%7D" data-hovercard-prefer-more-content-show="1" href="https://www.facebook.com/JohnKennedyLouisiana/" style="color: rgb(54, 88, 153); cursor: pointer; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">John Neely Kennedy</a><span style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"> and</span><a data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=50936151681&extragetparams=%7B%22directed_target_id%22%3A755020278005042%7D" data-hovercard-prefer-more-content-show="1" href="https://www.facebook.com/RepSteveScalise/" style="color: rgb(54, 88, 153); cursor: pointer; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Congressman Steve Scalise</a><span style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">) that we will not accept these harmful changes. Then we will second line with </span><a data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=1510590369239987&extragetparams=%7B%22directed_target_id%22%3A755020278005042%7D" data-hovercard-prefer-more-content-show="1" href="https://www.facebook.com/SoulBrassBandNola/" style="color: rgb(54, 88, 153); cursor: pointer; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Soul Brass Band</a><span style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"> to Saint Louis cemetery #2, to send a powerful message about the real hurt that these changes will have on our community. </span><br style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<br style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<span style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Keep Medicaid Expansion Rolling – Take it to the Streets to Protect Our Care!</span><br style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<br style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<br style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<a class="_58cn" data-ft="{"tn":"*N","type":104}" href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/protectourcare" style="color: rgb(54, 88, 153); cursor: pointer; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">#ProtectOurCare</a><span style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"> </span><br style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<a class="_58cn" data-ft="{"tn":"*N","type":104}" href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/keeplacovered" style="color: rgb(54, 88, 153); cursor: pointer; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">#keepLAcovered</a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/755020278005042/">MORE INFO>></a></p>
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Screen Shot 2017-03-14 at 10.19.00 AM.png" style="width: 500px; height: 700px;" /></p>
Date
Lower-Income Families See Healthcare Costs Soar in House Repeal Bill
News Intro Text
[Families USA, March 2017]
News Item Content
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Increases_in_Premiums_and_Deductibles_House_GOP_Plan_Infographic.jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 350px;" /></p>
Date
Statement of the bishops of the border between Texas and Northern Mexico
News Intro Text
“The cry of Christ in the voice of the migrant moves us”
News Item Content
<p class="rtecenter"><strong>The cry of Christ in the voice of the migrant moves us</strong></p>
<p>1. We greet you joyfully from the Basilica of Our Lady of San Juan del Valle, in the Diocese of Brownsville, Texas. We speak on behalf of the bishops, priests, religious, and committed lay persons who are participating in the biannual meeting of the Tex-Mex Border Bishops. For this meeting we have also invited representatives from other border dioceses between the United States and Mexico.</p>
<p>2. We began these biannual meetings in 1986 as an expression of the communion of the Universal Church. The primary concern in all these years has been to address the life and pastoral needs of our migrant brothers and sisters.</p>
<p>3. In this difficult moment in our history we hear the cry of our migrant brothers and sisters, in whose voices we hear the voice of Christ Himself.</p>
<p>4. Jesus, Mary and Joseph, as immigrants and refugees, sought a place to live and work, hoping for a compassionate human response. Today this history repeats itself; this morning we visited detention centers and respite centers for mothers and their adolescent and minor children traveling with them. Centers like these have been described as places of intolerable and inhumane conditions. There we heard the gospel call: “Because I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was hungry and you gave me food…” (Mt 25:35-36).</p>
<p>5. Over the years we have seen firsthand the suffering that is brought about by a broken immigration system caused by political structures and economic conditions that result in threats, deportations, impunity, and extreme violence. This situation occurs in relation to immigration both between Central America and Mexico and between Mexico and the United States.</p>
<p>6. We have seen the pain, the fear, and the anguish suffered by the persons who have come to us and who have to live among us in the shadows of our society. Many have been exploited in their workplace, have lived under the constant threat of deportation, and have suffered the fear of possible separation from their families and friends.</p>
<p>7. This reality is made evident today as we consider the measures taken by civil authorities. We can sense the pain of the separation of families, loss of employment, persecutions, discrimination, expressions of racism, and unnecessary deportations that paralyze the development of persons in our societies and the development of our nations, leaving them empty and without hope. </p>
<p>[...]</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Statement of the bishops of the border between Texas and Northern Mexico.pdf">FULL STATEMENT>></a></p>
<p>1. We greet you joyfully from the Basilica of Our Lady of San Juan del Valle, in the Diocese of Brownsville, Texas. We speak on behalf of the bishops, priests, religious, and committed lay persons who are participating in the biannual meeting of the Tex-Mex Border Bishops. For this meeting we have also invited representatives from other border dioceses between the United States and Mexico.</p>
<p>2. We began these biannual meetings in 1986 as an expression of the communion of the Universal Church. The primary concern in all these years has been to address the life and pastoral needs of our migrant brothers and sisters.</p>
<p>3. In this difficult moment in our history we hear the cry of our migrant brothers and sisters, in whose voices we hear the voice of Christ Himself.</p>
<p>4. Jesus, Mary and Joseph, as immigrants and refugees, sought a place to live and work, hoping for a compassionate human response. Today this history repeats itself; this morning we visited detention centers and respite centers for mothers and their adolescent and minor children traveling with them. Centers like these have been described as places of intolerable and inhumane conditions. There we heard the gospel call: “Because I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was hungry and you gave me food…” (Mt 25:35-36).</p>
<p>5. Over the years we have seen firsthand the suffering that is brought about by a broken immigration system caused by political structures and economic conditions that result in threats, deportations, impunity, and extreme violence. This situation occurs in relation to immigration both between Central America and Mexico and between Mexico and the United States.</p>
<p>6. We have seen the pain, the fear, and the anguish suffered by the persons who have come to us and who have to live among us in the shadows of our society. Many have been exploited in their workplace, have lived under the constant threat of deportation, and have suffered the fear of possible separation from their families and friends.</p>
<p>7. This reality is made evident today as we consider the measures taken by civil authorities. We can sense the pain of the separation of families, loss of employment, persecutions, discrimination, expressions of racism, and unnecessary deportations that paralyze the development of persons in our societies and the development of our nations, leaving them empty and without hope. </p>
<p>[...]</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Statement of the bishops of the border between Texas and Northern Mexico.pdf">FULL STATEMENT>></a></p>
Date
Florida Catholic Day at the Capitol
News Intro Text
April 4-5, 2017
News Item Content
<header style="padding-top: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; color: rgb(15, 15, 15); font-family: Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">
<h2 class="moduleName" style="font-size: 18px; -webkit-margin-before: 0.3em; -webkit-margin-after: 0.3em; padding-top: 3px; padding-bottom: 3px; border-bottom: 0px solid rgb(188, 188, 184); background: none transparent;">
Make the Trip to Catholic Days at the Capitol and Make a Difference</h2>
</header>
<div class="moduleBody" style="min-height: 25px; word-wrap: initial; overflow: hidden; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; color: rgb(15, 15, 15); font-family: Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">
<p style="margin-top: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em; line-height: 1.5em;">Each year Catholics from around the state gather in Tallahassee to participate in Catholic Days at the Capitol. This two-day event provides the opportunity to put into action our faith's call to political responsibility and allows us to strengthen the presence of our Catholic values in the public square. By joining with Floridians who share our faith to advocate for laws that protect and defend human life and dignity, we can give a voice to some of the most vulnerable and marginalized populations in our state and help promote the common good for all of Florida's residents.<br />
<br />
Catholic Days activities include:</p>
<ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-left: 1em; list-style-position: outside;">
<li style="position: relative; left: 1em; padding-right: 1em;">
A legislative briefing on policy issues affecting human life and dignity</li>
<li style="position: relative; left: 1em; padding-right: 1em;">
Pre-scheduled meetings with lawmakers</li>
<li style="position: relative; left: 1em; padding-right: 1em;">
A luncheon for Catholic Days participants, Florida's bishops and legislators</li>
<li style="position: relative; left: 1em; padding-right: 1em;">
Group photos of each diocesan delegation with their bishop</li>
<li style="position: relative; left: 1em; padding-right: 1em;">
Tours of the current and historic capitol buildings</li>
<li style="position: relative; left: 1em; padding-right: 1em;">
The opportunity to view the legislative process in action during committee meetings or floor sessions</li>
<li style="position: relative; left: 1em; padding-right: 1em;">
Annual Red Mass of the Holy Spirit celebrated by the bishops of Florida to pray for those working in the legislative, judicial and executive branches of government</li>
</ul>
<p><br />
<a href="https://flaccb.org/documents/2017/3/2017ParticipantsSchedule.pdf" style="color: rgb(134, 10, 30);">Participants schedule of events</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="https://flaccb.org/cdac">MORE INFORMATION>></a></p>
</div>
<p> </p>
<h2 class="moduleName" style="font-size: 18px; -webkit-margin-before: 0.3em; -webkit-margin-after: 0.3em; padding-top: 3px; padding-bottom: 3px; border-bottom: 0px solid rgb(188, 188, 184); background: none transparent;">
Make the Trip to Catholic Days at the Capitol and Make a Difference</h2>
</header>
<div class="moduleBody" style="min-height: 25px; word-wrap: initial; overflow: hidden; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; color: rgb(15, 15, 15); font-family: Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">
<p style="margin-top: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em; line-height: 1.5em;">Each year Catholics from around the state gather in Tallahassee to participate in Catholic Days at the Capitol. This two-day event provides the opportunity to put into action our faith's call to political responsibility and allows us to strengthen the presence of our Catholic values in the public square. By joining with Floridians who share our faith to advocate for laws that protect and defend human life and dignity, we can give a voice to some of the most vulnerable and marginalized populations in our state and help promote the common good for all of Florida's residents.<br />
<br />
Catholic Days activities include:</p>
<ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-left: 1em; list-style-position: outside;">
<li style="position: relative; left: 1em; padding-right: 1em;">
A legislative briefing on policy issues affecting human life and dignity</li>
<li style="position: relative; left: 1em; padding-right: 1em;">
Pre-scheduled meetings with lawmakers</li>
<li style="position: relative; left: 1em; padding-right: 1em;">
A luncheon for Catholic Days participants, Florida's bishops and legislators</li>
<li style="position: relative; left: 1em; padding-right: 1em;">
Group photos of each diocesan delegation with their bishop</li>
<li style="position: relative; left: 1em; padding-right: 1em;">
Tours of the current and historic capitol buildings</li>
<li style="position: relative; left: 1em; padding-right: 1em;">
The opportunity to view the legislative process in action during committee meetings or floor sessions</li>
<li style="position: relative; left: 1em; padding-right: 1em;">
Annual Red Mass of the Holy Spirit celebrated by the bishops of Florida to pray for those working in the legislative, judicial and executive branches of government</li>
</ul>
<p><br />
<a href="https://flaccb.org/documents/2017/3/2017ParticipantsSchedule.pdf" style="color: rgb(134, 10, 30);">Participants schedule of events</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="https://flaccb.org/cdac">MORE INFORMATION>></a></p>
</div>
<p> </p>
Date
Affordable Care Act Memorial
News Intro Text
Missed the ACA Memorial? Watch personal testimonies about the importance of keeping the ACA. Video Credit: Our Revolution- New Orleans
News Item Content
<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4GQiZ4bMNM4&feature=youtu.be"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/ACA Play.jpg" /></a></p>
Date
What does hunger look like in Louisiana?
News Intro Text
Hunger in Louisiana: The SNAP Story Bank Project
News Item Content
<div>
by Sakeenah Shabazz, Emerson National Hunger Fellow </div>
<div>
</div>
<p>I am a visiting <a href="https://www.hungercenter.org/fellowships/emerson/">Emerson National Hunger Fellow</a> who has been working at JSRI for the last six months. While here, I was tasked with highlighting the impact of SNAP in Louisiana through a written analysis and by gathering and sharing the real experiences of people who use the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). As the project comes to a close, I would like to reflect on the importance of collecting stories and how they can be used to create change. </p>
<p>The SNAP Story Bank Project, at its core, is an attempt to understand the current state of hunger and food insecurity in Louisiana through both data and personal stories. It’s not difficult to see that hunger and food insecurity are major problems in the state. In 2016, Louisiana ranked 49th in overall household food insecurity, with 18.4% of all households having low or very low food security. Even worse, the child food insecurity rate in Louisiana reached 24.5% in 2014. SNAP, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program was designed to combat hunger and food insecurity and 855,000 Louisiana residents rely on the program to purchase food each month. </p>
<p>Before I conducted my first interview for the story bank, I felt nervous. What do I know about Louisiana and who am I to tell someone else’s story? This was a question I asked myself through spells of anxiety; but, much to my surprise, no one asked me this. From early October to late January, I interviewed 47 people across five cities in Louisiana, each person with a different story to share. Writing and story collecting required a balancing act that wasn’t always so balanced. I would spend hours transcribing interviews; and, when it was time write, the succinct, policy-oriented language required for the report did not come easily. </p>
<div>
<p>In the end, the tailored language of the report and unfiltered stories are all part of a messaging framework geared toward stakeholders and advocates. We need them to see that SNAP and the overall issue of hunger are worth their attention and action. As the story bank and report grew, the findings of my research and the stories began to overlap. The seniors we interviewed in Grand Coteau struggled with transportation; and that is a barrier for seniors who use SNAP that is also widely documented by researchers. Residents of Galliano struggled with unemployment, and SNAP was designed to provide food assistance in exactly those situations. The stories and the data refuted the stereotype of SNAP recipients being unworthy of assistance. They illustrated the reality that SNAP is temporary and effective, and its recipients deserve to be treated with respect and dignity.</p>
<p>Last week, JSRI hosted an event to share the <a href="https://jsri-chc.wixsite.com/snapstories">story bank </a>and <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/SNAP%20Report%202017.pdf">research findings</a> with the community, and it brought the experience full circle. To see story bank participants and advocates exchanging resources made me realize that the solution to hunger and food insecurity will come from collaboration and action at all levels. Aside from sharing the findings of the report, people left the event with tangible ways to get involved. This project will continue to be a resource to anyone who wants to learn more about SNAP, food insecurity, or the human experiences that make it worth your attention and action. </p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/message/ffs9m/vr8mje">MORE>></a></p>
</div>
<p> </p>
by Sakeenah Shabazz, Emerson National Hunger Fellow </div>
<div>
</div>
<p>I am a visiting <a href="https://www.hungercenter.org/fellowships/emerson/">Emerson National Hunger Fellow</a> who has been working at JSRI for the last six months. While here, I was tasked with highlighting the impact of SNAP in Louisiana through a written analysis and by gathering and sharing the real experiences of people who use the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). As the project comes to a close, I would like to reflect on the importance of collecting stories and how they can be used to create change. </p>
<p>The SNAP Story Bank Project, at its core, is an attempt to understand the current state of hunger and food insecurity in Louisiana through both data and personal stories. It’s not difficult to see that hunger and food insecurity are major problems in the state. In 2016, Louisiana ranked 49th in overall household food insecurity, with 18.4% of all households having low or very low food security. Even worse, the child food insecurity rate in Louisiana reached 24.5% in 2014. SNAP, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program was designed to combat hunger and food insecurity and 855,000 Louisiana residents rely on the program to purchase food each month. </p>
<p>Before I conducted my first interview for the story bank, I felt nervous. What do I know about Louisiana and who am I to tell someone else’s story? This was a question I asked myself through spells of anxiety; but, much to my surprise, no one asked me this. From early October to late January, I interviewed 47 people across five cities in Louisiana, each person with a different story to share. Writing and story collecting required a balancing act that wasn’t always so balanced. I would spend hours transcribing interviews; and, when it was time write, the succinct, policy-oriented language required for the report did not come easily. </p>
<div>
<p>In the end, the tailored language of the report and unfiltered stories are all part of a messaging framework geared toward stakeholders and advocates. We need them to see that SNAP and the overall issue of hunger are worth their attention and action. As the story bank and report grew, the findings of my research and the stories began to overlap. The seniors we interviewed in Grand Coteau struggled with transportation; and that is a barrier for seniors who use SNAP that is also widely documented by researchers. Residents of Galliano struggled with unemployment, and SNAP was designed to provide food assistance in exactly those situations. The stories and the data refuted the stereotype of SNAP recipients being unworthy of assistance. They illustrated the reality that SNAP is temporary and effective, and its recipients deserve to be treated with respect and dignity.</p>
<p>Last week, JSRI hosted an event to share the <a href="https://jsri-chc.wixsite.com/snapstories">story bank </a>and <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/SNAP%20Report%202017.pdf">research findings</a> with the community, and it brought the experience full circle. To see story bank participants and advocates exchanging resources made me realize that the solution to hunger and food insecurity will come from collaboration and action at all levels. Aside from sharing the findings of the report, people left the event with tangible ways to get involved. This project will continue to be a resource to anyone who wants to learn more about SNAP, food insecurity, or the human experiences that make it worth your attention and action. </p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/message/ffs9m/vr8mje">MORE>></a></p>
</div>
<p> </p>
Date
The Snap Story Bank Project
News Intro Text
Over a six month period, Sakeenah Shabazz (Emerson Congressional Hunger Fellow at JSRI), Jeanie Donovan (JSRI Economic Policy Specialist), and Colleen Dulle (Loyola University New Orleans senior), traveled around Louisiana and spoke with 47 SNAP recipients and coordinators.
News Item Content
<p><font color="#666666" face="Verdana"><span style="font-size: 11px;">Over a six month period, Sakeenah Shabazz (Emerson Congressional Hunger Fellow at JSRI), Jeanie Donovan (JSRI Economic Policy Specialist), and Colleen Dulle (Loyola University New Orleans senior), traveled around Louisiana and spoke with 47 SNAP recipients and coordinators.</span></font></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri-chc.wixsite.com/snapstories"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/The SNAP Story Bank Project.jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 200px;" /></a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri-chc.wixsite.com/snapstories"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/The SNAP Story Bank Project.jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 200px;" /></a></p>
Date
How repealing Obamacare could splinter neighborhoods
News Intro Text
by Alvin Chang, Vox.com
News Item Content
<p><span style="color: rgb(29, 33, 41); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">"It’s easy to cast Obamacare as a policy that was designed to redistribute resources to lower-class Americans. But what this research shows is helping marginalized people helps everyone live in better neighborhoods and be around more cohesive communities."</span></p>
<p><a href="http://www.vox.com/policy-and-politics/2017/2/13/14551552/obamacare-repeal-splinter-neighborhoods"><span style="color: rgb(29, 33, 41); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">FULL ARTICLE WITH ILLUSTRATIONS >></span></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.vox.com/policy-and-politics/2017/2/13/14551552/obamacare-repeal-splinter-neighborhoods"><span style="color: rgb(29, 33, 41); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">FULL ARTICLE WITH ILLUSTRATIONS >></span></a></p>
Date
Jesuit Conference Statement on Refugees and Barred Foreign Nationals
News Intro Text
[January 31, 2017]
News Item Content
<p>As members of a global religious order that works to form men and women of conscience and compassion, we denounce the Trump Administration’s Executive Order suspending and barring refugees and banning nationals of seven countries as an affront to our mission and an assault on American and Christian values.</p>
<p>The Jesuits – through our work in high schools, colleges, parishes and signature ministries such as Jesuit Refugee Service – have a long, proud tradition of welcoming and accompanying refugees, regardless of their religion, as they begin their new lives in the United States. We will continue that work, defending and standing in solidarity with all children of God, whether Muslim or Christian.</p>
<p>The world is deeply troubled, and many of our brothers and sisters are justifiably terrified. Our Catholic and Jesuit identity calls us to welcome the stranger and to approach different faith traditions and cultures with openness and understanding. We must not give in to fear. We must continue to defend human rights and religious liberty. As Pope Francis said, “You cannot be a Christian without living like a Christian.”</p>
<p>The Jesuits – through our work in high schools, colleges, parishes and signature ministries such as Jesuit Refugee Service – have a long, proud tradition of welcoming and accompanying refugees, regardless of their religion, as they begin their new lives in the United States. We will continue that work, defending and standing in solidarity with all children of God, whether Muslim or Christian.</p>
<p>The world is deeply troubled, and many of our brothers and sisters are justifiably terrified. Our Catholic and Jesuit identity calls us to welcome the stranger and to approach different faith traditions and cultures with openness and understanding. We must not give in to fear. We must continue to defend human rights and religious liberty. As Pope Francis said, “You cannot be a Christian without living like a Christian.”</p>
Date
Surrounded by gravestones, protesters speak out in favor of Affordable Care Act
News Intro Text
[Gambit.com, January 28, 2017]
News Item Content
<p>POSTED BY KAT STROMQUIST ON SAT, JAN 28, 2017 AT 2:18 PM</p>
<p><span>Before the Affordable Care Act (ACA), schoolteacher Alaina Comeaux viewed age 25 as a death sentence.</span><br />
<br />
<span>That's the age when she would be ousted from her parents' insurance and forced to try and find insurance on the private market to cover her treatments for Crohn's disease and ankylosing spondylitis. One treatment she receives as many as eight times a year costs $21,000 — per session. </span><br />
<br />
<span>"My doctor actually tried to hide my diagnosis from insurance companies for more than a year," she said. "[Without regulations related to the ACA] I'd go bankrupt pretty quickly. ... It's pretty hopeless."</span><br />
<br />
<span>Comeaux benefits from </span><a href="https://www.hhs.gov/healthcare/facts-and-features/key-features-of-aca/benefits-of-the-affordable-care-act-for-americans/index.html" target="_blank">key provisions</a><span> of the health care law popularly known as Obamacare, including its ban on lifetime limits for coverage and its rule that insurers may not deny coverage to people with pre-existing conditions. In Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 on a chilly Saturday morning, she and several other people gave short testimonials on how the ACA has improved their lives.</span></p>
<p><span>The Jan. 28 event, organized by </span><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/" target="_blank">Jesuit Social Research Institute</a><span>, the </span><a href="http://www.gcclp.org/" target="_blank">Gulf Coast Center for Law & Policy</a><span> and Progressive Social Network, highlighted the grim reality of health care repeal. Public health experts </span><a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/posteverything/wp/2017/01/23/repealing-the-affordable-care-act-will-kill-more-than-43000-people-annually/?utm_term=.13c9f9b631ab" target="_blank">recently have estimated</a><span> that as many as 43,956 people will die each year if the law is repealed without a meaningful replacement. (They'd fill up the seats in the Smoothie King Center, two and a half times.) A fact sheet distributed at the event estimated that as many as half a million Louisiana residents could be left uninsured by the law's repeal, which will almost certainly lead to deaths as people forego regular medical screenings and begin to rely on emergency rooms for routine care. </span><br />
<br />
<span>Nonetheless, barreling through the law's repeal has been a top priority for President Donald Trump and congressional Republicans, though the president and Congress have begun to disagree on what should follow and how and when the law should be replaced. In closed-door meetings, lawmakers </span><a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2017/01/27/us/politics/affordable-care-act-republican-retreat.html" target="_blank">are beginning to express trepidation</a><span> about "owning" health care, especially in the face of angry and, most of all, frightened constituents. </span><br />
<br />
<span>In the cemetery, a small crowd of about 50 people gathered on the grassy path between crumbling mausoleums to listen to stories of lives changed thanks to the law. </span><br />
<br />
<span>There was Red DeVecca, the elderly bass player who was able to buy ACA insurance for the first time just before he needed an expensive hernia operation. When ACA-subsidized state insurance markets opened, Whitney Babineaux was able to leave her full-benefits government job to pursue her lifelong dream of becoming an artist. </span></p>
<p><a href="http://www.bestofneworleans.com/thelatest/archives/2017/01/28/surrounded-by-gravestones-protesters-speak-out-in-favor-of-aca-health-care-law?utm_content=buffer20eea&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter.com&utm_campaign=buffer"><span>MORE>></span></a></p>
<p><span>Before the Affordable Care Act (ACA), schoolteacher Alaina Comeaux viewed age 25 as a death sentence.</span><br />
<br />
<span>That's the age when she would be ousted from her parents' insurance and forced to try and find insurance on the private market to cover her treatments for Crohn's disease and ankylosing spondylitis. One treatment she receives as many as eight times a year costs $21,000 — per session. </span><br />
<br />
<span>"My doctor actually tried to hide my diagnosis from insurance companies for more than a year," she said. "[Without regulations related to the ACA] I'd go bankrupt pretty quickly. ... It's pretty hopeless."</span><br />
<br />
<span>Comeaux benefits from </span><a href="https://www.hhs.gov/healthcare/facts-and-features/key-features-of-aca/benefits-of-the-affordable-care-act-for-americans/index.html" target="_blank">key provisions</a><span> of the health care law popularly known as Obamacare, including its ban on lifetime limits for coverage and its rule that insurers may not deny coverage to people with pre-existing conditions. In Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 on a chilly Saturday morning, she and several other people gave short testimonials on how the ACA has improved their lives.</span></p>
<p><span>The Jan. 28 event, organized by </span><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/" target="_blank">Jesuit Social Research Institute</a><span>, the </span><a href="http://www.gcclp.org/" target="_blank">Gulf Coast Center for Law & Policy</a><span> and Progressive Social Network, highlighted the grim reality of health care repeal. Public health experts </span><a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/posteverything/wp/2017/01/23/repealing-the-affordable-care-act-will-kill-more-than-43000-people-annually/?utm_term=.13c9f9b631ab" target="_blank">recently have estimated</a><span> that as many as 43,956 people will die each year if the law is repealed without a meaningful replacement. (They'd fill up the seats in the Smoothie King Center, two and a half times.) A fact sheet distributed at the event estimated that as many as half a million Louisiana residents could be left uninsured by the law's repeal, which will almost certainly lead to deaths as people forego regular medical screenings and begin to rely on emergency rooms for routine care. </span><br />
<br />
<span>Nonetheless, barreling through the law's repeal has been a top priority for President Donald Trump and congressional Republicans, though the president and Congress have begun to disagree on what should follow and how and when the law should be replaced. In closed-door meetings, lawmakers </span><a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2017/01/27/us/politics/affordable-care-act-republican-retreat.html" target="_blank">are beginning to express trepidation</a><span> about "owning" health care, especially in the face of angry and, most of all, frightened constituents. </span><br />
<br />
<span>In the cemetery, a small crowd of about 50 people gathered on the grassy path between crumbling mausoleums to listen to stories of lives changed thanks to the law. </span><br />
<br />
<span>There was Red DeVecca, the elderly bass player who was able to buy ACA insurance for the first time just before he needed an expensive hernia operation. When ACA-subsidized state insurance markets opened, Whitney Babineaux was able to leave her full-benefits government job to pursue her lifelong dream of becoming an artist. </span></p>
<p><a href="http://www.bestofneworleans.com/thelatest/archives/2017/01/28/surrounded-by-gravestones-protesters-speak-out-in-favor-of-aca-health-care-law?utm_content=buffer20eea&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter.com&utm_campaign=buffer"><span>MORE>></span></a></p>
Date
Possible repeal of Affordable Care Act mourned at cemetery
News Intro Text
[Nola.com, January 29, 2017]
News Item Content
<p><strong style="font-family: "Myriad Pro", sans-serif; font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.208px;">Colleen Dulle</strong><br style="font-family: "Myriad Pro", sans-serif; font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.208px;" />
<em style="font-family: "Myriad Pro", sans-serif; font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.208px;">Contributing writer</em></p>
<p>About 60 people gathered in Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 on Saturday (Jan. 28) to protest the possible repeal of the Affordable Care Act and scaling back of Medicaid.</p>
<p>No signs were allowed and there was no shouting. Instead, the group prayed together quietly and told stories of how having health insurance had affected them.</p>
<p>Sara Magana, a single mother, explained how she had to choose between refilling her asthma medication and buying healthy food for her daughter before the Affordable Care Act.</p>
<p>Jacqueline Brubaker said she had only been able to afford her skin cancer treatments because of her prize money from winning the game show, "Wheel of Fortune."</p>
<p>"Americans should not have to go on a game show to have to pay their medical bills," Brubaker said.</p>
<p>Alaina Comeaux, another of the speakers, explained how one medication she takes for Crohn's disease every six weeks costs thousands of dollars.</p>
<p>"Before the ACA was passed, I kind of saw age 25 as a death sentence, because I knew at that point, coverage would become very difficult to get, and I might not be able to afford my expenses," Comeaux, 27, said. </p>
<p>Comeaux said that with the Affordable Care Act, she no longer had to worry about exceeding a lifetime maximum or being denied insurance because of a pre-existing condition.</p>
<p>"I felt like I finally had a future when the ACA was passed," Comeaux said. "It's pretty terrifying to think about it being repealed."</p>
<p>Three local groups organized the protest: the Jesuit Social Research Institute, the Gulf Coast Center for Law and Policy and the Progressive Social Network of Greater New Orleans.</p>
<p>The Affordable Care Act is in effect, though President Trump and Republican lawmakers have said they will repeal the law and replace it with an alternative, though no plans for the replacement have been released.</p>
<p>The Rev. Fred Kammer, director of the Jesuit Social Research Institute, said at the protest, "We cannot afford to have politicians in Washington put lives in danger while they debate a replacement for the ACA.</p>
<p>"We came to a cemetery because of the fear of deaths being caused by the removal of health care."</p>
<p>Tourists at the cemetery walked quietly around the protest group.</p>
<p>Kammer said the the Harvard School of Public Health estimates that because of Medicaid expansion in Louisiana, 800 lives were saved within the last year.</p>
<p>"The inverse is likely to be true, then. If we take full Medicaid coverage away from 385,000 Louisianans, there's going to be premature and unnecessary death among people in Louisiana," Kammer said. "The Affordable Care Act is not perfect, but it is saving lives."</p>
<p>One woman attending was Mary Margaret Gleason, a pediatrician and child psychologist.</p>
<p>Gleason said she came to the protest because she wants her young patients' parents to have access to health care for conditions such as post-partum depression.</p>
<p>"We know that parent well-being is an incredibly important influence on how children develop in terms of school readiness, in terms of emotional regulation, and overall well-being," Gleason said. "So with ACA, I've seen children do better because their parents were able to get treatment."</p>
<p> </p>
<p><em>The Loyola Student News Service is a multimedia content partnership between the Loyola University School of Mass Communication and NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune. Reporters are advanced-level journalism students, directed by faculty advisers and NOLA | TP community news editors.</em></p>
<em style="font-family: "Myriad Pro", sans-serif; font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.208px;">Contributing writer</em></p>
<p>About 60 people gathered in Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 on Saturday (Jan. 28) to protest the possible repeal of the Affordable Care Act and scaling back of Medicaid.</p>
<p>No signs were allowed and there was no shouting. Instead, the group prayed together quietly and told stories of how having health insurance had affected them.</p>
<p>Sara Magana, a single mother, explained how she had to choose between refilling her asthma medication and buying healthy food for her daughter before the Affordable Care Act.</p>
<p>Jacqueline Brubaker said she had only been able to afford her skin cancer treatments because of her prize money from winning the game show, "Wheel of Fortune."</p>
<p>"Americans should not have to go on a game show to have to pay their medical bills," Brubaker said.</p>
<p>Alaina Comeaux, another of the speakers, explained how one medication she takes for Crohn's disease every six weeks costs thousands of dollars.</p>
<p>"Before the ACA was passed, I kind of saw age 25 as a death sentence, because I knew at that point, coverage would become very difficult to get, and I might not be able to afford my expenses," Comeaux, 27, said. </p>
<p>Comeaux said that with the Affordable Care Act, she no longer had to worry about exceeding a lifetime maximum or being denied insurance because of a pre-existing condition.</p>
<p>"I felt like I finally had a future when the ACA was passed," Comeaux said. "It's pretty terrifying to think about it being repealed."</p>
<p>Three local groups organized the protest: the Jesuit Social Research Institute, the Gulf Coast Center for Law and Policy and the Progressive Social Network of Greater New Orleans.</p>
<p>The Affordable Care Act is in effect, though President Trump and Republican lawmakers have said they will repeal the law and replace it with an alternative, though no plans for the replacement have been released.</p>
<p>The Rev. Fred Kammer, director of the Jesuit Social Research Institute, said at the protest, "We cannot afford to have politicians in Washington put lives in danger while they debate a replacement for the ACA.</p>
<p>"We came to a cemetery because of the fear of deaths being caused by the removal of health care."</p>
<p>Tourists at the cemetery walked quietly around the protest group.</p>
<p>Kammer said the the Harvard School of Public Health estimates that because of Medicaid expansion in Louisiana, 800 lives were saved within the last year.</p>
<p>"The inverse is likely to be true, then. If we take full Medicaid coverage away from 385,000 Louisianans, there's going to be premature and unnecessary death among people in Louisiana," Kammer said. "The Affordable Care Act is not perfect, but it is saving lives."</p>
<p>One woman attending was Mary Margaret Gleason, a pediatrician and child psychologist.</p>
<p>Gleason said she came to the protest because she wants her young patients' parents to have access to health care for conditions such as post-partum depression.</p>
<p>"We know that parent well-being is an incredibly important influence on how children develop in terms of school readiness, in terms of emotional regulation, and overall well-being," Gleason said. "So with ACA, I've seen children do better because their parents were able to get treatment."</p>
<p> </p>
<p><em>The Loyola Student News Service is a multimedia content partnership between the Loyola University School of Mass Communication and NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune. Reporters are advanced-level journalism students, directed by faculty advisers and NOLA | TP community news editors.</em></p>
Date
Why the Details Matter: They spell out justice or injustice
News Intro Text
By Fred Kammer, SJ, JD
News Item Content
<p>by Fred Kammer, SJ, JD</p>
<p>In the first Reagan Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981, the Administration and Congress raised the rent on every elderly, disabled, blind, and poor resident in any kind of federally subsidized housing unit by 20% (phased in over five years)—from 25% of residents’ income to 30%. It was only one of many ways in which the lives of the “least among us” were savaged in the budget bill.</p>
<p>In the same bill, lucrative tax cuts, programs, and other benefits were ladled out to the wealthy and special interests in so egregious a fashion that Reagan’s Budget Director David Stockman later acknowledged that it resembled “pigs at the trough.” It was only a part of a greater trend that has brought us to today’s America that is ever more unequal and divided in income and assets. </p>
<p>A little tax cut here; a little crony capitalism there; a little squeeze of the “un-deserving poor” there; and no real gains for middle America while the wealthy and powerful blame it all on the poor and stow their riches in overseas bank accounts and undertaxed assets.</p>
<p>Now we await a new set of bills and budgets designed to do what? “Health insurance for everyone,” President Trump tweets—but what will it cost, what will it cover, and who will pay for it? “Repeal and replace,” the Republican Congress has declared about the Affordable Care Act (“Obamacare”) for seven years. But has anyone seen a replacement that the Republicans and President Trump can agree on? </p>
<div>
<p class="e2ma-p-div">What about future block grants to states for hungry families now eligible for the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)—the former food stamps program? What does Speaker Paul Ryan's proposal about SNAP really mean? The last big block grant promise of the 1990s replaced the Aid to Families with Dependent Children program (AFDC), which provided modest cash assistance to 68% of poor U.S. families, with Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF). The TANF block grant has lived up to its cruel name and today supports only 23% of poor families. It does so with significantly less money per state and per family (which is the way block grants always seem to work … or are they designed to do precisely that?). <a data-type="url" href="http://www.cbpp.org/research/family-income-support/chart-book-tanf-at-20" name="_ednref1" title=""><span class="e2ma-style">[1]</span></a></p>
<p class="e2ma-p-div">What too about block granting Medicaid—which is designed now as a federal-state partnership to provide health care to the poor and the medically needy? The Affordable Care Act extended Medicaid coverage to 11 million of the working poor,<a data-type="url" href="http://kff.org/medicaid/issue-brief/what-coverage-and-financing-at-risk-under-repeal-of-aca-medicaid-expansion/" name="_ednref2" title=""><span class="e2ma-style">[2]</span></a> meeting their needs with the federal government funding no less than 90% of the costs. Will the Republican plan to replace Medicaid with block grants to the states provide the usual “cure” of less-money-for-more-sick-folks?</p>
<div class="e2ma-p-div">
<p> The traditional three questions asked about political and economic decisions from a Catholic social justice perspective are:</p>
<ul>
<li>
Who is making the decisions?</li>
<li>
Who is paying for the decisions? and</li>
<li>
Who is profiting by the decisions? </li>
</ul>
</div>
<p class="e2ma-p-div">It is time for the American people—often too busy or too distracted to notice—to pay careful attention to the details of what will be hidden in the landslide of legislation that will be enacted in this first year of President Trump. </p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/bo0um/fc499872d59c92f8655a2ee997a35c73">WEB>></a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/January%2017%20JustSouth%20Monthly.pdf">PDF>></a></p>
</div>
<p> </p>
<p>In the first Reagan Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981, the Administration and Congress raised the rent on every elderly, disabled, blind, and poor resident in any kind of federally subsidized housing unit by 20% (phased in over five years)—from 25% of residents’ income to 30%. It was only one of many ways in which the lives of the “least among us” were savaged in the budget bill.</p>
<p>In the same bill, lucrative tax cuts, programs, and other benefits were ladled out to the wealthy and special interests in so egregious a fashion that Reagan’s Budget Director David Stockman later acknowledged that it resembled “pigs at the trough.” It was only a part of a greater trend that has brought us to today’s America that is ever more unequal and divided in income and assets. </p>
<p>A little tax cut here; a little crony capitalism there; a little squeeze of the “un-deserving poor” there; and no real gains for middle America while the wealthy and powerful blame it all on the poor and stow their riches in overseas bank accounts and undertaxed assets.</p>
<p>Now we await a new set of bills and budgets designed to do what? “Health insurance for everyone,” President Trump tweets—but what will it cost, what will it cover, and who will pay for it? “Repeal and replace,” the Republican Congress has declared about the Affordable Care Act (“Obamacare”) for seven years. But has anyone seen a replacement that the Republicans and President Trump can agree on? </p>
<div>
<p class="e2ma-p-div">What about future block grants to states for hungry families now eligible for the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)—the former food stamps program? What does Speaker Paul Ryan's proposal about SNAP really mean? The last big block grant promise of the 1990s replaced the Aid to Families with Dependent Children program (AFDC), which provided modest cash assistance to 68% of poor U.S. families, with Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF). The TANF block grant has lived up to its cruel name and today supports only 23% of poor families. It does so with significantly less money per state and per family (which is the way block grants always seem to work … or are they designed to do precisely that?). <a data-type="url" href="http://www.cbpp.org/research/family-income-support/chart-book-tanf-at-20" name="_ednref1" title=""><span class="e2ma-style">[1]</span></a></p>
<p class="e2ma-p-div">What too about block granting Medicaid—which is designed now as a federal-state partnership to provide health care to the poor and the medically needy? The Affordable Care Act extended Medicaid coverage to 11 million of the working poor,<a data-type="url" href="http://kff.org/medicaid/issue-brief/what-coverage-and-financing-at-risk-under-repeal-of-aca-medicaid-expansion/" name="_ednref2" title=""><span class="e2ma-style">[2]</span></a> meeting their needs with the federal government funding no less than 90% of the costs. Will the Republican plan to replace Medicaid with block grants to the states provide the usual “cure” of less-money-for-more-sick-folks?</p>
<div class="e2ma-p-div">
<p> The traditional three questions asked about political and economic decisions from a Catholic social justice perspective are:</p>
<ul>
<li>
Who is making the decisions?</li>
<li>
Who is paying for the decisions? and</li>
<li>
Who is profiting by the decisions? </li>
</ul>
</div>
<p class="e2ma-p-div">It is time for the American people—often too busy or too distracted to notice—to pay careful attention to the details of what will be hidden in the landslide of legislation that will be enacted in this first year of President Trump. </p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/bo0um/fc499872d59c92f8655a2ee997a35c73">WEB>></a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/January%2017%20JustSouth%20Monthly.pdf">PDF>></a></p>
</div>
<p> </p>
Date
The Snap Story Bank Project
News Intro Text
Congressional Hunger Fellow, Sakeenah Shabazz will present "the SNAP Story Bank Project" on February 9th at Loyola for both students and community members.
News Item Content
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Story Bank Event.jpeg" style="width: 500px; height: 800px;" /></p>
Date
Watch 6-Year-Old Sophie Cruz Give One Of The Best Speeches Of The Women’s March
News Intro Text
[The Huffington Post, January 21, 2017]
News Item Content
<p>Young immigration activist Sophie Cruz amazed a crowd of hundreds of thousands with her rousing speech of hope and love at the Women’s March on Washington on Saturday. </p>
<p>Joined on stage by her parents and younger sister, 6-year-old Cruz told the crowd that she had joined the demonstration to make “a chain of love to protect our families.”</p>
<p>“Let us fight with love, faith and courage so that our families will not be destroyed,” Cruz said. “I also want to tell the children not to be afraid, because we are not alone. There are still many people that have their hearts filled with love. Let’s keep together and fight for the rights. God is with us.”</p>
<p>Cruz made headlines in 2015 when on behalf of her undocumented parents, she bravely asked the Pope to support the protection of DAPA (Deferred Action for Parents of Americans and Lawful Permanent Residents). </p>
<p>Cruz also delivered her speech in Spanish, ending with a rousing chant of “Si se puede! Si se puede!” </p>
<p>Cruz melted hearts on Saturday, but more importantly, she’s broadening minds. Her powerful message about the future of the country wasn’t just a touching moment ― it was history in the making.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/sophie-cruz_us_58839698e4b096b4a23201f6">WATCH>></a></p>
<p>Joined on stage by her parents and younger sister, 6-year-old Cruz told the crowd that she had joined the demonstration to make “a chain of love to protect our families.”</p>
<p>“Let us fight with love, faith and courage so that our families will not be destroyed,” Cruz said. “I also want to tell the children not to be afraid, because we are not alone. There are still many people that have their hearts filled with love. Let’s keep together and fight for the rights. God is with us.”</p>
<p>Cruz made headlines in 2015 when on behalf of her undocumented parents, she bravely asked the Pope to support the protection of DAPA (Deferred Action for Parents of Americans and Lawful Permanent Residents). </p>
<p>Cruz also delivered her speech in Spanish, ending with a rousing chant of “Si se puede! Si se puede!” </p>
<p>Cruz melted hearts on Saturday, but more importantly, she’s broadening minds. Her powerful message about the future of the country wasn’t just a touching moment ― it was history in the making.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/sophie-cruz_us_58839698e4b096b4a23201f6">WATCH>></a></p>
Date
2017 Health Summit: Advancing Policy for a Healthy Louisiana
News Intro Text
Early Bird Registration ends Monday, January 23
News Item Content
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/16195684_1481649031875357_2541970752293677979_n.jpg" /></p>
<p><a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2017-health-summit-advancing-policy-for-a-healthy-louisiana-tickets-30497313285">TO REGISTER>></a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2017-health-summit-advancing-policy-for-a-healthy-louisiana-tickets-30497313285">TO REGISTER>></a></p>
Date
Affordable Care Act Memorial
News Intro Text
Saturday, January 28 12:30 AM in Lafayette Cemetery No. 1
News Item Content
<div>
<p dir="ltr"><span>PROTEST PLANNED ON REPEAL OF THE AFFORDABLE CARE ACT</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Community Protest Will Highlight Human Costs of ACA Repeal</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>January 28, 2017 - 10:30 - 11:30 am </span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Request Submitted for use of Lafayette Cemetery #1 (1400 Washington Ave.)</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>NEW ORLEANS, LA - One of New Orleans' most beautiful cemeteries will be the location of a press conference Saturday morning, January 28, that will feature testimonies from Louisianans who have received life-saving health care through the ACA.</span><br class="gmail-kix-line-break" />
<br class="gmail-kix-line-break" />
<span>The Rev. Fred Kammer, SJ, a Jesuit priest and Executive Director of the Jesuit Social Research Institute at Loyola University New Orleans, will emcee the event. "We priests officiate at many funerals. No death is sadder than an unnecessary one. I fear many will die unnecessary deaths if the ACA is repealed without a carefully thought-through replacement that assures the same breadth and depth of health coverage as the ACA does," said Fr. Kammer.</span><br class="gmail-kix-line-break" />
</p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Republicans have already set in motion a plan to repeal significant portions of President Obama’s healthcare plan first, while delaying passage of a replacement plan - potentially for up to three years. Over half a million Louisianans are expected to </span><a href="http://www.cbpp.org/sites/default/files/atoms/files/12-7-16health-factsheets-la.pdf" target="_blank" title="This external link will open in a new window"><span>lose health insurance coverage</span></a><span> if the ACA is repealed.</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>“In 2009, at the age of 27, I had major surgery while uninsured, with a cost that ran about $25,000,” said Jacquelyn Brubaker, who will speak at the upcoming event. “Not long after, I was diagnosed with Melanoma, while still uninsured. I am still paying off that bill, but through the ACA, I now have insurance for the first time in my adult life.”</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>4.3 million people across the country are expected to lose health coverage immediately, even if the repeal is delayed, because of uncertainty and disruptions in the health system. Studies predict that those hardest hit by the repeal will be </span><a href="http://www.urban.org/research/publication/implications-partial-repeal-aca-through-reconciliation" target="_blank" title="This external link will open in a new window"><span>working families </span></a><span>with low and moderate incomes.</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>“My husband is a musician and renovator who has been self-employed his whole life, and has never been able to afford insurance,” said Laurie Devecca, another speaker for Saturday’s event. “Before the ACA, he relied on the Musician's Clinic and Charity Hospital (LSU after the storm). In Nov 2015 he had a hernia operation that cost $19,000, but thanks to his insurance he only had to pay around $500. He has also needed, and received, multiple spinal injections for degenerative discs. I don't know how he could have had these procedures done without the ACA.”</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Amongst the backdrop of one of New Orleans’ oldest cemeteries, the January 28th protest is intended to illustrate for our representatives in Congress the real, human costs to repealing the ACA.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>The event is sponsored by the Jesuit Social Research Institute at Loyola University, the Gulf Coast Center for Law & Policy, and the Progressive Social Network of Greater New Orleans.</span></p>
</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/367303183644991/">MORE INFO>></a></div>
<p dir="ltr"><span>PROTEST PLANNED ON REPEAL OF THE AFFORDABLE CARE ACT</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Community Protest Will Highlight Human Costs of ACA Repeal</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>January 28, 2017 - 10:30 - 11:30 am </span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Request Submitted for use of Lafayette Cemetery #1 (1400 Washington Ave.)</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>NEW ORLEANS, LA - One of New Orleans' most beautiful cemeteries will be the location of a press conference Saturday morning, January 28, that will feature testimonies from Louisianans who have received life-saving health care through the ACA.</span><br class="gmail-kix-line-break" />
<br class="gmail-kix-line-break" />
<span>The Rev. Fred Kammer, SJ, a Jesuit priest and Executive Director of the Jesuit Social Research Institute at Loyola University New Orleans, will emcee the event. "We priests officiate at many funerals. No death is sadder than an unnecessary one. I fear many will die unnecessary deaths if the ACA is repealed without a carefully thought-through replacement that assures the same breadth and depth of health coverage as the ACA does," said Fr. Kammer.</span><br class="gmail-kix-line-break" />
</p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Republicans have already set in motion a plan to repeal significant portions of President Obama’s healthcare plan first, while delaying passage of a replacement plan - potentially for up to three years. Over half a million Louisianans are expected to </span><a href="http://www.cbpp.org/sites/default/files/atoms/files/12-7-16health-factsheets-la.pdf" target="_blank" title="This external link will open in a new window"><span>lose health insurance coverage</span></a><span> if the ACA is repealed.</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>“In 2009, at the age of 27, I had major surgery while uninsured, with a cost that ran about $25,000,” said Jacquelyn Brubaker, who will speak at the upcoming event. “Not long after, I was diagnosed with Melanoma, while still uninsured. I am still paying off that bill, but through the ACA, I now have insurance for the first time in my adult life.”</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>4.3 million people across the country are expected to lose health coverage immediately, even if the repeal is delayed, because of uncertainty and disruptions in the health system. Studies predict that those hardest hit by the repeal will be </span><a href="http://www.urban.org/research/publication/implications-partial-repeal-aca-through-reconciliation" target="_blank" title="This external link will open in a new window"><span>working families </span></a><span>with low and moderate incomes.</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>“My husband is a musician and renovator who has been self-employed his whole life, and has never been able to afford insurance,” said Laurie Devecca, another speaker for Saturday’s event. “Before the ACA, he relied on the Musician's Clinic and Charity Hospital (LSU after the storm). In Nov 2015 he had a hernia operation that cost $19,000, but thanks to his insurance he only had to pay around $500. He has also needed, and received, multiple spinal injections for degenerative discs. I don't know how he could have had these procedures done without the ACA.”</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Amongst the backdrop of one of New Orleans’ oldest cemeteries, the January 28th protest is intended to illustrate for our representatives in Congress the real, human costs to repealing the ACA.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>The event is sponsored by the Jesuit Social Research Institute at Loyola University, the Gulf Coast Center for Law & Policy, and the Progressive Social Network of Greater New Orleans.</span></p>
</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/367303183644991/">MORE INFO>></a></div>
Date
Guest column: ACA repeal Is great … if you’re a millionaire
News Intro Text
Jeanie Donovan |The Advocate |January 11, 2017
News Item Content
<p>The repeal of large pieces of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) proposed by Congress would mean trouble for most Louisianans.</p>
<p>Even if you are not one of the 544,000 low- and middle-income people in our state who would lose access to affordable health care, you are likely to be impacted by the squeeze the repeal will put on the state’s budget. Millionaires, however, would have cause to celebrate because the plan to eliminate pieces of the ACA would result in them receiving a hefty tax cut.</p>
<p>Two groups of Louisianans stand to lose access to affordable health care in Congress’ current proposal. First are the 170,000 middle-income Louisianans who receive subsidies to purchase private health insurance in the federal health care exchange. These individuals, who earn between $16,000 and $47,000 per year if they are single and between $33,000 and $97,000 with a family of four, receive an average of $362 per month in federal tax subsidies to help pay their insurance premiums. This totals nearly $742 million in federal subsidies coming to Louisiana.</p>
<p>The second group that would lose coverage is composed of the 374,000 Louisianans who recently became eligible to enroll in Medicaid under Gov. John Bel Edwards’ executive order to expand the program. The majority of these new Medicaid recipients are part of the “working poor” class, including those who work full-time minimum wage jobs but still fall below the federal poverty line. In total, nearly 20 percent of the state’s adult population stands to lose access to affordable health insurance.</p>
<p>If you don’t currently receive federal subsidies or participate in Medicaid, you will not be free from the negative impacts of the proposed ACA repeal. Louisiana could potentially lose $26.7 billion in federal funding over the next 10 years, including more than $2 billion that would be lost in the first year after the repeal is implemented. What’s more, if the number of uninsured citizens rises to pre-ACA levels, we can be sure that emergency room visits and other costly uncompensated use of health care services will rise and put increased pressure on the state’s budget.</p>
<p>State officials estimate that Medicaid expansion already has saved the state $184 million in health care spending, but the state still faces a more than $300 million shortfall in the current budget cycle. Although many, including our governor, are pushing for significant tax reform to eliminate the state’s structural budget deficit, the loss of federal funding from the ACA will create another major hole in the state budget, one that will need to be filled with new taxes or cuts to public services including education, hospitals, and transportation.</p>
<p>So who stands to gain from the repeal of the ACA? Estimates from the Urban-Brookings Tax Policy Center show that the households with income above $1 million per year would each receive a tax cut averaging $57,470 per year. That’s more than the total annual income of any family in the bottom two-fifths of the population. Those with incomes over $4.8 million, the top 0.1 percent, would each get an average tax cut of $260,630 annually. The cuts would be the result of eliminating two ACA-imposed Medicare taxes on the wealthiest households.</p>
<p>If you are not one of these millionaires, it’s time reach out to your elected officials in Congress and ask them to halt the repeal of the ACA until they have developed a suitable replacement: a replacement that will not result in nearly one in five adult Louisianans losing health insurance coverage, leave a gaping hole in our state’s budget, and benefit only the richest.</p>
<p>JEANIE DONOVAN IS AN ECONOMIC POLICY SPECIALIST WITH THE JESUIT SOCIAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/opinion/article_7cfd4a4a-d772-11e6-a593-2365261b45ba.html">FULL ARTICLE>></a></p>
<p>Even if you are not one of the 544,000 low- and middle-income people in our state who would lose access to affordable health care, you are likely to be impacted by the squeeze the repeal will put on the state’s budget. Millionaires, however, would have cause to celebrate because the plan to eliminate pieces of the ACA would result in them receiving a hefty tax cut.</p>
<p>Two groups of Louisianans stand to lose access to affordable health care in Congress’ current proposal. First are the 170,000 middle-income Louisianans who receive subsidies to purchase private health insurance in the federal health care exchange. These individuals, who earn between $16,000 and $47,000 per year if they are single and between $33,000 and $97,000 with a family of four, receive an average of $362 per month in federal tax subsidies to help pay their insurance premiums. This totals nearly $742 million in federal subsidies coming to Louisiana.</p>
<p>The second group that would lose coverage is composed of the 374,000 Louisianans who recently became eligible to enroll in Medicaid under Gov. John Bel Edwards’ executive order to expand the program. The majority of these new Medicaid recipients are part of the “working poor” class, including those who work full-time minimum wage jobs but still fall below the federal poverty line. In total, nearly 20 percent of the state’s adult population stands to lose access to affordable health insurance.</p>
<p>If you don’t currently receive federal subsidies or participate in Medicaid, you will not be free from the negative impacts of the proposed ACA repeal. Louisiana could potentially lose $26.7 billion in federal funding over the next 10 years, including more than $2 billion that would be lost in the first year after the repeal is implemented. What’s more, if the number of uninsured citizens rises to pre-ACA levels, we can be sure that emergency room visits and other costly uncompensated use of health care services will rise and put increased pressure on the state’s budget.</p>
<p>State officials estimate that Medicaid expansion already has saved the state $184 million in health care spending, but the state still faces a more than $300 million shortfall in the current budget cycle. Although many, including our governor, are pushing for significant tax reform to eliminate the state’s structural budget deficit, the loss of federal funding from the ACA will create another major hole in the state budget, one that will need to be filled with new taxes or cuts to public services including education, hospitals, and transportation.</p>
<p>So who stands to gain from the repeal of the ACA? Estimates from the Urban-Brookings Tax Policy Center show that the households with income above $1 million per year would each receive a tax cut averaging $57,470 per year. That’s more than the total annual income of any family in the bottom two-fifths of the population. Those with incomes over $4.8 million, the top 0.1 percent, would each get an average tax cut of $260,630 annually. The cuts would be the result of eliminating two ACA-imposed Medicare taxes on the wealthiest households.</p>
<p>If you are not one of these millionaires, it’s time reach out to your elected officials in Congress and ask them to halt the repeal of the ACA until they have developed a suitable replacement: a replacement that will not result in nearly one in five adult Louisianans losing health insurance coverage, leave a gaping hole in our state’s budget, and benefit only the richest.</p>
<p>JEANIE DONOVAN IS AN ECONOMIC POLICY SPECIALIST WITH THE JESUIT SOCIAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/opinion/article_7cfd4a4a-d772-11e6-a593-2365261b45ba.html">FULL ARTICLE>></a></p>
Date
ACTION ALERT: LOUISIANA
News Intro Text
Take Action to #ProtectOurCare: Call LA Senators Today!
News Item Content
<p><u><strong>Right now,</strong></u><span> Congressional Republicans are discussing a repeal of the Affordable Care Act without an adequate replacement. If they move forward they will be jeopardizing coverge for hundreds of thousands of Louisianans and putting our state's financial future on shaky ground. </span><u><strong>We simply CANNOT afford a repeal of the ACA without knowing what will replace it.</strong></u></p>
<p>Please take a minute to call Senator Bill Cassidy and Senator John Kennedy <strong><u>today</u></strong> to tell them why affordable health insurance is important to your and our state, and <u><strong>urge them not to repeal the ACA without an immediate replacement.</strong></u><br />
<br />
<strong>Senator Cassidy's Office: (202) 224-5824<br />
Senatory Kennedy's Office: (202) 224-4623</strong><br />
<br />
We encourage you to insert a personal story of you or someone you know who has been helped by the ACA. Or, use some of these talking points:</p>
<ul>
<li>
<p><strong>Repealing the ACA without an immediate replacement means that 570,000 Louisianans would be left uninsured! </strong></p>
<ul>
<li>
<p>More than<strong> 200,000 Louisianans</strong> have purchased insurance plans on the federal marketplace and and receive income-based financial assistance to make their healthcare plans affordable</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>More than <strong>370,000 low-income Louisianans</strong> recently gained access to affordable health care after the Governor expanded Medicaid this year.</p>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Repealing the ACA would be a <u>disaster</u> for Louisiana's already dire budget situation.</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>
<p>The state stands to lose <strong>$26.7 billion</strong> in federal funding over the next 10 years with ACA repeal, not to mention rising costs of uncompensated care for the uninsured. </p>
</li>
<li>
<p>We would lose an estimated <strong>37,000 health care jobs </strong>in our state and <strong>$39.1 billion</strong> in business output with repeal of Medicaid expansion alone.</p>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<p><span>Finally, after you've called, please email us at JSRI@loyno.edu to let us know what you heard!</span></p>
<p>Please take a minute to call Senator Bill Cassidy and Senator John Kennedy <strong><u>today</u></strong> to tell them why affordable health insurance is important to your and our state, and <u><strong>urge them not to repeal the ACA without an immediate replacement.</strong></u><br />
<br />
<strong>Senator Cassidy's Office: (202) 224-5824<br />
Senatory Kennedy's Office: (202) 224-4623</strong><br />
<br />
We encourage you to insert a personal story of you or someone you know who has been helped by the ACA. Or, use some of these talking points:</p>
<ul>
<li>
<p><strong>Repealing the ACA without an immediate replacement means that 570,000 Louisianans would be left uninsured! </strong></p>
<ul>
<li>
<p>More than<strong> 200,000 Louisianans</strong> have purchased insurance plans on the federal marketplace and and receive income-based financial assistance to make their healthcare plans affordable</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>More than <strong>370,000 low-income Louisianans</strong> recently gained access to affordable health care after the Governor expanded Medicaid this year.</p>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Repealing the ACA would be a <u>disaster</u> for Louisiana's already dire budget situation.</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>
<p>The state stands to lose <strong>$26.7 billion</strong> in federal funding over the next 10 years with ACA repeal, not to mention rising costs of uncompensated care for the uninsured. </p>
</li>
<li>
<p>We would lose an estimated <strong>37,000 health care jobs </strong>in our state and <strong>$39.1 billion</strong> in business output with repeal of Medicaid expansion alone.</p>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<p><span>Finally, after you've called, please email us at JSRI@loyno.edu to let us know what you heard!</span></p>
Date
Is child care in Louisiana affordable? Report says yes, but local experts disagree
News Intro Text
By Jennifer Larino, NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune [January 05, 2017]
News Item Content
<p>By Jennifer Larino, NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune [January 05, 2017]</p>
<p>Working parents nationwide are spending a sizeable chunk of their paychecks each year to provide child care for their kids. Louisiana, however, may be the only state where child care is actually considered affordable.</p>
<p>That's according to a new report from Child Care Aware of America, an Arlington, Va.-based group that conducts research on and advocates for policies to improve child care.</p>
<p>The report is likely to raise eyebrows among working parents in New Orleans, and child care experts here in Louisiana say there are reasons to be skeptical of the findings.</p>
<p>The report found the average cost of placing an infant in a child care center ranges wildly depending on where you live -- from as high as $17,062 a year in Massachusetts to $4,822 in Mississippi. For some parents, including those with multiple children in care, dropping a child off at daycare can cost as much as putting them through college.</p>
<p>The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services says child care can be considered "affordable" if it costs below 7 percent of the median income in an area. In 2015, the cost of infant center-based care exceeded that threshold and was considered unaffordable for married couples in 49 states and the District of Columbia, according to the report.</p>
<p>Only one state bucked the trend: Louisiana.</p>
<p>It cost about $5,754 a year on average to put an infant in center-based care in Louisiana. That accounts for 6.7 percent of earnings for married parents in Louisiana, who had a median annual income of $85,357 in 2015, according to Census Bureau data.</p>
<p>Local experts have been quick to punch holes in the report's conclusion. They say child care affordability and quality remain big problems in Louisiana and the report shows only a slice of reality.</p>
<p>"It really is not reflective of what is going on with families here in the state," said Melanie Bronfin, executive director of the Louisiana Policy Institute for Children.</p>
<p><strong>Why do child care costs appear lower in Louisiana? </strong></p>
<p>The report points to the state's School Readiness Tax Credits as one factor. Lawmakers approved the package of five tax credits in 2010 with the goal of improving the quality of child care statewide.</p>
<p>That includes a child care expense credit for families with income under $25,000 a year who place their child in a high-quality child care program.</p>
<p>Parents can qualify for credits for up to 200 percent of the cost of child care if they enroll their young child in a five-star program (the state's Quality Start program rates child care programs in Louisiana on a five-star scale). The value of the credit decreases for parents who use lower-rated child care programs.</p>
<p>Credits are also available for early childhood educators who complete additional training and certifications as well as businesses that invest in child care for employees.</p>
<p><span class="gold">Jeanie Donovan, economic policy specialist at Loyola University's Jesuit Social Research Institute</span>, said the child care expense credit is a boost for low-income parents, providing an incentive to seek out child care programs rather than leaving the baby with family or relying on other informal care.</p>
<p>"The higher the quality of child care and the lower the income of the parent, the more they get back from the credit," Donovan said.</p>
<p>But she said the credit does not drag down the cost of care for everyone. It also doesn't help parents who cannot afford to pay for child care upfront and wait for a credit.</p>
<p>"For everyone else, there's really not a lot of help available to access quality child care," Donovan said.</p>
<p>Working parents nationwide are spending a sizeable chunk of their paychecks each year to provide child care for their kids. Louisiana, however, may be the only state where child care is actually considered affordable.</p>
<p>That's according to a new report from Child Care Aware of America, an Arlington, Va.-based group that conducts research on and advocates for policies to improve child care.</p>
<p>The report is likely to raise eyebrows among working parents in New Orleans, and child care experts here in Louisiana say there are reasons to be skeptical of the findings.</p>
<p>The report found the average cost of placing an infant in a child care center ranges wildly depending on where you live -- from as high as $17,062 a year in Massachusetts to $4,822 in Mississippi. For some parents, including those with multiple children in care, dropping a child off at daycare can cost as much as putting them through college.</p>
<p>The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services says child care can be considered "affordable" if it costs below 7 percent of the median income in an area. In 2015, the cost of infant center-based care exceeded that threshold and was considered unaffordable for married couples in 49 states and the District of Columbia, according to the report.</p>
<p>Only one state bucked the trend: Louisiana.</p>
<p>It cost about $5,754 a year on average to put an infant in center-based care in Louisiana. That accounts for 6.7 percent of earnings for married parents in Louisiana, who had a median annual income of $85,357 in 2015, according to Census Bureau data.</p>
<p>Local experts have been quick to punch holes in the report's conclusion. They say child care affordability and quality remain big problems in Louisiana and the report shows only a slice of reality.</p>
<p>"It really is not reflective of what is going on with families here in the state," said Melanie Bronfin, executive director of the Louisiana Policy Institute for Children.</p>
<p><strong>Why do child care costs appear lower in Louisiana? </strong></p>
<p>The report points to the state's School Readiness Tax Credits as one factor. Lawmakers approved the package of five tax credits in 2010 with the goal of improving the quality of child care statewide.</p>
<p>That includes a child care expense credit for families with income under $25,000 a year who place their child in a high-quality child care program.</p>
<p>Parents can qualify for credits for up to 200 percent of the cost of child care if they enroll their young child in a five-star program (the state's Quality Start program rates child care programs in Louisiana on a five-star scale). The value of the credit decreases for parents who use lower-rated child care programs.</p>
<p>Credits are also available for early childhood educators who complete additional training and certifications as well as businesses that invest in child care for employees.</p>
<p><span class="gold">Jeanie Donovan, economic policy specialist at Loyola University's Jesuit Social Research Institute</span>, said the child care expense credit is a boost for low-income parents, providing an incentive to seek out child care programs rather than leaving the baby with family or relying on other informal care.</p>
<p>"The higher the quality of child care and the lower the income of the parent, the more they get back from the credit," Donovan said.</p>
<p>But she said the credit does not drag down the cost of care for everyone. It also doesn't help parents who cannot afford to pay for child care upfront and wait for a credit.</p>
<p>"For everyone else, there's really not a lot of help available to access quality child care," Donovan said.</p>
Date
Refugees and Migrants – Are they part of Our Common Good?
News Intro Text
By Msgr. Robert J. Vitillo, M.S.W., A.C.S.W., Secretary General, International Catholic Migration Commission
News Item Content
<p>By Msgr. Robert J. Vitillo, M.S.W., A.C.S.W., Secretary General, International Catholic Migration Commission</p>
<p>In my global advocacy activities, both as the secretary general of the International Catholic Migration Commission (ICMC) and as part-time attaché at the Permanent Mission of the Holy See to the United Nations in Geneva, I have been amazed at the positive response of diplomats and international nongovernmental organization (NGO) advocates to Pope Francis’s landmark encyclical, Laudato Si’[1]. Many who would pass by me at the United Nations when they noticed my Roman collar now greet me warmly and tell me, “I like your Pope and his encyclical!” Despite my joy upon receiving these positive echoes, I am concerned that too many still see the encyclical as focusing on climate change alone (as vital and important as that issue might be) and do not discern the deeper implications of Pope Francis’s call for “integral human ecology,” which requires a profound discernment of our relationship with God, with nature, and with ourselves and each other.</p>
<p>In the sixth chapter of the encyclical, the Holy Father issued a rather curious challenge – that is, to promote “civic and political love”: “We must regain the conviction that we need one another, that we have a shared responsibility for others and the world, and that being good and decent are worth it (220)…. Social love is the key to authentic development (231).” What a contrast between Pope Francis’s admonition and the demeaning political rhetoric that dominated the recent referendum vote in the United Kingdom and the political campaigns in the United States and Europe!</p>
<p>The bitter debate about admission of migrants and refugees into Western countries is literally the most glaring proof of the crying need to promote civil and political love in our world. In February 2016, while standing at the border between Mexico and the United States, Pope Francis described the current situation in this manner: “We cannot deny the humanitarian crisis which in recent years has meant migration for thousands of people, whether by train or highway or on foot, crossing hundreds of kilometers through mountains, deserts and inhospitable zones. The human tragedy that is forced migration is a global phenomenon today. This crisis, which can be measured in numbers and statistics, we want instead to measure with names, stories, families.”[2]</p>
<p>On January 15, 2017, the Catholic Church observes the 103rd World Day of Migrants and Refugees. For this occasion, Pope Francis has decided to focus on “Minor migrants, vulnerable and voiceless,”[3] who often arrive unaccompanied in their destination countries, “are unable to make their own voices heard” and “easily become victims of grave violations of human rights.” In his message for this day, the Holy Father insists on the need to strike a balance between “the right of states to control migratory movement and to protect the common good of the nation … with the duty to resolve and regularize the situation of child migrants.” He reminds us that the migration phenomenon is part of salvation history, which speaks of the providential work of God in history and in the human community, with a view to universal communion.” Echoing dominant themes of Catholic social teaching, and specifically of Laudato Si’, Pope Francis calls for far-sighted perspectives, “capable of offering adequate programmes for areas struck by the worst injustice and instability, in order that access to authentic development can be guaranteed for all,” and reminds us that “this development should promote the good of boys and girls, who are humanity’s hope.”</p>
<p>My own organization, the ICMC, received a mandate from Pope Pius XII, “…to unite and organize existing Catholic associations and committees, and to promote, reinforce and coordinate their projects and activities in behalf of migrants and refugees.[4]” I recently visited the ICMC Refugee Service Centre in Istanbul, Turkey; our staff there are deeply engaged in assisting families to apply for resettlement in the United States. These refugees cannot return home, and their current host country is unable to offer them permanent residence, employment, and long-term safety.</p>
<p>During my visit, I spent time with a group of children who were receiving instruction on life in America. As most children, they were enthusiastic and curious – they grinned from ear to ear and spoke of what they planned to do in their new homes. Each had colored a map of the United States, placed his or her destination state in a special color and spoke with confidence about heading to better and happier lives. But behind their smiling faces, I noticed pain and trauma in their eyes. They had witnessed terrible atrocities; several had lost their loved ones. I am sure that they were experiencing much anxiety and concern about how safe they would be as they boarded an airplane heading for parts of the world that would be very unfamiliar to them. What impressed me most about these children, however, was their sense of hope – they could imagine a better life for themselves and their families despite the many challenges they had experienced so early in life. They, like the Child Jesus, could still imagine the world described by the prophet Isaiah, where “… the wolf shall be a guest of the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the young goat. The calf and the young lion shall browse together, with a little child to guide them (Is. 11:6).”</p>
<p>For me, the time with these child refugees was a real lesson in a way to promote “civic and political love” that seems to be so lacking in our contemporary society and living proof that refugees and migrants are part of our common good!</p>
<p> </p>
<p>[1] Pope Francis, Laudato Si’, 24 May 2015, available at http://w2.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/encyclicals/ documents/papa-francesco_20150524_enciclica-laudato-si.html.</p>
<p>[2] Idem, Apostolic Journey to Mexico, Homily during Mass at Ciudad Juarez Fairgrounds, 17 February 2016, available at https://w2.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/homilies/2016/documents/papa-francesco_20160217_omelia-messico-ciudad-jaurez.html.</p>
<p>[3] Idem, Message for The World Day of Migrants and Refugees 2017 (“Child Migrants, the Vulnerable and the Voiceless”), Vatican City, released 8 September 2016, available at https://w2.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/ messag[15 January 2017], es/migration/documents/papa-francesco_20160908_world-migrants-day-2017.html.</p>
<p>[4] Pope Pius XII, Exsul Familia Nazarethana, 1952, available at http://www.papalencyclicals.net/Pius12/ p12exsul.htm.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="https://integral-voices.com/2017/01/09/refugees-and-migrants-are-they-part-of-our-common-good/">ORIGINAL ARTICLE>></a></p>
<p>In my global advocacy activities, both as the secretary general of the International Catholic Migration Commission (ICMC) and as part-time attaché at the Permanent Mission of the Holy See to the United Nations in Geneva, I have been amazed at the positive response of diplomats and international nongovernmental organization (NGO) advocates to Pope Francis’s landmark encyclical, Laudato Si’[1]. Many who would pass by me at the United Nations when they noticed my Roman collar now greet me warmly and tell me, “I like your Pope and his encyclical!” Despite my joy upon receiving these positive echoes, I am concerned that too many still see the encyclical as focusing on climate change alone (as vital and important as that issue might be) and do not discern the deeper implications of Pope Francis’s call for “integral human ecology,” which requires a profound discernment of our relationship with God, with nature, and with ourselves and each other.</p>
<p>In the sixth chapter of the encyclical, the Holy Father issued a rather curious challenge – that is, to promote “civic and political love”: “We must regain the conviction that we need one another, that we have a shared responsibility for others and the world, and that being good and decent are worth it (220)…. Social love is the key to authentic development (231).” What a contrast between Pope Francis’s admonition and the demeaning political rhetoric that dominated the recent referendum vote in the United Kingdom and the political campaigns in the United States and Europe!</p>
<p>The bitter debate about admission of migrants and refugees into Western countries is literally the most glaring proof of the crying need to promote civil and political love in our world. In February 2016, while standing at the border between Mexico and the United States, Pope Francis described the current situation in this manner: “We cannot deny the humanitarian crisis which in recent years has meant migration for thousands of people, whether by train or highway or on foot, crossing hundreds of kilometers through mountains, deserts and inhospitable zones. The human tragedy that is forced migration is a global phenomenon today. This crisis, which can be measured in numbers and statistics, we want instead to measure with names, stories, families.”[2]</p>
<p>On January 15, 2017, the Catholic Church observes the 103rd World Day of Migrants and Refugees. For this occasion, Pope Francis has decided to focus on “Minor migrants, vulnerable and voiceless,”[3] who often arrive unaccompanied in their destination countries, “are unable to make their own voices heard” and “easily become victims of grave violations of human rights.” In his message for this day, the Holy Father insists on the need to strike a balance between “the right of states to control migratory movement and to protect the common good of the nation … with the duty to resolve and regularize the situation of child migrants.” He reminds us that the migration phenomenon is part of salvation history, which speaks of the providential work of God in history and in the human community, with a view to universal communion.” Echoing dominant themes of Catholic social teaching, and specifically of Laudato Si’, Pope Francis calls for far-sighted perspectives, “capable of offering adequate programmes for areas struck by the worst injustice and instability, in order that access to authentic development can be guaranteed for all,” and reminds us that “this development should promote the good of boys and girls, who are humanity’s hope.”</p>
<p>My own organization, the ICMC, received a mandate from Pope Pius XII, “…to unite and organize existing Catholic associations and committees, and to promote, reinforce and coordinate their projects and activities in behalf of migrants and refugees.[4]” I recently visited the ICMC Refugee Service Centre in Istanbul, Turkey; our staff there are deeply engaged in assisting families to apply for resettlement in the United States. These refugees cannot return home, and their current host country is unable to offer them permanent residence, employment, and long-term safety.</p>
<p>During my visit, I spent time with a group of children who were receiving instruction on life in America. As most children, they were enthusiastic and curious – they grinned from ear to ear and spoke of what they planned to do in their new homes. Each had colored a map of the United States, placed his or her destination state in a special color and spoke with confidence about heading to better and happier lives. But behind their smiling faces, I noticed pain and trauma in their eyes. They had witnessed terrible atrocities; several had lost their loved ones. I am sure that they were experiencing much anxiety and concern about how safe they would be as they boarded an airplane heading for parts of the world that would be very unfamiliar to them. What impressed me most about these children, however, was their sense of hope – they could imagine a better life for themselves and their families despite the many challenges they had experienced so early in life. They, like the Child Jesus, could still imagine the world described by the prophet Isaiah, where “… the wolf shall be a guest of the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the young goat. The calf and the young lion shall browse together, with a little child to guide them (Is. 11:6).”</p>
<p>For me, the time with these child refugees was a real lesson in a way to promote “civic and political love” that seems to be so lacking in our contemporary society and living proof that refugees and migrants are part of our common good!</p>
<p> </p>
<p>[1] Pope Francis, Laudato Si’, 24 May 2015, available at http://w2.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/encyclicals/ documents/papa-francesco_20150524_enciclica-laudato-si.html.</p>
<p>[2] Idem, Apostolic Journey to Mexico, Homily during Mass at Ciudad Juarez Fairgrounds, 17 February 2016, available at https://w2.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/homilies/2016/documents/papa-francesco_20160217_omelia-messico-ciudad-jaurez.html.</p>
<p>[3] Idem, Message for The World Day of Migrants and Refugees 2017 (“Child Migrants, the Vulnerable and the Voiceless”), Vatican City, released 8 September 2016, available at https://w2.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/ messag[15 January 2017], es/migration/documents/papa-francesco_20160908_world-migrants-day-2017.html.</p>
<p>[4] Pope Pius XII, Exsul Familia Nazarethana, 1952, available at http://www.papalencyclicals.net/Pius12/ p12exsul.htm.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="https://integral-voices.com/2017/01/09/refugees-and-migrants-are-they-part-of-our-common-good/">ORIGINAL ARTICLE>></a></p>
Date
January is Poverty Awareness Month
News Intro Text
In 2017, will you resolve to address poverty?
News Item Content
<div class="cs_control CS_Element_Textblock" id="cs_control_128663" style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: arial; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">
<div class="CS_Textblock_Text" style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<p style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.2em; margin-bottom: 8px;">During Poverty Awareness Month, join the U.S. Bishops, the <a href="http://www.usccb.org/about/catholic-campaign-for-human-development/" style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 1px 0px; font-weight: bold; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: arial; color: rgb(0, 128, 97); outline: none;" target="_blank">Catholic Campaign for Human Development</a> and the Catholic Community in the United States in taking up Pope Francis' challenge to live in solidarity with the poor! In addition to the <a class="CP___PAGEID_77454 icon-pdf" href="http://www.usccb.org/about/catholic-campaign-for-human-development/povertyusa/upload/poverty-awareness-month-calendar.pdf" style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 1px 0px; font-weight: bold; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: arial; color: rgb(0, 128, 97); outline: none; background: url("/images/icons/acro.gif") right center no-repeat scroll transparent;" target="_blank">calendar</a>below, <a class="CP___PAGEID_123717 icon-pdf" href="http://www.usccb.org/about/catholic-campaign-for-human-development/povertyusa/upload/poverty-awareness-month-calendar-full.pdf" style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 1px 0px; font-weight: bold; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: arial; color: rgb(0, 128, 97); outline: none; background: url("/images/icons/acro.gif") right center no-repeat scroll transparent;" target="_blank">longer daily reflections</a> are also available. All of these are also en Español.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.2em; margin-bottom: 8px;"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/page 1.jpg" style="width: 600px; height: 454px;" /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.2em; margin-bottom: 8px;"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/page 2.jpg" style="width: 600px; height: 462px;" /></p>
<div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p>
<div class="CS_Textblock_Text" style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<p style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.2em; margin-bottom: 8px;">During Poverty Awareness Month, join the U.S. Bishops, the <a href="http://www.usccb.org/about/catholic-campaign-for-human-development/" style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 1px 0px; font-weight: bold; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: arial; color: rgb(0, 128, 97); outline: none;" target="_blank">Catholic Campaign for Human Development</a> and the Catholic Community in the United States in taking up Pope Francis' challenge to live in solidarity with the poor! In addition to the <a class="CP___PAGEID_77454 icon-pdf" href="http://www.usccb.org/about/catholic-campaign-for-human-development/povertyusa/upload/poverty-awareness-month-calendar.pdf" style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 1px 0px; font-weight: bold; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: arial; color: rgb(0, 128, 97); outline: none; background: url("/images/icons/acro.gif") right center no-repeat scroll transparent;" target="_blank">calendar</a>below, <a class="CP___PAGEID_123717 icon-pdf" href="http://www.usccb.org/about/catholic-campaign-for-human-development/povertyusa/upload/poverty-awareness-month-calendar-full.pdf" style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 1px 0px; font-weight: bold; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; font-family: arial; color: rgb(0, 128, 97); outline: none; background: url("/images/icons/acro.gif") right center no-repeat scroll transparent;" target="_blank">longer daily reflections</a> are also available. All of these are also en Español.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.2em; margin-bottom: 8px;"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/page 1.jpg" style="width: 600px; height: 454px;" /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.2em; margin-bottom: 8px;"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/page 2.jpg" style="width: 600px; height: 462px;" /></p>
<div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p>
Date
Affordable Care Act Advocacy: New Orleans Community Forum
News Intro Text
Thursday, January 5 6-8:00 PM
2022 St Bernard Ave, New Orleans, LA 70116
2022 St Bernard Ave, New Orleans, LA 70116
News Item Content
<p><span style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Community forum intended to arm community members with information about what an ACA repeal might mean for the state budget and, more personally, their families Panel members and the audience will also discuss ways to take action against the threatened repeal. All are welcome to attend.</span><br style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<br style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<span style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Invited speakers include Jan Moller from the Louisiana Budget Project, Susan Todd from 504HealthNet, and Dr. Anjali Niyogi, Clinical Assistant Professor of General Internal Medicine at Tulane University. Locals will also give testimony about the effects a repeal, without a viable replacement, will have on their lives and businesses.</span><br style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<br style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<span style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">The event is sponsored by the Louisiana Budget Project, Jesuit Social Research Institute, and Voices of the Experienced (VOTE).</span><br style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<br style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<a class="_58cn" data-ft="{"tn":"*N","type":104}" href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/protectourcare" style="color: rgb(54, 88, 153); cursor: pointer; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">#ProtectOurCare</a></p>
<p><a href="http://evite.me/XecAx7jqUC">ATTEND THIS EVENT>></a></p>
<br style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<span style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Invited speakers include Jan Moller from the Louisiana Budget Project, Susan Todd from 504HealthNet, and Dr. Anjali Niyogi, Clinical Assistant Professor of General Internal Medicine at Tulane University. Locals will also give testimony about the effects a repeal, without a viable replacement, will have on their lives and businesses.</span><br style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<br style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<span style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">The event is sponsored by the Louisiana Budget Project, Jesuit Social Research Institute, and Voices of the Experienced (VOTE).</span><br style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<br style="color: rgb(75, 79, 86); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<a class="_58cn" data-ft="{"tn":"*N","type":104}" href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/protectourcare" style="color: rgb(54, 88, 153); cursor: pointer; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">#ProtectOurCare</a></p>
<p><a href="http://evite.me/XecAx7jqUC">ATTEND THIS EVENT>></a></p>
Date
Louisiana has one of biggest gaps between its richest, poorest residents
News Intro Text
BY ELIZABETH CRISP | ECRISP@THEADVOCATE.COM DEC 15, 2016
News Item Content
<div>
BY ELIZABETH CRISP | ECRISP@THEADVOCATE.COM DEC 15, 2016</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
A national nonpartisan research group that focuses on reducing poverty is calling on Louisiana leaders to embrace tax policies that set out to reverse a growing income inequality among the state's residents.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Louisiana has one of the largest disparities between its poorest residents and the richest, according to the Washington, D.C.-based Center on Budget and Policy Priorities' analysis released this week. The report found only New York, California and Connecticut have a larger gap than Louisiana between average income for the state's wealthiest and low-income households.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
"State policy choices can make matters worse or they can improve them," said Center on Budget and Policy Priorities fellow Liz McNichol, the report's author. "Reducing inequality should be a priority of decision makers."</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
The Louisiana Legislature is expected to next year mull tax proposals as it sets out to fix the state budget, which has been caught in a cycle of deficits in recent years.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
"2017 in Louisiana represents, really, the best chance we've had in almost a generation to make some structural changes in our tax code to begin to address some of these things," said Jan Moller, director of the Louisiana Budget Project, which advocates on behalf of low and moderate income households and joined CBPP for the release of the report.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/news/politics/article_860b6480-c24d-11e6-98a8-17fcde65b6f8.html">FULL ARTICLE>></a></div>
BY ELIZABETH CRISP | ECRISP@THEADVOCATE.COM DEC 15, 2016</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
A national nonpartisan research group that focuses on reducing poverty is calling on Louisiana leaders to embrace tax policies that set out to reverse a growing income inequality among the state's residents.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Louisiana has one of the largest disparities between its poorest residents and the richest, according to the Washington, D.C.-based Center on Budget and Policy Priorities' analysis released this week. The report found only New York, California and Connecticut have a larger gap than Louisiana between average income for the state's wealthiest and low-income households.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
"State policy choices can make matters worse or they can improve them," said Center on Budget and Policy Priorities fellow Liz McNichol, the report's author. "Reducing inequality should be a priority of decision makers."</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
The Louisiana Legislature is expected to next year mull tax proposals as it sets out to fix the state budget, which has been caught in a cycle of deficits in recent years.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
"2017 in Louisiana represents, really, the best chance we've had in almost a generation to make some structural changes in our tax code to begin to address some of these things," said Jan Moller, director of the Louisiana Budget Project, which advocates on behalf of low and moderate income households and joined CBPP for the release of the report.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/news/politics/article_860b6480-c24d-11e6-98a8-17fcde65b6f8.html">FULL ARTICLE>></a></div>
Date
Advent Reflection: Week 4
News Intro Text
The fourth of four solidarity based Advent reflections for use in catechetical settings or at home with family by Catholic Relief Services.
News Item Content
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Advent week 4.jpg" /></p>
Date
I Am Your Voice
News Intro Text
Will Trump be a Voice for Working-Class Americans?
News Item Content
<p>by Jeanie Donovan, MPA, MPH</p>
<p>“I am your voice!” That is the declaration Donald Trump made to struggling Americans as he accepted the Republican nomination for President in July. Trump maintained and built upon that message throughout his unconventional campaign. He repeatedly promised working class voters that he would create an economy in which they could thrive, and it was on that message (among others) that he won the presidency. </p>
<p>When he becomes the 45th president on January 20, 2017, Trump will have many opportunities to make good on his pledge to voice the interests of working-class Americans. One of those opportunities will come in the form of defending new overtime regulations issued by the U.S. Department of Labor in May 2016 that, according to the Economic Policy Institute, have the potential to raise the wages of as many as 12.5 million U.S. workers. </p>
<p>The long-awaited update to federal overtime regulations represented a victory for working Americans who are putting in extra hours but not receiving adequate overtime pay. The rules, which were scheduled to take effect on December 1, 2016, would raise the salary threshold for workers who must be paid overtime from those making $455 a week to those making $913 a week. Any worker earning a salary less than $913 per week would be guaranteed time-and-a half pay for any hours worked beyond the regular 40-hour work week. The industries that employ the largest numbers of impacted workers include agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting; leisure and hospitality; and construction. </p>
<p>Unfortunately, a federal judge in Texas temporarily halted the implementation of those rules on November 22 after a group of states and dozens of business groups argued that it represented federal overreach and would be too costly to implement. Judge Amos Mazzant III put in place an injunction that blocked the implementation of the rules and now, it will be up to the federal government to fight his decision in the appeals process. That is, if President Trump makes it a priority.</p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/r4j5l/2243c696d74e681ce6912d70b5eb3378">MORE>></a></p>
<p>“I am your voice!” That is the declaration Donald Trump made to struggling Americans as he accepted the Republican nomination for President in July. Trump maintained and built upon that message throughout his unconventional campaign. He repeatedly promised working class voters that he would create an economy in which they could thrive, and it was on that message (among others) that he won the presidency. </p>
<p>When he becomes the 45th president on January 20, 2017, Trump will have many opportunities to make good on his pledge to voice the interests of working-class Americans. One of those opportunities will come in the form of defending new overtime regulations issued by the U.S. Department of Labor in May 2016 that, according to the Economic Policy Institute, have the potential to raise the wages of as many as 12.5 million U.S. workers. </p>
<p>The long-awaited update to federal overtime regulations represented a victory for working Americans who are putting in extra hours but not receiving adequate overtime pay. The rules, which were scheduled to take effect on December 1, 2016, would raise the salary threshold for workers who must be paid overtime from those making $455 a week to those making $913 a week. Any worker earning a salary less than $913 per week would be guaranteed time-and-a half pay for any hours worked beyond the regular 40-hour work week. The industries that employ the largest numbers of impacted workers include agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting; leisure and hospitality; and construction. </p>
<p>Unfortunately, a federal judge in Texas temporarily halted the implementation of those rules on November 22 after a group of states and dozens of business groups argued that it represented federal overreach and would be too costly to implement. Judge Amos Mazzant III put in place an injunction that blocked the implementation of the rules and now, it will be up to the federal government to fight his decision in the appeals process. That is, if President Trump makes it a priority.</p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/r4j5l/2243c696d74e681ce6912d70b5eb3378">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Advent Reflection: Week 3
News Intro Text
The third of four solidarity based Advent reflections for use in catechetical settings or at home with family by Catholic Relief Services.
News Item Content
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Advent week 3.jpg" /></p>
Date
Sanctuary Movement Sees Post-Election Resurgence.
News Intro Text
Here's How to Get Involved.
News Item Content
<p>By Donna Schaper 12-05-2016, <a href="https://sojo.net/">Sojourners </a></p>
<p>During very hard times, people often shelter — provide sanctuary for each other.</p>
<p>I think of the amazing work of Raoul Wallenberg during the 1940s — who set up 31 safe houses to shelter Jews from the Nazis in and around Budapest — or the brave family in Amsterdam who hid Anne Frank during World War II.</p>
<p>I think of Jewish and German immigrants in old New York City, where I now live and work. They slept in three shifts. “Hurry up and eat, honey, we need the tablecloth for a sheet,” is a famous Yiddish expression. It would be hard to say who was providing sanctuary for whom — but surely they were mutually sheltering each other in a cost-effective way.</p>
<p>Or more recently, in the 1970s and ‘80s in this country, when political refugees poured across the border from Nicaragua and Guatemala during the U.S.-supported wars there, and churches and synagogues hid some of them to protect them from deportation, in the first so-named U.S. “Sanctuary Movement.”</p>
<p>Less dramatic situations develop now in many of our families, where a 26-year-old adult child can’t find work and comes home to live in the basement. We take each other in, especially if we have the space and others don’t.</p>
<p>“Sanctuary” in the 21st century has often been defined as larger than providing housing. In the New York City New Sanctuary Coalition, for the last 10 years of our existence, we have defined “sanctuary” as moral, spiritual, psychological, financial, legal — and sometimes physical — support for people who are about to be detained or deported. Why the broad definition? Because often the first five adjectives protect more people than the last one. Physical sanctuary often serves as a publicity attempt to raise the larger issues — but actually benefitting only the person sheltered.</p>
<p>The NYC New Sanctuary Coalition’s Accompaniment Project has trained hundreds of volunteers to accompany people facing deportation on their required periodic “check-ins” with the local Immigration and Customs Enforcement office. ICE doesn’t like to have citizens paying attention to what they are doing. Showing ICE that immigrants have citizens watching and supporting them helps ICE to realize that these people are not the ones that they need to deport right now. Accompaniment is as good a supportive strategy as physical sanctuary, helps more immigrants, and can be a gateway to providing physical sanctuary if it becomes necessary.</p>
<p>We also broadened the definition of sanctuary as a strategy because we in the faith community thought it more spiritual and theological in its core, than the important human, constitutional, and civil rights cores espoused by our marvelous secular partners in immigration protection.</p>
<p>When Congress failed to pass immigration reform laws for all eight years of the last administration, we found ourselves playing much more defense than offense. We surely tried to change the unjust laws and we surely failed.</p>
<p><a href="https://sojo.net/articles/sanctuary-movement-sees-post-election-resurgence-heres-how-get-involved">MORE>> </a></p>
<p>During very hard times, people often shelter — provide sanctuary for each other.</p>
<p>I think of the amazing work of Raoul Wallenberg during the 1940s — who set up 31 safe houses to shelter Jews from the Nazis in and around Budapest — or the brave family in Amsterdam who hid Anne Frank during World War II.</p>
<p>I think of Jewish and German immigrants in old New York City, where I now live and work. They slept in three shifts. “Hurry up and eat, honey, we need the tablecloth for a sheet,” is a famous Yiddish expression. It would be hard to say who was providing sanctuary for whom — but surely they were mutually sheltering each other in a cost-effective way.</p>
<p>Or more recently, in the 1970s and ‘80s in this country, when political refugees poured across the border from Nicaragua and Guatemala during the U.S.-supported wars there, and churches and synagogues hid some of them to protect them from deportation, in the first so-named U.S. “Sanctuary Movement.”</p>
<p>Less dramatic situations develop now in many of our families, where a 26-year-old adult child can’t find work and comes home to live in the basement. We take each other in, especially if we have the space and others don’t.</p>
<p>“Sanctuary” in the 21st century has often been defined as larger than providing housing. In the New York City New Sanctuary Coalition, for the last 10 years of our existence, we have defined “sanctuary” as moral, spiritual, psychological, financial, legal — and sometimes physical — support for people who are about to be detained or deported. Why the broad definition? Because often the first five adjectives protect more people than the last one. Physical sanctuary often serves as a publicity attempt to raise the larger issues — but actually benefitting only the person sheltered.</p>
<p>The NYC New Sanctuary Coalition’s Accompaniment Project has trained hundreds of volunteers to accompany people facing deportation on their required periodic “check-ins” with the local Immigration and Customs Enforcement office. ICE doesn’t like to have citizens paying attention to what they are doing. Showing ICE that immigrants have citizens watching and supporting them helps ICE to realize that these people are not the ones that they need to deport right now. Accompaniment is as good a supportive strategy as physical sanctuary, helps more immigrants, and can be a gateway to providing physical sanctuary if it becomes necessary.</p>
<p>We also broadened the definition of sanctuary as a strategy because we in the faith community thought it more spiritual and theological in its core, than the important human, constitutional, and civil rights cores espoused by our marvelous secular partners in immigration protection.</p>
<p>When Congress failed to pass immigration reform laws for all eight years of the last administration, we found ourselves playing much more defense than offense. We surely tried to change the unjust laws and we surely failed.</p>
<p><a href="https://sojo.net/articles/sanctuary-movement-sees-post-election-resurgence-heres-how-get-involved">MORE>> </a></p>
Date
ACTION ALERT
News Intro Text
Your Voice is Needed to Protect Economic Security for All!
News Item Content
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 3px 10px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;">As you know, we are going to have to fight to protect the critical programs that promote economic security for all and provide services to the least among us: the Affordable Care Act, Medicaid, Medicare, Social Security, CHIP, public housing, SNAP, and aid for people with disabilities are all in jeopardy under the new President and Congress.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 3px 10px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;"><b style="box-sizing: border-box;">We need your signature.</b></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 3px 10px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;"><b style="box-sizing: border-box;">Sign a letter to the new President and Congress.</b><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />
The <a href="https://www.votervoice.net/BroadcastLinks/2R1tVOJAbA09qaUbpRs5jQ" style="box-sizing: border-box; outline: none; color: rgb(84, 1, 21);" target="_blank" title="This external link will open in a new window">Coalition on Human Needs</a> is collecting signatures from thousands of organizations and individuals to stand together <b style="box-sizing: border-box;"><i style="box-sizing: border-box;">against</i></b> dismantling the services and protections people need and <b style="box-sizing: border-box;"><i style="box-sizing: border-box;">for</i></b> proven investments to extend opportunity and economic security to all. <br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />
<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />
Please read it – we believe you or your organization will want to <a href="https://www.votervoice.net/BroadcastLinks/qpCyT5Q8eGVlx-m2Xqsxeg" style="box-sizing: border-box; outline: none; color: rgb(84, 1, 21);" target="_blank" title="This external link will open in a new window">sign</a>, and we need you, both to sign and to circulate to those in your networks. </p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 3px 10px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;"><b style="box-sizing: border-box;"><i style="box-sizing: border-box;">When so much is at stake, why does a letter matter?</i></b> It says to the Senators needed to block the passage of destructive bills that groups in their states are among thousands nationwide ready to take a stand and take action. </p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 3px 10px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;">The letter incorporates principles under the theme <b style="box-sizing: border-box;"><i style="box-sizing: border-box;">Strengthening America’s Values and Economy (SAVE) for All.</i></b> It affirms these principles - consistent with Catholic Social Teaching - that federal priorities must (1) protect and assist low-income and vulnerable people; (2) invest in broadly shared economic growth and jobs; (3) increase revenues from fair sources; and (4) seek savings from reducing waste in the Pentagon and elsewhere. <br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />
<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />
<b style="box-sizing: border-box;">It’s never been more important to come together. </b>The SAVE for All letter is a vehicle to do that – please join in making your voice heard!</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 3px 10px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;"> <b style="box-sizing: border-box;">***</b>Please forward this to your networks, partners, and other interested parties.<b style="box-sizing: border-box;">***</b></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 3px 10px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;">The deadline for this <a href="https://www.votervoice.net/BroadcastLinks/0JShZb4n4BBv8yfv4Q3MEA" style="box-sizing: border-box; outline: none; color: rgb(84, 1, 21);" target="_blank" title="This external link will open in a new window">sign-on letter</a> is <b style="box-sizing: border-box;">January 5</b><b style="box-sizing: border-box;"><sup style="box-sizing: border-box;">th</sup></b><b style="box-sizing: border-box;">, 2017</b>.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 3px 10px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;"><b style="box-sizing: border-box;">We need your signature.</b></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 3px 10px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;"><b style="box-sizing: border-box;">Sign a letter to the new President and Congress.</b><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />
The <a href="https://www.votervoice.net/BroadcastLinks/2R1tVOJAbA09qaUbpRs5jQ" style="box-sizing: border-box; outline: none; color: rgb(84, 1, 21);" target="_blank" title="This external link will open in a new window">Coalition on Human Needs</a> is collecting signatures from thousands of organizations and individuals to stand together <b style="box-sizing: border-box;"><i style="box-sizing: border-box;">against</i></b> dismantling the services and protections people need and <b style="box-sizing: border-box;"><i style="box-sizing: border-box;">for</i></b> proven investments to extend opportunity and economic security to all. <br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />
<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />
Please read it – we believe you or your organization will want to <a href="https://www.votervoice.net/BroadcastLinks/qpCyT5Q8eGVlx-m2Xqsxeg" style="box-sizing: border-box; outline: none; color: rgb(84, 1, 21);" target="_blank" title="This external link will open in a new window">sign</a>, and we need you, both to sign and to circulate to those in your networks. </p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 3px 10px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;"><b style="box-sizing: border-box;"><i style="box-sizing: border-box;">When so much is at stake, why does a letter matter?</i></b> It says to the Senators needed to block the passage of destructive bills that groups in their states are among thousands nationwide ready to take a stand and take action. </p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 3px 10px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;">The letter incorporates principles under the theme <b style="box-sizing: border-box;"><i style="box-sizing: border-box;">Strengthening America’s Values and Economy (SAVE) for All.</i></b> It affirms these principles - consistent with Catholic Social Teaching - that federal priorities must (1) protect and assist low-income and vulnerable people; (2) invest in broadly shared economic growth and jobs; (3) increase revenues from fair sources; and (4) seek savings from reducing waste in the Pentagon and elsewhere. <br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />
<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />
<b style="box-sizing: border-box;">It’s never been more important to come together. </b>The SAVE for All letter is a vehicle to do that – please join in making your voice heard!</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 3px 10px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;"> <b style="box-sizing: border-box;">***</b>Please forward this to your networks, partners, and other interested parties.<b style="box-sizing: border-box;">***</b></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 3px 10px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;">The deadline for this <a href="https://www.votervoice.net/BroadcastLinks/0JShZb4n4BBv8yfv4Q3MEA" style="box-sizing: border-box; outline: none; color: rgb(84, 1, 21);" target="_blank" title="This external link will open in a new window">sign-on letter</a> is <b style="box-sizing: border-box;">January 5</b><b style="box-sizing: border-box;"><sup style="box-sizing: border-box;">th</sup></b><b style="box-sizing: border-box;">, 2017</b>.</p>
Date
Advent Reflection: Week 2
News Intro Text
The second of four solidarity based Advent reflections for use in catechetical settings or at home with family by Catholic Relief Services.
News Item Content
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Advent week 2.jpg" /></p>
Date
Undervalued and underpaid in America
News Intro Text
The deck is stacked against millions of working women
News Item Content
<p>The gender segregation of the workforce (in the US and globally) has meant, in general, that women are concentrated in jobs that pay lower wages. The bad news is that it’s getting worse for women. In the next decade, low-wage women’s jobs will increase at one and a half times the rate of all other jobs. Even more women will be faced with the need to take jobs that undervalue their education and skills, undercompensate their contributions, and exact heavy physical and emotional costs.</p>
<p>This study explores the millions of low-wage jobs where women are concentrated. These “low-wage women’s” jobs meet four criteria: most workers are women; the median wage is under $15 an hour; at least 100,000 women do the job; and the number of jobs will grow in the next 20 years.</p>
<p>We found 22 low-wage women’s work jobs; of the 23.5 million workers doing these jobs, 81 percent are women (19 million). And they are a big segment of the larger workforce: they account for over a quarter of all women’s employment, and 64 percent of women’s low-wage employment.</p>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<a href="https://www.oxfamamerica.org/explore/research-publications/undervalued-and-underpaid-in-america/">FULL REPORT & MATERIALS >></a></div>
<p>This study explores the millions of low-wage jobs where women are concentrated. These “low-wage women’s” jobs meet four criteria: most workers are women; the median wage is under $15 an hour; at least 100,000 women do the job; and the number of jobs will grow in the next 20 years.</p>
<p>We found 22 low-wage women’s work jobs; of the 23.5 million workers doing these jobs, 81 percent are women (19 million). And they are a big segment of the larger workforce: they account for over a quarter of all women’s employment, and 64 percent of women’s low-wage employment.</p>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<a href="https://www.oxfamamerica.org/explore/research-publications/undervalued-and-underpaid-in-america/">FULL REPORT & MATERIALS >></a></div>
Date
Statement of AJCU Presidents on Undocumented Students
News Intro Text
November 30, 2016
News Item Content
<p>November 30, 2016</p>
<p>Contact: Deanna I. Howes, Director of Communications, AJCU</p>
<p>dhowes@ajcunet.edu | (202) 862-9893</p>
<p>As Presidents of the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities we feel spiritually and morally compelled to raise a collective voice confirming our values and commitments as Americans and educators. We represent colleges and universities from across our nation with more than 215,000 students and 21,000 faculty, and over 2 million living alumni.</p>
<p>Grounded in our Catholic and Jesuit mission, we are guided by our commitment to uphold the dignity of every person, to work for the common good of our nation, and to promote a living faith that works for justice. We see our work of teaching, scholarship and the formation of minds and spirits as a sacred trust.</p>
<p>That trust prompts us to labor for solidarity among all people, and especially with and for the poor and marginalized of our society. That trust calls us to embrace the entire human family, regardless of their immigration status (1) or religious allegiance. And experience has shown us that our communities are immeasurably enriched by the presence, intelligence, and committed contributions of undocumented students, as well as of faculty and staff of every color and from every faith tradition.</p>
<p> Therefore, we will continue working:</p>
<p>• To protect to the fullest extent of the law undocumented students on our campuses;</p>
<p>• To promote retention of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals Program (DACA);</p>
<p>• To support and stand with our students, faculty and staff regardless of their faith traditions;</p>
<p>• To preserve the religious freedoms on which our nation was founded.</p>
<p>As we conclude this Year of Mercy, we make our own the aims enunciated by Pope Francis:</p>
<p>"Every human being is a child of God! He or she bears the image of Christ! We ourselves need to see, and then to enable others to see, that migrants and refugees do not only represent a problem to be solved, but are brothers and sisters to be welcomed, respected and loved." (2)</p>
<p>We hope that this statement will inspire members of our University communities, as well as the larger national community, to promote efforts at welcome, dialogue, and reconciliation among all that share our land. We welcome further conversation and commit ourselves to modeling the kind of discourse and debate that are at the heart of our nation’s ideals. And we promise to bring the best resources of our institutions – of intellect, reflection, and service – to bear in the task of fostering understanding in the United States at this particular time in our history.</p>
<p>Signed,</p>
<p>John J. Hurley</p>
<p>Canisius College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Daniel S. Hendrickson, S.J.</p>
<p>Creighton University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Joseph M. McShane, S.J.</p>
<p>Fordham University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Thayne M. McCulloh</p>
<p>Gonzaga University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Linda M. LeMura</p>
<p>Le Moyne College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Jo Ann Rooney</p>
<p>Loyola University Chicago</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Kevin Wm. Wildes, S.J.</p>
<p>Loyola University New Orleans</p>
<p> </p>
<p>John P. Fitzgibbons, S.J.</p>
<p>Regis University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Mark C. Reed</p>
<p>Saint Joseph's University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Eugene J. Cornacchia</p>
<p>Saint Peter's University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Stephen Sundborg, S.J.</p>
<p>Seattle University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Antoine M. Garibaldi</p>
<p>University of Detroit Mercy</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Kevin P. Quinn, S.J.</p>
<p>University of Scranton</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Michael J. Graham, S.J.</p>
<p>Xavier University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Philip L. Boroughs, S.J.</p>
<p>College of the Holy Cross</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Jeffrey P. von Arx, S.J.</p>
<p>Fairfield University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>John J. DeGioia</p>
<p>Georgetown University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Robert L. Niehoff, S.J.</p>
<p>John Carroll University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Timothy Law Snyder</p>
<p>Loyola Marymount University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Brian F. Linnane, S.J.</p>
<p>Loyola University Maryland</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Michael Lovell</p>
<p>Marquette University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Thomas Curran, S.J.</p>
<p>Rockhurst University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Fred P. Pestello</p>
<p>Saint Louis University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Michael E. Engh, S.J.</p>
<p>Santa Clara University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Christopher P. Puto</p>
<p>Spring Hill College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Paul J. Fitzgerald, S.J.</p>
<p>University of San Francisco</p>
<p> </p>
<p>James Fleming, S.J.</p>
<p>Wheeling Jesuit University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Michael J. Sheeran, S.J.</p>
<p>Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities</p>
<p> </p>
<p>(1) AJCU Presidents Statement in Support of Undocumented Individuals, January 2013 (http://bit.ly/2fNj9V6) </p>
<p>(2) Message of His Holiness Pope Francis for The World Day Of Migrants And Refugees (5 August 2014).</p>
<div>
</div>
<p>Contact: Deanna I. Howes, Director of Communications, AJCU</p>
<p>dhowes@ajcunet.edu | (202) 862-9893</p>
<p>As Presidents of the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities we feel spiritually and morally compelled to raise a collective voice confirming our values and commitments as Americans and educators. We represent colleges and universities from across our nation with more than 215,000 students and 21,000 faculty, and over 2 million living alumni.</p>
<p>Grounded in our Catholic and Jesuit mission, we are guided by our commitment to uphold the dignity of every person, to work for the common good of our nation, and to promote a living faith that works for justice. We see our work of teaching, scholarship and the formation of minds and spirits as a sacred trust.</p>
<p>That trust prompts us to labor for solidarity among all people, and especially with and for the poor and marginalized of our society. That trust calls us to embrace the entire human family, regardless of their immigration status (1) or religious allegiance. And experience has shown us that our communities are immeasurably enriched by the presence, intelligence, and committed contributions of undocumented students, as well as of faculty and staff of every color and from every faith tradition.</p>
<p> Therefore, we will continue working:</p>
<p>• To protect to the fullest extent of the law undocumented students on our campuses;</p>
<p>• To promote retention of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals Program (DACA);</p>
<p>• To support and stand with our students, faculty and staff regardless of their faith traditions;</p>
<p>• To preserve the religious freedoms on which our nation was founded.</p>
<p>As we conclude this Year of Mercy, we make our own the aims enunciated by Pope Francis:</p>
<p>"Every human being is a child of God! He or she bears the image of Christ! We ourselves need to see, and then to enable others to see, that migrants and refugees do not only represent a problem to be solved, but are brothers and sisters to be welcomed, respected and loved." (2)</p>
<p>We hope that this statement will inspire members of our University communities, as well as the larger national community, to promote efforts at welcome, dialogue, and reconciliation among all that share our land. We welcome further conversation and commit ourselves to modeling the kind of discourse and debate that are at the heart of our nation’s ideals. And we promise to bring the best resources of our institutions – of intellect, reflection, and service – to bear in the task of fostering understanding in the United States at this particular time in our history.</p>
<p>Signed,</p>
<p>John J. Hurley</p>
<p>Canisius College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Daniel S. Hendrickson, S.J.</p>
<p>Creighton University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Joseph M. McShane, S.J.</p>
<p>Fordham University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Thayne M. McCulloh</p>
<p>Gonzaga University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Linda M. LeMura</p>
<p>Le Moyne College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Jo Ann Rooney</p>
<p>Loyola University Chicago</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Kevin Wm. Wildes, S.J.</p>
<p>Loyola University New Orleans</p>
<p> </p>
<p>John P. Fitzgibbons, S.J.</p>
<p>Regis University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Mark C. Reed</p>
<p>Saint Joseph's University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Eugene J. Cornacchia</p>
<p>Saint Peter's University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Stephen Sundborg, S.J.</p>
<p>Seattle University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Antoine M. Garibaldi</p>
<p>University of Detroit Mercy</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Kevin P. Quinn, S.J.</p>
<p>University of Scranton</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Michael J. Graham, S.J.</p>
<p>Xavier University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Philip L. Boroughs, S.J.</p>
<p>College of the Holy Cross</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Jeffrey P. von Arx, S.J.</p>
<p>Fairfield University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>John J. DeGioia</p>
<p>Georgetown University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Robert L. Niehoff, S.J.</p>
<p>John Carroll University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Timothy Law Snyder</p>
<p>Loyola Marymount University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Brian F. Linnane, S.J.</p>
<p>Loyola University Maryland</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Michael Lovell</p>
<p>Marquette University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Thomas Curran, S.J.</p>
<p>Rockhurst University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Fred P. Pestello</p>
<p>Saint Louis University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Michael E. Engh, S.J.</p>
<p>Santa Clara University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Christopher P. Puto</p>
<p>Spring Hill College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Paul J. Fitzgerald, S.J.</p>
<p>University of San Francisco</p>
<p> </p>
<p>James Fleming, S.J.</p>
<p>Wheeling Jesuit University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Michael J. Sheeran, S.J.</p>
<p>Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities</p>
<p> </p>
<p>(1) AJCU Presidents Statement in Support of Undocumented Individuals, January 2013 (http://bit.ly/2fNj9V6) </p>
<p>(2) Message of His Holiness Pope Francis for The World Day Of Migrants And Refugees (5 August 2014).</p>
<div>
</div>
Date
Louisiana shouldn't be known for locking people away
News Intro Text
The Editorial Board, NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune
News Item Content
<p style="margin-bottom: 1.067em; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "Benton Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.208px;"><span style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.3px;">By </span><a class="bl p-author vcard" href="http://connect.nola.com/user/nolatpedit/posts.html" id="vCard" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); border-bottom: 1px solid rgb(68, 68, 68); padding-bottom: 1px; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.3px;">The Editorial Board, NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune</a></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 1.067em; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "Benton Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.208px;">Louisiana is infamous for <a href="http://www.nola.com/crime/index.ssf/2012/05/louisiana_is_the_worlds_prison.html" style="color: rgb(0, 136, 238); border-bottom: 2px solid rgb(185, 225, 255);">locking up more people </a>per capita than any other place in the world. The state's devotion to long sentences for even nonviolent offenders has divided families unnecessarily and cost Louisiana valuable resources that could go to education, health care or other services.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 1.067em; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "Benton Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.208px;">Our state has the highest percentage of inmates serving life sentences without a chance of parole. Some of those inmates have never been convicted of a violent crime. That approach essentially discards people who might be rehabilitated, impoverishes families and drains the state budget. An offender who begins a life sentence in his 20s who lives to be at least 70 will cost the state roughly $1 million to incarcerate.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 1.067em; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "Benton Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.208px;">Of course, criminals who commit violent acts deserve serious punishment. But Louisiana routinely imprisons people who've committed minor nonviolent crimes. Many of them are held in local jails, where they get little or no rehabilitation. These inmates return to their communities with no skills and a criminal record and have little chance of getting a job. That makes it far more likely they will end up back in jail.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 1.067em; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "Benton Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.208px;">Despite this bleak situation, state leaders have shown little interest in comprehensive reform. Thankfully, that seems to be changing.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 1.067em; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "Benton Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.208px;">Gov. John Bel Edwards is making <a href="http://topics.nola.com/tag/louisiana%20prison%20system/" style="color: rgb(0, 136, 238); border-bottom: 2px solid rgb(185, 225, 255);">prison </a>reform a priority. He persuaded legislators this year to "ban the box" on state job applications for unclassified positions. Under the new law, applicants no longer have to disclose felony convictions on their employment application. Checking that criminal history box can eliminate an otherwise qualified candidate without even a chance of competing for the job.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 1.067em; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "Benton Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.208px;">As the world leader in incarceration, Louisiana has thousands of ex-inmates who need to find jobs to support themselves and their families. Making it easier for them to find employment could help keep them from returning to prison.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 1.067em; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "Benton Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.208px;">Gov. Edwards has set a goal of reducing the state prison population by 5,000 inmates during this four-year term. And he seems to be gaining ground with some important supporters.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 1.067em; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "Benton Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.208px;">His Department of Corrections Secretary Jimmy LeBlanc is crisscrossing the state to talk about ways to lower the state prison population. Last week, he made his pitch to the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry. LABI in the past had opposed "ban the box" legislation but didn't fight it this year.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 1.067em; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "Benton Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.208px;">John Finan, LABI's board chairman for 2016, is interested in reforms such as reducing the length of sentences and finding alternatives to prison for nonviolent drug offenders. He is president and CEO of the Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Health System, a religious organization, which he said has influenced his priorities.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 1.067em; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "Benton Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.208px;">The conservative Family Forum could be another important ally on prison reforms. The group helped push the "ban the box" legislation through the Legislature.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 1.067em; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "Benton Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.208px;">"We know that our prison population is too high," said Republican state Rep. Rick Edmunds, a minister from Baton Rouge who is allied with Family Forum. "I think we have some common ground here."</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 1.067em; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "Benton Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.208px;">Gov. Edwards is planning to release his reform package in March, and the details will determine how much support he is able to pull together. Sheriffs who make money holding state inmates in their jails aren't likely to favor anything that reduces their share of prisoners. But that shouldn't drive sentencing policy.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 1.067em; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "Benton Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.208px;"><a href="http://www.nola.com/politics/index.ssf/2016/11/louisiana_prison_reform_1.html#incart_river_index">MORE>></a></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 1.067em; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "Benton Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.208px;">Louisiana is infamous for <a href="http://www.nola.com/crime/index.ssf/2012/05/louisiana_is_the_worlds_prison.html" style="color: rgb(0, 136, 238); border-bottom: 2px solid rgb(185, 225, 255);">locking up more people </a>per capita than any other place in the world. The state's devotion to long sentences for even nonviolent offenders has divided families unnecessarily and cost Louisiana valuable resources that could go to education, health care or other services.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 1.067em; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "Benton Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.208px;">Our state has the highest percentage of inmates serving life sentences without a chance of parole. Some of those inmates have never been convicted of a violent crime. That approach essentially discards people who might be rehabilitated, impoverishes families and drains the state budget. An offender who begins a life sentence in his 20s who lives to be at least 70 will cost the state roughly $1 million to incarcerate.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 1.067em; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "Benton Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.208px;">Of course, criminals who commit violent acts deserve serious punishment. But Louisiana routinely imprisons people who've committed minor nonviolent crimes. Many of them are held in local jails, where they get little or no rehabilitation. These inmates return to their communities with no skills and a criminal record and have little chance of getting a job. That makes it far more likely they will end up back in jail.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 1.067em; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "Benton Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.208px;">Despite this bleak situation, state leaders have shown little interest in comprehensive reform. Thankfully, that seems to be changing.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 1.067em; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "Benton Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.208px;">Gov. John Bel Edwards is making <a href="http://topics.nola.com/tag/louisiana%20prison%20system/" style="color: rgb(0, 136, 238); border-bottom: 2px solid rgb(185, 225, 255);">prison </a>reform a priority. He persuaded legislators this year to "ban the box" on state job applications for unclassified positions. Under the new law, applicants no longer have to disclose felony convictions on their employment application. Checking that criminal history box can eliminate an otherwise qualified candidate without even a chance of competing for the job.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 1.067em; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "Benton Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.208px;">As the world leader in incarceration, Louisiana has thousands of ex-inmates who need to find jobs to support themselves and their families. Making it easier for them to find employment could help keep them from returning to prison.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 1.067em; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "Benton Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.208px;">Gov. Edwards has set a goal of reducing the state prison population by 5,000 inmates during this four-year term. And he seems to be gaining ground with some important supporters.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 1.067em; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "Benton Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.208px;">His Department of Corrections Secretary Jimmy LeBlanc is crisscrossing the state to talk about ways to lower the state prison population. Last week, he made his pitch to the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry. LABI in the past had opposed "ban the box" legislation but didn't fight it this year.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 1.067em; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "Benton Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.208px;">John Finan, LABI's board chairman for 2016, is interested in reforms such as reducing the length of sentences and finding alternatives to prison for nonviolent drug offenders. He is president and CEO of the Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Health System, a religious organization, which he said has influenced his priorities.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 1.067em; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "Benton Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.208px;">The conservative Family Forum could be another important ally on prison reforms. The group helped push the "ban the box" legislation through the Legislature.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 1.067em; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "Benton Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.208px;">"We know that our prison population is too high," said Republican state Rep. Rick Edmunds, a minister from Baton Rouge who is allied with Family Forum. "I think we have some common ground here."</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 1.067em; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "Benton Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.208px;">Gov. Edwards is planning to release his reform package in March, and the details will determine how much support he is able to pull together. Sheriffs who make money holding state inmates in their jails aren't likely to favor anything that reduces their share of prisoners. But that shouldn't drive sentencing policy.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 1.067em; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "Benton Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.208px;"><a href="http://www.nola.com/politics/index.ssf/2016/11/louisiana_prison_reform_1.html#incart_river_index">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Advent Reflection: Week 1
News Intro Text
The first of four solidarity based Advent reflections for use in catechetical settings or at home with family by Catholic Relief Services.
News Item Content
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/IMG_0103.PNG" style="width: 500px; height: 700px;" /></p>
Date
A Dream Deferred
News Intro Text
DREAMERS' Reactions to the Trump Election
News Item Content
<p>by Sue Weishar, Ph.D. </p>
<p>If Donald Trump keeps his campaign promises, perhaps no group of people will be more immediately and negatively impacted when he assumes office than recipients of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. Launched by President Obama in 2012, DACA provides young undocumented immigrants brought to the U.S. as children temporary work authorization and protection from deportation.</p>
<p>Last week I asked two young women, both DACA recipients, about their thoughts and concerns on the election of Donald Trump.</p>
<p>Sofia* was nine years old when her family left Mexico for a chance at a better life in the U.S. Since July 2015, she has worked as a youth minister at a Catholic church. Her response evidences the shock and dismay many immigrants are feeling:</p>
<p>"I am devastated, overwhelmed with fear and hopelessness. As an undocumented person, on DACA… my entire life is at stake here. My school, my job, my ministry and even my teens and their families…What scares me is that many people threw under the bus their brothers and sisters in Christ that are immigrants, Black, Latinos, Muslim, women, disabled, and LGBTQ. We’re supposed to care for each other, respect and protect the ones who are voiceless… How can I look at my teens, [who are] ninety-nine percent Hispanic/Latino and remind them that God has not abandoned us in the middle of this storm? How do I respond to teens or adults that say, 'Trump is Making America Great Again by getting rid of you' or when they make comments such as 'are you ready to go back to Mexico?'"</p>
<p>Miranda*, a recent graduate of Loyola University New Orleans, was only six years old when she was brought to the U.S. from Mexico. She currently works in a law office, but hopes to teach school one day. After the election she felt a combination of numbness and shock that left her “incapable of thinking.” Yet, she also felt she had to “keep it together” for those around her who were even more upset. Additionally, she has found tremendous solace and support from friends:</p>
<p>"It’s been very reassuring. The day after the election I woke up and I had a ton of text messages and Facebook messages and phone calls from friends—'Hey will you marry me?'... 'Are you going to be deported?' ...'Are you going to be OK?'... 'If you need anything, I am going to be there for you.' Being reminded …there are still plenty of good people around that care about you, [regardless of] your legal status… So that is what really keeps me going and feeling optimistic, being surrounded by people that care."</p>
<p>Despite running a nativist campaign that inflamed anti-immigrant sentiments across the nation, I was awed by the compassion these two young women expressed for the president-elect and the American electorate:</p>
<p>Miranda said, “I am trying to understand what the other side was thinking, what fears they were facing, and what was motivating them… I really believe that there are not bad persons, but that people do bad things when they are placed in bad situations.” Sofia said that she “will continue to pray for Mr. Trump and Mr. Pence, in the hopes that God will enlighten them to see and follow Christ’s greatest commandment…to love one another as I have loved you.”</p>
<p>It is unfathomable that a country would want to deport people like Miranda and Sofia. Please, stand in solidarity with our immigrant sisters and brothers. Join JSRI’s Action Alert network. Pray. Hope. Organize. </p>
<p>* Pseudonyms have been used to protect the identity of the women I interviewed.</p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/message/vf7xl/vr8mje">FULL <em>MONTHLY</em>>></a></p>
<p>If Donald Trump keeps his campaign promises, perhaps no group of people will be more immediately and negatively impacted when he assumes office than recipients of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. Launched by President Obama in 2012, DACA provides young undocumented immigrants brought to the U.S. as children temporary work authorization and protection from deportation.</p>
<p>Last week I asked two young women, both DACA recipients, about their thoughts and concerns on the election of Donald Trump.</p>
<p>Sofia* was nine years old when her family left Mexico for a chance at a better life in the U.S. Since July 2015, she has worked as a youth minister at a Catholic church. Her response evidences the shock and dismay many immigrants are feeling:</p>
<p>"I am devastated, overwhelmed with fear and hopelessness. As an undocumented person, on DACA… my entire life is at stake here. My school, my job, my ministry and even my teens and their families…What scares me is that many people threw under the bus their brothers and sisters in Christ that are immigrants, Black, Latinos, Muslim, women, disabled, and LGBTQ. We’re supposed to care for each other, respect and protect the ones who are voiceless… How can I look at my teens, [who are] ninety-nine percent Hispanic/Latino and remind them that God has not abandoned us in the middle of this storm? How do I respond to teens or adults that say, 'Trump is Making America Great Again by getting rid of you' or when they make comments such as 'are you ready to go back to Mexico?'"</p>
<p>Miranda*, a recent graduate of Loyola University New Orleans, was only six years old when she was brought to the U.S. from Mexico. She currently works in a law office, but hopes to teach school one day. After the election she felt a combination of numbness and shock that left her “incapable of thinking.” Yet, she also felt she had to “keep it together” for those around her who were even more upset. Additionally, she has found tremendous solace and support from friends:</p>
<p>"It’s been very reassuring. The day after the election I woke up and I had a ton of text messages and Facebook messages and phone calls from friends—'Hey will you marry me?'... 'Are you going to be deported?' ...'Are you going to be OK?'... 'If you need anything, I am going to be there for you.' Being reminded …there are still plenty of good people around that care about you, [regardless of] your legal status… So that is what really keeps me going and feeling optimistic, being surrounded by people that care."</p>
<p>Despite running a nativist campaign that inflamed anti-immigrant sentiments across the nation, I was awed by the compassion these two young women expressed for the president-elect and the American electorate:</p>
<p>Miranda said, “I am trying to understand what the other side was thinking, what fears they were facing, and what was motivating them… I really believe that there are not bad persons, but that people do bad things when they are placed in bad situations.” Sofia said that she “will continue to pray for Mr. Trump and Mr. Pence, in the hopes that God will enlighten them to see and follow Christ’s greatest commandment…to love one another as I have loved you.”</p>
<p>It is unfathomable that a country would want to deport people like Miranda and Sofia. Please, stand in solidarity with our immigrant sisters and brothers. Join JSRI’s Action Alert network. Pray. Hope. Organize. </p>
<p>* Pseudonyms have been used to protect the identity of the women I interviewed.</p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/message/vf7xl/vr8mje">FULL <em>MONTHLY</em>>></a></p>
Date
In Defiance of Hidden Deaths
News Intro Text
Black Lives Matter as a living philosophy.
News Item Content
<p>By: Nicholas E. Mitchell, Ph.D. </p>
<p>Noted political philosopher Charles Mills argues, in order to understand the current state of race relations, one must first accept the following premise: White Supremacy is one of the most consequential ideologies in human history and the modern world is a direct consequence of it.[1] It belongs in the pantheon of ideologies that changed how humans frame their very existence and has claimed the lives of untold millions. This premise is not an indictment of individuals or their morality; but rather it reflects world history and how we arrived at the current status quo, which can be accurately described as what Mills calls “the racial contract”: a racial, caste system in the United States where people of color are scheduled castes and denied a life free from the machinations of racists.[2] In this context, Black Lives Matter has emerged as not only a political movement, but also as a living philosophy dedicated to nonviolence that seeks to emancipate human bodies—of all race —from the racial contract.</p>
<p>In its intersectional form and as a living philosophy, Black Lives Matter is the current incarnation of the centurieslong Black resistance against White Supremacy across multiple fronts. As a movement, it was catalyzed and given form as a response to the extrajudicial murders of Black men like Michael Brown, Walter Scott, and Alton Sterling; Black women like Sandra Bland, Islan Nettles, and Tanisha</p>
<p>Anderson; and Black children like Trayvon Martin, Tamir Rice, and Aiyana Jones. Black Lives Matter is continuing the work of the Maroon communities, Tubman, Douglass, Wells, Randolph, Rustin, and King; it is the intellectual and spiritual successor of all of the men and women who struggled so that their children would not have to know what oppression looked like, smelled like, or felt like. As a political movement, most recently enunciated in the platform of the Movement for Black Lives, Black Lives Matter is dedicated to emancipatory transformation and has given rise to a number of organizations. Black Lives Matter’s holding of politicians, presidential candidates, and the various police departments around the nation accountable for the murders of Black men, women, and children is an echo of the early twentieth century NAACP’s anti-lynching efforts. They force Americans to see what is happening around them, which makes many people, of all races, uncomfortable. This is intentional and rooted in the Black prophetic tradition and politic which holds that change only happens with tension and the only way to achieve tension is through peaceful agitation.</p>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Black%20Lives%20Matter%20A%20Living%20Philosophy.pdf">MORE>></a></div>
<p>Noted political philosopher Charles Mills argues, in order to understand the current state of race relations, one must first accept the following premise: White Supremacy is one of the most consequential ideologies in human history and the modern world is a direct consequence of it.[1] It belongs in the pantheon of ideologies that changed how humans frame their very existence and has claimed the lives of untold millions. This premise is not an indictment of individuals or their morality; but rather it reflects world history and how we arrived at the current status quo, which can be accurately described as what Mills calls “the racial contract”: a racial, caste system in the United States where people of color are scheduled castes and denied a life free from the machinations of racists.[2] In this context, Black Lives Matter has emerged as not only a political movement, but also as a living philosophy dedicated to nonviolence that seeks to emancipate human bodies—of all race —from the racial contract.</p>
<p>In its intersectional form and as a living philosophy, Black Lives Matter is the current incarnation of the centurieslong Black resistance against White Supremacy across multiple fronts. As a movement, it was catalyzed and given form as a response to the extrajudicial murders of Black men like Michael Brown, Walter Scott, and Alton Sterling; Black women like Sandra Bland, Islan Nettles, and Tanisha</p>
<p>Anderson; and Black children like Trayvon Martin, Tamir Rice, and Aiyana Jones. Black Lives Matter is continuing the work of the Maroon communities, Tubman, Douglass, Wells, Randolph, Rustin, and King; it is the intellectual and spiritual successor of all of the men and women who struggled so that their children would not have to know what oppression looked like, smelled like, or felt like. As a political movement, most recently enunciated in the platform of the Movement for Black Lives, Black Lives Matter is dedicated to emancipatory transformation and has given rise to a number of organizations. Black Lives Matter’s holding of politicians, presidential candidates, and the various police departments around the nation accountable for the murders of Black men, women, and children is an echo of the early twentieth century NAACP’s anti-lynching efforts. They force Americans to see what is happening around them, which makes many people, of all races, uncomfortable. This is intentional and rooted in the Black prophetic tradition and politic which holds that change only happens with tension and the only way to achieve tension is through peaceful agitation.</p>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Black%20Lives%20Matter%20A%20Living%20Philosophy.pdf">MORE>></a></div>
Date
No Place to Call Home
News Intro Text
The Affordable Housing Crisis in the Gulf South
News Item Content
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: Verdana; vertical-align: baseline;">BY JEANIE DONOVAN, M.P.A., M.P.H.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: Verdana; vertical-align: baseline;">“A house is much more than roof over one’s head. [It is] a place where a person creates and lives out his or her life,” said Saint Pope John Paul II.1 Having a stable home to establish our daily routines and relationships is something many of us may take for granted. The benefits of secure, affordable housing are numerous and well-documented, especially for children and other vulnerable populations.[2,3] Unfortunately, millions of working families in the United States and thousands in the Gulf South struggle to find affordable, safe housing where they can create and live out their lives.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: Verdana; vertical-align: baseline;">The root of the problem is two-fold: household incomes have not kept up with inflation and funding for housing assistance programs has not kept pace with the growing need. The results include: homelessness; families forced to forgo other necessities such as food and medical care; and</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: Verdana; vertical-align: baseline;">an increase in the number of low-income households living in substandard or overcrowded housing. Leaving families to live in such situations violates a basic premise of Catholic social teaching—the right to life is fundamental and includes a right to food, clothing, shelter, rest, medical care, and essential social services.[4] Fortunately, the affordable housing crisis is not a problem without solutions; with appropriate policy changes and public investments we can and must increase housing security for families and children.</p>
<div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 16px; font-family: Verdana; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">WAGES NOT KEEPING UP WITH HOUSING COSTS</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">A recent report by the National Low Income Housing Coalition found that the average fair market rent (FMR) for a two-bedroom rental unit in the U.S. is $1,056 per month.[5] The annual income needed to afford that rental unit is $42,240, or $20.30 per hour. A full-time worker earning</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">the federal minimum wage would need to work 112 hours per week, or 2.8 minimum wage jobs to pay for that unit and still be able to afford other household expenses. The average hourly wage of the 41.8 million renters in the U.S. is $15.42—nearly $5 per hour below what is needed to afford</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">the average two-bedroom apartment.[6]</p>
</div>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: Verdana; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/The%20Affordable%20Housing%20Crisis%20in%20the%20Gulf%20South.pdf" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 32px 0px 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background: url("/assets/shared/images/css/icons/pdf.gif") right center no-repeat transparent;">FULL ARTICLE>></a></p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: Verdana; vertical-align: baseline;">“A house is much more than roof over one’s head. [It is] a place where a person creates and lives out his or her life,” said Saint Pope John Paul II.1 Having a stable home to establish our daily routines and relationships is something many of us may take for granted. The benefits of secure, affordable housing are numerous and well-documented, especially for children and other vulnerable populations.[2,3] Unfortunately, millions of working families in the United States and thousands in the Gulf South struggle to find affordable, safe housing where they can create and live out their lives.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: Verdana; vertical-align: baseline;">The root of the problem is two-fold: household incomes have not kept up with inflation and funding for housing assistance programs has not kept pace with the growing need. The results include: homelessness; families forced to forgo other necessities such as food and medical care; and</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: Verdana; vertical-align: baseline;">an increase in the number of low-income households living in substandard or overcrowded housing. Leaving families to live in such situations violates a basic premise of Catholic social teaching—the right to life is fundamental and includes a right to food, clothing, shelter, rest, medical care, and essential social services.[4] Fortunately, the affordable housing crisis is not a problem without solutions; with appropriate policy changes and public investments we can and must increase housing security for families and children.</p>
<div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 16px; font-family: Verdana; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">WAGES NOT KEEPING UP WITH HOUSING COSTS</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">A recent report by the National Low Income Housing Coalition found that the average fair market rent (FMR) for a two-bedroom rental unit in the U.S. is $1,056 per month.[5] The annual income needed to afford that rental unit is $42,240, or $20.30 per hour. A full-time worker earning</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">the federal minimum wage would need to work 112 hours per week, or 2.8 minimum wage jobs to pay for that unit and still be able to afford other household expenses. The average hourly wage of the 41.8 million renters in the U.S. is $15.42—nearly $5 per hour below what is needed to afford</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">the average two-bedroom apartment.[6]</p>
</div>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: Verdana; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/The%20Affordable%20Housing%20Crisis%20in%20the%20Gulf%20South.pdf" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 32px 0px 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background: url("/assets/shared/images/css/icons/pdf.gif") right center no-repeat transparent;">FULL ARTICLE>></a></p>
Date
College students around New Orleans, nation challenge Trump immigration policies, call for 'sanctuary campus'
News Intro Text
[The New Orleans Advocate, November 16, 2016]
News Item Content
<p>CAROLYN THOMPSON The Associated Press</p>
<p>College students at campuses around the United States marched and rallied Wednesday, urging administrators to protect students and employees against immigration action under a Donald Trump presidency.</p>
<p>Rallying supporters on social media with the hashtag #SanctuaryCampus, organizers said actions were planned at more than 80 schools, including Loyola University where over 100 people gathered, and Yale University, where demonstrators numbered about 600.</p>
<p>Students sought assurances that their schools would not share their personal information with immigration officials or allow Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents on campus.</p>
<div>
<p>"Can you imagine the fear that it would inflict on college campuses if having ICE agents walk into a campus becomes the status quo?" organizer Carlos Rojas of the group Movimiento Cosecha, said by phone from New Jersey. "It would be terrifying."</p>
<p>The actions continue days of demonstrations that have broken out in cities and high school campuses following Trump's election victory last week. The Republican's campaign promises included a vow to deport millions of people who are in the U.S. illegally.</p>
<p>"I'm very fearful," said Miriam Zamudio, whose parents brought her to the U.S. from Mexico when she was six or seven. She worries that the family information she provided on her application for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals Status will endanger her parents, who are living in the country without legal permission.</p>
<p>"We don't know what Trump is going to do," Zamudio said by phone as she prepared to join a protest at Rutgers University in New Jersey. "We don't know if he is going to demand this information and we want our administration and our school to stand with us."</p>
<p>Since last Tuesday's election, demonstrations occurred for several nights at Lee Circle, one night resulting in vandalism and broken windows. </p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.theadvocate.com/new_orleans/news/article_ff12643a-ac47-11e6-9b7a-17feffd2499e.html?sr_source=lift_amplify">MORE>></a></p>
</div>
<p> </p>
<p>College students at campuses around the United States marched and rallied Wednesday, urging administrators to protect students and employees against immigration action under a Donald Trump presidency.</p>
<p>Rallying supporters on social media with the hashtag #SanctuaryCampus, organizers said actions were planned at more than 80 schools, including Loyola University where over 100 people gathered, and Yale University, where demonstrators numbered about 600.</p>
<p>Students sought assurances that their schools would not share their personal information with immigration officials or allow Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents on campus.</p>
<div>
<p>"Can you imagine the fear that it would inflict on college campuses if having ICE agents walk into a campus becomes the status quo?" organizer Carlos Rojas of the group Movimiento Cosecha, said by phone from New Jersey. "It would be terrifying."</p>
<p>The actions continue days of demonstrations that have broken out in cities and high school campuses following Trump's election victory last week. The Republican's campaign promises included a vow to deport millions of people who are in the U.S. illegally.</p>
<p>"I'm very fearful," said Miriam Zamudio, whose parents brought her to the U.S. from Mexico when she was six or seven. She worries that the family information she provided on her application for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals Status will endanger her parents, who are living in the country without legal permission.</p>
<p>"We don't know what Trump is going to do," Zamudio said by phone as she prepared to join a protest at Rutgers University in New Jersey. "We don't know if he is going to demand this information and we want our administration and our school to stand with us."</p>
<p>Since last Tuesday's election, demonstrations occurred for several nights at Lee Circle, one night resulting in vandalism and broken windows. </p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.theadvocate.com/new_orleans/news/article_ff12643a-ac47-11e6-9b7a-17feffd2499e.html?sr_source=lift_amplify">MORE>></a></p>
</div>
<p> </p>
Date
JSRI TO SHARE SOCIAL JUSTICE MESSAGE AT IGNATIAN FAMILY TEACH-IN FOR JUSTICE
News Intro Text
Fr. Fred Kammer, SJ will offer a breakout session titled Rooted and Grounded in Love: Grounding Action for Justice in the Social Teachings of the Church at the 19th Ignatian Family Teach-In for Justice from November 12-14 in Washington, D.C.
News Item Content
<p>WASHINGTON, DC – Fr. Fred Kammer, SJ of the Jesuit Social Research Institute will offer a breakout session titled <em>Rooted and Grounded in Love: Grounding Action for Justice in the Social Teachings of the Church </em>at the <a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj/about/"><strong>19th Ignatian Family Teach-In for Justice</strong></a> from <strong>November 12-14</strong> in Washington, D.C.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The annual gathering, drawing over 1,800 participants, provides opportunities for attendees to learn, reflect, pray, network, and advocate in the context of the Catholic faith tradition. A significant portion of attendees are young people, ages 16-22, representing Jesuit and other Catholic institutions from across the U.S., as well as Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and El Salvador.</p>
<p><br />
The 2016 Teach-In theme, “Mercy in Action,” will mark the closing days of Pope Francis’s Year of Mercy, inviting participants to “grow in a love which is courageous, generous and real.” [Pope Francis] The program is sponsored by the <a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/"><strong>Ignatian Solidarity Network</strong></a>.</p>
<p>Initiated in 1997 in Columbus, Georgia, the Teach-In commences yearly in mid-November to commemorate the Jesuit martyrs of El Salvador. The six Jesuit priests and their two companions were murdered on November 16, 1989 for speaking out against the country’s tumultuous civil war. The Teach-In relocated from Georgia to Washington, D.C. in 2010 in response to the growing interest in legislative advocacy and accompanying educational opportunities.</p>
<p>On the morning of <strong>Monday, November 14</strong>, attendees will gather at Columbus Circle for a public witness, gathering with signs, banners, and voices to pray, listen to active advocates, and recommit to work for justice. The Teach-In then culminates with what is estimated to be the largest Catholic advocacy day of the year. Nearly 1,400 individuals will proceed to legislative advocacy meetings with members of Congress and their staffs on Capitol Hill to urge Congress to enact immigration and criminal justice reform.</p>
<p>Keynote speakers include <strong>Sr. Norma Pimentel, </strong>Executive Director of Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley and nationally-recognized advocate for immigrants;<strong> Fr. Greg Boyle, S.J.,</strong> bestselling author and founder and executive director of Homeboy Industries; and <strong>Lisa Sharon Harper, </strong>author and Chief Church Engagement Officer at Sojourners.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The Teach-In also offers more than 50 breakout sessions, presented by national and international speakers, including <strong>Fr. James Martin, S.J., </strong>bestselling author and editor-at-large at America Magazine<strong>; </strong>and <strong>Sr. Simone Campbell,</strong> executive director of NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The celebrant for the Teach-In liturgy on Sunday, November 13 is <strong>Fr. Gregory Chisholm, S.J.</strong>, pastor in Harlem, NY, at St. Charles Borromeo Church and the Chapel of the Resurrection.<br />
</p>
<p>“The Ignatian Family Teach-In for Justice represents the future of our Church,” said <strong>Christopher Kerr</strong>, executive director of the Ignatian Solidarity Network. “Attendees, particularly young people, will be inspired to respond to Pope Francis’s call as people of mercy, striving to build a more justice and sustainable world.”</p>
<p>Livestream coverage of the Teach-In is available at:<a href="http://igsol.net/livestream"> http://igsol.net/livestream</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>The full schedule can be found at: <a href="http://igsol.net/iftj-schedule">http://igsol.net/iftj-schedule</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/News Release-IFTJ16-Breakouts.pdf">FULL PRESS RELEASE>> </a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>The annual gathering, drawing over 1,800 participants, provides opportunities for attendees to learn, reflect, pray, network, and advocate in the context of the Catholic faith tradition. A significant portion of attendees are young people, ages 16-22, representing Jesuit and other Catholic institutions from across the U.S., as well as Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and El Salvador.</p>
<p><br />
The 2016 Teach-In theme, “Mercy in Action,” will mark the closing days of Pope Francis’s Year of Mercy, inviting participants to “grow in a love which is courageous, generous and real.” [Pope Francis] The program is sponsored by the <a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/"><strong>Ignatian Solidarity Network</strong></a>.</p>
<p>Initiated in 1997 in Columbus, Georgia, the Teach-In commences yearly in mid-November to commemorate the Jesuit martyrs of El Salvador. The six Jesuit priests and their two companions were murdered on November 16, 1989 for speaking out against the country’s tumultuous civil war. The Teach-In relocated from Georgia to Washington, D.C. in 2010 in response to the growing interest in legislative advocacy and accompanying educational opportunities.</p>
<p>On the morning of <strong>Monday, November 14</strong>, attendees will gather at Columbus Circle for a public witness, gathering with signs, banners, and voices to pray, listen to active advocates, and recommit to work for justice. The Teach-In then culminates with what is estimated to be the largest Catholic advocacy day of the year. Nearly 1,400 individuals will proceed to legislative advocacy meetings with members of Congress and their staffs on Capitol Hill to urge Congress to enact immigration and criminal justice reform.</p>
<p>Keynote speakers include <strong>Sr. Norma Pimentel, </strong>Executive Director of Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley and nationally-recognized advocate for immigrants;<strong> Fr. Greg Boyle, S.J.,</strong> bestselling author and founder and executive director of Homeboy Industries; and <strong>Lisa Sharon Harper, </strong>author and Chief Church Engagement Officer at Sojourners.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The Teach-In also offers more than 50 breakout sessions, presented by national and international speakers, including <strong>Fr. James Martin, S.J., </strong>bestselling author and editor-at-large at America Magazine<strong>; </strong>and <strong>Sr. Simone Campbell,</strong> executive director of NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The celebrant for the Teach-In liturgy on Sunday, November 13 is <strong>Fr. Gregory Chisholm, S.J.</strong>, pastor in Harlem, NY, at St. Charles Borromeo Church and the Chapel of the Resurrection.<br />
</p>
<p>“The Ignatian Family Teach-In for Justice represents the future of our Church,” said <strong>Christopher Kerr</strong>, executive director of the Ignatian Solidarity Network. “Attendees, particularly young people, will be inspired to respond to Pope Francis’s call as people of mercy, striving to build a more justice and sustainable world.”</p>
<p>Livestream coverage of the Teach-In is available at:<a href="http://igsol.net/livestream"> http://igsol.net/livestream</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>The full schedule can be found at: <a href="http://igsol.net/iftj-schedule">http://igsol.net/iftj-schedule</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/News Release-IFTJ16-Breakouts.pdf">FULL PRESS RELEASE>> </a></p>
Date
What is the gender pay gap and is it real?
News Intro Text
[Economic Policy Institute, October 20, 2016]
News Item Content
<p>Report • By Elise Gould, Jessica Schieder, and Kathleen Geier • October 20, 2016</p>
<div>
Working women are paid less than working men. A large body of research accounts for, diagnoses, and investigates this “gender pay gap.” But this literature often becomes unwieldy for lay readers, and because pay gaps are political topics, ideological agendas often seep quickly into discussions.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
This primer examines the evidence surrounding the gender pay gap, both in the literature and through our own data analyses. We will begin by explaining the different ways the gap is measured, and then go deeper into the data using hourly wages for our analyses,1 culling from extensive national and regional surveys of wages, educational attainment, and occupational employment.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Summary</div>
<div>
Why different measures don’t mean the data are unreliable</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
A number of figures are commonly used to describe the gender wage gap. One often-cited statistic comes from the Census Bureau, which looks at annual pay of full-time workers. By that measure, women are paid 80 cents for every dollar men are paid. Another measure looks at hourly pay and does not exclude part-time workers. It finds that, relative to men, typical women are paid 83 cents on the dollar.2 Other, less-cited measures show different gaps because they examine the gap at different parts of the wage distribution, or for different demographic subgroups, or are adjusted for factors such as education level and occupation.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
The presence of alternative ways to measure the gap can create a misconception that data on the gender wage gap are unreliable. However, the data on the gender wage gap are remarkably clear and (unfortunately) consistent about the scale of the gap. In simple terms, no matter how you measure it, there is a gap. And, different gaps answer different questions. By discussing the data and the rationale behind these seemingly contradictory measures of the wage gap, we hope to improve the discourse around the gender wage gap.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Why adjusted measures can’t gauge the full effects of discrimination</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
The most common analytical mistake people make when discussing the gender wage gap is to assume that as long as it is measured “correctly,” it will tell us precisely how much gender-based discrimination affects what women are paid.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Specifically, some people note that the commonly cited measures of the gender wage gap do not control for workers’ demographic characteristics (such measures are often labeled unadjusted). They speculate that the “unadjusted” gender wage gap could simply be reflecting other influences, such as levels of education, labor market experiences, and occupations. And because gender wage gaps that are “adjusted” for workers’ characteristics (through multivariate regression) are often smaller than unadjusted measures, people commonly infer that gender discrimination is a smaller problem in the American economy than thought.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
However, the adjusted gender wage gap really only narrows the analysis to the potential role of gender discrimination along one dimension: to differential pay for equivalent work. But this simple adjustment misses all of the potential differences in opportunities for men and women that affect and constrain the choices they make before they ever bargain with an employer over a wage. While multivariate regression can be used to distill the role of discrimination in the narrowest sense, it cannot capture how discrimination affects differences in opportunity.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
In short, one should have a very precise question that he or she hopes to answer using the data on the wage differences between men and women workers. We hope to provide this careful thinking in the questions we address in this primer.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.epi.org/publication/what-is-the-gender-pay-gap-and-is-it-real/">FULL REPORT AND MORE>>></a></div>
<div>
Working women are paid less than working men. A large body of research accounts for, diagnoses, and investigates this “gender pay gap.” But this literature often becomes unwieldy for lay readers, and because pay gaps are political topics, ideological agendas often seep quickly into discussions.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
This primer examines the evidence surrounding the gender pay gap, both in the literature and through our own data analyses. We will begin by explaining the different ways the gap is measured, and then go deeper into the data using hourly wages for our analyses,1 culling from extensive national and regional surveys of wages, educational attainment, and occupational employment.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Summary</div>
<div>
Why different measures don’t mean the data are unreliable</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
A number of figures are commonly used to describe the gender wage gap. One often-cited statistic comes from the Census Bureau, which looks at annual pay of full-time workers. By that measure, women are paid 80 cents for every dollar men are paid. Another measure looks at hourly pay and does not exclude part-time workers. It finds that, relative to men, typical women are paid 83 cents on the dollar.2 Other, less-cited measures show different gaps because they examine the gap at different parts of the wage distribution, or for different demographic subgroups, or are adjusted for factors such as education level and occupation.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
The presence of alternative ways to measure the gap can create a misconception that data on the gender wage gap are unreliable. However, the data on the gender wage gap are remarkably clear and (unfortunately) consistent about the scale of the gap. In simple terms, no matter how you measure it, there is a gap. And, different gaps answer different questions. By discussing the data and the rationale behind these seemingly contradictory measures of the wage gap, we hope to improve the discourse around the gender wage gap.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Why adjusted measures can’t gauge the full effects of discrimination</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
The most common analytical mistake people make when discussing the gender wage gap is to assume that as long as it is measured “correctly,” it will tell us precisely how much gender-based discrimination affects what women are paid.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Specifically, some people note that the commonly cited measures of the gender wage gap do not control for workers’ demographic characteristics (such measures are often labeled unadjusted). They speculate that the “unadjusted” gender wage gap could simply be reflecting other influences, such as levels of education, labor market experiences, and occupations. And because gender wage gaps that are “adjusted” for workers’ characteristics (through multivariate regression) are often smaller than unadjusted measures, people commonly infer that gender discrimination is a smaller problem in the American economy than thought.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
However, the adjusted gender wage gap really only narrows the analysis to the potential role of gender discrimination along one dimension: to differential pay for equivalent work. But this simple adjustment misses all of the potential differences in opportunities for men and women that affect and constrain the choices they make before they ever bargain with an employer over a wage. While multivariate regression can be used to distill the role of discrimination in the narrowest sense, it cannot capture how discrimination affects differences in opportunity.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
In short, one should have a very precise question that he or she hopes to answer using the data on the wage differences between men and women workers. We hope to provide this careful thinking in the questions we address in this primer.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.epi.org/publication/what-is-the-gender-pay-gap-and-is-it-real/">FULL REPORT AND MORE>>></a></div>
Date
Election 2016 and the Common Good
News Intro Text
An Ignatian Way of Proceeding
News Item Content
<p>by Edward B. “Ted” Arroyo, S.J., Ph.D., JSRI Associate</p>
<p>As we approach November’s election, we at JSRI encourage discerning assessment of the difficult political choices at hand. </p>
<p>At the beginning of his Spiritual Exercises, St. Ignatius Loyola advises that in facing an “election” about one’s state in life, we “let the Creator act immediately with the creature, and the creature with its Creator and Lord” because in decisions like these “it is more fitting and much better, when seeking the Divine Will, that the Creator and Lord should communicate with the devout soul, inflaming it with love and praise, and disposing it for the way in which it will be better able to serve in the future.” (Spiritual Exercises #15). Such criteria for discernment may also well apply to the political elections we now face.</p>
<p>Recently when Pope Francis was asked about these upcoming U.S. elections he responded within this Jesuit tradition of “election” when he replied “I never say a word about electoral campaigns….The people are sovereign. I will only say: Study the proposals well, pray and choose in conscience.” </p>
<p>In this context, our Jesuit provincial superior, Fr. Ron Mercier, S.J., in a recent letter provides multiple resources for wise election discernment, inviting Jesuits and our colleagues “to create that space of civil discourse which allows for true democratic dialogue and lets the foundational principles of our faith inform the ways we ponder and speak to one another about the grave challenges we face.”</p>
<p>Fr. Mercier first suggests we consider how “All of us are affected by the racial, political and religious divisions in our society, and these can even affect our communities. Each of us needs to ask where we are tempted to judge others or to close ourselves to hearing one another. How does God call us to conversion of heart, thought, and speech during this time? Charged moments like this can help us hear God’s voice.”</p>
<p>Secondly he suggests "we model civil discourse, open to understanding even when we do not agree... The important task is to nurture understanding. The website launched by the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, offers helpful insights along these lines." </p>
<p>Finally, Fr. Mercier suggests that "we promote the teaching of the church as a resource for our political and social reflections" in this campaign season and provides links to multiple resources to help us in discerning this election. Especially in our regular column summarizing perspectives from Catholic Social Thought. JSRI’s website also provides multiple resources on a variety of issues which are part of the current election debates.</p>
<p>The pilgrim Saint Ignatius models and invites us to a process of ongoing discernment in these and many other important elections of our lives, examining the relevant issues, asking for God’s grace, and deciding AMDG (for the greater glory of God.) </p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/z2npl/53a6480e812257faf3fe6b01e706983d">MORE>></a></p>
<p>As we approach November’s election, we at JSRI encourage discerning assessment of the difficult political choices at hand. </p>
<p>At the beginning of his Spiritual Exercises, St. Ignatius Loyola advises that in facing an “election” about one’s state in life, we “let the Creator act immediately with the creature, and the creature with its Creator and Lord” because in decisions like these “it is more fitting and much better, when seeking the Divine Will, that the Creator and Lord should communicate with the devout soul, inflaming it with love and praise, and disposing it for the way in which it will be better able to serve in the future.” (Spiritual Exercises #15). Such criteria for discernment may also well apply to the political elections we now face.</p>
<p>Recently when Pope Francis was asked about these upcoming U.S. elections he responded within this Jesuit tradition of “election” when he replied “I never say a word about electoral campaigns….The people are sovereign. I will only say: Study the proposals well, pray and choose in conscience.” </p>
<p>In this context, our Jesuit provincial superior, Fr. Ron Mercier, S.J., in a recent letter provides multiple resources for wise election discernment, inviting Jesuits and our colleagues “to create that space of civil discourse which allows for true democratic dialogue and lets the foundational principles of our faith inform the ways we ponder and speak to one another about the grave challenges we face.”</p>
<p>Fr. Mercier first suggests we consider how “All of us are affected by the racial, political and religious divisions in our society, and these can even affect our communities. Each of us needs to ask where we are tempted to judge others or to close ourselves to hearing one another. How does God call us to conversion of heart, thought, and speech during this time? Charged moments like this can help us hear God’s voice.”</p>
<p>Secondly he suggests "we model civil discourse, open to understanding even when we do not agree... The important task is to nurture understanding. The website launched by the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, offers helpful insights along these lines." </p>
<p>Finally, Fr. Mercier suggests that "we promote the teaching of the church as a resource for our political and social reflections" in this campaign season and provides links to multiple resources to help us in discerning this election. Especially in our regular column summarizing perspectives from Catholic Social Thought. JSRI’s website also provides multiple resources on a variety of issues which are part of the current election debates.</p>
<p>The pilgrim Saint Ignatius models and invites us to a process of ongoing discernment in these and many other important elections of our lives, examining the relevant issues, asking for God’s grace, and deciding AMDG (for the greater glory of God.) </p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/z2npl/53a6480e812257faf3fe6b01e706983d">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Summer JustSouth Quarterly
News Intro Text
Articles covering politics, banning the box, and ending life sentences for juvenile offenders.
News Item Content
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: Verdana; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JustSouth%20Quarterly%20Summer%202016.pdf" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 32px 0px 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(102, 0, 0); background: url("/assets/shared/images/css/icons/pdf.gif") right center no-repeat transparent;">Summer 2016 </a></p>
<ul>
<li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Faithful%20Citizens.pdf" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 32px 0px 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background: url("/assets/shared/images/css/icons/pdf.gif") right center no-repeat transparent;">Faithful Citizens: Calling Catholics to Political Responsibility-- Kammer</a></li>
<li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/CST%20and%20Politics.pdf" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 32px 0px 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background: url("/assets/shared/images/css/icons/pdf.gif") right center no-repeat transparent;">Catholic Social Thought and Politics</a>-- Kammer </li>
<li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Banning%20all%20of%20the%20Boxes.pdf" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 32px 0px 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background: url("/assets/shared/images/css/icons/pdf.gif") right center no-repeat transparent;">Banning All of the Boxes</a>-- Donovan </li>
<li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Hope%20for%20Mercy.pdf" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 32px 0px 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background: url("/assets/shared/images/css/icons/pdf.gif") right center no-repeat transparent;">Hope for Mercy: Ending Life Sentances for Juvenile Offenders</a> -- Weishar </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Faithful%20Citizens.pdf" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 32px 0px 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background: url("/assets/shared/images/css/icons/pdf.gif") right center no-repeat transparent;">Faithful Citizens: Calling Catholics to Political Responsibility-- Kammer</a></li>
<li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/CST%20and%20Politics.pdf" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 32px 0px 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background: url("/assets/shared/images/css/icons/pdf.gif") right center no-repeat transparent;">Catholic Social Thought and Politics</a>-- Kammer </li>
<li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Banning%20all%20of%20the%20Boxes.pdf" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 32px 0px 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background: url("/assets/shared/images/css/icons/pdf.gif") right center no-repeat transparent;">Banning All of the Boxes</a>-- Donovan </li>
<li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Hope%20for%20Mercy.pdf" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 32px 0px 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background: url("/assets/shared/images/css/icons/pdf.gif") right center no-repeat transparent;">Hope for Mercy: Ending Life Sentances for Juvenile Offenders</a> -- Weishar </li>
</ul>
Date
FAITHFUL CITIZENS
News Intro Text
Calling Catholics to Political Responsibility
News Item Content
<p>BY FRED KAMMER, S.J.</p>
<p>Every four years since 1976, in preparation for U.S. elections, the U.S. bishops have issued a statement on Catholic political responsibility. Since 2007, this document has been entitled Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship: A Call to Political Responsibility from the Catholic Bishops of the United States. In the first part, the bishops discuss their right to speak out politically:</p>
<p><em>Some question whether it is appropriate for the Church to play a role in political life. However, the obligation to teach the moral truths that should shape our lives, including our public lives, is central to the mission given to the Church by Jesus Christ. Moreover, the United States Constitution protects the right of individual believers and religious bodies to participate and speak out without government interference, favoritism, or discrimination. </em></p>
<p>The bishops emphasize how participation of people of religious conviction enriches the nation’s tradition of pluralism.1 </p>
<p>For the bishops, the Catholic community brings two major contributions: (1) a consistent moral framework for assessing political issues drawn from reason illuminated by Scripture and Church teaching; and (2) broad experience in serving those in need including “educating the young, serving families in crisis, caring for the sick, sheltering the homeless, helping women who face difficult pregnancies, feeding the hungry, welcoming immigrants and refugees, reaching out in global solidarity, and pursuing peace.”2</p>
<p>In addition to these two primary contributions, I would add two other Catholic contributions: (1) a passion for social justice; and (2) realism about power and evil. Seeming contradictory, these two additions actually stand in healthy tension with one another. Our faith-filled passion keeps us committed to working for justice when others have given up on political advocacy, chosen the all too common course of being swayed by the polls, or been silent in the face of popular opinion. </p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Faithful Citizens.pdf">MORE>></a></p>
<p>Every four years since 1976, in preparation for U.S. elections, the U.S. bishops have issued a statement on Catholic political responsibility. Since 2007, this document has been entitled Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship: A Call to Political Responsibility from the Catholic Bishops of the United States. In the first part, the bishops discuss their right to speak out politically:</p>
<p><em>Some question whether it is appropriate for the Church to play a role in political life. However, the obligation to teach the moral truths that should shape our lives, including our public lives, is central to the mission given to the Church by Jesus Christ. Moreover, the United States Constitution protects the right of individual believers and religious bodies to participate and speak out without government interference, favoritism, or discrimination. </em></p>
<p>The bishops emphasize how participation of people of religious conviction enriches the nation’s tradition of pluralism.1 </p>
<p>For the bishops, the Catholic community brings two major contributions: (1) a consistent moral framework for assessing political issues drawn from reason illuminated by Scripture and Church teaching; and (2) broad experience in serving those in need including “educating the young, serving families in crisis, caring for the sick, sheltering the homeless, helping women who face difficult pregnancies, feeding the hungry, welcoming immigrants and refugees, reaching out in global solidarity, and pursuing peace.”2</p>
<p>In addition to these two primary contributions, I would add two other Catholic contributions: (1) a passion for social justice; and (2) realism about power and evil. Seeming contradictory, these two additions actually stand in healthy tension with one another. Our faith-filled passion keeps us committed to working for justice when others have given up on political advocacy, chosen the all too common course of being swayed by the polls, or been silent in the face of popular opinion. </p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Faithful Citizens.pdf">MORE>></a></p>
Date
EITC, CTC Together Lifted 9.8 Million out of Poverty in 2015
News Intro Text
[Center on Budget and Policy Priorities , October 19, 2016]
News Item Content
<p>By Emily Horton, <a href="http://www.cbpp.org/">Center on Budget and Policy Priorities</a></p>
<p>The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit (CTC) together lifted 9.8 million Americans out of poverty last year and made 22.0 million others less poor, CBPP analysis of new Census data shows. The data allow us to measure of the impact of the entire credits — including both the refundable and non-refundable pieces of the CTC, in addition to the EITC.</p>
<p>Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit Have Powerful Antipoverty Impact</p>
<p>Policymakers can further these credits’ effectiveness at reducing poverty and improving opportunity by expanding the meager EITC for workers not raising children in the home and expanding the CTC for families with very poor young children. </p>
<p>The credits lifted 5.1 million children out of poverty last year and made 8.0 million others less poor (see chart). </p>
<p>These figures use Census’ Supplemental Poverty Measure, which unlike the official poverty measure counts taxes and non-cash benefits as well as cash income. </p>
<p>Moreover, these impressive figures likely understate the credits’ anti-poverty impact. One reason is that the EITC not only boosts incomes directly but also encourages work, raising people’s earnings. This additional anti-poverty effect, which the SPM doesn’t count, is significant: it nearly doubled the number of people the EITC lifted out of poverty in families with a single mother aged 24-48 without a college degree in the 1990s, researchers find. (The CTC hasn’t been studied to the same extent, but it shares key design features with the EITC so it likely has similar pro-work effects.)</p>
<p>Also, a growing body of research links income from these tax credits to better infant health, improved school performance, higher college enrollment, and increased work and earnings in adulthood for children whose families receive the tax credits. As a result, the tax credits may reduce poverty not only in the near term, but also in the next generation.</p>
<p>The Census estimates don’t include the state-level EITCs that 26 states and the District of Columbia have created to build on the success of the federal credit. These state credits further reduce poverty and inequality.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.cbpp.org/blog/eitc-ctc-together-lifted-98-million-out-of-poverty-in-2015">MORE>></a></p>
<p>The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit (CTC) together lifted 9.8 million Americans out of poverty last year and made 22.0 million others less poor, CBPP analysis of new Census data shows. The data allow us to measure of the impact of the entire credits — including both the refundable and non-refundable pieces of the CTC, in addition to the EITC.</p>
<p>Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit Have Powerful Antipoverty Impact</p>
<p>Policymakers can further these credits’ effectiveness at reducing poverty and improving opportunity by expanding the meager EITC for workers not raising children in the home and expanding the CTC for families with very poor young children. </p>
<p>The credits lifted 5.1 million children out of poverty last year and made 8.0 million others less poor (see chart). </p>
<p>These figures use Census’ Supplemental Poverty Measure, which unlike the official poverty measure counts taxes and non-cash benefits as well as cash income. </p>
<p>Moreover, these impressive figures likely understate the credits’ anti-poverty impact. One reason is that the EITC not only boosts incomes directly but also encourages work, raising people’s earnings. This additional anti-poverty effect, which the SPM doesn’t count, is significant: it nearly doubled the number of people the EITC lifted out of poverty in families with a single mother aged 24-48 without a college degree in the 1990s, researchers find. (The CTC hasn’t been studied to the same extent, but it shares key design features with the EITC so it likely has similar pro-work effects.)</p>
<p>Also, a growing body of research links income from these tax credits to better infant health, improved school performance, higher college enrollment, and increased work and earnings in adulthood for children whose families receive the tax credits. As a result, the tax credits may reduce poverty not only in the near term, but also in the next generation.</p>
<p>The Census estimates don’t include the state-level EITCs that 26 states and the District of Columbia have created to build on the success of the federal credit. These state credits further reduce poverty and inequality.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.cbpp.org/blog/eitc-ctc-together-lifted-98-million-out-of-poverty-in-2015">MORE>></a></p>
Date
The Great Melting Pot
News Intro Text
[Rev. Kevin Wm. Wildes, S.J., Ph.D. for The Huffington Post, October 4, 2016]
News Item Content
<p>By: Rev. Kevin Wm. Wildes, S.J., Ph.D. for The Huffington Post</p>
<p>Like any great nation, America has a number of myths about itself. There are myths about the possibility of achievement where “anyone can grow up to be president.” And there are myths about opportunity that were epitomized in author and newspaper editor Horace Greeley’s famous line: “Go West, young man, go West,” stated in 1871, as America expanded westward holding tight to a belief of Manifest Destiny. Another great American myth portrays America as “the great melting pot,” a gumbo of sorts, in which people come from all over the world, from different nations, ethnicities, and cultures, to become one.</p>
<p>Any enduring myth is anchored in an element of truth. But there is usually more to the story. The current debates about immigration in the United States are not new to American life. Historically, the United States has often found itself conflicted on the issue of immigration. On the one hand, part of American’s self-understanding lies in being a nation of immigrants. But, at the same time, we often have been deeply hostile and fearful of immigrants to this country. And the underlying causes of those fears and hostilities are not new and generally are born of ignorance.</p>
<p>The 19th century and early 20th century were times of an influx of immigrants both from Asia (mostly Chinese) and from southern Europe (Italians and Greeks). Many of these new immigrants looked different from the Anglo-Saxon immigrants who had come before. And they worshipped differently than most Americans. In the 19th century, more than 4 million Irish - among them, my ancestors — immigrated to America to pursue the “American Dream.” Yet they were greeted with hostility and suspicion.</p>
<p>The Irish were widely seen as alcoholics, and they were, by and large, Catholic, which caused fears about allegiance to a foreign pope. This prejudice remained vibrant through the 1960 presidential election! The new immigrants’ culture of drinking and their use of pubs and bars as gathering places collided with some Yankees’ Puritan strain. They arrived at a time of economic unrest. Artisans were losing their jobs to mass production while immigrants were willing to work hard, for little money, in factories.</p>
<p>Scholars often use the term “nativism” as a general term for “opposition to immigration.” Nativism is often based on fears that the immigrants will distort or spoil existing cultural values. However, it has been observed that nativists usually do not consider themselves nativists. Rather they see themselves as “patriots” or “law-abiding citizens.”</p>
<p>Contemporary Americans are often surprised when they learn that before World War I there were no green cards, no visas, and no quotas for immigrants. Immigrants just arrived. The American government did use, to some extent, health criteria for admitting people. Mae Ngai, a legal and political historian at Columbia University who studies American immigration, said that “... if you could walk without a limp, and you had $30 in your pocket, you walked right in.” And so they came — with no paperwork issues or quotas or restrictions or immigration courts. Political backlash followed, in the form of secret societies that coalesced into the Know Nothing movement. The Know Nothings grew so popular that, in 1854, they overwhelmingly took over the Massachusetts Legislature — where they pushed for Prohibition laws, aimed squarely at Irish and German cultures. The Know Nothings also supported an effort to extend the naturalization period to 21 years. At the time, the debate centered not on sending immigrants back but on denying them the right to vote.</p>
<p>As we head toward the presidential elections in November, immigration remains a central, and often divisive, issue. Presidential debates and campaign speeches stir up controversies that are repeated and expounded upon at modern-day kitchen tables - social media.</p>
<p>Our past can help us to be better today. President Harry Truman challenged Americans not to live within but to live outside of our fears. He reminded Americans that: “America was not built on fear. America was built on courage, on imagination, and unbeatable determination to do the job at hand.” Our past reminds us that, in spite of our fears, past and present, our differences are part of what makes the United States a richer, stronger nation made up of many cultures. Our past reminds us that we are a nation of immigrants and that many of those immigrants came to the U.S. without green cards or visas. And, in spite of hostility, stereotypes, and prejudice, immigrants became part of the rich, diverse fabric that makes America today. We must look past our own fear, to seek mutual understanding and acceptance.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/rev-kevin-wm-wildes-sj-phd/the-great-melting-pot_b_12340856.html">MORE>></a></p>
<p>Like any great nation, America has a number of myths about itself. There are myths about the possibility of achievement where “anyone can grow up to be president.” And there are myths about opportunity that were epitomized in author and newspaper editor Horace Greeley’s famous line: “Go West, young man, go West,” stated in 1871, as America expanded westward holding tight to a belief of Manifest Destiny. Another great American myth portrays America as “the great melting pot,” a gumbo of sorts, in which people come from all over the world, from different nations, ethnicities, and cultures, to become one.</p>
<p>Any enduring myth is anchored in an element of truth. But there is usually more to the story. The current debates about immigration in the United States are not new to American life. Historically, the United States has often found itself conflicted on the issue of immigration. On the one hand, part of American’s self-understanding lies in being a nation of immigrants. But, at the same time, we often have been deeply hostile and fearful of immigrants to this country. And the underlying causes of those fears and hostilities are not new and generally are born of ignorance.</p>
<p>The 19th century and early 20th century were times of an influx of immigrants both from Asia (mostly Chinese) and from southern Europe (Italians and Greeks). Many of these new immigrants looked different from the Anglo-Saxon immigrants who had come before. And they worshipped differently than most Americans. In the 19th century, more than 4 million Irish - among them, my ancestors — immigrated to America to pursue the “American Dream.” Yet they were greeted with hostility and suspicion.</p>
<p>The Irish were widely seen as alcoholics, and they were, by and large, Catholic, which caused fears about allegiance to a foreign pope. This prejudice remained vibrant through the 1960 presidential election! The new immigrants’ culture of drinking and their use of pubs and bars as gathering places collided with some Yankees’ Puritan strain. They arrived at a time of economic unrest. Artisans were losing their jobs to mass production while immigrants were willing to work hard, for little money, in factories.</p>
<p>Scholars often use the term “nativism” as a general term for “opposition to immigration.” Nativism is often based on fears that the immigrants will distort or spoil existing cultural values. However, it has been observed that nativists usually do not consider themselves nativists. Rather they see themselves as “patriots” or “law-abiding citizens.”</p>
<p>Contemporary Americans are often surprised when they learn that before World War I there were no green cards, no visas, and no quotas for immigrants. Immigrants just arrived. The American government did use, to some extent, health criteria for admitting people. Mae Ngai, a legal and political historian at Columbia University who studies American immigration, said that “... if you could walk without a limp, and you had $30 in your pocket, you walked right in.” And so they came — with no paperwork issues or quotas or restrictions or immigration courts. Political backlash followed, in the form of secret societies that coalesced into the Know Nothing movement. The Know Nothings grew so popular that, in 1854, they overwhelmingly took over the Massachusetts Legislature — where they pushed for Prohibition laws, aimed squarely at Irish and German cultures. The Know Nothings also supported an effort to extend the naturalization period to 21 years. At the time, the debate centered not on sending immigrants back but on denying them the right to vote.</p>
<p>As we head toward the presidential elections in November, immigration remains a central, and often divisive, issue. Presidential debates and campaign speeches stir up controversies that are repeated and expounded upon at modern-day kitchen tables - social media.</p>
<p>Our past can help us to be better today. President Harry Truman challenged Americans not to live within but to live outside of our fears. He reminded Americans that: “America was not built on fear. America was built on courage, on imagination, and unbeatable determination to do the job at hand.” Our past reminds us that, in spite of our fears, past and present, our differences are part of what makes the United States a richer, stronger nation made up of many cultures. Our past reminds us that we are a nation of immigrants and that many of those immigrants came to the U.S. without green cards or visas. And, in spite of hostility, stereotypes, and prejudice, immigrants became part of the rich, diverse fabric that makes America today. We must look past our own fear, to seek mutual understanding and acceptance.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/rev-kevin-wm-wildes-sj-phd/the-great-melting-pot_b_12340856.html">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Dialogue to Overcome Fear
News Intro Text
Have you heard a friend or family member make an anti-immigrant or anti-Muslim statement recently?
News Item Content
<p>Have you heard a friend or family member make an anti-immigrant or anti-Muslim statement recently? In recent months our society has been filled with sentiments, even by people we know and love, that degrade the dignity and contributions of immigrants and Muslims in U.S. society.</p>
<p>ISN has partnered with Faith in Public Life to offer a series of online training sessions for students at Catholic colleges and universities that equip participants to have courageous conversations with people in their personal networks, particularly intergenerational conversations that engage older family members, mentors, teachers, etc. The training will help you consider the psychology of fear that leads people to express hate or distrust of others because of their differences. It will also offer skills and insights on how to engage in meaningful and productive conversations about these issues with those in your personal network.</p>
<p>Training sessions will take place via video conferencing software that is easy to set-up on a computer or Apple/Android device. Sessions will last approximately 60 minutes. Participants will receive a digital copy of a 1-page summary highlighting the key points after the presentation. We will also reach out to participants a few weeks after their training to learn how they were able to utilize the skills in day-to-day conversations.</p>
<p>The sessions are intended for students — but college faculty and staff are welcome as well.</p>
<p>Are you willing to be courageous?</p>
<p><a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/dialogue-to-overcome-fear-a-digital-training-on-how-to-have-courageous-conversations/">REGISTER>></a></p>
<p>ISN has partnered with Faith in Public Life to offer a series of online training sessions for students at Catholic colleges and universities that equip participants to have courageous conversations with people in their personal networks, particularly intergenerational conversations that engage older family members, mentors, teachers, etc. The training will help you consider the psychology of fear that leads people to express hate or distrust of others because of their differences. It will also offer skills and insights on how to engage in meaningful and productive conversations about these issues with those in your personal network.</p>
<p>Training sessions will take place via video conferencing software that is easy to set-up on a computer or Apple/Android device. Sessions will last approximately 60 minutes. Participants will receive a digital copy of a 1-page summary highlighting the key points after the presentation. We will also reach out to participants a few weeks after their training to learn how they were able to utilize the skills in day-to-day conversations.</p>
<p>The sessions are intended for students — but college faculty and staff are welcome as well.</p>
<p>Are you willing to be courageous?</p>
<p><a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/dialogue-to-overcome-fear-a-digital-training-on-how-to-have-courageous-conversations/">REGISTER>></a></p>
Date
Partisan divide shapes Mississippi budget discussions
News Intro Text
[Mississippi Business Journal, October 13, 2016]
News Item Content
<p>Posted by: Associated Press, Mississippi Business Journal </p>
<p>Mississippi lawmakers are on separate tracks as they discuss state taxes and spending, with divisions defined largely by political party.</p>
<p>During different meetings Wednesday at the Capitol, a group consisting mostly of Republicans looked for ways to trim the budget, while Democrats heard from a researcher who recommended Medicaid expansion and more education spending to close the gap between rich and poor. Republican legislative leaders have repeatedly rejected Medicaid expansion, and they hired a private consulting firm this week to rewrite Mississippi’s education funding formula to try to cut administrative costs.</p>
<p>Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves and House Speaker Philip Gunn, both Republicans, are chairmen of the group examining state agencies’ spending. The group heard Wednesday from speakers with the Reason Foundation, a Libertarian group that advocates cutting public spending by letting private companies handle services that are not core government functions, such as running parking garages on university campuses.</p>
<p>The budget group also discussed how much is being spent on contracts and asked agency directors whether they would eliminate specific programs.</p>
<p>Dr. Mary Currier, the state health officer, said one relatively small line-item that could be cut from the Department of Health Budget is a program to put anti-tobacco posters into frames for schools. Legislators asked her several questions about tobacco prevention and cessation programs, which are funded by winnings from a state lawsuit against tobacco companies in the 1990s. The state still receives annual payments.</p>
<p>Currier said anti-tobacco programs are required by state law and have been effective in cutting public health costs by reducing smoking.</p>
<p>“It’s hard to get adults to quit. It’s much easier to get kids not to start,” Currier said.</p>
<p>Department of Mental Health Director Diana Mikula told the bipartisan group that the department has 1,453 fewer employees now than it did in 2008, partly because of state budget cuts. The department has increased its use of part-time contract employees who work an average of about 20 hours a week, she said.</p>
<p>The House and Senate Democratic caucuses on Wednesday heard from Jeanie Donovan of the Jesuit Social Research Institute at Loyola University in New Orleans. She is a co-author of “State of Working Mississippi 2016,” a report released last month. It uses inflation-adjusted figures that show the wealthiest 10 percent of Mississippi earners saw their wages increase from 2007 to 2015, while most other groups saw wages decrease. It also shows that black residents, on average, earn less than whites — a trend that has persisted for decades.</p>
<p>Rep. David Baria of Bay St. Louis, leader of the House Democrats, criticized Republicans’ attempts to decrease corporate tax rates. He said that could put more tax burden on people with low or moderate incomes.</p>
<p>“The disparity between the wealthy and the poor in Mississippi has grown … and if you were to go the route that it seems our Republican majority wants to go, then that disparity is just going to grow wider in the near future,” Baria said. “And we think that’s a problem.”</p>
<p><a href="http://msbusiness.com/2016/10/partisan-divide-shapes-mississippi-budget-discussions/">MORE>></a></p>
<p>Mississippi lawmakers are on separate tracks as they discuss state taxes and spending, with divisions defined largely by political party.</p>
<p>During different meetings Wednesday at the Capitol, a group consisting mostly of Republicans looked for ways to trim the budget, while Democrats heard from a researcher who recommended Medicaid expansion and more education spending to close the gap between rich and poor. Republican legislative leaders have repeatedly rejected Medicaid expansion, and they hired a private consulting firm this week to rewrite Mississippi’s education funding formula to try to cut administrative costs.</p>
<p>Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves and House Speaker Philip Gunn, both Republicans, are chairmen of the group examining state agencies’ spending. The group heard Wednesday from speakers with the Reason Foundation, a Libertarian group that advocates cutting public spending by letting private companies handle services that are not core government functions, such as running parking garages on university campuses.</p>
<p>The budget group also discussed how much is being spent on contracts and asked agency directors whether they would eliminate specific programs.</p>
<p>Dr. Mary Currier, the state health officer, said one relatively small line-item that could be cut from the Department of Health Budget is a program to put anti-tobacco posters into frames for schools. Legislators asked her several questions about tobacco prevention and cessation programs, which are funded by winnings from a state lawsuit against tobacco companies in the 1990s. The state still receives annual payments.</p>
<p>Currier said anti-tobacco programs are required by state law and have been effective in cutting public health costs by reducing smoking.</p>
<p>“It’s hard to get adults to quit. It’s much easier to get kids not to start,” Currier said.</p>
<p>Department of Mental Health Director Diana Mikula told the bipartisan group that the department has 1,453 fewer employees now than it did in 2008, partly because of state budget cuts. The department has increased its use of part-time contract employees who work an average of about 20 hours a week, she said.</p>
<p>The House and Senate Democratic caucuses on Wednesday heard from Jeanie Donovan of the Jesuit Social Research Institute at Loyola University in New Orleans. She is a co-author of “State of Working Mississippi 2016,” a report released last month. It uses inflation-adjusted figures that show the wealthiest 10 percent of Mississippi earners saw their wages increase from 2007 to 2015, while most other groups saw wages decrease. It also shows that black residents, on average, earn less than whites — a trend that has persisted for decades.</p>
<p>Rep. David Baria of Bay St. Louis, leader of the House Democrats, criticized Republicans’ attempts to decrease corporate tax rates. He said that could put more tax burden on people with low or moderate incomes.</p>
<p>“The disparity between the wealthy and the poor in Mississippi has grown … and if you were to go the route that it seems our Republican majority wants to go, then that disparity is just going to grow wider in the near future,” Baria said. “And we think that’s a problem.”</p>
<p><a href="http://msbusiness.com/2016/10/partisan-divide-shapes-mississippi-budget-discussions/">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Here’s why Mississippi will likely stay at bottom of education rankings
News Intro Text
[The Sun Herald, October 2, 2016]
News Item Content
<p>BY JUSTIN VICORY</p>
<p>jvicory@sunherald.com</p>
<p> </p>
<p>It’s bleak future for Mississippi schools, a recent report says, unless something changes.</p>
<p>Segregated school systems and chronic underfunding have tied the state to the bottom of educational rankings for decades.</p>
<p>The Jesuit Social Research Institute of Loyola University New Orleans, a social welfare advocacy group, recently presented a report called the “State of Working Mississippi 2016” at a Biloxi seminar. The institute used data from the U.S. Census Bureau, Department of Education, Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Economic Policy Institute to illustrate how the state still lacks resources and funding in education.</p>
<p>Not everyone in Mississippi has access to quality education, which means they have fewer job opportunities, said Jeanie Donovan, economic policy specialist with the institute. Where they do have access, underfunding continues to prevent school districts from raising standards.</p>
<p>“Mississippi often ranks at the bottom when compared to other states. Low rankings aren’t just numbers,” Donovan said. “They represent a daily struggle. There’s a lack of educational opportunity for a significant number of households.”</p>
<p>Not unexpectedly, the report addressed the Mississippi Adequate Education Program, which has been underfunded according to its own formula every year but two since its creation in 1997.</p>
<p>According to the formula, Coast schools will have been underfunded by more than $250 million over the last eight years. Statewide, the number balloons to $1.2 billion in the same time frame.</p>
<p>“I think what we’ve seen is everything starts with education,” said Jeremy Eisler, a senior education staff attorney for the Mississippi Center for Justice. “And yet in a state where we’ve established a mandatory education funding formula, we’re $1.2 billion behind. This year, the Legislature again has refused to fully fund it. Without adequate education and health, no one in this state has what it needs.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.sunherald.com/latest-news/article105191871.html">MORE>></a></p>
<div>
</div>
<p>jvicory@sunherald.com</p>
<p> </p>
<p>It’s bleak future for Mississippi schools, a recent report says, unless something changes.</p>
<p>Segregated school systems and chronic underfunding have tied the state to the bottom of educational rankings for decades.</p>
<p>The Jesuit Social Research Institute of Loyola University New Orleans, a social welfare advocacy group, recently presented a report called the “State of Working Mississippi 2016” at a Biloxi seminar. The institute used data from the U.S. Census Bureau, Department of Education, Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Economic Policy Institute to illustrate how the state still lacks resources and funding in education.</p>
<p>Not everyone in Mississippi has access to quality education, which means they have fewer job opportunities, said Jeanie Donovan, economic policy specialist with the institute. Where they do have access, underfunding continues to prevent school districts from raising standards.</p>
<p>“Mississippi often ranks at the bottom when compared to other states. Low rankings aren’t just numbers,” Donovan said. “They represent a daily struggle. There’s a lack of educational opportunity for a significant number of households.”</p>
<p>Not unexpectedly, the report addressed the Mississippi Adequate Education Program, which has been underfunded according to its own formula every year but two since its creation in 1997.</p>
<p>According to the formula, Coast schools will have been underfunded by more than $250 million over the last eight years. Statewide, the number balloons to $1.2 billion in the same time frame.</p>
<p>“I think what we’ve seen is everything starts with education,” said Jeremy Eisler, a senior education staff attorney for the Mississippi Center for Justice. “And yet in a state where we’ve established a mandatory education funding formula, we’re $1.2 billion behind. This year, the Legislature again has refused to fully fund it. Without adequate education and health, no one in this state has what it needs.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.sunherald.com/latest-news/article105191871.html">MORE>></a></p>
<div>
</div>
Date
Louisiana's black communities are culturally rich, nothing like hell
News Intro Text
[Dr. Nik Mitchell for The Times Picayune]
News Item Content
<p>During the first presidential debate of the 2016 election, Republican nominee Donald Trump asserted that black people live in hell, which struck me as an odd statement. I am a native of Louisiana, and my family's roots run deep here. Louisiana skews how I read the Republican nominee's comments because the black community has a far more complicated reality here than in other parts of the country. As a black man here, I don't have to look far for the black community or culture. Louisiana is the most Africanized of all the states in the Union; meaning, that the language, music, food and philosophies that pervade here are all infused with blackness and direct derivatives of black culture. Black culture in Louisiana is unapologetically black.</p>
<p>Trump enunciated a view of black culture and communities that is common and has served as the historical frame by which large segments of white America conceptualize us: we are either savages or an endangered species. If seen as savages, black people are the criminal element in American society. We steal more, rape more, and kill more than other groups. Our communities are impoverished war zones because self-destruction is pathological in black culture. If seen as an endangered species, black people are in danger of going extinct because of liberal policies that ruined black communities with welfare and destroyed the black family. Both of these views center around the black-on-black homicide rate, which is the leading cause of death for black men between 15 and 35 according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as evidence that black people are savages or endangered, depending on your point of view. Both of these views are expressions of the same ideology: "The White Man's Burden."</p>
<p>"The White Man's Burden" is an old imperialistic world view that charged white people with the civilizing of the savage and endangered nonwhite peoples of the world. Another word for this is "paternalism" and it has long been an undercurrent in how America has framed black people. The savage-endangered binary is rooted in a view that black communities are dysfunctional. The Republican nominee's major policy measure for dealing with black crisis is to spread New York City's infamous stop-and-frisk policies nationwide, despite them having been ruled unconstitutional by the U.S. District Court. To be clear, this is tantamount to saying "the only way to save black people is to treat them all like criminals." With the recent killings of black people by various police departments under dubious circumstances, this is a puzzling policy suggestion until you remember that Trump's view of black people is inherently paternalistic. </p>
<p>Black communities are not dysfunctional. They are oppressed. Those are two radically different concepts. Dysfunction assumes that these communities are inherently flawed and need outside intervention in order to embrace the modern world and its mores. But black communities and by extension black culture is not dysfunctional. Black America, in the more than 400 years it has existed in North America, has created art, music, philosophy, science and political thought that easily compares with any civilization anywhere in the world. The prevailing notion and vocabulary of social justice in the United States and abroad is rooted in the Civil Rights Movement. Our cultural products are embraced and emulated in every corner of the world. Black America's problem is not dysfunction; the problem is that we have been targeted by policies designed to subjugate us for most of our history in the United States. We did not impose this poverty, mass incarceration and collapsing infrastructure on ourselves. Still, our communities are not hell — despite the United States taking every measure it could to ensure that they would be. </p>
<p>Black people have handled their oppression with a grace that is uncommon in human history. In spite of more than 400 years of active oppression in the territory that would later become the United States, black people have never embraced violent opposition. Our crime rates are no more disparate than any other groups. We do not need to be saved from ourselves. We need to be emancipated from systems that punish us for being what we are.</p>
<p>Nicholas Mitchell is a research fellow specializing in racism at the Jesuit Social Research Institute at Loyola University.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.nola.com/opinions/index.ssf/2016/10/black_communities_arent_hell_t.html">ORIGINAL ARTICLE>></a></p>
<p>Trump enunciated a view of black culture and communities that is common and has served as the historical frame by which large segments of white America conceptualize us: we are either savages or an endangered species. If seen as savages, black people are the criminal element in American society. We steal more, rape more, and kill more than other groups. Our communities are impoverished war zones because self-destruction is pathological in black culture. If seen as an endangered species, black people are in danger of going extinct because of liberal policies that ruined black communities with welfare and destroyed the black family. Both of these views center around the black-on-black homicide rate, which is the leading cause of death for black men between 15 and 35 according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as evidence that black people are savages or endangered, depending on your point of view. Both of these views are expressions of the same ideology: "The White Man's Burden."</p>
<p>"The White Man's Burden" is an old imperialistic world view that charged white people with the civilizing of the savage and endangered nonwhite peoples of the world. Another word for this is "paternalism" and it has long been an undercurrent in how America has framed black people. The savage-endangered binary is rooted in a view that black communities are dysfunctional. The Republican nominee's major policy measure for dealing with black crisis is to spread New York City's infamous stop-and-frisk policies nationwide, despite them having been ruled unconstitutional by the U.S. District Court. To be clear, this is tantamount to saying "the only way to save black people is to treat them all like criminals." With the recent killings of black people by various police departments under dubious circumstances, this is a puzzling policy suggestion until you remember that Trump's view of black people is inherently paternalistic. </p>
<p>Black communities are not dysfunctional. They are oppressed. Those are two radically different concepts. Dysfunction assumes that these communities are inherently flawed and need outside intervention in order to embrace the modern world and its mores. But black communities and by extension black culture is not dysfunctional. Black America, in the more than 400 years it has existed in North America, has created art, music, philosophy, science and political thought that easily compares with any civilization anywhere in the world. The prevailing notion and vocabulary of social justice in the United States and abroad is rooted in the Civil Rights Movement. Our cultural products are embraced and emulated in every corner of the world. Black America's problem is not dysfunction; the problem is that we have been targeted by policies designed to subjugate us for most of our history in the United States. We did not impose this poverty, mass incarceration and collapsing infrastructure on ourselves. Still, our communities are not hell — despite the United States taking every measure it could to ensure that they would be. </p>
<p>Black people have handled their oppression with a grace that is uncommon in human history. In spite of more than 400 years of active oppression in the territory that would later become the United States, black people have never embraced violent opposition. Our crime rates are no more disparate than any other groups. We do not need to be saved from ourselves. We need to be emancipated from systems that punish us for being what we are.</p>
<p>Nicholas Mitchell is a research fellow specializing in racism at the Jesuit Social Research Institute at Loyola University.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.nola.com/opinions/index.ssf/2016/10/black_communities_arent_hell_t.html">ORIGINAL ARTICLE>></a></p>
Date
Blood, Floods, and the Future
News Intro Text
Summer 2016 Baton Rouge Perspective
News Item Content
<p>by Nik Mitchell, Ph.D.</p>
<p>2016 has been a summer of strife for the city of Baton Rouge, my hometown. With the killing of Alton Sterling, the metropolitan area was locked in conflict as the long dormant ghosts of Baton Rouge’s racial past shook off decades of uneasy sleep and began to demand redress. Scenes of police in riot gear with guns drawn went around the world placing this city better known for its college football teams at the center of the global debate on race and police conduct. Then came the murder of three police officers at the hands of Gavin Long.</p>
<p>The city had reached its breaking point. Then, an estimated 6.9 trillion gallons of rain fell on the Baton Rouge metropolitan area, flooding large swaths of it and leaving tens of thousands of people homeless. Mixed in with the images of flooded neighborhoods and devastated lives, there were images of unity in the face of nature’s fury. Declarations of how “race doesn’t matter” were echoed across social media; and how “united Baton Rouge had become” was emblazoned on t-shirts and profile pictures. It is true that natural disasters inspire a sort of racial unity that reveals how insipid “race” really is. It is also true that the Baton Rouge metropolitan area is grotesquely segregated racially and economically. </p>
<div>
<p>How do we reconcile these two stark realities? The answer is: we can’t. The ghosts of Baton Rouge’s past have not been put to rest. The anger that motivated hundreds to demand accountability for the sins of the past and present has not been extinguished. The echoes of the denial of timely emergency health services brought on by hospital closures and the failure of the St. George secession attempt by predominantly white south Baton Rouge due to a technicality still ring in African American Baton Rouge.</p>
<p>It is incumbent for all of those who adhere to social justice to watch the post flood rebuilding efforts carefully to ensure that it is equitable, minimizes any displacement, and stifles the efforts of those who wish to profit from this situation by targeting and exploiting the most vulnerable among us. If this rebuilding effort is to be just and successful, we must embrace race egalitarianism, which is “the conviction that, because of an unjust history, we should endeavor to reduce inequalities of wealth and power between racial groups, as such”[1] and commit to preserving the dignity of the affected. What remains to be seen is how Baton Rouge will transition into a new metropolitan area after the storm. Progress should not and must not come at the expense of the vulnerable. That would be a complete betrayal of the social contract and is the sort of transgression that marks the perpetrators and their descendants whose prosperity came at the cost of the rights and dignity of the vulnerable. The mechanisms of power can be used for justice only if constituents demand it and hold those in control of the mechanisms accountable for their actions so that no one gets left behind. </p>
</div>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/jqrfl/6c7d7ca1ab0269847910a5a0c0221047">MORE>></a></p>
<p>2016 has been a summer of strife for the city of Baton Rouge, my hometown. With the killing of Alton Sterling, the metropolitan area was locked in conflict as the long dormant ghosts of Baton Rouge’s racial past shook off decades of uneasy sleep and began to demand redress. Scenes of police in riot gear with guns drawn went around the world placing this city better known for its college football teams at the center of the global debate on race and police conduct. Then came the murder of three police officers at the hands of Gavin Long.</p>
<p>The city had reached its breaking point. Then, an estimated 6.9 trillion gallons of rain fell on the Baton Rouge metropolitan area, flooding large swaths of it and leaving tens of thousands of people homeless. Mixed in with the images of flooded neighborhoods and devastated lives, there were images of unity in the face of nature’s fury. Declarations of how “race doesn’t matter” were echoed across social media; and how “united Baton Rouge had become” was emblazoned on t-shirts and profile pictures. It is true that natural disasters inspire a sort of racial unity that reveals how insipid “race” really is. It is also true that the Baton Rouge metropolitan area is grotesquely segregated racially and economically. </p>
<div>
<p>How do we reconcile these two stark realities? The answer is: we can’t. The ghosts of Baton Rouge’s past have not been put to rest. The anger that motivated hundreds to demand accountability for the sins of the past and present has not been extinguished. The echoes of the denial of timely emergency health services brought on by hospital closures and the failure of the St. George secession attempt by predominantly white south Baton Rouge due to a technicality still ring in African American Baton Rouge.</p>
<p>It is incumbent for all of those who adhere to social justice to watch the post flood rebuilding efforts carefully to ensure that it is equitable, minimizes any displacement, and stifles the efforts of those who wish to profit from this situation by targeting and exploiting the most vulnerable among us. If this rebuilding effort is to be just and successful, we must embrace race egalitarianism, which is “the conviction that, because of an unjust history, we should endeavor to reduce inequalities of wealth and power between racial groups, as such”[1] and commit to preserving the dignity of the affected. What remains to be seen is how Baton Rouge will transition into a new metropolitan area after the storm. Progress should not and must not come at the expense of the vulnerable. That would be a complete betrayal of the social contract and is the sort of transgression that marks the perpetrators and their descendants whose prosperity came at the cost of the rights and dignity of the vulnerable. The mechanisms of power can be used for justice only if constituents demand it and hold those in control of the mechanisms accountable for their actions so that no one gets left behind. </p>
</div>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/jqrfl/6c7d7ca1ab0269847910a5a0c0221047">MORE>></a></p>
Date
The Dignity of Black Lives
News Intro Text
[Dr. Nicholas Mitchell for The Second Line, Fall 2016]
News Item Content
<p>By Nicholas Mitchell, Ph.D. for<em> The Second Line</em></p>
<p>Pope Paul VI wrote in Evangelii Nuntiandi (1975), that all people have the right to liberation from marginalizing forces, be they social, economic, or political. In the United States, black people suffer from such marginalization and today they desire and work for liberation from all its forms.</p>
<p>The Church is called to support these efforts. If Catholics turn a blind eye to the forces that strip the dignity of millions of African American people in this nation, they are allowing a social structural sin, which is one where the personal prejudices of individuals have been elevated to social policy, to flourish. This guarantees the continuation and escalation of social unrest as the marginalized resist the forces that marginalize them.</p>
<p>The preservation of Black lives is a profoundly Catholic issue because respect for the dignity and sanctity of human life is the very foundation of Catholic social teaching. The single greatest threat to Black lives, physically and spiritually, is the imposition and effects of White Supremacy in the forms of interpersonal and institutional racism which are interconnected. Interpersonal racism is the racism held on a personal level whereas institutional racism is what is manifested in educational, legal, financial, health, and political institutions and can be quantifiably measured through material disparities. Interpersonal racism gives birth to institutional racism and the institutional racism feeds the interpersonal. In this cycle, millions of black lives are stripped of their dignity.</p>
<p>Black Lives Matter and its subsequent polities seek to break this cycle. May we, as a united Christian community, take action from Pope Paul VI’s opening words in Evangelii Nuntiandi (1975): “There is no doubt that the effort to proclaim the Gospel to the people of today, who are buoyed up by hope but at the same time often oppressed by fear and distress, is a service rendered to the Christian community and also to the whole of humanity.”</p>
<p><a href="http://obcm.arch-no.org/system/newsletters/assets/000/000/011/original/OBCM_-_Fall_2016_Newsletter.pdf?1473779699">MORE ARTICLES FROM <em>THE SECOND LINE</em>>></a></p>
<p>Pope Paul VI wrote in Evangelii Nuntiandi (1975), that all people have the right to liberation from marginalizing forces, be they social, economic, or political. In the United States, black people suffer from such marginalization and today they desire and work for liberation from all its forms.</p>
<p>The Church is called to support these efforts. If Catholics turn a blind eye to the forces that strip the dignity of millions of African American people in this nation, they are allowing a social structural sin, which is one where the personal prejudices of individuals have been elevated to social policy, to flourish. This guarantees the continuation and escalation of social unrest as the marginalized resist the forces that marginalize them.</p>
<p>The preservation of Black lives is a profoundly Catholic issue because respect for the dignity and sanctity of human life is the very foundation of Catholic social teaching. The single greatest threat to Black lives, physically and spiritually, is the imposition and effects of White Supremacy in the forms of interpersonal and institutional racism which are interconnected. Interpersonal racism is the racism held on a personal level whereas institutional racism is what is manifested in educational, legal, financial, health, and political institutions and can be quantifiably measured through material disparities. Interpersonal racism gives birth to institutional racism and the institutional racism feeds the interpersonal. In this cycle, millions of black lives are stripped of their dignity.</p>
<p>Black Lives Matter and its subsequent polities seek to break this cycle. May we, as a united Christian community, take action from Pope Paul VI’s opening words in Evangelii Nuntiandi (1975): “There is no doubt that the effort to proclaim the Gospel to the people of today, who are buoyed up by hope but at the same time often oppressed by fear and distress, is a service rendered to the Christian community and also to the whole of humanity.”</p>
<p><a href="http://obcm.arch-no.org/system/newsletters/assets/000/000/011/original/OBCM_-_Fall_2016_Newsletter.pdf?1473779699">MORE ARTICLES FROM <em>THE SECOND LINE</em>>></a></p>
Date
Study: Mississippi has “Two School Systems”
News Intro Text
[Jackson Free Press, September 23, 2016]
News Item Content
<p class="permalinkable permalinking"><span style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153); font-family: ff-meta-web-pro, "Lucida Grande", Lucida, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">By </span><a href="http://www.jacksonfreepress.com/staff/arielle-dreher/" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 11px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-position: initial; background-size: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; color: rgb(70, 70, 70); font-family: ff-meta-web-pro, "Lucida Grande", Lucida, sans-serif;">Arielle Dreher</a></p>
<p class="permalinkable permalinking" id="h113956-p1"><span class="dateline">JACKSON</span> — Mississippians in the highest income-tax brackets have enjoyed the limited economic growth the state has seen since the Great Recession, according to a recent report by Loyola University in New Orleans.</p>
<p class="permalinkable" id="h113956-p2"><a class="permalink" href="http://www.jacksonfreepress.com/news/2016/sep/23/study-mississippi-has-two-school-systems/#h113956-p2">#</a>“Those people are primarily white and primarily live in urban areas,” Jeanie Donovan, an economic policy specialist who worked on the report, told the Jackson Free Press.</p>
<p class="permalinkable" id="h113956-p3"><a class="permalink" href="http://www.jacksonfreepress.com/news/2016/sep/23/study-mississippi-has-two-school-systems/#h113956-p3">#</a>That disparity has a direct effect on education.</p>
<p class="permalinkable" id="h113956-p4">“This is the hard part about the cyclical nature of poverty,” she said. “Because the school systems are so tied to local property values and local property taxes, where those people who are making more money are living have better (public) schools—or if they don’t, they have enough money to send [their children] to the parallel private school system.”</p>
<p class="permalinkable" id="h113956-p5"><a class="permalink" href="http://www.jacksonfreepress.com/news/2016/sep/23/study-mississippi-has-two-school-systems/#h113956-p5">#</a>The report, called “The State of of Working Mississippi 2016,” uses federal- and state-level data to assess the Mississippi’s labor force, employment, jobs and educational attainment.</p>
<div class="inline inline_document inline-right ">
<h5 class="type">
DOCUMENT</h5>
<h4 class="title">
<a href="http://www.jacksonfreepress.com/documents/2016/sep/23/state-working-mississippi-2016-report/">State of Working Mississippi 2016 Report</a></h4>
<p class="thumbnail"><a href="http://www.jacksonfreepress.com/documents/2016/sep/23/state-working-mississippi-2016-report/"><img src="http://jacksonfreepress.media.clients.ellingtoncms.com/img/news/documents/2016/09/23/Screen_Shot_2016-09-23_at_11.32.10_AM_t180.png?370a03faaa4bde2115f371a02430eb3e6a451be5" /></a></p>
<p class="download file_type_pdf"><a class="button" href="http://jacksonfreepress.media.clients.ellingtoncms.com/news/documents/2016/09/23/State_of_Working_Mississippi.pdf">Download .PDF</a></p>
</div>
<p class="permalinkable" id="h113956-p6"><a class="permalink" href="http://www.jacksonfreepress.com/news/2016/sep/23/study-mississippi-has-two-school-systems/#h113956-p6">#</a>The report states plainly that Mississippi has two school systems: “underfunded public schools for the poor and private schools for the wealthy.”</p>
<p class="permalinkable" id="h113956-p7"><a class="permalink" href="http://www.jacksonfreepress.com/news/2016/sep/23/study-mississippi-has-two-school-systems/#h113956-p7">#</a>Donovan said that tying local school funding to property values is a common practice across the nation, but the difference in Mississippi is the state's level of investment in public education.</p>
<p class="permalinkable" id="h113956-p8"><a class="permalink" href="http://www.jacksonfreepress.com/news/2016/sep/23/study-mississippi-has-two-school-systems/#h113956-p8">#</a>Mississippi ranks 10th nationally in federal funding per pupil, but ranks 47th in state funding, based on the 2014 data used in the report. Donovan said that some states address funding gaps in low property-value districts using a “Recapture” or “Robin Hood” policy, which takes some of the extra money from high property-value districts and gives it to struggling districts. Texas has implemented a Robin Hood policy, Donovan said, but not without controversy.</p>
<p class="permalinkable" id="h113956-p9"><a class="permalink" href="http://www.jacksonfreepress.com/news/2016/sep/23/study-mississippi-has-two-school-systems/#h113956-p9">#</a>Metropolitan regions have recovered more successfully from the Recession than rural areas, the report shows, and schools in those areas have benefited.</p>
<p class="permalinkable" id="h113956-p10"><a class="permalink" href="http://www.jacksonfreepress.com/news/2016/sep/23/study-mississippi-has-two-school-systems/#h113956-p10">#</a>Conversely, in more rural areas of the state where parents earn less money and property values are lower, public school systems are worse. This, in turn, leads to poorer educational outcomes and children in those areas growing up and earning less, Donovan said.</p>
<p class="permalinkable" id="h113956-p11"><a class="permalink" href="http://www.jacksonfreepress.com/news/2016/sep/23/study-mississippi-has-two-school-systems/#h113956-p11">#</a>The report suggests several equitable strategies to help address low-wage jobs, unemployment and educational attainment statewide. Donovan said Mississippi could introduce a state earned-income tax credit, in order to boost low- and middle-income households and encourage participation in the workforce.</p>
<p class="permalinkable"><a href="http://www.jacksonfreepress.com/news/2016/sep/23/study-mississippi-has-two-school-systems/">MORE>></a></p>
<p class="permalinkable permalinking" id="h113956-p1"><span class="dateline">JACKSON</span> — Mississippians in the highest income-tax brackets have enjoyed the limited economic growth the state has seen since the Great Recession, according to a recent report by Loyola University in New Orleans.</p>
<p class="permalinkable" id="h113956-p2"><a class="permalink" href="http://www.jacksonfreepress.com/news/2016/sep/23/study-mississippi-has-two-school-systems/#h113956-p2">#</a>“Those people are primarily white and primarily live in urban areas,” Jeanie Donovan, an economic policy specialist who worked on the report, told the Jackson Free Press.</p>
<p class="permalinkable" id="h113956-p3"><a class="permalink" href="http://www.jacksonfreepress.com/news/2016/sep/23/study-mississippi-has-two-school-systems/#h113956-p3">#</a>That disparity has a direct effect on education.</p>
<p class="permalinkable" id="h113956-p4">“This is the hard part about the cyclical nature of poverty,” she said. “Because the school systems are so tied to local property values and local property taxes, where those people who are making more money are living have better (public) schools—or if they don’t, they have enough money to send [their children] to the parallel private school system.”</p>
<p class="permalinkable" id="h113956-p5"><a class="permalink" href="http://www.jacksonfreepress.com/news/2016/sep/23/study-mississippi-has-two-school-systems/#h113956-p5">#</a>The report, called “The State of of Working Mississippi 2016,” uses federal- and state-level data to assess the Mississippi’s labor force, employment, jobs and educational attainment.</p>
<div class="inline inline_document inline-right ">
<h5 class="type">
DOCUMENT</h5>
<h4 class="title">
<a href="http://www.jacksonfreepress.com/documents/2016/sep/23/state-working-mississippi-2016-report/">State of Working Mississippi 2016 Report</a></h4>
<p class="thumbnail"><a href="http://www.jacksonfreepress.com/documents/2016/sep/23/state-working-mississippi-2016-report/"><img src="http://jacksonfreepress.media.clients.ellingtoncms.com/img/news/documents/2016/09/23/Screen_Shot_2016-09-23_at_11.32.10_AM_t180.png?370a03faaa4bde2115f371a02430eb3e6a451be5" /></a></p>
<p class="download file_type_pdf"><a class="button" href="http://jacksonfreepress.media.clients.ellingtoncms.com/news/documents/2016/09/23/State_of_Working_Mississippi.pdf">Download .PDF</a></p>
</div>
<p class="permalinkable" id="h113956-p6"><a class="permalink" href="http://www.jacksonfreepress.com/news/2016/sep/23/study-mississippi-has-two-school-systems/#h113956-p6">#</a>The report states plainly that Mississippi has two school systems: “underfunded public schools for the poor and private schools for the wealthy.”</p>
<p class="permalinkable" id="h113956-p7"><a class="permalink" href="http://www.jacksonfreepress.com/news/2016/sep/23/study-mississippi-has-two-school-systems/#h113956-p7">#</a>Donovan said that tying local school funding to property values is a common practice across the nation, but the difference in Mississippi is the state's level of investment in public education.</p>
<p class="permalinkable" id="h113956-p8"><a class="permalink" href="http://www.jacksonfreepress.com/news/2016/sep/23/study-mississippi-has-two-school-systems/#h113956-p8">#</a>Mississippi ranks 10th nationally in federal funding per pupil, but ranks 47th in state funding, based on the 2014 data used in the report. Donovan said that some states address funding gaps in low property-value districts using a “Recapture” or “Robin Hood” policy, which takes some of the extra money from high property-value districts and gives it to struggling districts. Texas has implemented a Robin Hood policy, Donovan said, but not without controversy.</p>
<p class="permalinkable" id="h113956-p9"><a class="permalink" href="http://www.jacksonfreepress.com/news/2016/sep/23/study-mississippi-has-two-school-systems/#h113956-p9">#</a>Metropolitan regions have recovered more successfully from the Recession than rural areas, the report shows, and schools in those areas have benefited.</p>
<p class="permalinkable" id="h113956-p10"><a class="permalink" href="http://www.jacksonfreepress.com/news/2016/sep/23/study-mississippi-has-two-school-systems/#h113956-p10">#</a>Conversely, in more rural areas of the state where parents earn less money and property values are lower, public school systems are worse. This, in turn, leads to poorer educational outcomes and children in those areas growing up and earning less, Donovan said.</p>
<p class="permalinkable" id="h113956-p11"><a class="permalink" href="http://www.jacksonfreepress.com/news/2016/sep/23/study-mississippi-has-two-school-systems/#h113956-p11">#</a>The report suggests several equitable strategies to help address low-wage jobs, unemployment and educational attainment statewide. Donovan said Mississippi could introduce a state earned-income tax credit, in order to boost low- and middle-income households and encourage participation in the workforce.</p>
<p class="permalinkable"><a href="http://www.jacksonfreepress.com/news/2016/sep/23/study-mississippi-has-two-school-systems/">MORE>></a></p>
Date
The Vital Importance of Disaster-SNAP
News Intro Text
[Mazon, September 19, 2016]
News Item Content
<p>In August 2016, prolonged rainfall in southern Louisiana resulted in catastrophic flooding. The floods were called the worst natural disaster since 2012’s Hurricane Sandy, and Louisiana’s Governor quickly declared a state of emergency. Tens of thousands of people have been evacuated from their homes. Many are currently living in shelters, and Louisianans are facing damage to their property, lost income, and a lack of insurance.</p>
<p>As families confront wrecked homes and collapsed businesses, additional support is critical, and food banks are overloaded and overwhelmed. Natalie Jayroe, President and CEO of Second Harvest Food Bank of Greater New Orleans, tells us: “To date we have distributed more than 800,000 pounds of food, water and cleaning supplies to an estimated 87,000 people in 19 parishes. Given the level of damage and disruption, we anticipate providing heightened levels of support for the next several months.”</p>
<p>At a time like this, D-SNAP, or “Disaster SNAP,” is a crucial tool to help people who do not normally receive SNAP get back on their feet. D-SNAP is an addendum to the SNAP program that provides short-term food assistance to eligible households who have disaster-related expenses (a disaster-related expense may include temporary housing or personal injury). The benefits are not robust, and only last 30 days, but they do provide an extra dose of support during an emergency situation.</p>
<p>States require authorization for D-SNAP benefits after a natural disaster, and an affected area must have received a Presidential declaration of “Major Disaster” in order to request a D-SNAP. The federal Food and Nutrition Service, or FNS, authorizes states to provide the benefits. In addition to Louisiana, D-SNAP is currently active in California (for people affected by ongoing fires) and Michigan (for people affected by lead water). In the past year, it has been enacted to benefit people affected by catastrophes such as flooding in West Virginia, snow storms in New Mexico, and tornadoes in Missouri.</p>
<p><a href="http://mazon.org/inside-mazon/the-vital-importance-of-disaster-snap">MORE>></a></p>
<p>As families confront wrecked homes and collapsed businesses, additional support is critical, and food banks are overloaded and overwhelmed. Natalie Jayroe, President and CEO of Second Harvest Food Bank of Greater New Orleans, tells us: “To date we have distributed more than 800,000 pounds of food, water and cleaning supplies to an estimated 87,000 people in 19 parishes. Given the level of damage and disruption, we anticipate providing heightened levels of support for the next several months.”</p>
<p>At a time like this, D-SNAP, or “Disaster SNAP,” is a crucial tool to help people who do not normally receive SNAP get back on their feet. D-SNAP is an addendum to the SNAP program that provides short-term food assistance to eligible households who have disaster-related expenses (a disaster-related expense may include temporary housing or personal injury). The benefits are not robust, and only last 30 days, but they do provide an extra dose of support during an emergency situation.</p>
<p>States require authorization for D-SNAP benefits after a natural disaster, and an affected area must have received a Presidential declaration of “Major Disaster” in order to request a D-SNAP. The federal Food and Nutrition Service, or FNS, authorizes states to provide the benefits. In addition to Louisiana, D-SNAP is currently active in California (for people affected by ongoing fires) and Michigan (for people affected by lead water). In the past year, it has been enacted to benefit people affected by catastrophes such as flooding in West Virginia, snow storms in New Mexico, and tornadoes in Missouri.</p>
<p><a href="http://mazon.org/inside-mazon/the-vital-importance-of-disaster-snap">MORE>></a></p>
Date
One Year After the Pope's Visit, Join Thousands In Calling for Criminal Justice Reform
News Intro Text
TAKE ACTION
News Item Content
<p><a href="http://cqrcengage.com/jesuit/app/onestep-write-a-letter?0&engagementId=248013"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Take Action.jpg" style="width: 595px; height: 857px;" /></a></p>
Date
You're Invited!
News Intro Text
The Bread or Stones Campaign is a Christian coalition of churches and concerned individuals working together to improve the lives of children in Louisiana. Attend the campaign's New Orleans listening post October 6th.
News Item Content
<div>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 3px 10px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;"><b style="box-sizing: border-box;">Attend the Bread or Stones Campaign's listening post in New Orleans!</b></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 3px 10px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;">The Bread or Stones Campaign is a Christian coalition of churches and concerned individuals working together to improve the lives of children in Louisiana. Church members and leaders concerned with childhood poverty and child well-being in New Orleans are encouraged to attend the campaign's <a href="https://www.votervoice.net/BroadcastLinks/k3R92j9LG1tJwIwUvXpLaA" style="box-sizing: border-box; outline: none; color: rgb(84, 1, 21);" target="_blank" title="This external link will open in a new window">New Orleans listening post </a>at <b style="box-sizing: border-box;">St. Andrew's Episcopal Church </b>at <b style="box-sizing: border-box;">1031 Carrolton Ave </b>on <b style="box-sizing: border-box;">Thursday October 6th from 6:30-7:45pm.</b><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />
<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />
Come to voice your concerns, share your expertise, and collaborate with others for the good of our<b style="box-sizing: border-box;"> </b>children.<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />
<a href="https://www.votervoice.net/BroadcastLinks/k3R92j9LG1tJwIwUvXpLaA" style="box-sizing: border-box; outline: none; color: rgb(84, 1, 21);" target="_blank" title="This external link will open in a new window">Register here to attend.</a><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />
<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />
Please contact Bread or Stones Campaign Organizer Samuel Rottman with any questions: <strong style="box-sizing: border-box;">samuelrottman@gmail.com</strong><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />
<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />
Hope to see you there!</p>
</div>
<div>
</div>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 3px 10px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;"><b style="box-sizing: border-box;">Attend the Bread or Stones Campaign's listening post in New Orleans!</b></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 3px 10px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;">The Bread or Stones Campaign is a Christian coalition of churches and concerned individuals working together to improve the lives of children in Louisiana. Church members and leaders concerned with childhood poverty and child well-being in New Orleans are encouraged to attend the campaign's <a href="https://www.votervoice.net/BroadcastLinks/k3R92j9LG1tJwIwUvXpLaA" style="box-sizing: border-box; outline: none; color: rgb(84, 1, 21);" target="_blank" title="This external link will open in a new window">New Orleans listening post </a>at <b style="box-sizing: border-box;">St. Andrew's Episcopal Church </b>at <b style="box-sizing: border-box;">1031 Carrolton Ave </b>on <b style="box-sizing: border-box;">Thursday October 6th from 6:30-7:45pm.</b><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />
<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />
Come to voice your concerns, share your expertise, and collaborate with others for the good of our<b style="box-sizing: border-box;"> </b>children.<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />
<a href="https://www.votervoice.net/BroadcastLinks/k3R92j9LG1tJwIwUvXpLaA" style="box-sizing: border-box; outline: none; color: rgb(84, 1, 21);" target="_blank" title="This external link will open in a new window">Register here to attend.</a><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />
<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />
Please contact Bread or Stones Campaign Organizer Samuel Rottman with any questions: <strong style="box-sizing: border-box;">samuelrottman@gmail.com</strong><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />
<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />
Hope to see you there!</p>
</div>
<div>
</div>
Date
2016 legislative update: Alabama avoids deep Medicaid cuts. What's next?
News Intro Text
[Alabama Arise]
News Item Content
<p style="margin-top: 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Geneva, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Alabama Medicaid is safe – for now. State lawmakers wrapped up their special session last week with a sigh of relief after approving a one-time solution to stop deep Medicaid cuts. The Legislature agreed to use BP oil spill settlement money to address Medicaid’s $85 million shortfall for 2017 and to give the program another $105 million in 2018.</span></p>
<p style="margin-top: 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Geneva, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">HB 36, sponsored by Rep. Steve Clouse, R-Ozark, will reverse the 30 percent Medicaid payment cuts to pediatricians and other primary care doctors that had begun in August. The bill will allow Alabama to move forward with <a href="http://www.arisecitizens.org/index.php/publications-topmenu-32/fact-sheets-topmenu-36/health-topmenu-57/3246-6-things-to-know-about-alabama-s-medicaid-reforms" style="color: rgb(0, 51, 255);" target="_blank">the Medicaid regional care organization (RCO) reforms that will emphasize preventive care</a> in an effort to save the state money and keep patients healthier. The measure also will prevent Medicaid from having to cut outpatient dialysis, prescription drugs and other services next year.</span></p>
<p style="margin-top: 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Geneva, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">The House on Sept. 7 voted 87-9 to approve the conference committee’s version of the bill. Later that day, the Senate passed it 22-8. <a href="http://wiat.com/2016/09/07/conference-committee-tries-to-break-oil-spill-deadlock/" style="color: rgb(0, 51, 255);" target="_blank">This Associated Press story has more about the plan</a>.</span></p>
<p style="margin-top: 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Geneva, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">“We’re relieved that the Legislature pulled Alabama back from the brink of devastating Medicaid cuts that would have hurt more than 1 million people – mostly children, seniors, and people with disabilities,” <a href="http://www.arisecitizens.org/index.php/media-room-topmenu-46/acpp-news-releases-topmenu-33/3483-expand-medicaid-and-end-alabama-s-cycle-of-shortfalls" style="color: rgb(0, 51, 255);" target="_blank">Arise executive director Kimble Forrister said</a>. “And we’re pleased to see lawmakers take steps to help shore up Medicaid funding for the next two years. But vulnerable Alabamians’ access to health care shouldn’t be left up to stopgaps or one-time money.”</span></p>
<p style="margin-top: 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Geneva, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.arisecitizens.org/index.php/publications-topmenu-32/fact-sheets-topmenu-36/state-government-topmenu-52/3495-2016-legislative-update-alabama-avoids-deep-medicaid-cuts-what-s-next"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">MORE>></span></a></p>
<p style="margin-top: 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Geneva, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">HB 36, sponsored by Rep. Steve Clouse, R-Ozark, will reverse the 30 percent Medicaid payment cuts to pediatricians and other primary care doctors that had begun in August. The bill will allow Alabama to move forward with <a href="http://www.arisecitizens.org/index.php/publications-topmenu-32/fact-sheets-topmenu-36/health-topmenu-57/3246-6-things-to-know-about-alabama-s-medicaid-reforms" style="color: rgb(0, 51, 255);" target="_blank">the Medicaid regional care organization (RCO) reforms that will emphasize preventive care</a> in an effort to save the state money and keep patients healthier. The measure also will prevent Medicaid from having to cut outpatient dialysis, prescription drugs and other services next year.</span></p>
<p style="margin-top: 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Geneva, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">The House on Sept. 7 voted 87-9 to approve the conference committee’s version of the bill. Later that day, the Senate passed it 22-8. <a href="http://wiat.com/2016/09/07/conference-committee-tries-to-break-oil-spill-deadlock/" style="color: rgb(0, 51, 255);" target="_blank">This Associated Press story has more about the plan</a>.</span></p>
<p style="margin-top: 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Geneva, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">“We’re relieved that the Legislature pulled Alabama back from the brink of devastating Medicaid cuts that would have hurt more than 1 million people – mostly children, seniors, and people with disabilities,” <a href="http://www.arisecitizens.org/index.php/media-room-topmenu-46/acpp-news-releases-topmenu-33/3483-expand-medicaid-and-end-alabama-s-cycle-of-shortfalls" style="color: rgb(0, 51, 255);" target="_blank">Arise executive director Kimble Forrister said</a>. “And we’re pleased to see lawmakers take steps to help shore up Medicaid funding for the next two years. But vulnerable Alabamians’ access to health care shouldn’t be left up to stopgaps or one-time money.”</span></p>
<p style="margin-top: 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Geneva, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.arisecitizens.org/index.php/publications-topmenu-32/fact-sheets-topmenu-36/state-government-topmenu-52/3495-2016-legislative-update-alabama-avoids-deep-medicaid-cuts-what-s-next"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">MORE>></span></a></p>
Date
Medicaid expansion enrollment in Louisiana tops 305,000
News Intro Text
[Associated Press, September 19, 2016]
News Item Content
<p><span class="info line" style="font-size: 10pt; color: rgb(136, 136, 136); font-family: Helvetica;">By MELINDA DESLATTE<br />
Published: Yesterday</span></p>
<p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px;"> </p>
<p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px;">BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) - Thousands of people enrolled in Louisiana's Medicaid expansion program have received preventive services that in some instances have identified cancer, diabetes and other illnesses, state Health Secretary Rebekah Gee said Monday.</p>
<p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px;">More than 305,000 people have signed up for the coverage that began July 1. Gee said nearly 12,000 of them so far have gotten annual exams, cancer screenings, colonoscopies, mammograms and other services through the government-financed insurance program.</p>
<p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px;">"That's real people getting real care in real doctors' offices because of Medicaid expansion," the health secretary told the Press Club of Baton Rouge.</p>
<p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px;">As Louisiana readied for the expansion program, questions were raised by lawmakers, health providers and others about whether people would get a Medicaid insurance card but have trouble finding available doctors or clinics willing to see the influx of new patients.</p>
<p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px;">Gee said data from the first two and a half months of the program show people are accessing care with their new coverage, some diagnosed with serious illnesses.</p>
<p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px;">She said more than 1,000 women, for example, have had breast screenings and 24 were determined to have - and are being treated for - cancer. Another 160 people in the Medicaid expansion program were newly diagnosed with diabetes. And more than 100 expansion enrollees have had polyps, which sometimes can develop into cancer, removed from their colons.</p>
<div>
<a href="http://m.apnews.com/ap/db_268748/contentdetail.htm?contentguid=7MDlHGoJ">MORE>></a></div>
Published: Yesterday</span></p>
<p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px;"> </p>
<p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px;">BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) - Thousands of people enrolled in Louisiana's Medicaid expansion program have received preventive services that in some instances have identified cancer, diabetes and other illnesses, state Health Secretary Rebekah Gee said Monday.</p>
<p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px;">More than 305,000 people have signed up for the coverage that began July 1. Gee said nearly 12,000 of them so far have gotten annual exams, cancer screenings, colonoscopies, mammograms and other services through the government-financed insurance program.</p>
<p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px;">"That's real people getting real care in real doctors' offices because of Medicaid expansion," the health secretary told the Press Club of Baton Rouge.</p>
<p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px;">As Louisiana readied for the expansion program, questions were raised by lawmakers, health providers and others about whether people would get a Medicaid insurance card but have trouble finding available doctors or clinics willing to see the influx of new patients.</p>
<p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px;">Gee said data from the first two and a half months of the program show people are accessing care with their new coverage, some diagnosed with serious illnesses.</p>
<p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px;">She said more than 1,000 women, for example, have had breast screenings and 24 were determined to have - and are being treated for - cancer. Another 160 people in the Medicaid expansion program were newly diagnosed with diabetes. And more than 100 expansion enrollees have had polyps, which sometimes can develop into cancer, removed from their colons.</p>
<div>
<a href="http://m.apnews.com/ap/db_268748/contentdetail.htm?contentguid=7MDlHGoJ">MORE>></a></div>
Date
Salaries Increase, But More Texans Still Living in Poverty than before the Recession
News Intro Text
[Center for Public Policy Priorities, September 16, 2016]
News Item Content
<p style="padding-top: 6px; padding-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Arial, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 13px;">The typical Texas household income increased by $2,555 last year according to new data from the <a href="http://www.census.gov/" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); text-decoration: underline; -webkit-transition: background 0.25s, color 0.25s; transition: background 0.25s, color 0.25s;">Census Bureau</a>. The data also show that fewer Texans are living in poverty, although overall incomes and poverty levels need improvement to ensure long-term economic growth for all Texans.</p>
<p style="padding-top: 6px; padding-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Arial, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 13px;">These changes are welcome news and mirror similar improvements for low-income and working families across the country. However, the Texas poverty rate of 15.9 percent is still much higher than the national average at 13.5 percent in 2015, and large economic gaps persist by race and ethnicity. The poverty rate for Hispanic (22.8 percent) and Black (21.4 percent) Texans far outpaces that of White (8.6 percent) or Asian (10.6 percent) Texans.</p>
<p style="padding-top: 6px; padding-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Arial, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 13px;">“Rising incomes for Texas families are great news after years of stagnant wage growth,” said CPPP Associate Director Frances Deviney, Ph.D. “However, we shouldn’t let that overshadow the fact that there is a greater share of Texans compared to the rest of the country facing consistent educational, transportation, child care and job barriers, leaving them struggling to provide for themselves and for their families. We must do a better job supporting public, private, local and state efforts to break down these barriers so that low-income families and individuals can access the Texas middle class.”</p>
<p style="padding-top: 6px; padding-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Arial, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 13px;">The economic challenges facing Texas children are particularly concerning. There are more than 7 million children living in Texas today, representing nearly 1 in 10 children living in the United States. However, nearly one in four Texas children (23 percent) are living in poverty. Poverty rates for Hispanic (33 percent) and Black children (32 percent) are nearly three times higher than they are for White (11 percent) and Asian children (12 percent). Not only are Black and Hispanic children more likely to live in poverty, but they are also more likely to grow up in high-poverty areas than White children, which significantly impacts the resources available to them and their families.</p>
<p style="padding-top: 6px; padding-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Arial, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 13px;"><a href="http://bettertexasblog.org/2016/09/salaries-increase-texans-still-living-poverty-recession/">MORE>></a></p>
<p style="padding-top: 6px; padding-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Arial, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 13px;">These changes are welcome news and mirror similar improvements for low-income and working families across the country. However, the Texas poverty rate of 15.9 percent is still much higher than the national average at 13.5 percent in 2015, and large economic gaps persist by race and ethnicity. The poverty rate for Hispanic (22.8 percent) and Black (21.4 percent) Texans far outpaces that of White (8.6 percent) or Asian (10.6 percent) Texans.</p>
<p style="padding-top: 6px; padding-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Arial, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 13px;">“Rising incomes for Texas families are great news after years of stagnant wage growth,” said CPPP Associate Director Frances Deviney, Ph.D. “However, we shouldn’t let that overshadow the fact that there is a greater share of Texans compared to the rest of the country facing consistent educational, transportation, child care and job barriers, leaving them struggling to provide for themselves and for their families. We must do a better job supporting public, private, local and state efforts to break down these barriers so that low-income families and individuals can access the Texas middle class.”</p>
<p style="padding-top: 6px; padding-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Arial, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 13px;">The economic challenges facing Texas children are particularly concerning. There are more than 7 million children living in Texas today, representing nearly 1 in 10 children living in the United States. However, nearly one in four Texas children (23 percent) are living in poverty. Poverty rates for Hispanic (33 percent) and Black children (32 percent) are nearly three times higher than they are for White (11 percent) and Asian children (12 percent). Not only are Black and Hispanic children more likely to live in poverty, but they are also more likely to grow up in high-poverty areas than White children, which significantly impacts the resources available to them and their families.</p>
<p style="padding-top: 6px; padding-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Arial, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 13px;"><a href="http://bettertexasblog.org/2016/09/salaries-increase-texans-still-living-poverty-recession/">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Stop Payday Predators
News Intro Text
Tell the CFPB why a strong rule is important to you....
News Item Content
<p><strong>THE PROBLEM</strong></p>
<p>Payday lenders purposefully ensnare people in debt they can’t escape. These legalized loan sharks collect 75 percent of their fees from people stuck in more than 10 loans a year by charging 300 percent APR. <strong>It’s a debt trap.</strong></p>
<p><strong>THE SOLUTION</strong></p>
<p>We can rein in the worst payday lending abuses with a proposed rule from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Payday lenders are fighting to keep their unfair and abusive practices going. <strong>It’s up to us to make sure the CFPB hears loud and clear that we need to stop the debt trap once and for all.</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://stoppaydaypredators.org/crl/"><strong>TAKE ACTION>></strong></a></p>
<p>Payday lenders purposefully ensnare people in debt they can’t escape. These legalized loan sharks collect 75 percent of their fees from people stuck in more than 10 loans a year by charging 300 percent APR. <strong>It’s a debt trap.</strong></p>
<p><strong>THE SOLUTION</strong></p>
<p>We can rein in the worst payday lending abuses with a proposed rule from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Payday lenders are fighting to keep their unfair and abusive practices going. <strong>It’s up to us to make sure the CFPB hears loud and clear that we need to stop the debt trap once and for all.</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://stoppaydaypredators.org/crl/"><strong>TAKE ACTION>></strong></a></p>
Date
State Tax Codes as Poverty Fighting Tools
News Intro Text
[Institute on Tax and Economic Policy, September 15, 2016]
News Item Content
<p>The share of Americans living in poverty has decreased, yet remains high, according to data released this month by the U.S. Census Bureau. In 2015, the national poverty rate fell from 14.8 to 13.5 percent.[1] However, the poverty rate remains somewhat higher than it was in 2007, before the Great Recession, indicating that recent economic gains have not yet reached all households and that there is much room for improvement. The 2015 measure translates to over 43 million – around 1 in 7 – Americans living in poverty. No state experienced an increase in poverty while the rate fell in 23 states.[2]</p>
<p>The Supplemental Poverty Measure (SPM) released alongside the official poverty measure, demonstrates that tax codes can be used as an effective poverty-fighting tool. At 14.3 percent it is higher than the official poverty rate, however, it is lower than it would have been in the absence of two federal credits – the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and refundable portion of the Child Tax Credit. In 2015, the combined impact of the two credits decreased the SPM rate from 17.2 to 14.3 percent, lifting 9.2 million people – 4.8 million of whom are children– out of poverty.[3]</p>
<p>Astonishingly, tax policies in virtually every state make it harder for living in poverty to make ends meet. When all the taxes imposed by state and local governments are taken into account, every state imposes higher effective tax rates on poor families than on the richest taxpayers.</p>
<p>Despite this unlevel playing field states create for their poorest residents through existing policies, many state policymakers have proposed (and in some cases enacted) tax increases on the poor under the guise of “tax reform,” often to finance tax cuts for their wealthiest residents and profitable corporations.</p>
<p>State and local tax systems typically make things harder for families living in poverty. A 2015 ITEP report, <a href="http://www.itep.org/whopays/"><strong><em>Who</em></strong><strong><em> Pays? A Distributional Analysis of the Tax Systems in All 50 States</em></strong></a>, found that the poorest twenty percent of Americans paid on average 10.9 percent of their incomes in state and local taxes. Middle-income taxpayers didn’t fare much better, paying an average of 9.4 percent of their incomes toward those taxes. But when it comes to the wealthiest one percent, ITEP found they paid an average of just 5.4 percent of their incomes in state and local taxes.</p>
<p>Nearly every state and local tax system takes a much greater share of income from middle- and low-income families than from the wealthy. This “soak the poor” strategy from a budgeting perspective does not yield much revenue compared to modest taxes on the rich. It also pushes low-income families further into poverty and increases the likelihood that they will need to rely on safety net programs.</p>
<p>There is a better approach. Just as state and local tax policies can push individuals and families further into poverty, there are tax policy tools available that can help them move out of poverty. In most states, a true remedy to improve state tax fairness would require comprehensive tax reform. Short of this, lawmakers should use their states’ tax systems as a means of providing affordable, effective and targeted assistance to people living in or close to poverty in their states. Through the use of tax policy tools, state lawmakers can take steps to improve the standard of living for low-income residents. Similar to the way in which the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps families put food on the table, thoughtful changes to state tax codes can help struggling families pay for necessities.</p>
<p>This report presents a comprehensive overview of anti-poverty tax policies, surveys tax policy decisions made in the states in 2016, and offers recommendations that every state should consider to help families rise out of poverty. States can jump-start their anti-poverty efforts by enacting one or more of four proven and effective tax strategies to reduce the share of taxes paid by low- and moderate-income families: state Earned Income Tax Credits, property tax circuit breakers, targeted low-income credits, and child-related tax credits.</p>
<div>
<a href="http://itep.org/itep_reports/2016/09/state-tax-codes-as-poverty-fighting-tools-3.php#.V9wEGmXmu3U">MORE>></a></div>
<p>The Supplemental Poverty Measure (SPM) released alongside the official poverty measure, demonstrates that tax codes can be used as an effective poverty-fighting tool. At 14.3 percent it is higher than the official poverty rate, however, it is lower than it would have been in the absence of two federal credits – the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and refundable portion of the Child Tax Credit. In 2015, the combined impact of the two credits decreased the SPM rate from 17.2 to 14.3 percent, lifting 9.2 million people – 4.8 million of whom are children– out of poverty.[3]</p>
<p>Astonishingly, tax policies in virtually every state make it harder for living in poverty to make ends meet. When all the taxes imposed by state and local governments are taken into account, every state imposes higher effective tax rates on poor families than on the richest taxpayers.</p>
<p>Despite this unlevel playing field states create for their poorest residents through existing policies, many state policymakers have proposed (and in some cases enacted) tax increases on the poor under the guise of “tax reform,” often to finance tax cuts for their wealthiest residents and profitable corporations.</p>
<p>State and local tax systems typically make things harder for families living in poverty. A 2015 ITEP report, <a href="http://www.itep.org/whopays/"><strong><em>Who</em></strong><strong><em> Pays? A Distributional Analysis of the Tax Systems in All 50 States</em></strong></a>, found that the poorest twenty percent of Americans paid on average 10.9 percent of their incomes in state and local taxes. Middle-income taxpayers didn’t fare much better, paying an average of 9.4 percent of their incomes toward those taxes. But when it comes to the wealthiest one percent, ITEP found they paid an average of just 5.4 percent of their incomes in state and local taxes.</p>
<p>Nearly every state and local tax system takes a much greater share of income from middle- and low-income families than from the wealthy. This “soak the poor” strategy from a budgeting perspective does not yield much revenue compared to modest taxes on the rich. It also pushes low-income families further into poverty and increases the likelihood that they will need to rely on safety net programs.</p>
<p>There is a better approach. Just as state and local tax policies can push individuals and families further into poverty, there are tax policy tools available that can help them move out of poverty. In most states, a true remedy to improve state tax fairness would require comprehensive tax reform. Short of this, lawmakers should use their states’ tax systems as a means of providing affordable, effective and targeted assistance to people living in or close to poverty in their states. Through the use of tax policy tools, state lawmakers can take steps to improve the standard of living for low-income residents. Similar to the way in which the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps families put food on the table, thoughtful changes to state tax codes can help struggling families pay for necessities.</p>
<p>This report presents a comprehensive overview of anti-poverty tax policies, surveys tax policy decisions made in the states in 2016, and offers recommendations that every state should consider to help families rise out of poverty. States can jump-start their anti-poverty efforts by enacting one or more of four proven and effective tax strategies to reduce the share of taxes paid by low- and moderate-income families: state Earned Income Tax Credits, property tax circuit breakers, targeted low-income credits, and child-related tax credits.</p>
<div>
<a href="http://itep.org/itep_reports/2016/09/state-tax-codes-as-poverty-fighting-tools-3.php#.V9wEGmXmu3U">MORE>></a></div>
Date
The striking difference between states that expanded Medicaid and the ones that didn’t
News Intro Text
[The Washington Post, September 13, 2016]
News Item Content
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);"><span style="font-family: FranklinITCProBold, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">By </span><a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/people/carolyn-johnson" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(25, 85, 165); font-family: FranklinITCProBold, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Carolyn Y. Johnson</a></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);">The number of Americans without health insurance <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/uninsurance-rate-drops-to-the-lowest-level-since-before-the-great-recession/2016/09/13/73ed3f64-7908-11e6-beac-57a4a412e93a_story.html" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(25, 85, 165); border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(213, 213, 213); zoom: 1; margin-bottom: 18px; line-height: 1.8em;" target="_blank">declined to 9.1 percent last year</a>, according to federal data released Tuesday.<strong style="box-sizing: border-box;"> </strong>A set of maps released by the Census Bureau suggests an obvious way to decrease the uninsured rate even more: expand Medicaid in the 19 states that haven't.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);">The Affordable Care Act, commonly known as Obamacare, originally called for an expansion of Medicaid eligibility to people who make up to 138 percent of the poverty level. The Supreme Court ruled that mandating the expansion was unconstitutional, allowing states to opt out. That has left a "coverage gap" in 19 states, where poor people are not eligible for Medicaid, but also do not qualify for the subsidies for private health insurance through the Obamacare marketplaces.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/wonk/wp/2016/09/13/the-difference-between-states-that-expanded-medicaid-and-the-ones-that-didnt/"><span style="color: rgb(17, 17, 17); font-family: Georgia; font-size: 18px;">MORE>></span></a></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);">The number of Americans without health insurance <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/uninsurance-rate-drops-to-the-lowest-level-since-before-the-great-recession/2016/09/13/73ed3f64-7908-11e6-beac-57a4a412e93a_story.html" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(25, 85, 165); border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(213, 213, 213); zoom: 1; margin-bottom: 18px; line-height: 1.8em;" target="_blank">declined to 9.1 percent last year</a>, according to federal data released Tuesday.<strong style="box-sizing: border-box;"> </strong>A set of maps released by the Census Bureau suggests an obvious way to decrease the uninsured rate even more: expand Medicaid in the 19 states that haven't.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);">The Affordable Care Act, commonly known as Obamacare, originally called for an expansion of Medicaid eligibility to people who make up to 138 percent of the poverty level. The Supreme Court ruled that mandating the expansion was unconstitutional, allowing states to opt out. That has left a "coverage gap" in 19 states, where poor people are not eligible for Medicaid, but also do not qualify for the subsidies for private health insurance through the Obamacare marketplaces.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/wonk/wp/2016/09/13/the-difference-between-states-that-expanded-medicaid-and-the-ones-that-didnt/"><span style="color: rgb(17, 17, 17); font-family: Georgia; font-size: 18px;">MORE>></span></a></p>
Date
Medicaid expansion works, and new Census numbers prove it
News Intro Text
[Alabama Arise, September 15, 2016]
News Item Content
<p style="margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Geneva, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; background-image: none; background-attachment: scroll; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat repeat;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: helvetica;"><em><span style="line-height: 14.266666412353516px; color: rgb(33, 33, 33);"><a href="http://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/demo/tables/p60/257/tableA1.pdf" style="color: rgb(0, 51, 255);" target="_blank">New U.S. Census Bureau data show one in 10 Alabamians had no health insurance coverage in 2015</a>, an improvement from the state’s 13.6 percent uninsured rate in 2013, the last year before the Affordable Care Act took full effect. ACPP executive director Kimble Forrister issued the following statement Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2016, in response:</span></em></span></p>
<p style="margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Geneva, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; background-image: none; background-attachment: scroll; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat repeat;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 14.266666412353516px; font-family: helvetica;">“Today’s good news about health coverage in Alabama would be even better if the state had expanded Medicaid. More Alabamians have coverage today than in 2013, and the Affordable Care Act deserves much of the credit for those gains. Nearly 200,000 Alabamians have signed up for health insurance through the ACA marketplace. Many of them have coverage for the first time, and all of them now have the peace of mind that comes with knowing that a medical emergency won’t lead to financial ruin.</span></p>
<p style="margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Geneva, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; background-image: none; background-attachment: scroll; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat repeat;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 14.266666412353516px; font-family: helvetica;">“But Alabama still has a long way to go to ensure that all of our neighbors have the coverage they need. Medicaid expansion would close the coverage gap for more than 300,000 uninsured working adults, college students and other folks in Alabama. That would mean a more productive workforce, thousands of new jobs and big state savings on mental health care and other services.</span></p>
<p style="margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Geneva, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; background-image: none; background-attachment: scroll; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat repeat;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 14.266666412353516px; font-family: helvetica;">“We’re being left out. States like Kentucky and West Virginia that have expanded Medicaid have much lower uninsured rates than those that haven’t. They’re also enjoying the job creation and cost savings that come from injecting new federal money into their budgets and economies. It’s time for Alabama to expand Medicaid and reap those same benefits.”</span></p>
<p style="margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Geneva, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; background-image: none; background-attachment: scroll; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat repeat;"><a href="http://www.arisecitizens.org/index.php/media-room-topmenu-46/acpp-news-releases-topmenu-33/3491-medicaid-expansion-works-and-new-census-numbers-prove-it"><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 14.266666412353516px; font-family: helvetica;">MORE>></span></a></p>
<p style="margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Geneva, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; background-image: none; background-attachment: scroll; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat repeat;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 14.266666412353516px; font-family: helvetica;">“Today’s good news about health coverage in Alabama would be even better if the state had expanded Medicaid. More Alabamians have coverage today than in 2013, and the Affordable Care Act deserves much of the credit for those gains. Nearly 200,000 Alabamians have signed up for health insurance through the ACA marketplace. Many of them have coverage for the first time, and all of them now have the peace of mind that comes with knowing that a medical emergency won’t lead to financial ruin.</span></p>
<p style="margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Geneva, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; background-image: none; background-attachment: scroll; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat repeat;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 14.266666412353516px; font-family: helvetica;">“But Alabama still has a long way to go to ensure that all of our neighbors have the coverage they need. Medicaid expansion would close the coverage gap for more than 300,000 uninsured working adults, college students and other folks in Alabama. That would mean a more productive workforce, thousands of new jobs and big state savings on mental health care and other services.</span></p>
<p style="margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Geneva, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; background-image: none; background-attachment: scroll; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat repeat;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 14.266666412353516px; font-family: helvetica;">“We’re being left out. States like Kentucky and West Virginia that have expanded Medicaid have much lower uninsured rates than those that haven’t. They’re also enjoying the job creation and cost savings that come from injecting new federal money into their budgets and economies. It’s time for Alabama to expand Medicaid and reap those same benefits.”</span></p>
<p style="margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Geneva, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; background-image: none; background-attachment: scroll; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat repeat;"><a href="http://www.arisecitizens.org/index.php/media-room-topmenu-46/acpp-news-releases-topmenu-33/3491-medicaid-expansion-works-and-new-census-numbers-prove-it"><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 14.266666412353516px; font-family: helvetica;">MORE>></span></a></p>
Date
Child Poverty in America 2015: National Analysis
News Intro Text
[Children's Defense Fund, September 13, 2016]
News Item Content
<div class="page" title="Page 1">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><a href="http://www.childrensdefense.org"><span>Children’s Defense Fund </span></a></p>
<p><span>Poverty data released by the U.S. Census Bureau on September 13, 2016 reveal child poverty declined last year to 14.5 million poor children, one million fewer than in 2014, but still higher than before the recession began in 2007. The national child poverty rate declined from 21.1 percent in 2014 to 19.7 percent in 2015, a statistically significant decrease. Child poverty rates declined for White, Black, Hispanic and Asian children. Children of color are disproportionately poor and comprise nearly 70 percent of poor children in America. Children remain the poorest age group in the nation, and the 1 in 5 poor children continue to have the odds stacked against their success. </span></p>
<p><span>Child Poverty </span></p>
<p><span>There were 43.1 million poor people in America in 2015, and one in three were children. Nearly 20 percent of children were poor in 2015, compared to 12.4 percent of people ages 18-64 and 8.8 percent of people ages 65 and older. </span></p>
<ul>
<li>
<p><span> </span><span>There were </span><span>14,509,000 </span><span>children living in poverty in 2015. </span></p>
</li>
<li>
<p><span> </span><span>The percent of children living in poverty was </span><span>19.7 percent </span><span>in 2015, a 6.6 percent decrease from </span><span>21.1 </span></p>
<p><span>percent in 2014. </span></p>
</li>
<li>
<p><span> </span><span>Poverty is defined as an </span><span>annual income below $24,257 </span><span>for an average family of four, meaning less </span></p>
<p><span>than </span><span>$2,021 </span><span>a month</span><span>, $466 </span><span>a week, or </span><span>$66.46 </span><span>a day. </span></p>
<p><span>Extreme Child Poverty </span></p>
<p><span>In 2015, more than 6.5 million children </span><span>– </span><span>one in 11 </span><span>– </span><span>lived in extreme poverty, defined as an annual income of less than half the poverty level, or </span><span>$12,129 </span><span>for a family of four, which amounts to less than $1,011 a month, $233 a week, or $33 a day. </span></p>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
<p><span> </span><span>The number of children living in extreme poverty: </span><span>6,537,000 </span></p>
</li>
<li>
<p><span> </span><span>The percent of children living in extreme poverty: </span><span>8.9 percent, </span><span>a 4.3 percent decrease from 9.3 percent in 2014. </span></p>
</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.childrensdefense.org/library/data/child-poverty-in-america-2015.pdf"><span>MORE>></span></a></p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><a href="http://www.childrensdefense.org"><span>Children’s Defense Fund </span></a></p>
<p><span>Poverty data released by the U.S. Census Bureau on September 13, 2016 reveal child poverty declined last year to 14.5 million poor children, one million fewer than in 2014, but still higher than before the recession began in 2007. The national child poverty rate declined from 21.1 percent in 2014 to 19.7 percent in 2015, a statistically significant decrease. Child poverty rates declined for White, Black, Hispanic and Asian children. Children of color are disproportionately poor and comprise nearly 70 percent of poor children in America. Children remain the poorest age group in the nation, and the 1 in 5 poor children continue to have the odds stacked against their success. </span></p>
<p><span>Child Poverty </span></p>
<p><span>There were 43.1 million poor people in America in 2015, and one in three were children. Nearly 20 percent of children were poor in 2015, compared to 12.4 percent of people ages 18-64 and 8.8 percent of people ages 65 and older. </span></p>
<ul>
<li>
<p><span> </span><span>There were </span><span>14,509,000 </span><span>children living in poverty in 2015. </span></p>
</li>
<li>
<p><span> </span><span>The percent of children living in poverty was </span><span>19.7 percent </span><span>in 2015, a 6.6 percent decrease from </span><span>21.1 </span></p>
<p><span>percent in 2014. </span></p>
</li>
<li>
<p><span> </span><span>Poverty is defined as an </span><span>annual income below $24,257 </span><span>for an average family of four, meaning less </span></p>
<p><span>than </span><span>$2,021 </span><span>a month</span><span>, $466 </span><span>a week, or </span><span>$66.46 </span><span>a day. </span></p>
<p><span>Extreme Child Poverty </span></p>
<p><span>In 2015, more than 6.5 million children </span><span>– </span><span>one in 11 </span><span>– </span><span>lived in extreme poverty, defined as an annual income of less than half the poverty level, or </span><span>$12,129 </span><span>for a family of four, which amounts to less than $1,011 a month, $233 a week, or $33 a day. </span></p>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
<p><span> </span><span>The number of children living in extreme poverty: </span><span>6,537,000 </span></p>
</li>
<li>
<p><span> </span><span>The percent of children living in extreme poverty: </span><span>8.9 percent, </span><span>a 4.3 percent decrease from 9.3 percent in 2014. </span></p>
</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.childrensdefense.org/library/data/child-poverty-in-america-2015.pdf"><span>MORE>></span></a></p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p>
Date
Time to try new ways to boost state economy
News Intro Text
[Sun Herald, September 10, 2016]
News Item Content
<p>By The Editorial Board, Sun Herald </p>
<p>To say we are perplexed by last week’s state budget adjustment would be an understatement.</p>
<p>It was another accounting error. A $56.8 million accounting error. And further cuts in many state agency budgets.</p>
<p>That’s unsettling enough, but it was the second paragraph of his explanation that was the head-scratcher.</p>
<p>“It is important to remember that general fund spending has increased 26 percent, five times the rate of inflation, the last four years,” Gov. Phil Bryant said. “That kind of growth over such a short period of time is simply unsustainable.”</p>
<p>Don’t worry, though, he said, your state leaders are on the case.</p>
<p>That would be the same state leaders who have held the House and Senate and the governor’s mansion since 2011. Pardon our lack of optimism.</p>
<p>Bryant didn’t explain where that 26 percent increase in spending went. Legislative panels have been going over that budget line by line to find the leak.</p>
<p>There’s one we know. Medicaid spending. It’s devouring the state budget.</p>
<p>But here is the kicker. Medicaid spending is growing at a much slower pace, 3.4 percent, in states that expanded the health-care program for the poor under the Affordable Care Act than Mississippi’s 6.9 percent.</p>
<p>Mississippi leaders had hoped the state economy would start to grow and create enough extra revenue to erase the $56.8 million error by the end of the year. Clearly they’ve abandoned that hope.</p>
<p>And yet our leaders remain optimistic. They tell us we are on the path to prosperity.</p>
<p>Evidence suggests otherwise.</p>
<p>Last week, Loyola University’s Jesuit Social Research Institute in New Orleans offered its view of the State of Working Mississippi 2016. It does not paint a pretty picture.</p>
<p>“The state’s increasingly inequitable system of taxation places a disproportionate burden on low- and middle-income families, while tax breaks for the wealthiest individuals and corporations have left the state without adequate revenue for critical public services and infrastructure, including public schools and hospitals,” researchers Jeanie Donovan and William McCormick wrote in their executive summary.</p>
<p>“Mississippi also ranks low on measures of quality of life and education levels of the labor force, making it an unattractive state for new and growing businesses despite its generally business-friendly state tax system. Accordingly, if Mississippi is going to rebound economically the state must invest more in its current and future workforce and improve its public services and infrastructure. Without concerted policy changes, the economic struggles of the state and its workers will continue and grow worse.”</p>
<p>They have a prescription for reversing that course: Fully fund education, increase child-care assistance through Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program, add money for needs-based college tuition assistance, expand Medicaid, raise minimum wage, grant a state Earned Income Tax Credit, reduce or eliminate the sales tax on groceries and increase state tax revenues without placing additional burdens on the poor.</p>
<p>These are not ideas Bryant is likely to find appealing. But given the state of the state’s economy, nothing should be off the table.</p>
<p><em>The editorial represents the views of the Sun Herald editorial board. Opinions of columnists and cartoonists are their own.</em></p>
<p>Oringal article can be found <a href="http://www.sunherald.com/opinion/editorials/article100896922.html">HERE</a></p>
<p>To say we are perplexed by last week’s state budget adjustment would be an understatement.</p>
<p>It was another accounting error. A $56.8 million accounting error. And further cuts in many state agency budgets.</p>
<p>That’s unsettling enough, but it was the second paragraph of his explanation that was the head-scratcher.</p>
<p>“It is important to remember that general fund spending has increased 26 percent, five times the rate of inflation, the last four years,” Gov. Phil Bryant said. “That kind of growth over such a short period of time is simply unsustainable.”</p>
<p>Don’t worry, though, he said, your state leaders are on the case.</p>
<p>That would be the same state leaders who have held the House and Senate and the governor’s mansion since 2011. Pardon our lack of optimism.</p>
<p>Bryant didn’t explain where that 26 percent increase in spending went. Legislative panels have been going over that budget line by line to find the leak.</p>
<p>There’s one we know. Medicaid spending. It’s devouring the state budget.</p>
<p>But here is the kicker. Medicaid spending is growing at a much slower pace, 3.4 percent, in states that expanded the health-care program for the poor under the Affordable Care Act than Mississippi’s 6.9 percent.</p>
<p>Mississippi leaders had hoped the state economy would start to grow and create enough extra revenue to erase the $56.8 million error by the end of the year. Clearly they’ve abandoned that hope.</p>
<p>And yet our leaders remain optimistic. They tell us we are on the path to prosperity.</p>
<p>Evidence suggests otherwise.</p>
<p>Last week, Loyola University’s Jesuit Social Research Institute in New Orleans offered its view of the State of Working Mississippi 2016. It does not paint a pretty picture.</p>
<p>“The state’s increasingly inequitable system of taxation places a disproportionate burden on low- and middle-income families, while tax breaks for the wealthiest individuals and corporations have left the state without adequate revenue for critical public services and infrastructure, including public schools and hospitals,” researchers Jeanie Donovan and William McCormick wrote in their executive summary.</p>
<p>“Mississippi also ranks low on measures of quality of life and education levels of the labor force, making it an unattractive state for new and growing businesses despite its generally business-friendly state tax system. Accordingly, if Mississippi is going to rebound economically the state must invest more in its current and future workforce and improve its public services and infrastructure. Without concerted policy changes, the economic struggles of the state and its workers will continue and grow worse.”</p>
<p>They have a prescription for reversing that course: Fully fund education, increase child-care assistance through Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program, add money for needs-based college tuition assistance, expand Medicaid, raise minimum wage, grant a state Earned Income Tax Credit, reduce or eliminate the sales tax on groceries and increase state tax revenues without placing additional burdens on the poor.</p>
<p>These are not ideas Bryant is likely to find appealing. But given the state of the state’s economy, nothing should be off the table.</p>
<p><em>The editorial represents the views of the Sun Herald editorial board. Opinions of columnists and cartoonists are their own.</em></p>
<p>Oringal article can be found <a href="http://www.sunherald.com/opinion/editorials/article100896922.html">HERE</a></p>
Date
Mississippi Edition: Friday, September 9
News Intro Text
[Mississippi Public Broadcasting, 09/09/16]
News Item Content
<p><span>Mississippi still has 18,000 fewer jobs now than it did before the recession. That’s according to a new report called the State of Working Mississippi 2016. The report also found African Americans are particularly affected by economic challenges in Mississippi when they hit. Father Fred Kammer is director of the Jesuit Social Research Institute at Loyola University -- which published the report. He tells MPB's Evelina Burnett working families are finding it harder to find economic security.</span></p>
<p><a href="http://www.mpbonline.org/blogs/mississippiedition/mississippi-edition-monday-september-9th/"><span>MORE>></span></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.mpbonline.org/blogs/mississippiedition/mississippi-edition-monday-september-9th/"><span>MORE>></span></a></p>
Date
State of Working Mississippi reveals alarming statistics
News Intro Text
[WDAM, 09/08/16]
News Item Content
<p><span id="WNStoryDateline">BILOXI, MS (WLOX) </span></p>
<p> </p>
<p>According to a <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JSRI160239_JSRI_StateWorkingMS_r20.pdf" target="_blank">new report by the Jesuit Social Research Institute of Loyola University in New Orleans</a>, African-American workers make nearly 30 percent less than whites in Mississippi. Around 100,000 working families in the state are without health care.</p>
<p>The disturbing findings in the report made public on Thursday outline wage disparities among class, gender, and race.</p>
<p>“Growing income inequality has left low and middle class workers in Mississippi without wage increases since the Great Recession," said Father Fred Kammer, director of the Jesuit Social Research Institute. "While the highest earning workers have enjoyed significant growth in wages."</p>
<p>Along with statistics showing the poor in Mississippi indeed getting poorer in recent years, the report also found significant disparities in wages along racial lines.</p>
<p>“In 2015, African-American workers earned a median hourly wage that was $4.65 per hour, or 28 percent less than white workers,” said lead researcher, Jeanie Donovan.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.wdam.com//story/33050730/new-study-shows-alarming-trends-for-ms-workers#.V9MGID_vdiE.twitter">MORE>></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>According to a <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JSRI160239_JSRI_StateWorkingMS_r20.pdf" target="_blank">new report by the Jesuit Social Research Institute of Loyola University in New Orleans</a>, African-American workers make nearly 30 percent less than whites in Mississippi. Around 100,000 working families in the state are without health care.</p>
<p>The disturbing findings in the report made public on Thursday outline wage disparities among class, gender, and race.</p>
<p>“Growing income inequality has left low and middle class workers in Mississippi without wage increases since the Great Recession," said Father Fred Kammer, director of the Jesuit Social Research Institute. "While the highest earning workers have enjoyed significant growth in wages."</p>
<p>Along with statistics showing the poor in Mississippi indeed getting poorer in recent years, the report also found significant disparities in wages along racial lines.</p>
<p>“In 2015, African-American workers earned a median hourly wage that was $4.65 per hour, or 28 percent less than white workers,” said lead researcher, Jeanie Donovan.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.wdam.com//story/33050730/new-study-shows-alarming-trends-for-ms-workers#.V9MGID_vdiE.twitter">MORE>></a></p>
Date
The State of Working Mississippi 2016
News Intro Text
The report examines current and historical data related to wages, labor force participation, job market, education, assets and poverty in Mississippi. It also includes proposed policy solutions related to the findings.
News Item Content
<p>JSRI released <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JSRI160239_JSRI_StateWorkingMS_r20.pdf">the State of Working Mississippi 2016 </a>report to coincide with the recent Labor Day holiday. The report examines current and historical data related to wages, labor force participation, job market, education, assets and poverty in Mississippi. It also includes proposed policy solutions related to the findings.</p>
<p>A few key findings from the report include:</p>
<ul>
<li>
In May 2016, Mississippi still had 18,400 jobs fewer than it had before <span>the Great Recession.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
53,290 working Mississippi families live in poverty, or 18% of all <span>working families in the state, making Mississippi the state with the </span><span>highest rate of working poor families in the country.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
Mississippi workers in the lowest wage group (10th percentile) have <span>experienced a 6.4% decrease in real wages since 1979, while those in the </span><span>highest wage group (90th percentile) experienced a 24% increase in real </span><span>wages.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
In 2015 the median wage in Mississippi was $14.49 per hour, which was <span>still below the pre-Recession level of $14.67 per hour in 2007. On the </span><span>other hand, wages for the highest earners (90th percentile) increased </span><span>from $30.26 in 2007 to $32.10 in 2015.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
In 2014 Mississippi spent $8,263 per student in its public school system <span style="line-height: 18px;">compared to the national average of $11,009 per student.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
In 2015 just 21.8% of Mississippians had a Bachelor’s degree <span style="line-height: 18px;">compared to 32.5% nationwide.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
Nearly half (48%) of Mississippi private sector employees do not have <span>employer-sponsored healthcare, 61% do not have an employer-sponsored </span><span>pension, and 47% do not have any paid sick leave.</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
</div>
<p>A few key findings from the report include:</p>
<ul>
<li>
In May 2016, Mississippi still had 18,400 jobs fewer than it had before <span>the Great Recession.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
53,290 working Mississippi families live in poverty, or 18% of all <span>working families in the state, making Mississippi the state with the </span><span>highest rate of working poor families in the country.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
Mississippi workers in the lowest wage group (10th percentile) have <span>experienced a 6.4% decrease in real wages since 1979, while those in the </span><span>highest wage group (90th percentile) experienced a 24% increase in real </span><span>wages.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
In 2015 the median wage in Mississippi was $14.49 per hour, which was <span>still below the pre-Recession level of $14.67 per hour in 2007. On the </span><span>other hand, wages for the highest earners (90th percentile) increased </span><span>from $30.26 in 2007 to $32.10 in 2015.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
In 2014 Mississippi spent $8,263 per student in its public school system <span style="line-height: 18px;">compared to the national average of $11,009 per student.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
In 2015 just 21.8% of Mississippians had a Bachelor’s degree <span style="line-height: 18px;">compared to 32.5% nationwide.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
Nearly half (48%) of Mississippi private sector employees do not have <span>employer-sponsored healthcare, 61% do not have an employer-sponsored </span><span>pension, and 47% do not have any paid sick leave.</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
</div>
Date
Are you in Mississippi and interested in economic justice?
News Intro Text
Join us this Thursday, September 8 for the release of "The State of Working Mississippi"
News Item Content
<h2>
<strong>Event Description</strong></h2>
<p>On the heels of Labor Day, JSRI releases State of Working Mississippi 2016 Report The Jesuit Social Research Institute (JSRI) works to transform the Gulf South through action research, analysis, education, and advocacy on the core issues of poverty, race, and migration. On Thursday, Sept. 8, JSRI will release the 2016 State of Working Mississippi report, which is modeled after the Economic Policy Institute’s State of Working America series. The report examines current and historical data related to wages, labor force participation, job market, education, assets, and poverty in Mississippi and proposed policy solutions related to the findings.</p>
<p>Following the press conference, there will be a working lunch for advocates and community members to discuss report findings and recommendations. </p>
<p>Television cameras and photographers are welcome. </p>
<p><strong>WHEN</strong></p>
<p>Thursday, September 8, 2016 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM (CDT)</p>
<p><strong>WHERE</strong></p>
<p>Steps Coalition - 610 Water Street, Biloxi, MS 39530 </p>
<h2>
<span class="maroon"><span><a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/jsri-releases-state-of-working-mississippi-2016-report-hosted-by-the-steps-coalition-tickets-27491980253">RSVP</a> today! </span></span></h2>
<strong>Event Description</strong></h2>
<p>On the heels of Labor Day, JSRI releases State of Working Mississippi 2016 Report The Jesuit Social Research Institute (JSRI) works to transform the Gulf South through action research, analysis, education, and advocacy on the core issues of poverty, race, and migration. On Thursday, Sept. 8, JSRI will release the 2016 State of Working Mississippi report, which is modeled after the Economic Policy Institute’s State of Working America series. The report examines current and historical data related to wages, labor force participation, job market, education, assets, and poverty in Mississippi and proposed policy solutions related to the findings.</p>
<p>Following the press conference, there will be a working lunch for advocates and community members to discuss report findings and recommendations. </p>
<p>Television cameras and photographers are welcome. </p>
<p><strong>WHEN</strong></p>
<p>Thursday, September 8, 2016 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM (CDT)</p>
<p><strong>WHERE</strong></p>
<p>Steps Coalition - 610 Water Street, Biloxi, MS 39530 </p>
<h2>
<span class="maroon"><span><a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/jsri-releases-state-of-working-mississippi-2016-report-hosted-by-the-steps-coalition-tickets-27491980253">RSVP</a> today! </span></span></h2>
Date
Are Our Schools Still Segregated?
News Intro Text
U.S. and Gulf South School Segregation
News Item Content
<p>by Jeanie Donovan, M.P.A., M.P.H. and Fred Kammer, S.J., J.D.</p>
<p>Across the country, schools are opening and students returning to their classrooms. Despite the Supreme Court’s 1954 Brown versus Board of Education decision to desegregate schools “with all deliberate speed,” too many classrooms are still segregated.</p>
<p>School districts made significant progress toward desegregation after the Civil Rights Act of 1964, but the trend has shifted back toward race-based school segregation. [1] Following court decisions in the late 1960s and 1970s that required Department of Education officials to oversee implementation of desegregation plans, the rate of black students attending majority-white schools increased dramatically from 1 percent in 1963 to 43 percent in 1983. [2] After federal oversight phased out and schools were left to make “good faith efforts” to maintain integration, significant backsliding followed. In 2012, 74 percent of black students and 80 percent of Latino students attended schools that were 50 to 100 percent minority; and of these, more than 40 percent of black and Latino students attended schools that were 90 to 100 percent minority. [3]</p>
<p>This re-segregation trend often concentrates minorities in schools with fewer resources that face challenges attracting and retaining quality teachers. [4] A mounting body of evidence indicates that school segregation has negative impacts on short-term academic achievement of minority students and their success in later life. [5] Integrated schools have a positive impact on all students through promoting awareness and mutual understanding and ensuring that they have the necessary tools to function in an increasingly multicultural society. [6] Not taking intentional steps to ensure that all students have the opportunity to attend quality, integrated schools perpetuates injustice, allowing the mistakes of the past to haunt the future.</p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/message/fbx6k/vr8mje">MORE>></a></p>
<p>Across the country, schools are opening and students returning to their classrooms. Despite the Supreme Court’s 1954 Brown versus Board of Education decision to desegregate schools “with all deliberate speed,” too many classrooms are still segregated.</p>
<p>School districts made significant progress toward desegregation after the Civil Rights Act of 1964, but the trend has shifted back toward race-based school segregation. [1] Following court decisions in the late 1960s and 1970s that required Department of Education officials to oversee implementation of desegregation plans, the rate of black students attending majority-white schools increased dramatically from 1 percent in 1963 to 43 percent in 1983. [2] After federal oversight phased out and schools were left to make “good faith efforts” to maintain integration, significant backsliding followed. In 2012, 74 percent of black students and 80 percent of Latino students attended schools that were 50 to 100 percent minority; and of these, more than 40 percent of black and Latino students attended schools that were 90 to 100 percent minority. [3]</p>
<p>This re-segregation trend often concentrates minorities in schools with fewer resources that face challenges attracting and retaining quality teachers. [4] A mounting body of evidence indicates that school segregation has negative impacts on short-term academic achievement of minority students and their success in later life. [5] Integrated schools have a positive impact on all students through promoting awareness and mutual understanding and ensuring that they have the necessary tools to function in an increasingly multicultural society. [6] Not taking intentional steps to ensure that all students have the opportunity to attend quality, integrated schools perpetuates injustice, allowing the mistakes of the past to haunt the future.</p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/message/fbx6k/vr8mje">MORE>></a></p>
Date
The decline in unions has hurt nonunion workers too
News Intro Text
Economic Policy Institute • Lawrence Mishel • September 1, 2016
News Item Content
<p><a href="http://www.epi.org/">Economic Policy Institute</a> • Lawrence Mishel • September 1, 2016</p>
<p>Between 1979 and 2013, the share of private sector workers in a union has fallen from about 34 percent to 11 percent among men, and from 16 percent to 6 percent among women. The decline in unions has not only hurt workers who would be in those unions, but it has hurt nonunion workers’ wages as well.</p>
<div>
<p>This decline in union density has eroded wages for nonunion workers at every level of education and experience, costing billions in lost wages. For the 32.9 million full-time nonunion private sector women and 40.2 million full-time private sector men, there is a $133 billion loss in annual wages because of weakened unions.</p>
<p>Unions keep wages high for nonunion workers for several reasons: union agreements set wage standards and a strong union presence prompts managers to keep wages high in order to prevent workers from organizing or their employees from leaving. Moreover, unions set industry-wide norms, influencing what is seen as a “moral economy.”</p>
<p>Working class men have felt the decline in unionization the hardest. Specifically, nonunion men lacking a college degree would have earned 8 percent, or $3,016 annually, more in 2013 if unions had remained as strong as they were in 1979.</p>
<p>The effects of union decline on the wages of nonunion women are not as substantial because women were not as heavily represented in unionized private sector jobs. However, women’s wages would be 2 to 3 percent higher if unions had stayed at their 1979 levels.</p>
</div>
<p><a href="http://www.epi.org/publication/the-decline-in-unions-has-hurt-nonunion-workers-too/?mc_cid=1aa5d3deb3&mc_eid=7b9221669f">MORE>></a></p>
<p>Between 1979 and 2013, the share of private sector workers in a union has fallen from about 34 percent to 11 percent among men, and from 16 percent to 6 percent among women. The decline in unions has not only hurt workers who would be in those unions, but it has hurt nonunion workers’ wages as well.</p>
<div>
<p>This decline in union density has eroded wages for nonunion workers at every level of education and experience, costing billions in lost wages. For the 32.9 million full-time nonunion private sector women and 40.2 million full-time private sector men, there is a $133 billion loss in annual wages because of weakened unions.</p>
<p>Unions keep wages high for nonunion workers for several reasons: union agreements set wage standards and a strong union presence prompts managers to keep wages high in order to prevent workers from organizing or their employees from leaving. Moreover, unions set industry-wide norms, influencing what is seen as a “moral economy.”</p>
<p>Working class men have felt the decline in unionization the hardest. Specifically, nonunion men lacking a college degree would have earned 8 percent, or $3,016 annually, more in 2013 if unions had remained as strong as they were in 1979.</p>
<p>The effects of union decline on the wages of nonunion women are not as substantial because women were not as heavily represented in unionized private sector jobs. However, women’s wages would be 2 to 3 percent higher if unions had stayed at their 1979 levels.</p>
</div>
<p><a href="http://www.epi.org/publication/the-decline-in-unions-has-hurt-nonunion-workers-too/?mc_cid=1aa5d3deb3&mc_eid=7b9221669f">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Shaping Civil Discourse
News Intro Text
The founding charism of the Society of Jesus is to serve as agents of reconciliation; this gift should serve as a summons to each of us. How do we respond?
News Item Content
<p><a href="http://jesuitscentralsouthern.org/">US Central and Southern Province of the Society of Jesus </a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>The founding charism of the Society of Jesus is to serve as agents of reconciliation; this gift should serve as a summons to each of us. How do we respond? Especially in a time of so much disunity and violence, in an election year filled with strident voices, how do we create a space of civil discourse that allows for true democratic dialogue?</p>
<p>How do we let the foundational principles of our faith inform the ways we ponder and speak to one another about the grave challenges we face?</p>
<p>Thankfully, there are resources for civil discourse. In the sidebar on the right, you will find a letter from Fr. Provincial Ronald A. Mercier to the members of this province. In addition, there is a list of resources, with guidelines for Catholics and Catholic institutions on how to hold engage respectfully and appropriately.</p>
<p>Finally, we in the USA Central and Southern Province have designed an Ignatian-inspired prayer and dialogue process to help Jesuit communities and those in Jesuit works – including faculty, staff, volunteers (JVC, IVC, ASC), parishioners, students – reflect on how they can be bridge builders AND bearers of good news in this time of political and moral division. It attempts to model the components needed for constructive dialogue with people who have opposing opinions on issues, platforms, and – yes – even candidates.</p>
<p>Although it can be used at any time, the upcoming elections and the divisive climate they have created are an opportunity to reflect on, practice and deepen our ministry of reconciliation in a specific context. The process can be used in different adaptations – in 3-4 separate sessions, as a short retreat or afternoon/evening of reflection, or as material for theology, social studies, or civics classes.</p>
<p>Materials include both facilitators’ and participants’ guides. It is not a guide for having a political discussion on opinions about political candidates or parties, but rather a guide to deepen our response to the call of the Jesuit documents – and the call of Christ himself – to be reconcilers in the world.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://jesuitscentralsouthern.org/civildiscourse?DTN=DTN-20160830015321">MORE>></a></p>
<div>
</div>
<p> </p>
<p>The founding charism of the Society of Jesus is to serve as agents of reconciliation; this gift should serve as a summons to each of us. How do we respond? Especially in a time of so much disunity and violence, in an election year filled with strident voices, how do we create a space of civil discourse that allows for true democratic dialogue?</p>
<p>How do we let the foundational principles of our faith inform the ways we ponder and speak to one another about the grave challenges we face?</p>
<p>Thankfully, there are resources for civil discourse. In the sidebar on the right, you will find a letter from Fr. Provincial Ronald A. Mercier to the members of this province. In addition, there is a list of resources, with guidelines for Catholics and Catholic institutions on how to hold engage respectfully and appropriately.</p>
<p>Finally, we in the USA Central and Southern Province have designed an Ignatian-inspired prayer and dialogue process to help Jesuit communities and those in Jesuit works – including faculty, staff, volunteers (JVC, IVC, ASC), parishioners, students – reflect on how they can be bridge builders AND bearers of good news in this time of political and moral division. It attempts to model the components needed for constructive dialogue with people who have opposing opinions on issues, platforms, and – yes – even candidates.</p>
<p>Although it can be used at any time, the upcoming elections and the divisive climate they have created are an opportunity to reflect on, practice and deepen our ministry of reconciliation in a specific context. The process can be used in different adaptations – in 3-4 separate sessions, as a short retreat or afternoon/evening of reflection, or as material for theology, social studies, or civics classes.</p>
<p>Materials include both facilitators’ and participants’ guides. It is not a guide for having a political discussion on opinions about political candidates or parties, but rather a guide to deepen our response to the call of the Jesuit documents – and the call of Christ himself – to be reconcilers in the world.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://jesuitscentralsouthern.org/civildiscourse?DTN=DTN-20160830015321">MORE>></a></p>
<div>
</div>
Date
Still Separate, Still Unequal
News Intro Text
White Catholics and the perduring sin of racism
News Item Content
<p>Michael Pasquier, <a href="http://americamagazine.org/"><em>America Magazine </em></a></p>
<p>Two years ago, at the age of 7, my daughter developed an interest in the biographies of famous people. We started with a children’s book about Amelia Earhart, followed by Walt Disney and Anne Frank. Next up was Rosa Parks. The book opened with Parks as a girl growing up in rural Alabama, watching white kids ride buses to white schools while she and her black friends walked to black schools. The moral of the story was clear: Racism is bad. When we finished the book, my daughter said to me, “I go to a segregated school.” It wasn’t a question. It was a statement of fact.</p>
<p>My children attend a Catholic elementary school in Baton Rouge, La. My spouse and I send our children there for obvious reasons. It’s connected to our parish. It’s seven blocks away from our house. We both attended Catholic schools as children. My mother taught at Catholic schools. My wife works in the parish office.</p>
<p>What can I say? We’re Catholic.</p>
<p>We’re also white.</p>
<p>In describing her school as segregated, my daughter was simply calling it as she saw it. The children she encountered every day—in the classroom and on the playground and at birthday parties—were white. I couldn’t disagree with her, but I tried to explain why. I said things like, “Most Catholics in the school district are white, and only people who live in the district can go to the school,” and “Most of the people who go to our church are white, and only the people who go to our church can go to the school.” Remember, she was 7. So she replied, “Well, that’s too bad.”</p>
<p><a href="http://americamagazine.org/issue/still-separate-still-unequal">MORE>></a></p>
<p>Two years ago, at the age of 7, my daughter developed an interest in the biographies of famous people. We started with a children’s book about Amelia Earhart, followed by Walt Disney and Anne Frank. Next up was Rosa Parks. The book opened with Parks as a girl growing up in rural Alabama, watching white kids ride buses to white schools while she and her black friends walked to black schools. The moral of the story was clear: Racism is bad. When we finished the book, my daughter said to me, “I go to a segregated school.” It wasn’t a question. It was a statement of fact.</p>
<p>My children attend a Catholic elementary school in Baton Rouge, La. My spouse and I send our children there for obvious reasons. It’s connected to our parish. It’s seven blocks away from our house. We both attended Catholic schools as children. My mother taught at Catholic schools. My wife works in the parish office.</p>
<p>What can I say? We’re Catholic.</p>
<p>We’re also white.</p>
<p>In describing her school as segregated, my daughter was simply calling it as she saw it. The children she encountered every day—in the classroom and on the playground and at birthday parties—were white. I couldn’t disagree with her, but I tried to explain why. I said things like, “Most Catholics in the school district are white, and only people who live in the district can go to the school,” and “Most of the people who go to our church are white, and only the people who go to our church can go to the school.” Remember, she was 7. So she replied, “Well, that’s too bad.”</p>
<p><a href="http://americamagazine.org/issue/still-separate-still-unequal">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Labor Day Statement
News Intro Text
Most Reverend Thomas G. Wenski, Archbishop of Miami
Chairman of the Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development
Chairman of the Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development
News Item Content
<div>
<strong>Most Reverend Thomas G. Wenski</strong></div>
<div>
<strong>Archbishop of Miami</strong></div>
<div>
<strong>Chairman of the Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development</strong></div>
<div>
<strong>United States Conference of Catholic Bishops</strong></div>
<div>
<strong>September 5, 2016</strong></div>
<div>
</div>
<p>In every age, O Lord, you have been our refuge.</p>
<p>– Psalm 90:1</p>
<p>This Labor Day, we draw our attention to our sisters and brothers who face twin crises—deep trials in both the world of work and the state of the family. These challenging times can pull us toward despair and all the many dangers that come with it. Into this reality, the Church shares a word of hope, directing hearts and minds to the dignity of each human person and the sanctity of work itself, which is given by God. She seeks to replace desperation and isolation with human concern and true solidarity, reaffirming the trust in a good and gracious God who knows what we need before we ask him (Mt. 6:8).</p>
<p><strong>A World of Work in Disarray</strong></p>
<p>We behold signs that have become too familiar in the years following the Great Recession: stagnant wages, industry leaving towns and cities behind, and the sharp decline in the rate of private-sector organized labor, which fell by more than two-thirds between 1973 and 2009 down to 7%. Millions of families still find themselves living in poverty, unable to work their way out. Poverty rates among children are alarmingly high, with almost 40 percent of American children spending at least one year in poverty before they turn eighteen. Although this reality is felt nation-wide, this year new research has emerged showing the acute pain of middle and rural America in the wake of the departure of industry. Once the center of labor and the promise of family-sustaining wages, research shows these communities collapsing today, substance abuse on the rise, and an increase in the number of broken families.</p>
<p><strong>Family in Crisis</strong></p>
<p>The family is bent under the weight of these economic pressures and related cultural problems. Pope Francis, at the conclusion of his address to Congress last September, spoke of the consequences for families:</p>
<p>How essential the family has been to the building of this country! And how worthy it remains of oursupport and encouragement! . . . In particular, I would like to call attention to those family members who are the most vulnerable, the young. For many of them, a future filled with countless possibilities beckons, yet so many others seem disoriented and aimless, trapped in a hopeless maze of violence, abuse and despair. Their problems are our problems. We cannot avoid them. We need to face them together, to talk about them and to seek effective solutions rather than getting bogged down in discussions. At the risk of oversimplifying, we might say that we live in a culture which pressures young people not to start a family, because they lack possibilities for the future. Yet this same culture presents others with so many options that they too are dissuaded from starting a family.[1]</p>
<p>Economic and political forces have led to increasingly lowered economic prospects for Americans without access to higher education, which is having a direct impact on family health and stability. For example, over half of parents between the ages of 26 and 31 now have children outside of a marriage, and research shows a major factor is the lack of middle-skill jobs – careers by which someone can sustain a family above the poverty line without a college degree – in regions with high income inequality. Divorce rates and the rate of single-parent households break down along similar educational and economic lines. Financial concerns and breakdowns in family life can lead to a sense of hopelessness and despair. The Rust Belt region now appears to have the highest concentration in the nation of drug-related deaths, including from overdoses of heroin and prescription drugs. </p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Labor day statement-Wenski-2016-cst.pdf">FULL STATEMENT>></a></p>
<strong>Most Reverend Thomas G. Wenski</strong></div>
<div>
<strong>Archbishop of Miami</strong></div>
<div>
<strong>Chairman of the Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development</strong></div>
<div>
<strong>United States Conference of Catholic Bishops</strong></div>
<div>
<strong>September 5, 2016</strong></div>
<div>
</div>
<p>In every age, O Lord, you have been our refuge.</p>
<p>– Psalm 90:1</p>
<p>This Labor Day, we draw our attention to our sisters and brothers who face twin crises—deep trials in both the world of work and the state of the family. These challenging times can pull us toward despair and all the many dangers that come with it. Into this reality, the Church shares a word of hope, directing hearts and minds to the dignity of each human person and the sanctity of work itself, which is given by God. She seeks to replace desperation and isolation with human concern and true solidarity, reaffirming the trust in a good and gracious God who knows what we need before we ask him (Mt. 6:8).</p>
<p><strong>A World of Work in Disarray</strong></p>
<p>We behold signs that have become too familiar in the years following the Great Recession: stagnant wages, industry leaving towns and cities behind, and the sharp decline in the rate of private-sector organized labor, which fell by more than two-thirds between 1973 and 2009 down to 7%. Millions of families still find themselves living in poverty, unable to work their way out. Poverty rates among children are alarmingly high, with almost 40 percent of American children spending at least one year in poverty before they turn eighteen. Although this reality is felt nation-wide, this year new research has emerged showing the acute pain of middle and rural America in the wake of the departure of industry. Once the center of labor and the promise of family-sustaining wages, research shows these communities collapsing today, substance abuse on the rise, and an increase in the number of broken families.</p>
<p><strong>Family in Crisis</strong></p>
<p>The family is bent under the weight of these economic pressures and related cultural problems. Pope Francis, at the conclusion of his address to Congress last September, spoke of the consequences for families:</p>
<p>How essential the family has been to the building of this country! And how worthy it remains of oursupport and encouragement! . . . In particular, I would like to call attention to those family members who are the most vulnerable, the young. For many of them, a future filled with countless possibilities beckons, yet so many others seem disoriented and aimless, trapped in a hopeless maze of violence, abuse and despair. Their problems are our problems. We cannot avoid them. We need to face them together, to talk about them and to seek effective solutions rather than getting bogged down in discussions. At the risk of oversimplifying, we might say that we live in a culture which pressures young people not to start a family, because they lack possibilities for the future. Yet this same culture presents others with so many options that they too are dissuaded from starting a family.[1]</p>
<p>Economic and political forces have led to increasingly lowered economic prospects for Americans without access to higher education, which is having a direct impact on family health and stability. For example, over half of parents between the ages of 26 and 31 now have children outside of a marriage, and research shows a major factor is the lack of middle-skill jobs – careers by which someone can sustain a family above the poverty line without a college degree – in regions with high income inequality. Divorce rates and the rate of single-parent households break down along similar educational and economic lines. Financial concerns and breakdowns in family life can lead to a sense of hopelessness and despair. The Rust Belt region now appears to have the highest concentration in the nation of drug-related deaths, including from overdoses of heroin and prescription drugs. </p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Labor day statement-Wenski-2016-cst.pdf">FULL STATEMENT>></a></p>
Date
JSRI to sponsor FREE movie screening and panel discussion
News Intro Text
"The Return" - Wednesday, August 31 7:00 PM - Nunemaker Auditorium
News Item Content
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/The Return .jpg" style="width: 700px; height: 500px;" /></p>
Date
The Legacy of Lynching, On Death Row
News Intro Text
[The New Yorker, August 22, 2016]
News Item Content
<p><a href="http://www.newyorker.com/">By Jeffery Toobin, The New Yorker </a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span>In 1989, a twenty-nine-year-old African-American civil-rights lawyer named Bryan Stevenson moved to Montgomery, Alabama, and founded an organization that became the Equal Justice Initiative. It guarantees legal representation to every inmate on the state’s death row. Over the decades, it has handled hundreds of capital cases, and has spared a hundred and twenty-five offenders from execution. In recent years, Stevenson has also argued the appeals of prisoners around the country who were convicted of various crimes as juveniles and given long sentences or life in prison. One was Joe Sullivan, who was thirteen when he was charged in a sexual battery in Pensacola, Florida. Sullivan’s original trial, in 1989, established that he and two older boys had burglarized the home of a woman named Lena Bruner on a morning when no one was there. That afternoon, Bruner was sexually assaulted in the home by someone whose face she never saw. The older boys implicated Sullivan, and he was convicted. They served brief sentences. Sullivan was sentenced to life in prison, with no possibility of parole.</span></p>
<p><font color="#121212" face="Adobe Caslon, Georgia, Times New Roman, Times, serif"><span><a href="http://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2016/08/22/bryan-stevenson-and-the-legacy-of-lynching">MORE</a>>></span></font></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span>In 1989, a twenty-nine-year-old African-American civil-rights lawyer named Bryan Stevenson moved to Montgomery, Alabama, and founded an organization that became the Equal Justice Initiative. It guarantees legal representation to every inmate on the state’s death row. Over the decades, it has handled hundreds of capital cases, and has spared a hundred and twenty-five offenders from execution. In recent years, Stevenson has also argued the appeals of prisoners around the country who were convicted of various crimes as juveniles and given long sentences or life in prison. One was Joe Sullivan, who was thirteen when he was charged in a sexual battery in Pensacola, Florida. Sullivan’s original trial, in 1989, established that he and two older boys had burglarized the home of a woman named Lena Bruner on a morning when no one was there. That afternoon, Bruner was sexually assaulted in the home by someone whose face she never saw. The older boys implicated Sullivan, and he was convicted. They served brief sentences. Sullivan was sentenced to life in prison, with no possibility of parole.</span></p>
<p><font color="#121212" face="Adobe Caslon, Georgia, Times New Roman, Times, serif"><span><a href="http://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2016/08/22/bryan-stevenson-and-the-legacy-of-lynching">MORE</a>>></span></font></p>
Date
Justice Department says it will end use of private prisons
News Intro Text
[The Washington Post, August 18, 2016]
News Item Content
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17); -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;">BY Matt Zapotosky, The Washington Post </p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17); -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;">The Justice Department plans to end its use of private prisons after officials concluded the facilities are both less safe and less effective at providing correctional services than those run by the government.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17); -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;">Deputy Attorney General Sally Yates announced the decision on Thursday in a memo that instructs officials to either decline to renew the contracts for private prison operators when they expire or “substantially reduce” the contracts’ scope. The goal, Yates wrote, is “reducing — and ultimately ending — our use of privately operated prisons.”</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17); -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;">“They simply do not provide the same level of correctional services, programs, and resources; they do not save substantially on costs; and as noted in a recent report by the Department’s Office of Inspector General, they do not maintain the same level of safety and security,” Yates wrote.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17); -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;"> </p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17); -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;"><a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/post-nation/wp/2016/08/18/justice-department-says-it-will-end-use-of-private-prisons/?utm_term=.86832bac22a8">MORE>></a></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17); -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;">The Justice Department plans to end its use of private prisons after officials concluded the facilities are both less safe and less effective at providing correctional services than those run by the government.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17); -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;">Deputy Attorney General Sally Yates announced the decision on Thursday in a memo that instructs officials to either decline to renew the contracts for private prison operators when they expire or “substantially reduce” the contracts’ scope. The goal, Yates wrote, is “reducing — and ultimately ending — our use of privately operated prisons.”</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17); -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;">“They simply do not provide the same level of correctional services, programs, and resources; they do not save substantially on costs; and as noted in a recent report by the Department’s Office of Inspector General, they do not maintain the same level of safety and security,” Yates wrote.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17); -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;"> </p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17); -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;"><a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/post-nation/wp/2016/08/18/justice-department-says-it-will-end-use-of-private-prisons/?utm_term=.86832bac22a8">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Payday Loans’ Potentially Predatory Replacement
News Intro Text
As lenders respond to impending regulations by pushing different products, many fear that borrowers won’t be protected.
News Item Content
<p><a href="http://www.theatlantic.com/business/archive/2016/08/what-will-replace-payday-loans/495656/">GILLIAN B. WHITE AUG 12, 2016 </a></p>
<p>Dangerous, high-cost lending isn’t going away anytime soon.</p>
<p>While some have heralded the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s long-awaited payday-lending regulations as significant progress toward the end of predatory lending practices, other, similar products have, as predicted, started to take their place.</p>
<p>One of the biggest criticisms of the traditional payday-loan structure was that it required a large, lump-sum payment of principal plus interest. If—or more often, when—borrowers were unable to find the cash to pay back their very short-term loans with interest that reached the triple digits, these loans would be rolled into yet another short-term, lump-sum loan. And so the cycle went.</p>
<p>An uptick in what are called installment loans is the payday industry’s answer to that criticism—or, more precisely, the regulations that that criticism led to. Instead of making a lump-sum payment, installment-loan borrowers take out loans that are paid off a bit at a time, over a longer period of time. Installment loans are nothing new, and the same lenders who once predominantly peddled payday loans have been trying their hand at installment loans for some time, too. But now, they may try to make them a significantly larger share of their business. The Wall Street Journal recently reported that in 2015, lenders provided nearly $25 billion in installment loans to people with credit scores below 600. That’s 78 percent higher than the year before.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.theatlantic.com/business/archive/2016/08/what-will-replace-payday-loans/495656/">MORE>></a></p>
<p>Dangerous, high-cost lending isn’t going away anytime soon.</p>
<p>While some have heralded the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s long-awaited payday-lending regulations as significant progress toward the end of predatory lending practices, other, similar products have, as predicted, started to take their place.</p>
<p>One of the biggest criticisms of the traditional payday-loan structure was that it required a large, lump-sum payment of principal plus interest. If—or more often, when—borrowers were unable to find the cash to pay back their very short-term loans with interest that reached the triple digits, these loans would be rolled into yet another short-term, lump-sum loan. And so the cycle went.</p>
<p>An uptick in what are called installment loans is the payday industry’s answer to that criticism—or, more precisely, the regulations that that criticism led to. Instead of making a lump-sum payment, installment-loan borrowers take out loans that are paid off a bit at a time, over a longer period of time. Installment loans are nothing new, and the same lenders who once predominantly peddled payday loans have been trying their hand at installment loans for some time, too. But now, they may try to make them a significantly larger share of their business. The Wall Street Journal recently reported that in 2015, lenders provided nearly $25 billion in installment loans to people with credit scores below 600. That’s 78 percent higher than the year before.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.theatlantic.com/business/archive/2016/08/what-will-replace-payday-loans/495656/">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Editorial: Poor policy
News Intro Text
Failure to expand Medicaid is unconscionable.
News Item Content
<p><a href="http://www.houstonchronicle.com/"><em>Houston Chronicle</em></a> August 14, 2016</p>
<p>If our neighbors east of the Sabine are looking healthier these days, there's a reason. Since changing governors in January, more than 265,000 Louisianans without health insurance now can visit a doctor for checkups, schedule long-delayed screenings, make a dental appointment and guarantee their kids are getting the preventive care they need to thrive. That's because the new governor, John Bel Edwards, signed an executive order on his second day in office that made Louisiana the 31st state to expand Medicaid health insurance.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.houstonchronicle.com/opinion/editorials/article/Editorial-Poor-policy-9142109.php">MORE>></a></p>
<p>If our neighbors east of the Sabine are looking healthier these days, there's a reason. Since changing governors in January, more than 265,000 Louisianans without health insurance now can visit a doctor for checkups, schedule long-delayed screenings, make a dental appointment and guarantee their kids are getting the preventive care they need to thrive. That's because the new governor, John Bel Edwards, signed an executive order on his second day in office that made Louisiana the 31st state to expand Medicaid health insurance.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.houstonchronicle.com/opinion/editorials/article/Editorial-Poor-policy-9142109.php">MORE>></a></p>
Date
In U.S. Jails, a Constitutional Clash Over Air-Conditioning
News Intro Text
[New York Times, August 15, 2016]
News Item Content
<div>
<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2016/08/16/us/in-us-jails-a-constitutional-clash-over-air-conditioning.html?smid=tw-nytimes&smtyp=cur&_r=0">By ALAN BLINDER</a></div>
<div>
</div>
<p>JENNINGS, La. — The air inside the Jefferson Davis Parish jail was hot and musty. Prisoners, often awakened by the morning heat, hoped for cooling rain after nightfall. And ice, one inmate recalled, brought fleeting relief in the cell she called a “sweatbox.”</p>
<p>Even though summer temperatures routinely roar past 100 degrees here, the jail, like scores of other jails and prisons across the country, has no air-conditioning.</p>
<p>“It’s hot,” Heidi Bourque, who was locked up this month for theft, said of the jail as she sat in her home, where the glowing red digits of the living room thermostat showed the temperature as a chilling 62. “It’s miserable.”</p>
<p>Her complaints are unlikely to move local residents, who approved funding to build a new jail after local leaders promised two years ago that it would not pamper inmates with air-conditioning. But they speak to a broader debate about the threshold for when extreme temperatures become cruel and unusual punishment.</p>
<p>Judges from Arizona to Mississippi to Wisconsin have declared over the years that the Eighth Amendment to the Constitution forbids incarceration in decidedly hot or cold temperatures. Still, prison reform activists encounter deep resistance in their quest to cool the nation’s cellblocks.</p>
<p>“It’s almost impossible for courts to deny the constitutional violation because extreme heat undoubtedly exposes individuals to substantial risk of serious harm,” said Mercedes Montagnes, a lawyer for three inmates with health issues who challenged conditions on Louisiana’s death row. “Now what we’re grappling with is the remedy.”</p>
<p>Officials offer a range of justifications for the absence of air-conditioning and for their reliance on cold showers, plentiful liquids and fans to help prisoners manage in the heat. Some contend that cooling systems are prohibitively expensive to install, particularly in older facilities.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2016/08/16/us/in-us-jails-a-constitutional-clash-over-air-conditioning.html?smid=tw-nytimes&smtyp=cur&_r=0">MORE>></a></p>
<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2016/08/16/us/in-us-jails-a-constitutional-clash-over-air-conditioning.html?smid=tw-nytimes&smtyp=cur&_r=0">By ALAN BLINDER</a></div>
<div>
</div>
<p>JENNINGS, La. — The air inside the Jefferson Davis Parish jail was hot and musty. Prisoners, often awakened by the morning heat, hoped for cooling rain after nightfall. And ice, one inmate recalled, brought fleeting relief in the cell she called a “sweatbox.”</p>
<p>Even though summer temperatures routinely roar past 100 degrees here, the jail, like scores of other jails and prisons across the country, has no air-conditioning.</p>
<p>“It’s hot,” Heidi Bourque, who was locked up this month for theft, said of the jail as she sat in her home, where the glowing red digits of the living room thermostat showed the temperature as a chilling 62. “It’s miserable.”</p>
<p>Her complaints are unlikely to move local residents, who approved funding to build a new jail after local leaders promised two years ago that it would not pamper inmates with air-conditioning. But they speak to a broader debate about the threshold for when extreme temperatures become cruel and unusual punishment.</p>
<p>Judges from Arizona to Mississippi to Wisconsin have declared over the years that the Eighth Amendment to the Constitution forbids incarceration in decidedly hot or cold temperatures. Still, prison reform activists encounter deep resistance in their quest to cool the nation’s cellblocks.</p>
<p>“It’s almost impossible for courts to deny the constitutional violation because extreme heat undoubtedly exposes individuals to substantial risk of serious harm,” said Mercedes Montagnes, a lawyer for three inmates with health issues who challenged conditions on Louisiana’s death row. “Now what we’re grappling with is the remedy.”</p>
<p>Officials offer a range of justifications for the absence of air-conditioning and for their reliance on cold showers, plentiful liquids and fans to help prisoners manage in the heat. Some contend that cooling systems are prohibitively expensive to install, particularly in older facilities.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2016/08/16/us/in-us-jails-a-constitutional-clash-over-air-conditioning.html?smid=tw-nytimes&smtyp=cur&_r=0">MORE>></a></p>
Date
ALABAMA ACTION ALERT
News Intro Text
Stop the Medicaid cuts, speak up now!
News Item Content
<p>A message from Alabama Arise: </p>
<p>Medicaid cuts are hurting children across Alabama. On Aug. 1, pediatricians and other primary care doctors saw their payments for caring for Medicaid patients drop by 30 percent. For a state where primary care resources have been stretched thin for decades, the cuts will reduce or eliminate access to health care in many communities. And even more cuts to our state’s health infrastructure are coming, unless the Legislature acts now.</p>
<p>Our lawmakers passed a 2017 General Fund budget that left an $85 million shortfall in Medicaid, knowing that major cuts would follow. But they can find revenue to reverse these cuts. </p>
<p>Cuts to Medicaid hurt our communities, our neighbors and our entire health care system. We need leaders who will accept the responsibility of making sure state revenues meet our state’s basic needs. The long-term solution for an adequate, stable General Fund includes passing new revenue and closing the coverage gap for working families. Closing the gap would keep Alabamians healthier and more productive, and it would save the state big money on current and future health care spending.</p>
<p>With a special session set to begin this Monday, the time to speak up is now. Please contact your state senator and representative today and tell them:</p>
<p>Reverse the Aug. 1 Medicaid cuts;</p>
<p>Raise revenue to prevent further Medicaid cuts; and</p>
<p>Expand Medicaid to help working families and strengthen our economy. </p>
<h1>
<a href="http://salsa4.salsalabs.com/o/51113/p/dia/action3/common/public/?action_KEY=19386"><strong>TAKE ACTION! </strong></a></h1>
<p>Medicaid cuts are hurting children across Alabama. On Aug. 1, pediatricians and other primary care doctors saw their payments for caring for Medicaid patients drop by 30 percent. For a state where primary care resources have been stretched thin for decades, the cuts will reduce or eliminate access to health care in many communities. And even more cuts to our state’s health infrastructure are coming, unless the Legislature acts now.</p>
<p>Our lawmakers passed a 2017 General Fund budget that left an $85 million shortfall in Medicaid, knowing that major cuts would follow. But they can find revenue to reverse these cuts. </p>
<p>Cuts to Medicaid hurt our communities, our neighbors and our entire health care system. We need leaders who will accept the responsibility of making sure state revenues meet our state’s basic needs. The long-term solution for an adequate, stable General Fund includes passing new revenue and closing the coverage gap for working families. Closing the gap would keep Alabamians healthier and more productive, and it would save the state big money on current and future health care spending.</p>
<p>With a special session set to begin this Monday, the time to speak up is now. Please contact your state senator and representative today and tell them:</p>
<p>Reverse the Aug. 1 Medicaid cuts;</p>
<p>Raise revenue to prevent further Medicaid cuts; and</p>
<p>Expand Medicaid to help working families and strengthen our economy. </p>
<h1>
<a href="http://salsa4.salsalabs.com/o/51113/p/dia/action3/common/public/?action_KEY=19386"><strong>TAKE ACTION! </strong></a></h1>
Date
A Slave on the Fourth
News Intro Text
Frederick Douglas and the 4th of July
News Item Content
<p class="e2ma-p-div"><span>by Bill McCormick, SJ, Ph.D., JSRI Summer Associate</span></p>
<p class="e2ma-p-div"><span class="e2ma-style">Last week, our nation celebrated the 240th anniversary of its independence. With that in mind, we propose to turn to Frederick Douglass’ <a href="http://teachingamericanhistory.org/library/document/what-to-the-slave-is-the-fourth-of-july/"><span>famous speech </span></a>on July 5, 1852 – “What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?” – to reflect upon the significance of this event. Below are excerpts of the speech with questions to prompt reflection on our nation’s independence.</span></p>
<div class="e2ma-p-div">
<p><span class="e2ma-style">“This… is the 4th of July. It is the birthday of your National Independence, and of your political freedom. This, to you, is what the Passover was to the emancipated people of God. It carries your minds back to the day, and to the act of your great deliverance; and to the signs, and to the wonders, associated with that act, and that day.” </span></p>
<ul>
<li>
<span class="e2ma-style">How did I experience the Fourth of July? Was it a time of celebration for me? Was I proud of the United States?</span></li>
<li>
<span class="e2ma-style">Do I think of our Independence as an “emancipation,” as a liberating event? How does it free me?</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div class="e2ma-p-div">
<p><span class="e2ma-style">“Your high independence only reveals the immeasurable distance between us. The blessings in which you, this day, rejoice, are not enjoyed in common. — The rich inheritance of justice, liberty, prosperity and independence, bequeathed by your fathers, is shared by you, not by me. The sunlight that brought life and healing to you, has brought stripes and death to me. This Fourth [of] July is yours, not mine. You may rejoice, I must mourn.”</span></p>
<ul>
<li>
<span class="e2ma-style">Have I ever mourned on the Fourth of July? For whom did I mourn?</span></li>
<li>
<span class="e2ma-style">Who in our time is denied the blessings of freedom?</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div class="e2ma-p-div">
<p><span class="e2ma-style">“But the church of this country is not only indifferent to the wrongs of the slave, it actually takes sides with the oppressors. It has made itself the bulwark of American slavery, and the shield of American slave-hunters. Many of its most eloquent Divines, who stand as the very lights of the church, have shamelessly given the sanction of religion and the Bible to the whole slave system. They have taught that man may, properly, be a slave; that the relation of master and slave is ordained of God; that to send back an escaped bondman to his master is clearly the duty of all the followers of the Lord Jesus Christ; and this horrible blasphemy is palmed off upon the world for Christianity.”</span></p>
<ul>
<li>
<span class="e2ma-style">What role does my church play in bringing others to freedom?</span></li>
<li>
<span class="e2ma-style">In what ways is my church blind or apathetic to modern forms of slavery and suffering?</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div class="e2ma-p-div">
<p><span class="e2ma-style">“Allow me to say, in conclusion, notwithstanding the dark picture I have this day presented of the state of the nation, I do not despair of this country. There are forces in operation, which must inevitably work the downfall of slavery. “The arm of the Lord is not shortened,” and the doom of slavery is certain. I, therefore, leave off where I began, with hope.”</span></p>
<ul>
<li>
<span class="e2ma-style">Am I hopeful? Do I think positive change in the world is possible? Where do I find this hope?</span></li>
<li>
<span class="e2ma-style">Do I practice mindfulness of this hope? If not, how can I?</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
<p class="e2ma-p-div"><span class="e2ma-style">If we take Douglass’ message to heart, we will see that the Fourth of July is not really about the past: it’s about the future. For while we rightly celebrate our independence, that achievement is incomplete. We are called to do more. That “more” is the task of the future, and the challenge that Douglass places before us.</span></p>
<p class="e2ma-p-div"><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/b401k/3c388ca8a7b28394d8048a721c25308b"><span class="e2ma-style">MORE>></span></a></p>
<p class="e2ma-p-div"><span class="e2ma-style">Last week, our nation celebrated the 240th anniversary of its independence. With that in mind, we propose to turn to Frederick Douglass’ <a href="http://teachingamericanhistory.org/library/document/what-to-the-slave-is-the-fourth-of-july/"><span>famous speech </span></a>on July 5, 1852 – “What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?” – to reflect upon the significance of this event. Below are excerpts of the speech with questions to prompt reflection on our nation’s independence.</span></p>
<div class="e2ma-p-div">
<p><span class="e2ma-style">“This… is the 4th of July. It is the birthday of your National Independence, and of your political freedom. This, to you, is what the Passover was to the emancipated people of God. It carries your minds back to the day, and to the act of your great deliverance; and to the signs, and to the wonders, associated with that act, and that day.” </span></p>
<ul>
<li>
<span class="e2ma-style">How did I experience the Fourth of July? Was it a time of celebration for me? Was I proud of the United States?</span></li>
<li>
<span class="e2ma-style">Do I think of our Independence as an “emancipation,” as a liberating event? How does it free me?</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div class="e2ma-p-div">
<p><span class="e2ma-style">“Your high independence only reveals the immeasurable distance between us. The blessings in which you, this day, rejoice, are not enjoyed in common. — The rich inheritance of justice, liberty, prosperity and independence, bequeathed by your fathers, is shared by you, not by me. The sunlight that brought life and healing to you, has brought stripes and death to me. This Fourth [of] July is yours, not mine. You may rejoice, I must mourn.”</span></p>
<ul>
<li>
<span class="e2ma-style">Have I ever mourned on the Fourth of July? For whom did I mourn?</span></li>
<li>
<span class="e2ma-style">Who in our time is denied the blessings of freedom?</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div class="e2ma-p-div">
<p><span class="e2ma-style">“But the church of this country is not only indifferent to the wrongs of the slave, it actually takes sides with the oppressors. It has made itself the bulwark of American slavery, and the shield of American slave-hunters. Many of its most eloquent Divines, who stand as the very lights of the church, have shamelessly given the sanction of religion and the Bible to the whole slave system. They have taught that man may, properly, be a slave; that the relation of master and slave is ordained of God; that to send back an escaped bondman to his master is clearly the duty of all the followers of the Lord Jesus Christ; and this horrible blasphemy is palmed off upon the world for Christianity.”</span></p>
<ul>
<li>
<span class="e2ma-style">What role does my church play in bringing others to freedom?</span></li>
<li>
<span class="e2ma-style">In what ways is my church blind or apathetic to modern forms of slavery and suffering?</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div class="e2ma-p-div">
<p><span class="e2ma-style">“Allow me to say, in conclusion, notwithstanding the dark picture I have this day presented of the state of the nation, I do not despair of this country. There are forces in operation, which must inevitably work the downfall of slavery. “The arm of the Lord is not shortened,” and the doom of slavery is certain. I, therefore, leave off where I began, with hope.”</span></p>
<ul>
<li>
<span class="e2ma-style">Am I hopeful? Do I think positive change in the world is possible? Where do I find this hope?</span></li>
<li>
<span class="e2ma-style">Do I practice mindfulness of this hope? If not, how can I?</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
<p class="e2ma-p-div"><span class="e2ma-style">If we take Douglass’ message to heart, we will see that the Fourth of July is not really about the past: it’s about the future. For while we rightly celebrate our independence, that achievement is incomplete. We are called to do more. That “more” is the task of the future, and the challenge that Douglass places before us.</span></p>
<p class="e2ma-p-div"><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/b401k/3c388ca8a7b28394d8048a721c25308b"><span class="e2ma-style">MORE>></span></a></p>
Date
JSRI Statement on Refugee Integration Report
News Intro Text
National Report Highlights the Many Economic Contributions of Refugees in the United States and in Louisiana.
News Item Content
<p>Last month the Fiscal Policy Institute (FPI) and Center for American Progress (CAP) co-released <a href="https://www.americanprogress.org/issues/immigration/report/2016/06/16/139551/refugee-integration-in-the-united-states/"><em>Refugee Integration in the United States. </em></a> The report focuses on four groups of refugees—Somali, Burmese, Hmong, and Bosnian—that together are a group of roughly 500,000 U.S. residents, and 20 percent of all refugees in the country. The report illustrates the various ways these refugee groups contribute to economic growth in cities and states throughout the country.</p>
<p>The national report tracks the integration of the four refugee groups including their employment rates, educational levels, English acquisition, and home ownership trends. Major findings include:</p>
<ul>
<li>
One in 12 immigrants in the United States came as a refugee or was granted asylum.</li>
<li>
Refugee groups are gaining a strong foothold in the labor market, with labor force participation rates of men in the Somali, Burmese, Hmong, and Bosnian refugee communities often exceeding those of U.S.-born men</li>
<li>
Employment rates for refugee women catch up after 10 years to about as high as or sometimes higher than those of U.S. born women.</li>
<li>
Refugees see substantial wage gains as they gradually improve their footing in the American economy, with some starting their own businesses and many shifting to occupations better suited to their abilities as they find ways to get certification for their existing skills and learn new ones.</li>
<li>
Refugees integrate into American society over time, with a large majority of refugees having learned English and becoming homeowners by the time they have been in the United States for 10 years.</li>
<li>
Three quarters or more of refugees have become naturalized U.S. citizens after 20 years.</li>
<li>
Initial employment placements and other assistance provided by resettlement organizations are credited with getting refugees started down the path of successful integration.</li>
</ul>
<p>“Our findings in this new report demonstrate that when communities help refugees, they are also making an investment in their own future,” said report author David Dyssegaard Kallick. “The number of people forced to flee their country has reached record numbers in recent years—it’s a humanitarian crisis on a scale not seen since the end of World War II. What this report shows is that, as a growing number of political leaders now realize, doing what’s good for refugees is also good for the whole community -- their success is our success.”</p>
<p>The report shows that 755 refugees in the four groups resettled in Louisiana, including 145 refugees from Somalia, 458 from Burma, and 152 from Bosnia. Data from the national <a href="http://www.wrapsnet.org/Reports/InteractiveReporting/tabid/393/EnumType/Report/Default.aspx?ItemPath=/rpt_WebArrivalsReports/Map%20-%20Arrivals%20by%20State%20and%20Nationality">Refugee Processing Center</a> that tracks all refugees entering the U.S. show that nearly 3,000 refugees have resettled in Louisiana since 2000. Several nonprofit resettlement agencies in the state provide case management services to hundreds of those refugees each year, including helping adult refugees find full-time employment. In 2014, 59 percent of the 238 refugees that those agencies aided in resettlement entered full-time employment during that year.</p>
<p>One of those resettlement agencies is Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New Orleans, which operates the <a href="http://www.ccano.org/immigration-services/">Immigration and Refugees Services program</a>. The program staff aids in the economic and cultural integration of refugee families in New Orleans. “I have worked with refugees for over 15 years, and have been awed by the skills and resources they offer amidst some of the greatest challenges imaginable,” said Julie Ward, the program’s director. “Refugees and former refugees have shaped our community into what it is today. We are enriched everyday by the diversity, intellect, hard work, and innovation that refugees offer, and we in turn are more vibrant and resilient as a result of their contributions.”</p>
<p>Despite the remarkably successful outcomes of refugees resettling in the U.S., policymakers in our state and country continue to disagree about how to handle a sharp rise in the number of people displaced by conflict and persecution in places like Syria. The United States has only resettled around 1,200 Syrian refugees, well below its pledged goal of 10,000 in 2016. Amid these disagreements, <em>Refugee Integration in the United States </em>demonstrates there is reason for encouragement. When welcomed into the United States and provided resettlement services, refugees bring significant cultural and economic benefits to our state and country.</p>
<p>The national report tracks the integration of the four refugee groups including their employment rates, educational levels, English acquisition, and home ownership trends. Major findings include:</p>
<ul>
<li>
One in 12 immigrants in the United States came as a refugee or was granted asylum.</li>
<li>
Refugee groups are gaining a strong foothold in the labor market, with labor force participation rates of men in the Somali, Burmese, Hmong, and Bosnian refugee communities often exceeding those of U.S.-born men</li>
<li>
Employment rates for refugee women catch up after 10 years to about as high as or sometimes higher than those of U.S. born women.</li>
<li>
Refugees see substantial wage gains as they gradually improve their footing in the American economy, with some starting their own businesses and many shifting to occupations better suited to their abilities as they find ways to get certification for their existing skills and learn new ones.</li>
<li>
Refugees integrate into American society over time, with a large majority of refugees having learned English and becoming homeowners by the time they have been in the United States for 10 years.</li>
<li>
Three quarters or more of refugees have become naturalized U.S. citizens after 20 years.</li>
<li>
Initial employment placements and other assistance provided by resettlement organizations are credited with getting refugees started down the path of successful integration.</li>
</ul>
<p>“Our findings in this new report demonstrate that when communities help refugees, they are also making an investment in their own future,” said report author David Dyssegaard Kallick. “The number of people forced to flee their country has reached record numbers in recent years—it’s a humanitarian crisis on a scale not seen since the end of World War II. What this report shows is that, as a growing number of political leaders now realize, doing what’s good for refugees is also good for the whole community -- their success is our success.”</p>
<p>The report shows that 755 refugees in the four groups resettled in Louisiana, including 145 refugees from Somalia, 458 from Burma, and 152 from Bosnia. Data from the national <a href="http://www.wrapsnet.org/Reports/InteractiveReporting/tabid/393/EnumType/Report/Default.aspx?ItemPath=/rpt_WebArrivalsReports/Map%20-%20Arrivals%20by%20State%20and%20Nationality">Refugee Processing Center</a> that tracks all refugees entering the U.S. show that nearly 3,000 refugees have resettled in Louisiana since 2000. Several nonprofit resettlement agencies in the state provide case management services to hundreds of those refugees each year, including helping adult refugees find full-time employment. In 2014, 59 percent of the 238 refugees that those agencies aided in resettlement entered full-time employment during that year.</p>
<p>One of those resettlement agencies is Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New Orleans, which operates the <a href="http://www.ccano.org/immigration-services/">Immigration and Refugees Services program</a>. The program staff aids in the economic and cultural integration of refugee families in New Orleans. “I have worked with refugees for over 15 years, and have been awed by the skills and resources they offer amidst some of the greatest challenges imaginable,” said Julie Ward, the program’s director. “Refugees and former refugees have shaped our community into what it is today. We are enriched everyday by the diversity, intellect, hard work, and innovation that refugees offer, and we in turn are more vibrant and resilient as a result of their contributions.”</p>
<p>Despite the remarkably successful outcomes of refugees resettling in the U.S., policymakers in our state and country continue to disagree about how to handle a sharp rise in the number of people displaced by conflict and persecution in places like Syria. The United States has only resettled around 1,200 Syrian refugees, well below its pledged goal of 10,000 in 2016. Amid these disagreements, <em>Refugee Integration in the United States </em>demonstrates there is reason for encouragement. When welcomed into the United States and provided resettlement services, refugees bring significant cultural and economic benefits to our state and country.</p>
Date
Black Lives Matter Dialogue
News Intro Text
When: Tuesday, July 12 6:00
Where: Loyola University New Orleans, Audubon Room
Where: Loyola University New Orleans, Audubon Room
News Item Content
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Black Lives Matter.png" /></p>
Date
When Canaries Can’t Breathe: Sotomayor’s Justice from Below
News Intro Text
The Jesuit Post, July 11, 2016
News Item Content
<h4 style="box-sizing: border-box; padding-bottom: 0px; direction: ltr; font-family: Lato, Helvetica, Arial, san-serif; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); text-rendering: optimizeLegibility; line-height: 1.4; font-size: 16px; background-color: rgb(252, 252, 252);">
Nathaniel Romano, SJ, <a href="https://thejesuitpost.org/">The Jesuit Post </a></h4>
<p>“The life of the law has not been logic; it has been experience.” So wrote Supreme Court Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr. in his magisterial treatment, The Common Law, nearly 140 years ago. More and more, it becomes apparent that so much of our legal system — our justice system — reflects not (simply) abstract norms of perfection, but, rather, concrete and messy realities.</p>
<p>The best example of the law’s life in experience on the Supreme Court now is the developing jurisprudence of Justice Sonia Sotomayor, particularly in dissent, and with a particular focus on criminal justice. Hers is a jurisprudence, as Adam Liptak noted in the New York Times, “informed as much by events in Ferguson, Mo., in 2014 as by those in Philadelphia in 1787.”</p>
<p>To see this jurisprudence in action, we need look no further than her dissenting opinion in the case of Utah v. Strieff, No. 14-1373 579 U.S. ___ (June 20, 2016). Here, the Court divided 5-3 on the question of whether prosecutors could use evidence seized after an illegal stop, where a valid arrest warrant also existed that was unrelated to the illegal stop. The majority held that the warrant was an independent variable that legitimated the seizure, even though law enforcement had no basis to stop the defendant. Arrest warrants are often issued for relatively minor offenses, moreover minority communities are disproportionately subjected to such warrants and police supervision. These facts only add to the disquieting reality of violence at the hands of law enforcement in those communities. Unfortunately, these concerns were downplayed by the majority. </p>
<p>Justice Sotomayor, in dissent, rejected this out of hand. She engaged with the reality on the ground, relying on the findings of the Department of Justice reports on Ferguson, as well as the research of Michelle Alexander reported in The New Jim Crow, and the Court’s own precedents on police stops and criminal justice. She focused on the implications from all of these sources to try and grapple with the actual reality of how police stops impact the American people. This section (beginning on page 22 of the Court’s slip opinion), is short and readable, and is worth reading in full: Justice Sotomayor is clear that a police stop is a powerful, dramatic, and possibly devastating assertion of state-sanctioned power over an individual. </p>
<p><a href="https://thejesuitpost.org/2016/07/when-canaries-cant-breathe-sotomayors-justice-from-below/">MORE>></a></p>
Nathaniel Romano, SJ, <a href="https://thejesuitpost.org/">The Jesuit Post </a></h4>
<p>“The life of the law has not been logic; it has been experience.” So wrote Supreme Court Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr. in his magisterial treatment, The Common Law, nearly 140 years ago. More and more, it becomes apparent that so much of our legal system — our justice system — reflects not (simply) abstract norms of perfection, but, rather, concrete and messy realities.</p>
<p>The best example of the law’s life in experience on the Supreme Court now is the developing jurisprudence of Justice Sonia Sotomayor, particularly in dissent, and with a particular focus on criminal justice. Hers is a jurisprudence, as Adam Liptak noted in the New York Times, “informed as much by events in Ferguson, Mo., in 2014 as by those in Philadelphia in 1787.”</p>
<p>To see this jurisprudence in action, we need look no further than her dissenting opinion in the case of Utah v. Strieff, No. 14-1373 579 U.S. ___ (June 20, 2016). Here, the Court divided 5-3 on the question of whether prosecutors could use evidence seized after an illegal stop, where a valid arrest warrant also existed that was unrelated to the illegal stop. The majority held that the warrant was an independent variable that legitimated the seizure, even though law enforcement had no basis to stop the defendant. Arrest warrants are often issued for relatively minor offenses, moreover minority communities are disproportionately subjected to such warrants and police supervision. These facts only add to the disquieting reality of violence at the hands of law enforcement in those communities. Unfortunately, these concerns were downplayed by the majority. </p>
<p>Justice Sotomayor, in dissent, rejected this out of hand. She engaged with the reality on the ground, relying on the findings of the Department of Justice reports on Ferguson, as well as the research of Michelle Alexander reported in The New Jim Crow, and the Court’s own precedents on police stops and criminal justice. She focused on the implications from all of these sources to try and grapple with the actual reality of how police stops impact the American people. This section (beginning on page 22 of the Court’s slip opinion), is short and readable, and is worth reading in full: Justice Sotomayor is clear that a police stop is a powerful, dramatic, and possibly devastating assertion of state-sanctioned power over an individual. </p>
<p><a href="https://thejesuitpost.org/2016/07/when-canaries-cant-breathe-sotomayors-justice-from-below/">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Racial Justice Resources
News Intro Text
The Ignatian Solidarity Network has compiled various Catholic resources, prayers, information about Jesuit campus student movements, videos, books, and more to help readers address systemic and personal racial discrimination.
News Item Content
<p><a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/resources/faith-in-action-responding-to-racial-injustice/#tab-id-1"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/ISN Racial Justice.jpg" style="width: 550px; height: 650px;" /></a></p>
Date
Want to eliminate payday lending?
News Intro Text
Raise the minimum wage.
News Item Content
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 20px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);"><span class="pb-byline" itemprop="author" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Person" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: FranklinITCProBold, sans-serif; display: inline-block; padding-right: 5px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 17.6px;">By <span itemprop="name" style="box-sizing: border-box;">Valerie R. Wilson</span></span><span style="font-family: FranklinITCProLight, HelveticaNeue, "Helvetica Neue Light", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, "Lucida Grande", sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 17.6px;"> </span><span class="pb-timestamp" content="2016-07-01T12:00-500" itemprop="datePublished" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.1em; font-family: FranklinITCProLight, HelveticaNeue, "Helvetica Neue Light", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, "Lucida Grande", sans-serif; color: rgb(170, 170, 170); white-space: nowrap; padding-right: 5px; display: inline-block;">July 1</span></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 20px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);"><strong style="box-sizing: border-box;"><em style="box-sizing: border-box;">Each week, </em></strong><strong style="box-sizing: border-box;"><em style="box-sizing: border-box;"><a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/news/in-theory/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(46, 109, 157); border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(213, 213, 213); zoom: 1; margin-bottom: 18px; line-height: 1.8em;">In Theory</a> takes on a big idea in the news and explores it from a range of perspectives. This week we’re talking about payday lending. Need a primer? Catch up <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/in-theory/wp/2016/06/27/whats-the-alternative-to-payday-loans/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(46, 109, 157); border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(213, 213, 213); zoom: 1; margin-bottom: 18px; line-height: 1.8em;">here</a>.</em></strong></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 20px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);"><em style="box-sizing: border-box;">Valerie R. Wilson is an economist and the director of the Program on Race, Ethnicity and the Economy at the Economic Policy Institute.</em></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 20px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);">Payday loans are advertised as a quick and easy solution to temporary cash flow problems. In reality, for most borrowers, the payday lending experience rarely ends up being easy or temporary.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 20px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);">Most take out these small-dollar loans to meet monthly or recurring expenses, which don’t go away after the initial loan. Because few borrowers experience a change in economic circumstances before the loan is due, most have to take out another loan or incur fees to postpone repayment. Research from the <a href="http://files.consumerfinance.gov/f/201403_cfpb_report_payday-lending.pdf" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(46, 109, 157); border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(213, 213, 213); zoom: 1; margin-bottom: 18px; line-height: 1.8em;">Consumer Financial Protection Bureau</a> says that 82 percent of loans are renewed within 14 days.</p>
<p channel="wp.com" class="interstitial-link" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 20px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);"><i style="box-sizing: border-box;">[<a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/in-theory/wp/2016/07/01/the-problem-is-bigger-than-payday-loans/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(46, 109, 157); border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(213, 213, 213); zoom: 1; margin-bottom: 18px; line-height: 1.8em;">The problem is bigger than payday loans</a>]</i></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 20px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);">By severely limiting the payday loan industry, the CFPB’s <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/get-there/wp/2016/06/02/what-consumers-need-to-know-about-the-rules-proposed-for-payday-loans/?tid=a_inl" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(46, 109, 157); border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(213, 213, 213); zoom: 1; margin-bottom: 18px; line-height: 1.8em;">proposed new rules</a> are intended to put an end to the “debt trap” far too many economically vulnerable borrowers struggle to escape. This is a responsible and appropriate response from the agency charged with protecting the best interests of American consumers, but Congress has responsibilities as well.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 20px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);">In addition to direct changes to industry rules, economic policies that broadly help to promote full employment and higher wages would go a long way toward reducing demand for payday loans in the first place. This includes policies such as raising the minimum wage and eliminating the tipped wage. Increasing the federal minimum wage to $12 by 2020, for example, <a href="http://www.epi.org/publication/raising-the-minimum-wage-to-12-by-2020-would-lift-wages-for-35-million-american-workers/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(46, 109, 157); border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(213, 213, 213); zoom: 1; margin-bottom: 18px; line-height: 1.8em;">would lift wages for as many as 35 million workers</a>and increase incomes by roughly $2,300 a year for the average affected worker.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 20px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);">Other policies that will help to boost wages for low- and moderate-income earners include strengthening rights to collective bargaining, regularizing undocumented workers, ending forced arbitration and securing workers’ access to sick leave and paid family leave, as well as eliminating race and gender inequities in employment and pay. One of the best ways to provide a boost for low-wage workers is to pursue full employment by <a href="http://www.epi.org/nominal-wage-tracker/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(46, 109, 157); border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(213, 213, 213); zoom: 1; margin-bottom: 18px; line-height: 1.8em;">keeping interest rates low until wage growth picks up</a>, or even by enacting employment programs targeting the hardest-hit communities. Public and nonprofit employment programs, for example, support full employment by creating jobs that are accessible to those facing significant barriers to employment and improving the quality of life and physical infrastructure in local communities.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 20px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);">Congress could also act by setting a non-predatory APR cap, similar to the 36 percent cap set for members of the military in the <a href="http://www.responsiblelending.org/payday-lending/research-analysis/Summary-of-MLA.pdf" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(46, 109, 157); border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(213, 213, 213); zoom: 1; margin-bottom: 18px; line-height: 1.8em;">Military Lending Act of 2006</a>. They could also pass legislation making the government a provider of emergency finance for the poor through the U.S. Post Office, as some have suggested.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 20px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);">Yet the continued proliferation of payday lenders makes clear that there is demand for the services they provide. The chronically cash-strapped clientele that payday lenders thrive on disproportionately includes those making less than $40,000 per year — often people with less than a bachelor’s degree and African Americans. Imposing stricter regulations on the market or directly entering the market as a provider are both examples of how the government can intervene in the way in which these loans are supplied. Raising wages, on the other hand, would actually reduce demand for payday loans.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 20px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);"><a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/in-theory/wp/2016/07/01/want-to-eliminate-payday-lending-raise-the-minimum-wage/?tid=a_inl">Full Article>></a></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 20px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);"><strong style="box-sizing: border-box;"><em style="box-sizing: border-box;">Each week, </em></strong><strong style="box-sizing: border-box;"><em style="box-sizing: border-box;"><a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/news/in-theory/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(46, 109, 157); border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(213, 213, 213); zoom: 1; margin-bottom: 18px; line-height: 1.8em;">In Theory</a> takes on a big idea in the news and explores it from a range of perspectives. This week we’re talking about payday lending. Need a primer? Catch up <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/in-theory/wp/2016/06/27/whats-the-alternative-to-payday-loans/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(46, 109, 157); border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(213, 213, 213); zoom: 1; margin-bottom: 18px; line-height: 1.8em;">here</a>.</em></strong></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 20px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);"><em style="box-sizing: border-box;">Valerie R. Wilson is an economist and the director of the Program on Race, Ethnicity and the Economy at the Economic Policy Institute.</em></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 20px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);">Payday loans are advertised as a quick and easy solution to temporary cash flow problems. In reality, for most borrowers, the payday lending experience rarely ends up being easy or temporary.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 20px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);">Most take out these small-dollar loans to meet monthly or recurring expenses, which don’t go away after the initial loan. Because few borrowers experience a change in economic circumstances before the loan is due, most have to take out another loan or incur fees to postpone repayment. Research from the <a href="http://files.consumerfinance.gov/f/201403_cfpb_report_payday-lending.pdf" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(46, 109, 157); border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(213, 213, 213); zoom: 1; margin-bottom: 18px; line-height: 1.8em;">Consumer Financial Protection Bureau</a> says that 82 percent of loans are renewed within 14 days.</p>
<p channel="wp.com" class="interstitial-link" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 20px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);"><i style="box-sizing: border-box;">[<a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/in-theory/wp/2016/07/01/the-problem-is-bigger-than-payday-loans/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(46, 109, 157); border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(213, 213, 213); zoom: 1; margin-bottom: 18px; line-height: 1.8em;">The problem is bigger than payday loans</a>]</i></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 20px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);">By severely limiting the payday loan industry, the CFPB’s <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/get-there/wp/2016/06/02/what-consumers-need-to-know-about-the-rules-proposed-for-payday-loans/?tid=a_inl" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(46, 109, 157); border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(213, 213, 213); zoom: 1; margin-bottom: 18px; line-height: 1.8em;">proposed new rules</a> are intended to put an end to the “debt trap” far too many economically vulnerable borrowers struggle to escape. This is a responsible and appropriate response from the agency charged with protecting the best interests of American consumers, but Congress has responsibilities as well.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 20px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);">In addition to direct changes to industry rules, economic policies that broadly help to promote full employment and higher wages would go a long way toward reducing demand for payday loans in the first place. This includes policies such as raising the minimum wage and eliminating the tipped wage. Increasing the federal minimum wage to $12 by 2020, for example, <a href="http://www.epi.org/publication/raising-the-minimum-wage-to-12-by-2020-would-lift-wages-for-35-million-american-workers/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(46, 109, 157); border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(213, 213, 213); zoom: 1; margin-bottom: 18px; line-height: 1.8em;">would lift wages for as many as 35 million workers</a>and increase incomes by roughly $2,300 a year for the average affected worker.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 20px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);">Other policies that will help to boost wages for low- and moderate-income earners include strengthening rights to collective bargaining, regularizing undocumented workers, ending forced arbitration and securing workers’ access to sick leave and paid family leave, as well as eliminating race and gender inequities in employment and pay. One of the best ways to provide a boost for low-wage workers is to pursue full employment by <a href="http://www.epi.org/nominal-wage-tracker/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(46, 109, 157); border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(213, 213, 213); zoom: 1; margin-bottom: 18px; line-height: 1.8em;">keeping interest rates low until wage growth picks up</a>, or even by enacting employment programs targeting the hardest-hit communities. Public and nonprofit employment programs, for example, support full employment by creating jobs that are accessible to those facing significant barriers to employment and improving the quality of life and physical infrastructure in local communities.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 20px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);">Congress could also act by setting a non-predatory APR cap, similar to the 36 percent cap set for members of the military in the <a href="http://www.responsiblelending.org/payday-lending/research-analysis/Summary-of-MLA.pdf" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(46, 109, 157); border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(213, 213, 213); zoom: 1; margin-bottom: 18px; line-height: 1.8em;">Military Lending Act of 2006</a>. They could also pass legislation making the government a provider of emergency finance for the poor through the U.S. Post Office, as some have suggested.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 20px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);">Yet the continued proliferation of payday lenders makes clear that there is demand for the services they provide. The chronically cash-strapped clientele that payday lenders thrive on disproportionately includes those making less than $40,000 per year — often people with less than a bachelor’s degree and African Americans. Imposing stricter regulations on the market or directly entering the market as a provider are both examples of how the government can intervene in the way in which these loans are supplied. Raising wages, on the other hand, would actually reduce demand for payday loans.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 20px; font-family: Georgia; line-height: 1.8em; margin: 0px auto 18px; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(17, 17, 17);"><a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/in-theory/wp/2016/07/01/want-to-eliminate-payday-lending-raise-the-minimum-wage/?tid=a_inl">Full Article>></a></p>
Date
On Views of Race and Inequality, Blacks and Whites Are Worlds Apart
News Intro Text
About four-in-ten blacks are doubtful that the U.S. will ever achieve racial equality
News Item Content
<p><a href="http://www.pewsocialtrends.org/2016/06/27/on-views-of-race-and-inequality-blacks-and-whites-are-worlds-apart/">Full Report by Pew Research Center </a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.pewsocialtrends.org/2016/06/27/on-views-of-race-and-inequality-blacks-and-whites-are-worlds-apart/"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Pew.jpg" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.pewsocialtrends.org/2016/06/27/on-views-of-race-and-inequality-blacks-and-whites-are-worlds-apart/"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Pew.jpg" /></a></p>
Date
Louisiana officials praise Medicaid expansion; 225,900 have signed up as of Friday
News Intro Text
[June 26, 2016]
News Item Content
<p>BY ELIZABETH CRISP| ECRISP@THEADVOCATE.COM</p>
<p>Walking across the Baton Rouge Community College campus on a recent Tuesday, Jaylin Davis didn’t know he was about to stumble upon some incredibly good news: He’s likely to get no-cost health care coverage starting in July — thanks to Louisiana’s decision to expand Medicaid.</p>
<p>Davis had only recently learned that when he turned 19 this spring he aged out of the Louisiana Children’s Health Insurance Program and lost his LaCHIP health insurance.</p>
<p>“They just sent me a letter in the mail,” he told a reporter observing a recent Medicaid enrollment drive on the BRCC campus.</p>
<p>At that time, Davis, a BRCC student and local Wal-Mart stocker, said he had no idea that the state is expanding Medicaid to cover thousands of people like himself. He hadn’t heard the political bickering nor the national praise that’s been heaped on Gov. John Bel Edwards for expanding the health care program through the federal Affordable Care Act.</p>
<p>As he made his way across campus, still wearing his dark blue Wal-Mart vest, a group promoting the sign-up effort encouraged him to meet with one of the certified enrollees inside to see if he would qualify. Thirty minutes later, he had a slip in hand and was told to keep an eye out for his new Medicaid card.</p>
<p>This wouldn’t have been a typical Medicaid enrollment story — here or elsewhere — just a few years ago. But similar outreach efforts are going on throughout the state on college campuses, in churches, community centers, libraries and even some grocery stores.</p>
<p>Welcome to the new world of Medicaid expansion: Louisiana style.</p>
<p><strong>Working poor joining Medicaid</strong></p>
<p>Shortly after Edwards took office in January, he signed an executive order to expand Medicaid to cover thousands more Louisiana residents. Edwards, a Democrat, specifically said at the time that he wanted Medicaid cards in the hands of most new enrollees by July 1.</p>
<p>In Louisiana, Medicaid has almost exclusively benefited pregnant women, the disabled and children. There has been no way for able-bodied, single adults to get into the program. But the ACA encouraged states to raise the income level that qualifies to let more people — many of them the working poor — onto their Medicaid rolls. The incentive: For the first six months of expansion here, the federal government will pick up 100 percent of the costs for the newly covered. The match rate gradually drops back to 90 percent in 2020.</p>
<p>Adults whose income falls below 138 percent of the federal poverty level, which is about $33,500 a year for a family of four or $16,200 for a single adult, are among the newly-eligible population.</p>
<p>The goal is to have 375,000 people signed up by next July 1. Officials estimate that as many as 580,000 people in Louisiana are eligible, and the state has one of the highest rates of uninsured people.</p>
<p>As of Friday, the state had already hit 225,900, a feat that has been praised by people from across the country.</p>
<p>It hasn’t been an easy task, though. Cash-strapped and walking a fine line to not draw opposition from a tepid Republican-controlled state Legislature, the Edwards administration has relied on a creative blend of enrollment efforts. Much of the effort has relied on existing infrastructure or help from outside entities.</p>
<p><strong>Inventive enrollment ideas</strong></p>
<p>“They say that necessity is the mother of invention,” state Health Secretary Dr. Rebekah Gee often recites when describing how the state is going about signing up thousands of people for health insurance.</p>
<p>Louisiana became the first state in the country to link Medicaid enrollment to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or food stamps, after having won the approval of the federal Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services.</p>
<p>The state sent more than 105,000 “canary yellow” forms to people already benefitting from the federally-funded food stamps program to notify them that they now also qualify for Medicaid. If they confirm four simple income-related questions by phone, fax, mail or email, SNAP recipients will be enrolled in Medicaid.</p>
<p>Louisiana also was able to auto-enroll people benefitting from an existing program in the state’s Take Charge Plus program that primarily provided reproductive health care services, including birth control and sexually transmitted infection testing; as well as the Greater New Orleans Community Health Connection, a post-Katrina system of health clinics.</p>
<p>People who benefitted from those programs received letters earlier this month notifying them that they will have full Medicaid coverage beginning July 1 with no action necessary.</p>
<p>“When you think about how we were able to enroll so many people in such a short period already, it’s pretty remarkable,” Gee said. “Sometimes having a low-resource environment isn’t always bad.”</p>
<p>Other states that have expanded Medicaid have hired hundreds of new workers to lead enrollment efforts and execute flashy campaigns.</p>
<p>“I think we’re recognized already across the country for how innovative we’ve been,” Edwards said.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.theneworleansadvocate.com/news/state/16210249-123/louisiana-officials-praise-medicaid-expansion-225900-have-signed-up-as-of-friday">MORE>></a></p>
<p>Walking across the Baton Rouge Community College campus on a recent Tuesday, Jaylin Davis didn’t know he was about to stumble upon some incredibly good news: He’s likely to get no-cost health care coverage starting in July — thanks to Louisiana’s decision to expand Medicaid.</p>
<p>Davis had only recently learned that when he turned 19 this spring he aged out of the Louisiana Children’s Health Insurance Program and lost his LaCHIP health insurance.</p>
<p>“They just sent me a letter in the mail,” he told a reporter observing a recent Medicaid enrollment drive on the BRCC campus.</p>
<p>At that time, Davis, a BRCC student and local Wal-Mart stocker, said he had no idea that the state is expanding Medicaid to cover thousands of people like himself. He hadn’t heard the political bickering nor the national praise that’s been heaped on Gov. John Bel Edwards for expanding the health care program through the federal Affordable Care Act.</p>
<p>As he made his way across campus, still wearing his dark blue Wal-Mart vest, a group promoting the sign-up effort encouraged him to meet with one of the certified enrollees inside to see if he would qualify. Thirty minutes later, he had a slip in hand and was told to keep an eye out for his new Medicaid card.</p>
<p>This wouldn’t have been a typical Medicaid enrollment story — here or elsewhere — just a few years ago. But similar outreach efforts are going on throughout the state on college campuses, in churches, community centers, libraries and even some grocery stores.</p>
<p>Welcome to the new world of Medicaid expansion: Louisiana style.</p>
<p><strong>Working poor joining Medicaid</strong></p>
<p>Shortly after Edwards took office in January, he signed an executive order to expand Medicaid to cover thousands more Louisiana residents. Edwards, a Democrat, specifically said at the time that he wanted Medicaid cards in the hands of most new enrollees by July 1.</p>
<p>In Louisiana, Medicaid has almost exclusively benefited pregnant women, the disabled and children. There has been no way for able-bodied, single adults to get into the program. But the ACA encouraged states to raise the income level that qualifies to let more people — many of them the working poor — onto their Medicaid rolls. The incentive: For the first six months of expansion here, the federal government will pick up 100 percent of the costs for the newly covered. The match rate gradually drops back to 90 percent in 2020.</p>
<p>Adults whose income falls below 138 percent of the federal poverty level, which is about $33,500 a year for a family of four or $16,200 for a single adult, are among the newly-eligible population.</p>
<p>The goal is to have 375,000 people signed up by next July 1. Officials estimate that as many as 580,000 people in Louisiana are eligible, and the state has one of the highest rates of uninsured people.</p>
<p>As of Friday, the state had already hit 225,900, a feat that has been praised by people from across the country.</p>
<p>It hasn’t been an easy task, though. Cash-strapped and walking a fine line to not draw opposition from a tepid Republican-controlled state Legislature, the Edwards administration has relied on a creative blend of enrollment efforts. Much of the effort has relied on existing infrastructure or help from outside entities.</p>
<p><strong>Inventive enrollment ideas</strong></p>
<p>“They say that necessity is the mother of invention,” state Health Secretary Dr. Rebekah Gee often recites when describing how the state is going about signing up thousands of people for health insurance.</p>
<p>Louisiana became the first state in the country to link Medicaid enrollment to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or food stamps, after having won the approval of the federal Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services.</p>
<p>The state sent more than 105,000 “canary yellow” forms to people already benefitting from the federally-funded food stamps program to notify them that they now also qualify for Medicaid. If they confirm four simple income-related questions by phone, fax, mail or email, SNAP recipients will be enrolled in Medicaid.</p>
<p>Louisiana also was able to auto-enroll people benefitting from an existing program in the state’s Take Charge Plus program that primarily provided reproductive health care services, including birth control and sexually transmitted infection testing; as well as the Greater New Orleans Community Health Connection, a post-Katrina system of health clinics.</p>
<p>People who benefitted from those programs received letters earlier this month notifying them that they will have full Medicaid coverage beginning July 1 with no action necessary.</p>
<p>“When you think about how we were able to enroll so many people in such a short period already, it’s pretty remarkable,” Gee said. “Sometimes having a low-resource environment isn’t always bad.”</p>
<p>Other states that have expanded Medicaid have hired hundreds of new workers to lead enrollment efforts and execute flashy campaigns.</p>
<p>“I think we’re recognized already across the country for how innovative we’ve been,” Edwards said.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.theneworleansadvocate.com/news/state/16210249-123/louisiana-officials-praise-medicaid-expansion-225900-have-signed-up-as-of-friday">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Housing subsidies benefit the wealthy
News Intro Text
The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities cites a new report from Harvard's Joint Center for Housing Studies that finds the number of Americans struggling to afford rent is on the rise and low-income renters are hit the hardest.
News Item Content
<p>From the<a href="http://www.labudget.org/lbp/"> Louisiana Budget Project</a> <em>Daily Dime</em>, June 24, 2016: </p>
<div>
<p>New data shows that 60 percent of what the federal government spends on housing benefits households with incomes above $100,000. The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities cites a new<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001cuHrkfT-ve6gajdUQUhZX8D4sPym5FGS7HUrljW3r5UfB0OJiD-U8vcfP_TGuwmlr3o63zGADDOJBWp1bzsX_wZch14XpNye8ClCQCPmtpbIEQpoowWYwIrckryl5L7IYXWdqj_rMN6SvFasQpCMLIojUoRc5aqaEUiRxXlUy3l45Iv429Z9jCDoVzZ6Mo9BWEX9MWA_0n1dXSxeuYYx1Q==&c=qtCidSiwI35WHaFGYc64KG0PsTuUBCFuAeWHszDN2GT186ghY6QpXA==&ch=-AYmwQ9vdQbDSkt6vKthHIl6bQms7Vt73AmHMZsF7H0XCdJrw30Trw==" target="_blank" title="This external link will open in a new window">report</a> from Harvard's Joint Center for Housing Studies that finds the number of <a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001cuHrkfT-ve6gajdUQUhZX8D4sPym5FGS7HUrljW3r5UfB0OJiD-U8vcfP_TGuwmlkEWbCb23oprypJHF7_HcGLkuBJuy6RLiN1hIRj5uk0NLy2R-t1JAq84l4Cs6BLPcvsluhSlTp1gQIEelFgFaXh1lLM2Ze7CgKp56D_IGqvQOkdwQvNgqIZtxPZgd6oCgFN203snV2SszlkSDsbR96fYoLGzDuw_4rr7U0Ncnw-_szZC3z40pLZcFCnO_O5zqV8OoNfAUXFgCUIMBdzYjMOE81NJznE-V&c=qtCidSiwI35WHaFGYc64KG0PsTuUBCFuAeWHszDN2GT186ghY6QpXA==&ch=-AYmwQ9vdQbDSkt6vKthHIl6bQms7Vt73AmHMZsF7H0XCdJrw30Trw==" target="_blank" title="This external link will open in a new window">Americans struggling to afford rent is on the rise and low-income renters are hit the hardest.</a></p>
</div>
<div>
<p><em>By contrast, 68 percent of families with what the Department of Housing and Urban Development terms "severe housing cost burdens" - those who pay more than half of their income for housing - have incomes below $20,000. Yet only 22 percent of federal housing spending assists families in that income range. This imbalance means, for example, that households with incomes above $200,000 received an average of $6,406 in housing subsidies in 2014, </em><a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001cuHrkfT-ve6gajdUQUhZX8D4sPym5FGS7HUrljW3r5UfB0OJiD-U8vcfP_TGuwmle6_8UB5eUyI-LRwlDTierbbJDm3_2Hd_A4jQQZZsHxC49YKt_hmBaEVZj_AWKeL4zB8Bq0ApYqHRfATA0RmoBa2Tq0TeJIqOYEtMtiYLhpvLoTm81jIdBGZq0sBn5FpVjhYyH_fnbuz5qizCUA302q9u4Rk7PV3_5EQ_UUuRDgjKpngQ6fmVBk48OAVBaue-n-pBrw4ZSmmozQotWqrRpVHc_PdpJMXr3WbPXHmvRS7xbs-o-a6h_g==&c=qtCidSiwI35WHaFGYc64KG0PsTuUBCFuAeWHszDN2GT186ghY6QpXA==&ch=-AYmwQ9vdQbDSkt6vKthHIl6bQms7Vt73AmHMZsF7H0XCdJrw30Trw==" target="_blank" title="This external link will open in a new window"><em>four times more</em></a><em> than the average household below $20,000. The mismatch between housing spending and needs has severe consequences for low-income families, especially children. </em><a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001cuHrkfT-ve6gajdUQUhZX8D4sPym5FGS7HUrljW3r5UfB0OJiD-U8vcfP_TGuwmltHOfuqPrNLj2eLp5fadl7YEHnLPCNeW03IsbAnN9SVNRADx92lVfF0KhRROGzEFXQSGKqF8JSvRhI0h6yk7DFJjSUEXyR2ItQMax1CSW_opXXwSEP7wbnAOvoNxQfQt0ia7RpLjh9H--YOlMwSOuQw6Xo2_Uf_5qHaJs4w57Uzz88r7uQ8xnAqhAAMhZxJnM4F5H3z7FkX3fdNN2Brzmg5GzfJgY-gDskDQs4HNA6Sou_p7Y0eeXQKSHwzmLR0lZ&c=qtCidSiwI35WHaFGYc64KG0PsTuUBCFuAeWHszDN2GT186ghY6QpXA==&ch=-AYmwQ9vdQbDSkt6vKthHIl6bQms7Vt73AmHMZsF7H0XCdJrw30Trw==" target="_blank" title="This external link will open in a new window"> <em>Three-fourths</em></a><em> of low-income families eligible for federal rental assistance don't receive it due to </em><a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001cuHrkfT-ve6gajdUQUhZX8D4sPym5FGS7HUrljW3r5UfB0OJiD-U8vcfP_TGuwml-Dg4deVeZ-7JtBAlOiKPSPngVgngO6_s_s1aT93gV2SxrEoTbENSGHx0pCYJ-EwvDIwUJGi8eCgNJw9crMFyAKUyzJiHbNpXTICg4GttazmoXh3JGCdLnco-gq5g3aQCHzoZRTOCE7u84mnTkHoFa0owuSrRh-E5ACe7xWFYQPWQtVCNo3a9yL1N_5YhAuU7oMxDl_JJVj2j9ecPUVl4v-bwVkdDY_aHAbUPubUOHCUCDHbsohgAQg==&c=qtCidSiwI35WHaFGYc64KG0PsTuUBCFuAeWHszDN2GT186ghY6QpXA==&ch=-AYmwQ9vdQbDSkt6vKthHIl6bQms7Vt73AmHMZsF7H0XCdJrw30Trw==" target="_blank" title="This external link will open in a new window"><em>funding limitations</em></a><em>. ... </em><a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001cuHrkfT-ve6gajdUQUhZX8D4sPym5FGS7HUrljW3r5UfB0OJiD-U8vcfP_TGuwml3lYe9uUbNEP8Ilg-h09PQ_kGmawFp8Dmm75rvQRiIxH-gC5KSAruOtut6yNgck24YsPlm1L9EZhpS9bLN2irBEypftECu7mUIs_fI9AfTP65Jr4t40gnMWgBkpm03LX6cOZjxzIKUkf8CNSXUSvCiUXCik3URqf-YLwu3Q68Xl18Z7j9PRPiGH0ecT7Iy-ygzeKKCwh7L_NGn-akmTFEI49znetz-XYCyRHOngFj1_O8H0S0ySwlyQ==&c=qtCidSiwI35WHaFGYc64KG0PsTuUBCFuAeWHszDN2GT186ghY6QpXA==&ch=-AYmwQ9vdQbDSkt6vKthHIl6bQms7Vt73AmHMZsF7H0XCdJrw30Trw==" target="_blank" title="This external link will open in a new window"><em>Research</em></a><em> shows that low-income families with children without rental assistance are more likely to experience homelessness, frequent moves, and overcrowding than similar families with assistance. </em></p>
</div>
<p> </p>
<div>
<p>New data shows that 60 percent of what the federal government spends on housing benefits households with incomes above $100,000. The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities cites a new<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001cuHrkfT-ve6gajdUQUhZX8D4sPym5FGS7HUrljW3r5UfB0OJiD-U8vcfP_TGuwmlr3o63zGADDOJBWp1bzsX_wZch14XpNye8ClCQCPmtpbIEQpoowWYwIrckryl5L7IYXWdqj_rMN6SvFasQpCMLIojUoRc5aqaEUiRxXlUy3l45Iv429Z9jCDoVzZ6Mo9BWEX9MWA_0n1dXSxeuYYx1Q==&c=qtCidSiwI35WHaFGYc64KG0PsTuUBCFuAeWHszDN2GT186ghY6QpXA==&ch=-AYmwQ9vdQbDSkt6vKthHIl6bQms7Vt73AmHMZsF7H0XCdJrw30Trw==" target="_blank" title="This external link will open in a new window">report</a> from Harvard's Joint Center for Housing Studies that finds the number of <a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001cuHrkfT-ve6gajdUQUhZX8D4sPym5FGS7HUrljW3r5UfB0OJiD-U8vcfP_TGuwmlkEWbCb23oprypJHF7_HcGLkuBJuy6RLiN1hIRj5uk0NLy2R-t1JAq84l4Cs6BLPcvsluhSlTp1gQIEelFgFaXh1lLM2Ze7CgKp56D_IGqvQOkdwQvNgqIZtxPZgd6oCgFN203snV2SszlkSDsbR96fYoLGzDuw_4rr7U0Ncnw-_szZC3z40pLZcFCnO_O5zqV8OoNfAUXFgCUIMBdzYjMOE81NJznE-V&c=qtCidSiwI35WHaFGYc64KG0PsTuUBCFuAeWHszDN2GT186ghY6QpXA==&ch=-AYmwQ9vdQbDSkt6vKthHIl6bQms7Vt73AmHMZsF7H0XCdJrw30Trw==" target="_blank" title="This external link will open in a new window">Americans struggling to afford rent is on the rise and low-income renters are hit the hardest.</a></p>
</div>
<div>
<p><em>By contrast, 68 percent of families with what the Department of Housing and Urban Development terms "severe housing cost burdens" - those who pay more than half of their income for housing - have incomes below $20,000. Yet only 22 percent of federal housing spending assists families in that income range. This imbalance means, for example, that households with incomes above $200,000 received an average of $6,406 in housing subsidies in 2014, </em><a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001cuHrkfT-ve6gajdUQUhZX8D4sPym5FGS7HUrljW3r5UfB0OJiD-U8vcfP_TGuwmle6_8UB5eUyI-LRwlDTierbbJDm3_2Hd_A4jQQZZsHxC49YKt_hmBaEVZj_AWKeL4zB8Bq0ApYqHRfATA0RmoBa2Tq0TeJIqOYEtMtiYLhpvLoTm81jIdBGZq0sBn5FpVjhYyH_fnbuz5qizCUA302q9u4Rk7PV3_5EQ_UUuRDgjKpngQ6fmVBk48OAVBaue-n-pBrw4ZSmmozQotWqrRpVHc_PdpJMXr3WbPXHmvRS7xbs-o-a6h_g==&c=qtCidSiwI35WHaFGYc64KG0PsTuUBCFuAeWHszDN2GT186ghY6QpXA==&ch=-AYmwQ9vdQbDSkt6vKthHIl6bQms7Vt73AmHMZsF7H0XCdJrw30Trw==" target="_blank" title="This external link will open in a new window"><em>four times more</em></a><em> than the average household below $20,000. The mismatch between housing spending and needs has severe consequences for low-income families, especially children. </em><a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001cuHrkfT-ve6gajdUQUhZX8D4sPym5FGS7HUrljW3r5UfB0OJiD-U8vcfP_TGuwmltHOfuqPrNLj2eLp5fadl7YEHnLPCNeW03IsbAnN9SVNRADx92lVfF0KhRROGzEFXQSGKqF8JSvRhI0h6yk7DFJjSUEXyR2ItQMax1CSW_opXXwSEP7wbnAOvoNxQfQt0ia7RpLjh9H--YOlMwSOuQw6Xo2_Uf_5qHaJs4w57Uzz88r7uQ8xnAqhAAMhZxJnM4F5H3z7FkX3fdNN2Brzmg5GzfJgY-gDskDQs4HNA6Sou_p7Y0eeXQKSHwzmLR0lZ&c=qtCidSiwI35WHaFGYc64KG0PsTuUBCFuAeWHszDN2GT186ghY6QpXA==&ch=-AYmwQ9vdQbDSkt6vKthHIl6bQms7Vt73AmHMZsF7H0XCdJrw30Trw==" target="_blank" title="This external link will open in a new window"> <em>Three-fourths</em></a><em> of low-income families eligible for federal rental assistance don't receive it due to </em><a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001cuHrkfT-ve6gajdUQUhZX8D4sPym5FGS7HUrljW3r5UfB0OJiD-U8vcfP_TGuwml-Dg4deVeZ-7JtBAlOiKPSPngVgngO6_s_s1aT93gV2SxrEoTbENSGHx0pCYJ-EwvDIwUJGi8eCgNJw9crMFyAKUyzJiHbNpXTICg4GttazmoXh3JGCdLnco-gq5g3aQCHzoZRTOCE7u84mnTkHoFa0owuSrRh-E5ACe7xWFYQPWQtVCNo3a9yL1N_5YhAuU7oMxDl_JJVj2j9ecPUVl4v-bwVkdDY_aHAbUPubUOHCUCDHbsohgAQg==&c=qtCidSiwI35WHaFGYc64KG0PsTuUBCFuAeWHszDN2GT186ghY6QpXA==&ch=-AYmwQ9vdQbDSkt6vKthHIl6bQms7Vt73AmHMZsF7H0XCdJrw30Trw==" target="_blank" title="This external link will open in a new window"><em>funding limitations</em></a><em>. ... </em><a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001cuHrkfT-ve6gajdUQUhZX8D4sPym5FGS7HUrljW3r5UfB0OJiD-U8vcfP_TGuwml3lYe9uUbNEP8Ilg-h09PQ_kGmawFp8Dmm75rvQRiIxH-gC5KSAruOtut6yNgck24YsPlm1L9EZhpS9bLN2irBEypftECu7mUIs_fI9AfTP65Jr4t40gnMWgBkpm03LX6cOZjxzIKUkf8CNSXUSvCiUXCik3URqf-YLwu3Q68Xl18Z7j9PRPiGH0ecT7Iy-ygzeKKCwh7L_NGn-akmTFEI49znetz-XYCyRHOngFj1_O8H0S0ySwlyQ==&c=qtCidSiwI35WHaFGYc64KG0PsTuUBCFuAeWHszDN2GT186ghY6QpXA==&ch=-AYmwQ9vdQbDSkt6vKthHIl6bQms7Vt73AmHMZsF7H0XCdJrw30Trw==" target="_blank" title="This external link will open in a new window"><em>Research</em></a><em> shows that low-income families with children without rental assistance are more likely to experience homelessness, frequent moves, and overcrowding than similar families with assistance. </em></p>
</div>
<p> </p>
Date
Together Louisiana releases landmark study
News Intro Text
Industrial Tax Exemption Program
News Item Content
<p>Findings show:</p>
<p> </p>
<p>A state board is giving away $16.7 billion in local property taxes, without approval from local governments losing the funding Public subsidies total $535,343 per job created BP received $9.4 million in public subsidies from Louisiana taxpayers during and after Deepwater Horizon spill Louisiana’s top 5 polluters are each receiving public taxpayer subsidies, totaling $505 million Governor John Bel Edwards has the constitutional authority to overhaul the program single-handedly, in whatever way he deems is in the best interest of the state.</p>
<p>June 20th, 2016 – Together Louisiana is releasing the most in-depth study of Louisiana’s Industrial Tax Exemption program to date, and the findings are making waves in the State Capitol and across the state.</p>
<p>The analysis is significant not only in its scathing assessment of the program for its cost and poor results for economic development, but also in the case Together Louisiana makes that reforming the program is relatively simple and achievable in the short-term.</p>
<p>Under the Industrial Tax Exemption Program, or ITEP, the Louisiana State Board of Commerce and Industry offers exemptions from property taxes to manufacturers who replace their equipment or expand their operations. The exemptions are from local property tax revenue – funding that would go to local school districts, parishes, cities and other local entities. However, a state board, the Board of Commerce and Industry, makes the decisions on the subsidies, without the approval of the local entities who are losing the funding. </p>
<p>The program currently redirects a total of $16.7 billion in property taxes over 10 years from local governmental entities to corporations – an average of $1.67 billion per year -- making it, according to the study, the single largest program of state subsidies to corporations in the nation.</p>
<p>The study, which includes an analysis of the cost to every parish and a breakdown of foregone revenue for each public service with a dedicated millage, is available at www.togetherla.com.</p>
<p>The study also shows how the program can be reformed, which turns out to be easier to accomplish than virtually any other tax measure under discussion at the time. (See "finding #1" below.)</p>
<p>Top 10 Findings of the Together Louisiana analysis of Industrial Tax Exemption Program:</p>
<p>#10) The Industrial Tax Exemption Program is the single largest program of state subsidies to corporations in the nation.</p>
<p>#9) The exemptions are not “incentives” in any meaningful sense, because they are automatic and non-discretionary, with no "return-on-investment" analysis, no requirement for job creation and no assessment of whether the investments would have taken place anyway without the subsidies.</p>
<p>#8) The program is the only example in the nation of a state board giving away the tax revenue of local governmental entities, without the approval of those entities.</p>
<p>#7) The public subsidy PER JOB created by the exemptions is $535,343.</p>
<p>#6) The exemptions currently granted total $16.7 billion over 10 years, an average of $1.67 billion per year.</p>
<p>#5) The amount of industrial exemptions given away each year is 23 times as large as the current TOPS shortfall.</p>
<p>#4) The amount of tax revenue lost to local school districts alone each year ($587 million) is more than three times the amount it would take to implement universal pre-K statewide ($185 million).</p>
<p>#3) All of the five companies with the worst record of toxic chemical releases in Louisiana are receiving industrial tax exemption subsidies, totaling $506 million.</p>
<p>#2) During the Deepwater Horizon oil spill (2010), BP was receiving its first installment on $9.4 million in industrial tax exemption subsidies. Those exemptions were renewed in 2014.</p>
<p>#1) Reforming the Industrial Tax Exemption Program is simple and achievable. The Louisiana constitution grants the Governor the authority to reform the program in whatever way he deems is “in the best interest of the state.”</p>
<p><a href="http://togetherla.com/analysis/">Download the full study.</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>A state board is giving away $16.7 billion in local property taxes, without approval from local governments losing the funding Public subsidies total $535,343 per job created BP received $9.4 million in public subsidies from Louisiana taxpayers during and after Deepwater Horizon spill Louisiana’s top 5 polluters are each receiving public taxpayer subsidies, totaling $505 million Governor John Bel Edwards has the constitutional authority to overhaul the program single-handedly, in whatever way he deems is in the best interest of the state.</p>
<p>June 20th, 2016 – Together Louisiana is releasing the most in-depth study of Louisiana’s Industrial Tax Exemption program to date, and the findings are making waves in the State Capitol and across the state.</p>
<p>The analysis is significant not only in its scathing assessment of the program for its cost and poor results for economic development, but also in the case Together Louisiana makes that reforming the program is relatively simple and achievable in the short-term.</p>
<p>Under the Industrial Tax Exemption Program, or ITEP, the Louisiana State Board of Commerce and Industry offers exemptions from property taxes to manufacturers who replace their equipment or expand their operations. The exemptions are from local property tax revenue – funding that would go to local school districts, parishes, cities and other local entities. However, a state board, the Board of Commerce and Industry, makes the decisions on the subsidies, without the approval of the local entities who are losing the funding. </p>
<p>The program currently redirects a total of $16.7 billion in property taxes over 10 years from local governmental entities to corporations – an average of $1.67 billion per year -- making it, according to the study, the single largest program of state subsidies to corporations in the nation.</p>
<p>The study, which includes an analysis of the cost to every parish and a breakdown of foregone revenue for each public service with a dedicated millage, is available at www.togetherla.com.</p>
<p>The study also shows how the program can be reformed, which turns out to be easier to accomplish than virtually any other tax measure under discussion at the time. (See "finding #1" below.)</p>
<p>Top 10 Findings of the Together Louisiana analysis of Industrial Tax Exemption Program:</p>
<p>#10) The Industrial Tax Exemption Program is the single largest program of state subsidies to corporations in the nation.</p>
<p>#9) The exemptions are not “incentives” in any meaningful sense, because they are automatic and non-discretionary, with no "return-on-investment" analysis, no requirement for job creation and no assessment of whether the investments would have taken place anyway without the subsidies.</p>
<p>#8) The program is the only example in the nation of a state board giving away the tax revenue of local governmental entities, without the approval of those entities.</p>
<p>#7) The public subsidy PER JOB created by the exemptions is $535,343.</p>
<p>#6) The exemptions currently granted total $16.7 billion over 10 years, an average of $1.67 billion per year.</p>
<p>#5) The amount of industrial exemptions given away each year is 23 times as large as the current TOPS shortfall.</p>
<p>#4) The amount of tax revenue lost to local school districts alone each year ($587 million) is more than three times the amount it would take to implement universal pre-K statewide ($185 million).</p>
<p>#3) All of the five companies with the worst record of toxic chemical releases in Louisiana are receiving industrial tax exemption subsidies, totaling $506 million.</p>
<p>#2) During the Deepwater Horizon oil spill (2010), BP was receiving its first installment on $9.4 million in industrial tax exemption subsidies. Those exemptions were renewed in 2014.</p>
<p>#1) Reforming the Industrial Tax Exemption Program is simple and achievable. The Louisiana constitution grants the Governor the authority to reform the program in whatever way he deems is “in the best interest of the state.”</p>
<p><a href="http://togetherla.com/analysis/">Download the full study.</a></p>
Date
JSRI is hiring!
News Intro Text
JSRI is seeking a new administrative assistant.
News Item Content
<p>The Administrative Assistant III serves as the first contact for students, faculty, and others seeking information about the Jesuit Social Research Institute (JSRI). This position provides the administrative and clerical support necessary for the effective and efficient operation of the JSRI and provides support to the Director and Fellows of the Jesuit Social Research Institute (JSRI); staffs multiple print and news media communication vehicles for multiple Loyola and external publics; and provides the support necessary for the JSRI to continue to grow and develop within Loyola University and in outside professional contexts. </p>
<p>Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree; minimum of 2 years prior administrative experience; interest in and compatibility with JSRI’s mission for research, education, facilitation, advocacy, immersions, Catholic social thought, service, faith, and promoting justice; ability to collaborate with others to complete research projects; good organizational abilities; proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, Access and basic internet skills; ability to relate well with all Loyola associates such as administration, faculty, staff, students, and JSRI constituency within the region; ability to work with the colleagues to design and develop promotional materials; ability to complete projects under deadline; ability to learn Loyola’s computer systems; initiative and flexibility; ability to work closely with the director and fellows; willingness to adjust work schedule to the needs of the JSRI when necessary, e.g., possible weekend conferences, board meetings, etc. Preferred qualifications include bilingual in English and Spanish; former Jesuit volunteer or other social justice service experience.</p>
<p>For more information about how to apply, please visit <a href="http://finance.loyno.edu/human-resources/staff-employment-opportunities">Loyola University New Orleans Staff Employment Opportunities </a></p>
<p>Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree; minimum of 2 years prior administrative experience; interest in and compatibility with JSRI’s mission for research, education, facilitation, advocacy, immersions, Catholic social thought, service, faith, and promoting justice; ability to collaborate with others to complete research projects; good organizational abilities; proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, Access and basic internet skills; ability to relate well with all Loyola associates such as administration, faculty, staff, students, and JSRI constituency within the region; ability to work with the colleagues to design and develop promotional materials; ability to complete projects under deadline; ability to learn Loyola’s computer systems; initiative and flexibility; ability to work closely with the director and fellows; willingness to adjust work schedule to the needs of the JSRI when necessary, e.g., possible weekend conferences, board meetings, etc. Preferred qualifications include bilingual in English and Spanish; former Jesuit volunteer or other social justice service experience.</p>
<p>For more information about how to apply, please visit <a href="http://finance.loyno.edu/human-resources/staff-employment-opportunities">Loyola University New Orleans Staff Employment Opportunities </a></p>
Date
Our Better Angels
News Intro Text
Senate Committee Rejects Effort to Scapegoat Immigrants
News Item Content
<p>by Sue Weishar, Ph.D.</p>
<p>In the recently ended regular session of the Louisiana legislature, immigrant advocates worked hard to convince state legislators that the bias-free policing policies adopted by the NOPD and Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office [1] did not make New Orleans a “sanctuary city,” and that a bill introduced to prohibit New Orleans’ bias-free law enforcement policies, HB 1148, should be opposed because it scapegoats immigrants and would undermine community safety.</p>
<p>Sanctuary is an ancient Christian tradition that ensures anyone who seeks the mercy of the Church will be protected. Unfortunately, nativist politicians have besmirched that term by implying that cities that have adopted bias-free law enforcement policies, like New Orleans, are “sanctuary cities” where an undocumented immigrant is not held accountable for crimes he/she may commit. That bias-free police policies do not in any way permit or encourage immigrants to commit crimes seemed lost on Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry and State Representative Valerie Hodges, the major proponents of HB 1148.</p>
<p>When defending the bill in the Louisiana legislature the misinformation, fear-mongering, and scapegoating Landry and Hodges engaged in was stunning. The AG claimed that New Orleans law enforcement policies were creating a “safe harbor for terrorists,” defying both common sense and national security experts who understand that building trust between police and community members, including immigrants, is key to thwarting terrorist acts. He also asserted that “sanctuary city laws” will lead to an “automatic” increase in crime, even though cities with bias-free policing policies, like San Francisco, have seen their murder rates drop much more than similar cities without bias-free policing policies. His most outrageous assertion was that New Orleans law enforcement policies give undocumented immigrants “more rights than your average citizen.” Is it possible our state’s chief attorney is unaware of the rights and privileges of U.S. citizenship?</p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/message/j6ryk/r8611c">MORE>></a></p>
<p>In the recently ended regular session of the Louisiana legislature, immigrant advocates worked hard to convince state legislators that the bias-free policing policies adopted by the NOPD and Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office [1] did not make New Orleans a “sanctuary city,” and that a bill introduced to prohibit New Orleans’ bias-free law enforcement policies, HB 1148, should be opposed because it scapegoats immigrants and would undermine community safety.</p>
<p>Sanctuary is an ancient Christian tradition that ensures anyone who seeks the mercy of the Church will be protected. Unfortunately, nativist politicians have besmirched that term by implying that cities that have adopted bias-free law enforcement policies, like New Orleans, are “sanctuary cities” where an undocumented immigrant is not held accountable for crimes he/she may commit. That bias-free police policies do not in any way permit or encourage immigrants to commit crimes seemed lost on Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry and State Representative Valerie Hodges, the major proponents of HB 1148.</p>
<p>When defending the bill in the Louisiana legislature the misinformation, fear-mongering, and scapegoating Landry and Hodges engaged in was stunning. The AG claimed that New Orleans law enforcement policies were creating a “safe harbor for terrorists,” defying both common sense and national security experts who understand that building trust between police and community members, including immigrants, is key to thwarting terrorist acts. He also asserted that “sanctuary city laws” will lead to an “automatic” increase in crime, even though cities with bias-free policing policies, like San Francisco, have seen their murder rates drop much more than similar cities without bias-free policing policies. His most outrageous assertion was that New Orleans law enforcement policies give undocumented immigrants “more rights than your average citizen.” Is it possible our state’s chief attorney is unaware of the rights and privileges of U.S. citizenship?</p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/message/j6ryk/r8611c">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Social Security Administration Faces Record-High Workload with Fewer Resources
News Intro Text
[Center on Budget and Policy Priorities]
News Item Content
<p><a href="http://www.cbpp.org/research/retirement-security/budget-cuts-squeeze-social-security-administration-even-as-workloads">Full Report >></a></p>
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/CBPP.jpg" /></p>
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/CBPP.jpg" /></p>
Date
JSRI STATEMENT
News Intro Text
National Payday Rule Could Save Louisiana Consumers Millions But Proposed Rule Still Needs Strengthening
News Item Content
<p>National Payday Rule Could Save Louisiana Consumers Millions But Proposed Rule Still Needs Strengthening </p>
<p>June 2, 2016</p>
<p>“Today, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau unveiled a proposal for a new national rule on payday and car title lending that has the potential to save Louisiana residents millions if changes are made before the rule is finalized,” Fr. Fred Kammer, SJ, JSRI’s Executive Director said.</p>
<p>“The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s proposed rule on payday and car title lending is a good beginning, but there is still much work to be done to ensure this rule truly protects consumers from the legalized loan sharks who prey on our communities,” Fr. Kammer said. “Fortunately, this is just the opening offer. Our community will be working hard over the next few months to help the CFPB understand the importance of closing loopholes in what is otherwise a well thought out proposal. In doing so, they can shut the debt trap once and for all.” </p>
<p>Payday and car title loans with interest rates that average 391 percent drain $241.5 million in fees annually from the pockets of Louisianans who can least afford it, according to a report by the Center for Responsible Lending. </p>
<p>“This type of lending exploits those in need and our Catholic tradition warns against such modern day usury,” said Fr. Kammer. “Our U.S. Catholic bishops already have expressed to Congress the need to protect low-income families from extremely onerous interest rates and fees as in payday loans.”</p>
<p>Accordingly, JSRI and advocates around the country have been pushing for a federal rule that simply requires these lenders to do what any responsible lender does already – to determine whether a borrower is likely to be able to pay back the loan, without defaulting on basic necessities like rent and groceries, and without immediately taking out another loan. </p>
<p>While the CFPB rule does create such an affordability standard, the rule also allows for many exemptions and leaves open too many loopholes to meaningfully reduce the harm of predatory lending. A more detailed analysis of what works and what does not about the CFPB’s proposal is available <a href="http://stopthedebttrap.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/stdt_payday_proposed_rule_works_jun2016.pdf">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>The CFPB will be seeking comments from the public until September 14, 2016, after which they will review before making the rule final in 2017. In the meantime, consumers are encouraged to comment and suggest changes to the final rule that will close loopholes and remove exemptions. Comments can be offered at <a href="http://www.stoppaydaypredators.org">www.stoppaydaypredators.org </a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JSRI Payday Rules Statement.pdf">FULL STATEMENT >></a></p>
<p>June 2, 2016</p>
<p>“Today, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau unveiled a proposal for a new national rule on payday and car title lending that has the potential to save Louisiana residents millions if changes are made before the rule is finalized,” Fr. Fred Kammer, SJ, JSRI’s Executive Director said.</p>
<p>“The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s proposed rule on payday and car title lending is a good beginning, but there is still much work to be done to ensure this rule truly protects consumers from the legalized loan sharks who prey on our communities,” Fr. Kammer said. “Fortunately, this is just the opening offer. Our community will be working hard over the next few months to help the CFPB understand the importance of closing loopholes in what is otherwise a well thought out proposal. In doing so, they can shut the debt trap once and for all.” </p>
<p>Payday and car title loans with interest rates that average 391 percent drain $241.5 million in fees annually from the pockets of Louisianans who can least afford it, according to a report by the Center for Responsible Lending. </p>
<p>“This type of lending exploits those in need and our Catholic tradition warns against such modern day usury,” said Fr. Kammer. “Our U.S. Catholic bishops already have expressed to Congress the need to protect low-income families from extremely onerous interest rates and fees as in payday loans.”</p>
<p>Accordingly, JSRI and advocates around the country have been pushing for a federal rule that simply requires these lenders to do what any responsible lender does already – to determine whether a borrower is likely to be able to pay back the loan, without defaulting on basic necessities like rent and groceries, and without immediately taking out another loan. </p>
<p>While the CFPB rule does create such an affordability standard, the rule also allows for many exemptions and leaves open too many loopholes to meaningfully reduce the harm of predatory lending. A more detailed analysis of what works and what does not about the CFPB’s proposal is available <a href="http://stopthedebttrap.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/stdt_payday_proposed_rule_works_jun2016.pdf">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>The CFPB will be seeking comments from the public until September 14, 2016, after which they will review before making the rule final in 2017. In the meantime, consumers are encouraged to comment and suggest changes to the final rule that will close loopholes and remove exemptions. Comments can be offered at <a href="http://www.stoppaydaypredators.org">www.stoppaydaypredators.org </a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JSRI Payday Rules Statement.pdf">FULL STATEMENT >></a></p>
Date
Predatory Lending in Louisiana
News Intro Text
Payday and car title lenders are preying on Louisianans
News Item Content
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Payday Infographic.png" style="width: 700px; height: 3444px;" /></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Payday PDF 2 page.pdf">2 Page printable version can be found HERE</a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Payday PDF 2 page.pdf">2 Page printable version can be found HERE</a></p>
Date
The Meaning of Social Justice
News Intro Text
JSRI's JustSouth Index
News Item Content
<p>by Jeanie Donovan, MPA, MPH</p>
<p>When JSRI released the inaugural edition of the JustSouth Index on March 17, 2016, we were grateful to receive coverage by various local, state, and national news outlets. With media coverage, however, comes the opportunity for online readers to post their thoughts, comments and feedback without filter. The online comments related to the JustSouth Index included the usual array of submissions ranging from insightful to incendiary to incoherent. While most were not particularly notable, one provocative comment gave me pause. It made the claim that social justice is a “meaningless term.” While initially I was angered by the comment, I soon realized that it was a teachable moment.</p>
<p>I suspect the author of the comment may have meant that social justice is an ambiguous term; and one that they have seen the term applied in a wide variety of contexts. While social justice is in fact a conceptual term, it does have very specific meaning, especially in the context of Catholic social teaching. The Catechism of the Catholic Church states that a society ensures social justice when it provides the conditions that allow associations or individuals to obtain what is their due, according to their nature and vocation. This includes having the material, cultural, and spiritual resources needed to achieve full development and contribute to society. </p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/ziguk/e0f9fe6f32f8ecdc42bece83274117ff">MORE>></a></p>
<p>When JSRI released the inaugural edition of the JustSouth Index on March 17, 2016, we were grateful to receive coverage by various local, state, and national news outlets. With media coverage, however, comes the opportunity for online readers to post their thoughts, comments and feedback without filter. The online comments related to the JustSouth Index included the usual array of submissions ranging from insightful to incendiary to incoherent. While most were not particularly notable, one provocative comment gave me pause. It made the claim that social justice is a “meaningless term.” While initially I was angered by the comment, I soon realized that it was a teachable moment.</p>
<p>I suspect the author of the comment may have meant that social justice is an ambiguous term; and one that they have seen the term applied in a wide variety of contexts. While social justice is in fact a conceptual term, it does have very specific meaning, especially in the context of Catholic social teaching. The Catechism of the Catholic Church states that a society ensures social justice when it provides the conditions that allow associations or individuals to obtain what is their due, according to their nature and vocation. This includes having the material, cultural, and spiritual resources needed to achieve full development and contribute to society. </p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/ziguk/e0f9fe6f32f8ecdc42bece83274117ff">MORE>></a></p>
Date
The Great Louisiana Tax Swap, 2008 to 2016
News Intro Text
From the Statewide Assembly [05/02/16]
News Item Content
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Presentation_State Taxes_5-1-16P.pdf"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Louisiana Taxes.jpg" style="width: 700px; height: 280px;" /></a></p>
Date
Fair Food Program
News Intro Text
Coalition of Immokalee Workers Calls for Boycott of Wendy’s
News Item Content
<p>by Mary Baudouin</p>
<p>In 2003, the Jesuits of the New Orleans Province were approached by the Coalition of Immokalee Workers (CIW), a Florida-based farmworkers rights organization, to promote in our province ministries a nationwide boycott of Taco Bell restaurants. The goal of the boycott was to increase the amount that Taco Bell paid farmers for tomatoes by one penny per pound, which in turn could increase the rate pay for field laborers. This boycott, which was endorsed by more than 50 high schools and 300 college campuses, including Loyola University New Orleans, succeeded in cutting contracts or preventing new contracts with Taco Bell. In March 2005, Taco Bell signed a historic agreement to “work with CIW to improve working and pay conditions for farmworkers in the Florida tomato fields."</p>
<p>A year later, the New Orleans Province co-filed with other shareholders a resolution with the McDonald’s Corporation calling for the company to address wages and working conditions for farmworkers who pick most of the tomatoes served in McDonald's restaurants in the U.S. As a result of this resolution and many other public actions, McDonald's agreed to meet the CIW's demand that the company pay an additional penny per pound for the Florida tomatoes it purchased. </p>
<p>In the subsequent years the CIW has continued their campaign to pressure farmers and retail food companies to ensure humane wages and working conditions for farmworkers, primarily through their Fair Food Program, a human rights project that has been designed and enforced by the workers themselves. A Fair Food Standards Council has been established to provide third-party monitoring of both buyers and growers. Some of the buyers participating in the Fair Food Program are familiar – and big – names, including: Walmart, Trader Joe’s, Subway, Burger King, Whole Foods, Sodexo, Aramark, and of course Taco Bell and McDonald’s. The Fair Food Program has been called “the best workplace-monitoring program” in the US in the New York Times, and “one of the great human rights success stories of our day” in the Washington Post. </p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/rk0ok/0c07c0906e49820d6aaf1c1b6203bd3b">MORE>></a></p>
<p>In 2003, the Jesuits of the New Orleans Province were approached by the Coalition of Immokalee Workers (CIW), a Florida-based farmworkers rights organization, to promote in our province ministries a nationwide boycott of Taco Bell restaurants. The goal of the boycott was to increase the amount that Taco Bell paid farmers for tomatoes by one penny per pound, which in turn could increase the rate pay for field laborers. This boycott, which was endorsed by more than 50 high schools and 300 college campuses, including Loyola University New Orleans, succeeded in cutting contracts or preventing new contracts with Taco Bell. In March 2005, Taco Bell signed a historic agreement to “work with CIW to improve working and pay conditions for farmworkers in the Florida tomato fields."</p>
<p>A year later, the New Orleans Province co-filed with other shareholders a resolution with the McDonald’s Corporation calling for the company to address wages and working conditions for farmworkers who pick most of the tomatoes served in McDonald's restaurants in the U.S. As a result of this resolution and many other public actions, McDonald's agreed to meet the CIW's demand that the company pay an additional penny per pound for the Florida tomatoes it purchased. </p>
<p>In the subsequent years the CIW has continued their campaign to pressure farmers and retail food companies to ensure humane wages and working conditions for farmworkers, primarily through their Fair Food Program, a human rights project that has been designed and enforced by the workers themselves. A Fair Food Standards Council has been established to provide third-party monitoring of both buyers and growers. Some of the buyers participating in the Fair Food Program are familiar – and big – names, including: Walmart, Trader Joe’s, Subway, Burger King, Whole Foods, Sodexo, Aramark, and of course Taco Bell and McDonald’s. The Fair Food Program has been called “the best workplace-monitoring program” in the US in the New York Times, and “one of the great human rights success stories of our day” in the Washington Post. </p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/rk0ok/0c07c0906e49820d6aaf1c1b6203bd3b">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Letter to the Editor
News Intro Text
DA embraces ideals of ‘throwaway culture’
News Item Content
<p>Recently, Orleans Parish District Attorney Leon Cannizzaro denounced a resolution from the New Orleans City Council seeking information on how his office makes decisions on transferring young offenders from the juvenile justice system to the adult justice system.</p>
<p>However, the City Council has good reason for their concerns. Since Mr. Cannizzaro took office in 2009, the proportion of youthful offenders tried as adults in Orleans Parish has increased dramatically.</p>
<p>Although his office refuses to release detailed statistics on this issue, the Southern Poverty Law Center reports that between 2011 and 2014, more than 80 percent of youths who could have been adjudicated in the juvenile justice system were transferred to the adult system, a rate of transfer much higher than any other Louisiana parish. The DA’s record on youth transfers is troubling for two main reasons.</p>
<p>First of all, his practice of treating an increasing proportion of youths as adults likely is making our community less safe. Considerable research has shown that young people who are kept in the juvenile justice system, rather than transferred to adult court, are less likely to commit subsequent crimes.</p>
<p>The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, conducting studies that controlled for both type of crime and the offender’s background, found that keeping a child in the juvenile justice system decreases recidivism by 34 percent.</p>
<p>Another reason why the DA’s transfer policy is so problematic is the message it sends to the rest of our community, especially to our young people, that our most troubled and traumatized youths are not worth saving.</p>
<p>Pope Francis has frequently denounced a “throwaway culture” that ruthlessly discards human beings not considered useful in a modern society where everything and everyone is considering disposable.</p>
<p>By channeling so many of our troubled youth into the adult criminal justice system, the message has become: “They’re not worth saving. They are disposable.” Because life is sacred and every human being is endowed with an inalienable dignity, society can only benefit from the rehabilitation of those convicted of crimes.</p>
<p>Youthful offenders, many who themselves have been traumatized by violence and abuse, have a much greater chance at rehabilitation in the juvenile justice system.</p>
<p>When determining the fate of young offenders, decision makers at all levels of our criminal justice system would be wise to consider the words of Pope Francis: “We must never allow the throwaway culture to enter our hearts, because we are all brothers and sister. No one is disposable.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Fred Kammer, SJ, JD</p>
<p>director, Jesuit Social Research Institute, Loyola University New Orleans</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.theneworleansadvocate.com/opinion/15289160-148/letters-da-embraces-ideals-of-throwaway-culture">MORE>></a></p>
<p>However, the City Council has good reason for their concerns. Since Mr. Cannizzaro took office in 2009, the proportion of youthful offenders tried as adults in Orleans Parish has increased dramatically.</p>
<p>Although his office refuses to release detailed statistics on this issue, the Southern Poverty Law Center reports that between 2011 and 2014, more than 80 percent of youths who could have been adjudicated in the juvenile justice system were transferred to the adult system, a rate of transfer much higher than any other Louisiana parish. The DA’s record on youth transfers is troubling for two main reasons.</p>
<p>First of all, his practice of treating an increasing proportion of youths as adults likely is making our community less safe. Considerable research has shown that young people who are kept in the juvenile justice system, rather than transferred to adult court, are less likely to commit subsequent crimes.</p>
<p>The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, conducting studies that controlled for both type of crime and the offender’s background, found that keeping a child in the juvenile justice system decreases recidivism by 34 percent.</p>
<p>Another reason why the DA’s transfer policy is so problematic is the message it sends to the rest of our community, especially to our young people, that our most troubled and traumatized youths are not worth saving.</p>
<p>Pope Francis has frequently denounced a “throwaway culture” that ruthlessly discards human beings not considered useful in a modern society where everything and everyone is considering disposable.</p>
<p>By channeling so many of our troubled youth into the adult criminal justice system, the message has become: “They’re not worth saving. They are disposable.” Because life is sacred and every human being is endowed with an inalienable dignity, society can only benefit from the rehabilitation of those convicted of crimes.</p>
<p>Youthful offenders, many who themselves have been traumatized by violence and abuse, have a much greater chance at rehabilitation in the juvenile justice system.</p>
<p>When determining the fate of young offenders, decision makers at all levels of our criminal justice system would be wise to consider the words of Pope Francis: “We must never allow the throwaway culture to enter our hearts, because we are all brothers and sister. No one is disposable.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Fred Kammer, SJ, JD</p>
<p>director, Jesuit Social Research Institute, Loyola University New Orleans</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.theneworleansadvocate.com/opinion/15289160-148/letters-da-embraces-ideals-of-throwaway-culture">MORE>></a></p>
Date
JustSouth Index Score Cards
News Intro Text
1 page visuals that show where Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas fall on the JustSouth Index.
News Item Content
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Alabama Score Card.pdf">Alabama Report Card</a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Florida Score Card.pdf">Florida Report Card</a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Louisiana Score Card.pdf">Louisiana Report Card </a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Mississippi Score Card.pdf">Mississippi Report Card</a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Texas Score Card.pdf">Texas Report Card </a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Florida Score Card.pdf">Florida Report Card</a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Louisiana Score Card.pdf">Louisiana Report Card </a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Mississippi Score Card.pdf">Mississippi Report Card</a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Texas Score Card.pdf">Texas Report Card </a></p>
Date
Rhetoric and Reality: Walls, Bridges, and People on the Move
News Intro Text
by Edward "Ted" Arroyo, SJ, Ph.D.
News Item Content
<p>by Edward "Ted" Arroyo, SJ, Ph.D. </p>
<p>Pope Francis’ recent prayer at the Juarez/El Paso border led to this airborne response to a journalist’s question: “A person who thinks only about building walls, wherever they may be, and not building bridges, is not Christian. This is not in the Gospel.” These simple words opened up in the blogosphere floodgates of anti-papal as well as anti-immigrant inundations reaching far beyond the Rio Grande’s tiny arroyo dividing the U.S. and Mexico. </p>
<p>Many people have legitimate concerns about migration. Maintaining appropriate boundaries, fair and just regulatory measures, respect for the law, the impact of migration on the economy, etc. all call for subtle prudential judgments rather than bombastic generalizations. So often, however, many people of good will seem to forget their own immigrant roots and fail to appreciate the human realities moving 200 million-plus people around today’s world. </p>
<p>How might a Christian approach building bridges rather than walls? Global generalizations, and even accurate scientific descriptions of the push and pull factors moving people across political borders don’t sufficiently bring home the human realities involved.</p>
<div>
<p>JSRI addresses this gaping divide between rhetoric and reality by facilitating local dialog between recent immigrants and other concerned people, attempting to build bridges of understanding and mutual respect. We gather together immigrants and others in small groups to hear each others’ experiences and concerns, and also to learn what our church teaches about human dignity, ministering to people on the move, appropriate migration policies, etc. In this we follow the time-tested inductive method “see, judge, act” advocated by Pope John XXIII in 1961 [1]. Our experience suggests that as we move above and beyond this local experience of dialog, we start with experiences and practices close to home and then build up to advocating national and global policies. Starting with local dialog can humanize the rhetoric and help us better understand the reality. </p>
<p>For many years I offered a university-level course called “Social Policy and the Christian” using moral theologian Richard McCormick’s [2] method of “feeling right, thinking right and acting right” for more adequately dealing with such social policy challenges. In his article “Reading the Signs of the Times” [3] Donal Dorr builds on this approach to develop a fuller theological method to guide informed Christian involvement in advocating public policy about urgent issues. Applying such an inductive methodology theologian David Hollenbach recently offered a concrete example of this process in discussing today’s global refugee crisis.[4] And our own JSRI colleague Mary Baudouin offers a helpful reflection on our local implementation of such bridge-building in her article “Welcoming the Stranger."[5]</p>
<p>What are we to do, how are we to act? Flowing from the “Jesuit” in JSRI’s mission, we urge an ongoing process of Ignatian discernment beyond the rhetoric, a strategic methodology of careful listening to those concerned, including the excluded, both the victims and those who don’t seem to understand, and those who don’t agree but are willing to continue the discernment and act to build bridges rather than walls. Welcoming the stranger, a central tenet of the Judeo Christian tradition, calls us too to feel right, think right and act right. </p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/jeehk/3c17204106ef2e36285af882428ba2cf">MORE>></a></p>
</div>
<p> </p>
<p>Pope Francis’ recent prayer at the Juarez/El Paso border led to this airborne response to a journalist’s question: “A person who thinks only about building walls, wherever they may be, and not building bridges, is not Christian. This is not in the Gospel.” These simple words opened up in the blogosphere floodgates of anti-papal as well as anti-immigrant inundations reaching far beyond the Rio Grande’s tiny arroyo dividing the U.S. and Mexico. </p>
<p>Many people have legitimate concerns about migration. Maintaining appropriate boundaries, fair and just regulatory measures, respect for the law, the impact of migration on the economy, etc. all call for subtle prudential judgments rather than bombastic generalizations. So often, however, many people of good will seem to forget their own immigrant roots and fail to appreciate the human realities moving 200 million-plus people around today’s world. </p>
<p>How might a Christian approach building bridges rather than walls? Global generalizations, and even accurate scientific descriptions of the push and pull factors moving people across political borders don’t sufficiently bring home the human realities involved.</p>
<div>
<p>JSRI addresses this gaping divide between rhetoric and reality by facilitating local dialog between recent immigrants and other concerned people, attempting to build bridges of understanding and mutual respect. We gather together immigrants and others in small groups to hear each others’ experiences and concerns, and also to learn what our church teaches about human dignity, ministering to people on the move, appropriate migration policies, etc. In this we follow the time-tested inductive method “see, judge, act” advocated by Pope John XXIII in 1961 [1]. Our experience suggests that as we move above and beyond this local experience of dialog, we start with experiences and practices close to home and then build up to advocating national and global policies. Starting with local dialog can humanize the rhetoric and help us better understand the reality. </p>
<p>For many years I offered a university-level course called “Social Policy and the Christian” using moral theologian Richard McCormick’s [2] method of “feeling right, thinking right and acting right” for more adequately dealing with such social policy challenges. In his article “Reading the Signs of the Times” [3] Donal Dorr builds on this approach to develop a fuller theological method to guide informed Christian involvement in advocating public policy about urgent issues. Applying such an inductive methodology theologian David Hollenbach recently offered a concrete example of this process in discussing today’s global refugee crisis.[4] And our own JSRI colleague Mary Baudouin offers a helpful reflection on our local implementation of such bridge-building in her article “Welcoming the Stranger."[5]</p>
<p>What are we to do, how are we to act? Flowing from the “Jesuit” in JSRI’s mission, we urge an ongoing process of Ignatian discernment beyond the rhetoric, a strategic methodology of careful listening to those concerned, including the excluded, both the victims and those who don’t seem to understand, and those who don’t agree but are willing to continue the discernment and act to build bridges rather than walls. Welcoming the stranger, a central tenet of the Judeo Christian tradition, calls us too to feel right, think right and act right. </p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/jeehk/3c17204106ef2e36285af882428ba2cf">MORE>></a></p>
</div>
<p> </p>
Date
Inaugural JustSouth Index 2016
News Intro Text
On March 17, 2016, JSRI released its first JustSouth Index. Measuring how the Gulf South states are fairing in areas of poverty, racial disparity, and immigrant exclusion.
News Item Content
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/indicators-map">Interactive Map & Methodology </a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JustSouth Index 2016_0.pdf"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JustSouth Index Full Cover.jpg" /></a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JustSouth Index 2016_0.pdf"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JustSouth Index Full Cover.jpg" /></a></p>
Date
JustSouth Index On-line Media Packet
News Intro Text
Missed the JustSouth Index Press Conference but want to cover the report?
News Item Content
<p><span class="maroon"><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JustSouth Index 2016.pdf">Full JustSouth Index Report </a></span></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/About JSRI_Online.pdf">About JSRI </a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JustSouth Index Press Conference Speakers_Online.pdf">Press Conference Speakers & Bios </a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JustSouth Index_ Fr Kammer Statement_Online.pdf">Fr. Fred Kammer, SJ, JD, JSRI Executive Director Statement </a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JustSouth Index_Jeanie Statement_online.pdf">Ms. Jeanie Donovan, MPA, MPH, JSRI Economic Policy Specialist </a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Press Conference Statement Cristi_online.pdf">Ms. Cristi Rosales-Fajardo, Immigrant & Immigrant Activist </a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JustSouth Index_Erika_Online.pdf">Ms. Erika Zucker, JD, Policy Advocate at the Workplace Justice Project</a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JustSouth Index_PPT_Final_0.pdf">Press Conference PowerPoint Presentation </a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/About JSRI_Online.pdf">About JSRI </a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JustSouth Index Press Conference Speakers_Online.pdf">Press Conference Speakers & Bios </a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JustSouth Index_ Fr Kammer Statement_Online.pdf">Fr. Fred Kammer, SJ, JD, JSRI Executive Director Statement </a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JustSouth Index_Jeanie Statement_online.pdf">Ms. Jeanie Donovan, MPA, MPH, JSRI Economic Policy Specialist </a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Press Conference Statement Cristi_online.pdf">Ms. Cristi Rosales-Fajardo, Immigrant & Immigrant Activist </a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JustSouth Index_Erika_Online.pdf">Ms. Erika Zucker, JD, Policy Advocate at the Workplace Justice Project</a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JustSouth Index_PPT_Final_0.pdf">Press Conference PowerPoint Presentation </a></p>
Date
2016 Health Summit: Creating an Agenda for a Healthy Louisiana
News Intro Text
March 29, 2016 - Baton Rouge, LA
News Item Content
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/HCEL FLYER_Final (1).jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 700px;" /></p>
Date
Marian Wright Edelman's Child Watch Column
News Intro Text
America, I am You
News Item Content
<p>“I am an insider serving a life and 20 year sentence at Riverbend Maximum Security Institution. Twenty-six years ago I was rendered infamous by the State of Tennessee through a judicial process of ‘thingafication,’ replacing my identity with a capitalistic signature, 133881. Since then, at 19 years old, my journey towards humanization has been a struggle . . . to know that you are more than a number and not have the support of your family or community environment to prove otherwise can be depressing.”</p>
<p>America’s Cradle to Prison Pipeline™ is a toxic cocktail of poverty, illiteracy, racial disparities, violence and massive incarceration which sentences millions of children of color to social and economic death. Once young people have entered the prison pipeline, to many people they become invisible, just a statistic.</p>
<p>Rahim’s pipeline to prison started during a chaotic childhood in poverty and a struggling family. His mother had given birth twice as a teen before Rahim was born. Rahim's father was never part of his life. His mother worked in a warehouse for minimum wage and struggled to keep food on the table and clothes on her children's backs while refusing government assistance — but Rahim says that was a cost later paid by hungry children who started a life of crime in order to eat and dress like their peers. Rahim was eventually expelled from high school, received a juvenile sentence for auto theft and burglary and was sent to a youth detention center. Less than a year after his release he was charged with felony murder after his gun went off during a robbery and a bullet ricocheted off the floor and killed an employee. He was sent to jail and received a life and 20 year sentence.</p>
<p>Three of his brothers have been his cellmates and he has been locked up with a total of five siblings at two different prisons. He writes about his childhood in verse: </p>
<p>Who Am I? Who am I?</p>
<p>Society doesn't seem to know . . .</p>
<p>You see us in the "now", our prison condition</p>
<p>Blind to the facts of our mental afflictions</p>
<p>Past decisions made before our 15 second/mindless/crime spree/felony convictions.</p>
<p>The money/the honeys/the madness/materialistic sadness</p>
<p>Thirteen brothers/five sisters, seriously drastic.</p>
<p>Who am I, Who am I?</p>
<p>Choking in poverty, the pain runs deep you see . . . </p>
<p>Who am I, Who am I?</p>
<p>My eyes, my ears, my peers; no difference: 5, 10, 15 to 30 years in prison.</p>
<p>Environmental voices in me, our life and death choices to be, anger and stress forcing me,</p>
<p>Public defenders coercing me, my family and friends divorcing me.</p>
<p>Crying shame, born with crime in my veins . . . </p>
<p>still begging for a new beginning.</p>
<p>In prison, “I was determined to survive, upset with myself, angry at the system, and filled with guilt. From jail to prison, I was stripped of my civilian clothing, a symbol that I was no longer fit to be human. My sadness, remorse, and vulnerability I masked with a ‘mean-mug,’ the look of a cold-hearted convict. Old-heads in prison gave me the game, the knowledge of how to live and avoid death.” Eventually Rahim started to realize he was more than the way the system had defined him. “After all the growing pains of becoming a man in prison, disciplinary reports, fights, selling drugs, and rebelling in any way that I could to resist the system, I decided to change.”</p>
<p>Rahim got a chance to participate in a program called SALT: Schools for Alternative Learning and Transformation, which brings college students together with incarcerated men and women to study as peers in college courses and workshops behind prison walls. It was its own kind of new beginning and for Rahim “there was no looking back.” He became a leader in the program, facilitating classes and developing community education sessions and mentoring other “inside” students. “My learning has forced me to contend with the realities of American society. I wasn’t born a number . . . yet I can’t deny that numbers surround me. More than 2,200,000 fill the jails and prisons across the U.S.A. Million dollar contracts are given to private companies to monopolize the market of the prison industrial complex . . . I know that I’m more than a number because numbers can’t feel, love, breathe or think for themselves. I have dreams, goals, and ambitions.”</p>
<p>Last June, Rahim was released from prison and recently celebrated his 45th birthday — his first outside a prison in 26 years. Rahim received a four-year scholarship to American Baptist College and has become a partner in the Children’s Defense Fund Nashville Organizing Team, speaking locally and nationally and facilitating SALT classes inside a juvenile detention center. He believes “education combined with community equals a peaceful society,” and wants others to believe that they, too, are more than a number — something he never heard as a child, but something he wants to teach other young people as he focuses on helping them become their best selves:</p>
<p>America the Beautiful, America the Great, America, America,</p>
<p>America, It’s not too late.</p>
<p>Who am I? I am you.</p>
<p><a href="http://cdf.childrensdefense.org/site/MessageViewer?dlv_id=46077&em_id=45290.0">MORE>></a></p>
<p>America’s Cradle to Prison Pipeline™ is a toxic cocktail of poverty, illiteracy, racial disparities, violence and massive incarceration which sentences millions of children of color to social and economic death. Once young people have entered the prison pipeline, to many people they become invisible, just a statistic.</p>
<p>Rahim’s pipeline to prison started during a chaotic childhood in poverty and a struggling family. His mother had given birth twice as a teen before Rahim was born. Rahim's father was never part of his life. His mother worked in a warehouse for minimum wage and struggled to keep food on the table and clothes on her children's backs while refusing government assistance — but Rahim says that was a cost later paid by hungry children who started a life of crime in order to eat and dress like their peers. Rahim was eventually expelled from high school, received a juvenile sentence for auto theft and burglary and was sent to a youth detention center. Less than a year after his release he was charged with felony murder after his gun went off during a robbery and a bullet ricocheted off the floor and killed an employee. He was sent to jail and received a life and 20 year sentence.</p>
<p>Three of his brothers have been his cellmates and he has been locked up with a total of five siblings at two different prisons. He writes about his childhood in verse: </p>
<p>Who Am I? Who am I?</p>
<p>Society doesn't seem to know . . .</p>
<p>You see us in the "now", our prison condition</p>
<p>Blind to the facts of our mental afflictions</p>
<p>Past decisions made before our 15 second/mindless/crime spree/felony convictions.</p>
<p>The money/the honeys/the madness/materialistic sadness</p>
<p>Thirteen brothers/five sisters, seriously drastic.</p>
<p>Who am I, Who am I?</p>
<p>Choking in poverty, the pain runs deep you see . . . </p>
<p>Who am I, Who am I?</p>
<p>My eyes, my ears, my peers; no difference: 5, 10, 15 to 30 years in prison.</p>
<p>Environmental voices in me, our life and death choices to be, anger and stress forcing me,</p>
<p>Public defenders coercing me, my family and friends divorcing me.</p>
<p>Crying shame, born with crime in my veins . . . </p>
<p>still begging for a new beginning.</p>
<p>In prison, “I was determined to survive, upset with myself, angry at the system, and filled with guilt. From jail to prison, I was stripped of my civilian clothing, a symbol that I was no longer fit to be human. My sadness, remorse, and vulnerability I masked with a ‘mean-mug,’ the look of a cold-hearted convict. Old-heads in prison gave me the game, the knowledge of how to live and avoid death.” Eventually Rahim started to realize he was more than the way the system had defined him. “After all the growing pains of becoming a man in prison, disciplinary reports, fights, selling drugs, and rebelling in any way that I could to resist the system, I decided to change.”</p>
<p>Rahim got a chance to participate in a program called SALT: Schools for Alternative Learning and Transformation, which brings college students together with incarcerated men and women to study as peers in college courses and workshops behind prison walls. It was its own kind of new beginning and for Rahim “there was no looking back.” He became a leader in the program, facilitating classes and developing community education sessions and mentoring other “inside” students. “My learning has forced me to contend with the realities of American society. I wasn’t born a number . . . yet I can’t deny that numbers surround me. More than 2,200,000 fill the jails and prisons across the U.S.A. Million dollar contracts are given to private companies to monopolize the market of the prison industrial complex . . . I know that I’m more than a number because numbers can’t feel, love, breathe or think for themselves. I have dreams, goals, and ambitions.”</p>
<p>Last June, Rahim was released from prison and recently celebrated his 45th birthday — his first outside a prison in 26 years. Rahim received a four-year scholarship to American Baptist College and has become a partner in the Children’s Defense Fund Nashville Organizing Team, speaking locally and nationally and facilitating SALT classes inside a juvenile detention center. He believes “education combined with community equals a peaceful society,” and wants others to believe that they, too, are more than a number — something he never heard as a child, but something he wants to teach other young people as he focuses on helping them become their best selves:</p>
<p>America the Beautiful, America the Great, America, America,</p>
<p>America, It’s not too late.</p>
<p>Who am I? I am you.</p>
<p><a href="http://cdf.childrensdefense.org/site/MessageViewer?dlv_id=46077&em_id=45290.0">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Pediatricians Should ‘Screen’ Kids for Poverty, Says Group
News Intro Text
It’s not a direct medical condition, but experts say poverty can have a major impact on children’s health, and doctors should be asking families about their financial situation.
News Item Content
<p>Alice Park @aliceparkny<br />
Time.com</p>
<p>The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is recommending that pediatricians start assessing children for their poverty status. The screening begins with a single question — asking parents whether they have difficulty making ends meet at the end of the month.</p>
<p>One in five U.S. children live in poverty, and the academy says that there is growing evidence that the stress of not having safe and secure housing, regular meals and a stable home environment can lead to significant health problems.</p>
<p>“We know children living in poverty have more chronic disease, more severe chronic disease, and have poor early brain development which can impact them when they get to school, and lead to poor academic performance,” says Dr. Benard Dreyer, president of the AAP. “Pediatricians deal on a daily basis with the intersection between poverty and health and the well being of children. They understand that they actually aren’t separate.”</p>
<div>
<p>The new recommendation, published in the academy’s journal Pediatrics, formalizes the process and make it easier for doctors who aren’t sure about how to address the issue. The screening doesn’t have to be performed by the doctor, but can be part of a checklist that parents fill out while waiting for their well child visit, or, in larger practices, could be conducted by a quick interview with office staff or social workers.</p>
<p>The recommendation also provides guidelines to help pediatricians connect families who might be struggling to the proper resources, from local housing bureaus to food pantries and job listings. The hope, says Dreyer, is to help the 50% of families who currently qualify for additional support but aren’t getting it to access the resources they are entitled to. “Many pediatricians are already doing this, and helping families who have been evicted or connecting them to local food pantries. What we want to do is to give them more resources,” says Dreyer.</p>
</div>
<p><a href="http://time.com/4251653/pediatricians-should-screen-all-children-for-poverty/">MORE>></a></p>
Time.com</p>
<p>The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is recommending that pediatricians start assessing children for their poverty status. The screening begins with a single question — asking parents whether they have difficulty making ends meet at the end of the month.</p>
<p>One in five U.S. children live in poverty, and the academy says that there is growing evidence that the stress of not having safe and secure housing, regular meals and a stable home environment can lead to significant health problems.</p>
<p>“We know children living in poverty have more chronic disease, more severe chronic disease, and have poor early brain development which can impact them when they get to school, and lead to poor academic performance,” says Dr. Benard Dreyer, president of the AAP. “Pediatricians deal on a daily basis with the intersection between poverty and health and the well being of children. They understand that they actually aren’t separate.”</p>
<div>
<p>The new recommendation, published in the academy’s journal Pediatrics, formalizes the process and make it easier for doctors who aren’t sure about how to address the issue. The screening doesn’t have to be performed by the doctor, but can be part of a checklist that parents fill out while waiting for their well child visit, or, in larger practices, could be conducted by a quick interview with office staff or social workers.</p>
<p>The recommendation also provides guidelines to help pediatricians connect families who might be struggling to the proper resources, from local housing bureaus to food pantries and job listings. The hope, says Dreyer, is to help the 50% of families who currently qualify for additional support but aren’t getting it to access the resources they are entitled to. “Many pediatricians are already doing this, and helping families who have been evicted or connecting them to local food pantries. What we want to do is to give them more resources,” says Dreyer.</p>
</div>
<p><a href="http://time.com/4251653/pediatricians-should-screen-all-children-for-poverty/">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Lawmakers should give low-earning families a break on income taxes
News Intro Text
Editorial
News Item Content
<p>The Times-Picayune By The Editorial Board, NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune </p>
<p>The special legislative session hit a seeming stalemate Monday night (March 7) when Gov. John Bel Edwards and Republican House leaders couldn't agree on a way to fill Louisiana's remaining budget gap. One of the main sticking points is whether to expand the earned income tax credit, which the governor and House Democrats want to do to ease the burden a higher sales tax will have on poor Louisianians.</p>
<p>Some House Republicans are adamantly opposed because that move would actually cost the state money — which would mean lawmakers have to find more revenue. That's a fair argument. But they are making it while clinging to tax credits for wealthier taxpayers and businesses, so they've undercut their own position.</p>
<p>The earned income tax credit sounds arcane, but it is a practical way to give lower-income working families a crucial financial boost. The federal credit was enacted during President Gerald Ford's administration and expanded in the Tax Reform Act of 1986 championed by President Ronald Reagan. Twenty-six states, including Louisiana, offer their own version of the credit.</p>
<p>Basically, it increases the annual tax refund for low-income families by as much as several hundred dollars. That may not sound like much money, but it could allow a family to pay a medical bill, get a car repaired or take care of some other essential expense.</p>
<p>At 3.5 percent, Louisiana's earned income tax credit is the lowest of any state offering one. Rep. Walt Leger, a New Orleans Democrat, has been trying to get lawmakers to double it to 7 percent. They refused last year during the regular session, but Gov. Edwards has made it part of his agenda. And the argument for it has gotten stronger as the Legislature voted during the special session to increase the state sales tax by at least a penny. Sales taxes hit lower income families harder than wealthier residents.</p>
<p>Now some House leaders want to add even more to the sales tax because they still haven't solved the entire budget deficit for this fiscal year.</p>
<p>That would be even worse for families, particularly those that are already struggling to pay for basics. Expanding the earned income tax credit at least would minimize the pressure a bit.</p>
<p>Rep. Leger has had an impressive group of allies for expanding the credit: Entergy, the United Way of Southeast Louisiana, the Louisiana Association of United Ways, the Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops, the Jesuit Social Research Institute at Loyola University and AARP Louisiana, among others.</p>
<p>More than 224,000 families in Louisiana have difficulty paying for essentials because of low wages, high housing costs, expensive health care and difficulty finding child care, according to a study released last January by the Jesuit Social Research Institute in Loyola University's College of Social Sciences in New Orleans.</p>
<p>More than 515,000 tax filers claimed the earned income tax credit on their 2012 Louisiana returns. That indicates how many low-wage workers the state has.</p>
<p>For many families, the annual credit "is the biggest lump sum they get in a year. It's a lot of money in the pocket (of people) who might be working really hard for $12,000, $15,000, $18,000 a year," Louisiana Budget Project director Jan Moller said last year.</p>
<p>Despite signals that the tax credit was dead Monday, House Speaker Taylor Barras later said it was still part of negotiations. "As cooler heads prevailed, we were a little clearer on what our options are," he said.</p>
<p>It is smart to keep the credit in the mix. It would give hundreds of thousands of Louisiana families a little extra money to spend, which would be good for all of us.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.nola.com/politics/index.ssf/2016/03/louisiana_tax_credit.html">MORE>></a></p>
<p>The special legislative session hit a seeming stalemate Monday night (March 7) when Gov. John Bel Edwards and Republican House leaders couldn't agree on a way to fill Louisiana's remaining budget gap. One of the main sticking points is whether to expand the earned income tax credit, which the governor and House Democrats want to do to ease the burden a higher sales tax will have on poor Louisianians.</p>
<p>Some House Republicans are adamantly opposed because that move would actually cost the state money — which would mean lawmakers have to find more revenue. That's a fair argument. But they are making it while clinging to tax credits for wealthier taxpayers and businesses, so they've undercut their own position.</p>
<p>The earned income tax credit sounds arcane, but it is a practical way to give lower-income working families a crucial financial boost. The federal credit was enacted during President Gerald Ford's administration and expanded in the Tax Reform Act of 1986 championed by President Ronald Reagan. Twenty-six states, including Louisiana, offer their own version of the credit.</p>
<p>Basically, it increases the annual tax refund for low-income families by as much as several hundred dollars. That may not sound like much money, but it could allow a family to pay a medical bill, get a car repaired or take care of some other essential expense.</p>
<p>At 3.5 percent, Louisiana's earned income tax credit is the lowest of any state offering one. Rep. Walt Leger, a New Orleans Democrat, has been trying to get lawmakers to double it to 7 percent. They refused last year during the regular session, but Gov. Edwards has made it part of his agenda. And the argument for it has gotten stronger as the Legislature voted during the special session to increase the state sales tax by at least a penny. Sales taxes hit lower income families harder than wealthier residents.</p>
<p>Now some House leaders want to add even more to the sales tax because they still haven't solved the entire budget deficit for this fiscal year.</p>
<p>That would be even worse for families, particularly those that are already struggling to pay for basics. Expanding the earned income tax credit at least would minimize the pressure a bit.</p>
<p>Rep. Leger has had an impressive group of allies for expanding the credit: Entergy, the United Way of Southeast Louisiana, the Louisiana Association of United Ways, the Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops, the Jesuit Social Research Institute at Loyola University and AARP Louisiana, among others.</p>
<p>More than 224,000 families in Louisiana have difficulty paying for essentials because of low wages, high housing costs, expensive health care and difficulty finding child care, according to a study released last January by the Jesuit Social Research Institute in Loyola University's College of Social Sciences in New Orleans.</p>
<p>More than 515,000 tax filers claimed the earned income tax credit on their 2012 Louisiana returns. That indicates how many low-wage workers the state has.</p>
<p>For many families, the annual credit "is the biggest lump sum they get in a year. It's a lot of money in the pocket (of people) who might be working really hard for $12,000, $15,000, $18,000 a year," Louisiana Budget Project director Jan Moller said last year.</p>
<p>Despite signals that the tax credit was dead Monday, House Speaker Taylor Barras later said it was still part of negotiations. "As cooler heads prevailed, we were a little clearer on what our options are," he said.</p>
<p>It is smart to keep the credit in the mix. It would give hundreds of thousands of Louisiana families a little extra money to spend, which would be good for all of us.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.nola.com/politics/index.ssf/2016/03/louisiana_tax_credit.html">MORE>></a></p>
Date
The Whole Gritty City
News Intro Text
Capturing a culture
News Item Content
<p>BY JASON BERRY, MYNEWORLEANS.COM</p>
<p>In late January, the Jesuit Social Research Institute at Loyola University hosted a screening of The Whole Gritty City, a 90-minute film about the lives of kids, parents and teachers involved with marching bands in New Orleans public schools.</p>
<p>About 60 people attended the screening and discussion period after. Final credits rolled, people applauded and then a silence gathered in Nunemaker Hall; silence as the power of the story settled over the room, the charm and pathos of the children, the discipline of learning music and marching in time as sanctuary from the world of the streets with drugs and guns. As the film moved toward its climax, the scenes of youngsters marching in a Carnival parade were tense, funny, sad and gripping, all of a piece.</p>
<p>The film originally aired in 2014 on CBS, a special edition of “48 Hours” hosted by Wynton Marsalis. Producer Richard Barber has worked on prize-winning projects at CBS. He spent stretches in New Orleans over several years, working on the film with co-director Andre Lambertson, a cinematographer who has covered child soldiers in Africa.</p>
<p>Visual narratives of this kind run the risk of resorting to visual clichés about poverty and violence. TV news, for example, is a nightly show on urban homicide; station footage is available for melding with the filmed sequences to advance the action. The Whole Gritty City uses that technique though in a limited way, while developing textured profiles of a handful of people whose lives advance the larger story of music as a portal for a better life.</p>
<p>Jake Springfield, a New Orleans independent cameraman was the lead shooter and handled sound. A film that goes inside the lives of people in poor homes has to deal with ambience from TV sets, radios, CDs, the trills and crackles of life outside or inside. The sound layers convey how much distraction threads along in people’s lives.</p>
<p>One jarring moment comes in the cameo of a single mother whose 13-year-old girl plays in the Roots of Music group. She talks about her own lost childhood, struggling to work, never taking welfare, cutting it so tight financially that for a time she didn’t have enough food herself when the daughter did, and the little girl wouldn’t eat everything, saying she had enough, wanting Mom to have it. The woman didn’t break into sobs, but the resolve as she choked back tears cast a leitmotif as we follow the girl, nicknamed Jazz, learning her horn, marching in time.</p>
<p>L. E. Rabouin high school’s revered bandleader Dinerral Shavers was murdered in late December 2006. The city was still on its knees after Hurricane Katrina, the recovery lurched along as the drug culture returned and Mayor Nagin touted “the magic of the marketplace” to rebuild a broken town. Shavers was also a popular snare drummer in Rebirth Brass Band; he was driving the car with his wife and two kids when a bullet meant for one of his sons crashed into his head.</p>
<p>The film follows one of Shavers’ protégées, a young guy named Skully, finding a path in the marching band away from the raw streets – and after graduation, a job in a restaurant.</p>
<p>The producers installed small cameras in the homes of several participants to catch improvisational moments. Some of the scenes with the kids hamming on camera, spontaneously commenting on the tiny cosmos they inhabit, rocked the audience with laughter.</p>
<p>The documentary manages to let the story find its momentum without preaching. The absence of a narrator, only the occasional print on screen to advance the timeline and then the different characters we have come to know as life unfolds, give the film an unhurried sense, as tension builds over what will happen to the kids in the three bands and the galvanizing figure of Walker bandleader Wilbert Rawlins.</p>
<p>The Whole Gritty City is one of those rare films that captures a culture in time and in depth. Sad to say, with guns so pervasive, it’s likely to be as timely in 10 years as today.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.myneworleans.com/New-Orleans-Magazine/March-2016/The-Whole-Gritty-City/">MORE>></a></p>
<p>In late January, the Jesuit Social Research Institute at Loyola University hosted a screening of The Whole Gritty City, a 90-minute film about the lives of kids, parents and teachers involved with marching bands in New Orleans public schools.</p>
<p>About 60 people attended the screening and discussion period after. Final credits rolled, people applauded and then a silence gathered in Nunemaker Hall; silence as the power of the story settled over the room, the charm and pathos of the children, the discipline of learning music and marching in time as sanctuary from the world of the streets with drugs and guns. As the film moved toward its climax, the scenes of youngsters marching in a Carnival parade were tense, funny, sad and gripping, all of a piece.</p>
<p>The film originally aired in 2014 on CBS, a special edition of “48 Hours” hosted by Wynton Marsalis. Producer Richard Barber has worked on prize-winning projects at CBS. He spent stretches in New Orleans over several years, working on the film with co-director Andre Lambertson, a cinematographer who has covered child soldiers in Africa.</p>
<p>Visual narratives of this kind run the risk of resorting to visual clichés about poverty and violence. TV news, for example, is a nightly show on urban homicide; station footage is available for melding with the filmed sequences to advance the action. The Whole Gritty City uses that technique though in a limited way, while developing textured profiles of a handful of people whose lives advance the larger story of music as a portal for a better life.</p>
<p>Jake Springfield, a New Orleans independent cameraman was the lead shooter and handled sound. A film that goes inside the lives of people in poor homes has to deal with ambience from TV sets, radios, CDs, the trills and crackles of life outside or inside. The sound layers convey how much distraction threads along in people’s lives.</p>
<p>One jarring moment comes in the cameo of a single mother whose 13-year-old girl plays in the Roots of Music group. She talks about her own lost childhood, struggling to work, never taking welfare, cutting it so tight financially that for a time she didn’t have enough food herself when the daughter did, and the little girl wouldn’t eat everything, saying she had enough, wanting Mom to have it. The woman didn’t break into sobs, but the resolve as she choked back tears cast a leitmotif as we follow the girl, nicknamed Jazz, learning her horn, marching in time.</p>
<p>L. E. Rabouin high school’s revered bandleader Dinerral Shavers was murdered in late December 2006. The city was still on its knees after Hurricane Katrina, the recovery lurched along as the drug culture returned and Mayor Nagin touted “the magic of the marketplace” to rebuild a broken town. Shavers was also a popular snare drummer in Rebirth Brass Band; he was driving the car with his wife and two kids when a bullet meant for one of his sons crashed into his head.</p>
<p>The film follows one of Shavers’ protégées, a young guy named Skully, finding a path in the marching band away from the raw streets – and after graduation, a job in a restaurant.</p>
<p>The producers installed small cameras in the homes of several participants to catch improvisational moments. Some of the scenes with the kids hamming on camera, spontaneously commenting on the tiny cosmos they inhabit, rocked the audience with laughter.</p>
<p>The documentary manages to let the story find its momentum without preaching. The absence of a narrator, only the occasional print on screen to advance the timeline and then the different characters we have come to know as life unfolds, give the film an unhurried sense, as tension builds over what will happen to the kids in the three bands and the galvanizing figure of Walker bandleader Wilbert Rawlins.</p>
<p>The Whole Gritty City is one of those rare films that captures a culture in time and in depth. Sad to say, with guns so pervasive, it’s likely to be as timely in 10 years as today.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.myneworleans.com/New-Orleans-Magazine/March-2016/The-Whole-Gritty-City/">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Reverse Robin Hood
News Intro Text
Six Billion Dollar Businesses Preying on Poor People
News Item Content
<p>Bill Quigley</p>
<p>Law Professor, Loyola University New Orleans</p>
<p>Many see families in poverty and seek to help. Others see families in poverty and see opportunities for profit.</p>
<p>Here are six examples of billion dollar industries which are built on separating poor people, especially people of color, from their money, the reverse Robin Hood.</p>
<p><strong>Check Cashing Businesses </strong></p>
<p>Check cashing businesses. Cash a $100 check? At Walmart that will be $3. At TD bank non-customers pay $5 to cash a check from their bank.</p>
<p>Nearly 10 million households containing 25 million people do not have any bank account according to the FDIC. Most because they did not have enough money to keep a minimum balance in their account.</p>
<p>Check cashing business are part of a $100 billion industry of more than 6,500 check cashing businesses in the US, many which also provide money orders, utility bill payments and the like, according to testimony provided to Congress by the industry.</p>
<p><strong>Pawn Shops</strong></p>
<p>More than 30 million people use pawn shop lending services for an average loan of $150. One company, Cash America, has 84 check cashing centers and 859 lending locations in the US, over 260 in Texas alone, extending over $1 billion in pawn loans. In their 2014 annual report they disclose that 30 percent of people never return to redeem the item they pawned and the sale of those items makes up over half of the company revenues. The company paid millions in penalties in 2013 for overcharging members of the armed services and filing inaccurate court pleadings in thousands of cases. The CEO was given $6 million in 2014.</p>
<p><strong>Overdraft Fees</strong></p>
<p>Overdraft fees, when there is not enough money in the checking account or credit card to cover all purchases, is an $11 billion industry for banks, according to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. A recent New York Times article explains how banks sometimes charge overdraft fees even when the customer has enough money in their accounts to cover the purchase and were forced to pay more than a billion dollars for manipulating the order of purchases to maximize the chances that their customers will have to pay extra fees.</p>
<p><strong>Payday Loans</strong></p>
<p>Payday loans are used by people over 15 million times a year and can lead to deep debt problems and usually involve incredible percentages of up to 391 percent according to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Pew Charitable Trusts reported pay day loans are a $7 billion dollar a year industry.</p>
<p>The Federal Trade Commission won a $300 million case against two payday lenders who were deceiving borrowers, who, for example, took out a $300 loan thinking it could be repaid for $390 when in fact the lender was charging $975 to pay off the $300 loan. The US Department of Justice indicted former race car driver Scott Tucker on criminal charges for operating a $2 billion nationwide payday loan operation which routinely charged interest on loans for over 4.5 million people of 400 to 700 % per year. The nation's largest pay day loan company, Advance America, charged nearly 140,000 people in North Carolina annual percentage rates exceeding 450 percent until it was stopped by the state.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/bill-quigley/reverse-robin-hood-six-bi_b_9398708.html">MORE>></a></p>
<p>Law Professor, Loyola University New Orleans</p>
<p>Many see families in poverty and seek to help. Others see families in poverty and see opportunities for profit.</p>
<p>Here are six examples of billion dollar industries which are built on separating poor people, especially people of color, from their money, the reverse Robin Hood.</p>
<p><strong>Check Cashing Businesses </strong></p>
<p>Check cashing businesses. Cash a $100 check? At Walmart that will be $3. At TD bank non-customers pay $5 to cash a check from their bank.</p>
<p>Nearly 10 million households containing 25 million people do not have any bank account according to the FDIC. Most because they did not have enough money to keep a minimum balance in their account.</p>
<p>Check cashing business are part of a $100 billion industry of more than 6,500 check cashing businesses in the US, many which also provide money orders, utility bill payments and the like, according to testimony provided to Congress by the industry.</p>
<p><strong>Pawn Shops</strong></p>
<p>More than 30 million people use pawn shop lending services for an average loan of $150. One company, Cash America, has 84 check cashing centers and 859 lending locations in the US, over 260 in Texas alone, extending over $1 billion in pawn loans. In their 2014 annual report they disclose that 30 percent of people never return to redeem the item they pawned and the sale of those items makes up over half of the company revenues. The company paid millions in penalties in 2013 for overcharging members of the armed services and filing inaccurate court pleadings in thousands of cases. The CEO was given $6 million in 2014.</p>
<p><strong>Overdraft Fees</strong></p>
<p>Overdraft fees, when there is not enough money in the checking account or credit card to cover all purchases, is an $11 billion industry for banks, according to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. A recent New York Times article explains how banks sometimes charge overdraft fees even when the customer has enough money in their accounts to cover the purchase and were forced to pay more than a billion dollars for manipulating the order of purchases to maximize the chances that their customers will have to pay extra fees.</p>
<p><strong>Payday Loans</strong></p>
<p>Payday loans are used by people over 15 million times a year and can lead to deep debt problems and usually involve incredible percentages of up to 391 percent according to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Pew Charitable Trusts reported pay day loans are a $7 billion dollar a year industry.</p>
<p>The Federal Trade Commission won a $300 million case against two payday lenders who were deceiving borrowers, who, for example, took out a $300 loan thinking it could be repaid for $390 when in fact the lender was charging $975 to pay off the $300 loan. The US Department of Justice indicted former race car driver Scott Tucker on criminal charges for operating a $2 billion nationwide payday loan operation which routinely charged interest on loans for over 4.5 million people of 400 to 700 % per year. The nation's largest pay day loan company, Advance America, charged nearly 140,000 people in North Carolina annual percentage rates exceeding 450 percent until it was stopped by the state.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/bill-quigley/reverse-robin-hood-six-bi_b_9398708.html">MORE>></a></p>
Date
COMPASSION March 2016
News Intro Text
Faith doing justice in the Central and Southern Province...and beyond
News Item Content
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Compassion March 2016.jpg" /></p>
Date
Closing the Wealth Gap for Families of Color
News Intro Text
By La June Montgomery Tabron
News Item Content
<p>By La June Montgomery Tabron Feb. 23, 2016</p>
<p> The Hidden Lives of America’s Poor and Middle Class The Hidden Lives of America’s Poor and Middle Class This series explores how current programs and policies for helping families escape poverty, build stability, move up the ladder, and invest in the future need to change.</p>
<p>Research from the recent US Financial Diaries project has directed a much-needed spotlight on the economic challenges that low- and middle-income families face across the United States. Shocks that began in investment markets post-recession have reverberated for nearly a decade, leading to income volatility and significant declines in wealth. These challenges remain a barrier to many families’ ability to weather unanticipated financial storms and achieve greater economic security.</p>
<p>At the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, we simply cannot disconnect this economic reality from other, equally important issues, including the persistent wealth gap affecting families of color and related, structural impediments to equality. </p>
<p>The Pew Research Center analysis of data from the Federal Reserve’s Survey of Consumer Finances found that the 2007 housing and financial markets crash reduced the net worth of almost all American families. Yet it hit African American families hardest, triggering the widest wealth gap between white and black households since 1989. The wealth of African American households was more concentrated in home ownership (59 percent) compared to white households (44 percent), which included more stock market investments. During the recession, home values went down and foreclosure rates went up, resulting in black households losing more wealth than white households. In 2013, for example, the wealth of white households was 13 times the median wealth of black households and more than 10 times the wealth of Hispanic households. </p>
<p>Perpetuating these disparities are housing segregation and wage stagnation for lower-skilled workers, and an inequitable educational system that fails to help the current and next generation of workers of color acquire the essential skills they need for higher-skilled employment. The Pew Research Center, for example, shows median incomes for people of color fell 9 percent from 2010 to 2013, compared with a decrease of 1 percent for white households.</p>
<p><a href="http://ssir.org/articles/entry/closing_the_wealth_gap_for_families_of_color">MORE>></a></p>
<div>
</div>
<p> The Hidden Lives of America’s Poor and Middle Class The Hidden Lives of America’s Poor and Middle Class This series explores how current programs and policies for helping families escape poverty, build stability, move up the ladder, and invest in the future need to change.</p>
<p>Research from the recent US Financial Diaries project has directed a much-needed spotlight on the economic challenges that low- and middle-income families face across the United States. Shocks that began in investment markets post-recession have reverberated for nearly a decade, leading to income volatility and significant declines in wealth. These challenges remain a barrier to many families’ ability to weather unanticipated financial storms and achieve greater economic security.</p>
<p>At the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, we simply cannot disconnect this economic reality from other, equally important issues, including the persistent wealth gap affecting families of color and related, structural impediments to equality. </p>
<p>The Pew Research Center analysis of data from the Federal Reserve’s Survey of Consumer Finances found that the 2007 housing and financial markets crash reduced the net worth of almost all American families. Yet it hit African American families hardest, triggering the widest wealth gap between white and black households since 1989. The wealth of African American households was more concentrated in home ownership (59 percent) compared to white households (44 percent), which included more stock market investments. During the recession, home values went down and foreclosure rates went up, resulting in black households losing more wealth than white households. In 2013, for example, the wealth of white households was 13 times the median wealth of black households and more than 10 times the wealth of Hispanic households. </p>
<p>Perpetuating these disparities are housing segregation and wage stagnation for lower-skilled workers, and an inequitable educational system that fails to help the current and next generation of workers of color acquire the essential skills they need for higher-skilled employment. The Pew Research Center, for example, shows median incomes for people of color fell 9 percent from 2010 to 2013, compared with a decrease of 1 percent for white households.</p>
<p><a href="http://ssir.org/articles/entry/closing_the_wealth_gap_for_families_of_color">MORE>></a></p>
<div>
</div>
Date
The costs of inequality
News Intro Text
Money = quality health care = longer life
News Item Content
<p>By Alvin Powell, Harvard Staff Writer</p>
<p>Fourth in a series on what Harvard scholars are doing to identify and understand inequality, in seeking solutions to one of America’s most vexing problems.</p>
<p>If you want to get an idea of the gap between the world’s sickest and healthiest people, don’t fly to a faraway land. Just look around the United States.</p>
<p>Health inequality is part of American life, so deeply entangled with other social problems — disparities in income, education, housing, race, gender, and even geography — that analysts have trouble saying which factors are cause and which are effect. The confusing result, they say, is a massive chicken-and-egg puzzle, its solution reaching beyond just health care. Because of that, everyday realities often determine whether people live in health or infirmity, to a ripe old age or early death.</p>
<p>“There are huge inequalities in this country that often get overlooked … If you want to observe the problems of poverty and inequality, you don’t need to travel all the way to Malawi. You can go to a rural house in America,” said Ichiro Kawachi, John L. Loeb and Frances Lehman Loeb Professor of Social Epidemiology and chair of the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health’s Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences. “If you’re born a black man in, let’s say, New Orleans Parish, your average life expectancy is worse than the male average of countries that are much poorer than America.”</p>
<p><a href="http://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2016/02/money-quality-health-care-longer-life/?utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=hu-twitter-general">MORE>></a></p>
<p>Fourth in a series on what Harvard scholars are doing to identify and understand inequality, in seeking solutions to one of America’s most vexing problems.</p>
<p>If you want to get an idea of the gap between the world’s sickest and healthiest people, don’t fly to a faraway land. Just look around the United States.</p>
<p>Health inequality is part of American life, so deeply entangled with other social problems — disparities in income, education, housing, race, gender, and even geography — that analysts have trouble saying which factors are cause and which are effect. The confusing result, they say, is a massive chicken-and-egg puzzle, its solution reaching beyond just health care. Because of that, everyday realities often determine whether people live in health or infirmity, to a ripe old age or early death.</p>
<p>“There are huge inequalities in this country that often get overlooked … If you want to observe the problems of poverty and inequality, you don’t need to travel all the way to Malawi. You can go to a rural house in America,” said Ichiro Kawachi, John L. Loeb and Frances Lehman Loeb Professor of Social Epidemiology and chair of the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health’s Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences. “If you’re born a black man in, let’s say, New Orleans Parish, your average life expectancy is worse than the male average of countries that are much poorer than America.”</p>
<p><a href="http://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2016/02/money-quality-health-care-longer-life/?utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=hu-twitter-general">MORE>></a></p>
Date
After community action, NOPD ends collusion with ICE on immigration policing
News Intro Text
New Orleans Workers' Center for Racial Justice Press Release
News Item Content
<p>Posted by <a href="http://nowcrj.org/">NEW ORLEANS WORKERS' CENTER FOR RACIAL JUSTICE</a> on February 23, 2016 </p>
<p>NEW ORLEANS, February 23, 2016—In a victory for New Orleans’ immigrant communities, the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) announced today it is adopting a bias-free immigration policing policy that will end NOPD collusion with federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/NOPD-anti-bias-policing-policy-Feb-2016.pdf">(Download the new policy – PDF, 4 pages.)</a></p>
<p>Organizers and immigrant members of the New Orleans Workers’ Center for Racial Justice’s (NOWCRJ’s) Congress of Day Laborers had long pressed the NOPD to adopt a bias-free policing policy, documenting rampant civil and human rights violations against immigrant communities that resulted from NOPD-ICE collusion.</p>
<p>“Our communities fought for this policy, and we’re celebrating it today,” said Santos Alvarado, a member of the Congress of Day Laborers. “It’s going to improve relations between NOPD and immigrant communities, and it’s going to make all our communities safer by making police more accountable. This is a model policy we will be fighting for other parishes to adopt across Louisiana.”</p>
<p>NOWCRJ Immigration Organizer Jolene Elberth said, “NOPD’s bias-free policing policy is one of best in the country. It’s a big first step toward police accountability at a time when Black Lives Matters and others are building a national movement for more accountable law enforcement. ICE has been recognized as the largest unaccountable law enforcement agency in the U.S. Any police force that wants to move toward accountability—and make its communities more safe—should start by ending collusion with ICE.”</p>
<p>The new policy, which goes into effect on February 28, 2016, will improve community relations by allowing all New Orleanians, regardless of immigration status, interact with NOPD without fear that their immigration status will be used as a weapon against them.</p>
<p>“New Orleans is now the first city in the country where both the sheriff and the local police force recognize that voluntary submission to ICE is bad policy for the community, and have put policies in place to keep ICE out of city law enforcement,” said NOWCRJ Immigration Organizer Fernando Lopez.</p>
<p>Since Hurricane Katrina, NOWCRJ has monitored and documented NOPD’s collusion with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in unconstitutional, race-based community raids that created a citywide human and civil rights crisis. The collusion continued even after NOWCRJ’s 2013 exposé of systematic civil and constitutional violations in ICE’s Criminal Alien Removal Initiative (CARI), which led to a Congressional inquiry and front-page coverage in the New York Times. NOWCRJ’s advocacy of bias-free policing won the support of New Orleans City Council in March 2015, paving the way for the new NOPD policy.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>CONTACT: NOWCRJ Immigration Organizer Fernando Lopez, flopez@nowcrj.org, (504) 258-1000.</p>
<p>NEW ORLEANS, February 23, 2016—In a victory for New Orleans’ immigrant communities, the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) announced today it is adopting a bias-free immigration policing policy that will end NOPD collusion with federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/NOPD-anti-bias-policing-policy-Feb-2016.pdf">(Download the new policy – PDF, 4 pages.)</a></p>
<p>Organizers and immigrant members of the New Orleans Workers’ Center for Racial Justice’s (NOWCRJ’s) Congress of Day Laborers had long pressed the NOPD to adopt a bias-free policing policy, documenting rampant civil and human rights violations against immigrant communities that resulted from NOPD-ICE collusion.</p>
<p>“Our communities fought for this policy, and we’re celebrating it today,” said Santos Alvarado, a member of the Congress of Day Laborers. “It’s going to improve relations between NOPD and immigrant communities, and it’s going to make all our communities safer by making police more accountable. This is a model policy we will be fighting for other parishes to adopt across Louisiana.”</p>
<p>NOWCRJ Immigration Organizer Jolene Elberth said, “NOPD’s bias-free policing policy is one of best in the country. It’s a big first step toward police accountability at a time when Black Lives Matters and others are building a national movement for more accountable law enforcement. ICE has been recognized as the largest unaccountable law enforcement agency in the U.S. Any police force that wants to move toward accountability—and make its communities more safe—should start by ending collusion with ICE.”</p>
<p>The new policy, which goes into effect on February 28, 2016, will improve community relations by allowing all New Orleanians, regardless of immigration status, interact with NOPD without fear that their immigration status will be used as a weapon against them.</p>
<p>“New Orleans is now the first city in the country where both the sheriff and the local police force recognize that voluntary submission to ICE is bad policy for the community, and have put policies in place to keep ICE out of city law enforcement,” said NOWCRJ Immigration Organizer Fernando Lopez.</p>
<p>Since Hurricane Katrina, NOWCRJ has monitored and documented NOPD’s collusion with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in unconstitutional, race-based community raids that created a citywide human and civil rights crisis. The collusion continued even after NOWCRJ’s 2013 exposé of systematic civil and constitutional violations in ICE’s Criminal Alien Removal Initiative (CARI), which led to a Congressional inquiry and front-page coverage in the New York Times. NOWCRJ’s advocacy of bias-free policing won the support of New Orleans City Council in March 2015, paving the way for the new NOPD policy.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>CONTACT: NOWCRJ Immigration Organizer Fernando Lopez, flopez@nowcrj.org, (504) 258-1000.</p>
Date
White workers have nearly five times as much wealth in retirement accounts as black workers
News Intro Text
By Monique Morrissey | February 18, 2016
News Item Content
<p>By Monique Morrissey | February 18, 2016</p>
<p>Since the rise of 401(k)s in the early 1980s, the retirement gap between black and white workers has widened. Before 401(k)s took off, black and white workers had similar rates of participation in retirement plans. In 1983, 53 percent of white workers and 52 percent of black workers age 32-61 (the age range during which most workers would be expected to save for retirement before becoming eligible for reduced Social Security benefits) participated in an employer-based plan.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.epi.org/publication/white-workers-have-nearly-five-times-as-much-wealth-in-retirement-accounts-as-black-workers/?utm_source=Economic+Policy+Institute&utm_campaign=672057972b-EPI_News_02_19_162_19_2016&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_e7c5826c50-672057972b-55871785">MORE>></a></p>
<p>Since the rise of 401(k)s in the early 1980s, the retirement gap between black and white workers has widened. Before 401(k)s took off, black and white workers had similar rates of participation in retirement plans. In 1983, 53 percent of white workers and 52 percent of black workers age 32-61 (the age range during which most workers would be expected to save for retirement before becoming eligible for reduced Social Security benefits) participated in an employer-based plan.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.epi.org/publication/white-workers-have-nearly-five-times-as-much-wealth-in-retirement-accounts-as-black-workers/?utm_source=Economic+Policy+Institute&utm_campaign=672057972b-EPI_News_02_19_162_19_2016&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_e7c5826c50-672057972b-55871785">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Progress Check: Youth Confinement in America Today
News Intro Text
February 23, 2016
News Item Content
<p><a href="http://www.aecf.org/blog/progress-check-youth-confinement-in-america-today/"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Annie.jpg" /></a></p>
Date
Fr. Fred Kammer, SJ, discusses the "Joy of the Gospel."
News Intro Text
As part of Loyola University New Orleans Lenten Series, Fr. Fred Kammer, SJ discusses the "Joy of the Gospel." Filmed and produced by Loyola University Film and Music Industry Studies.
News Item Content
<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wfQDD0kkQBw&feature=youtu.be&a"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Untitled.jpg" style="width: 700px; height: 500px;" /></a></p>
Date
Faith in Action: Mississippi Catholics and Child Well Being
News Intro Text
by Fred Kammer, SJ
News Item Content
<h4>
Mississippi Catholics and Child Well Being </h4>
<div>
by Fred Kammer, SJ </div>
<div>
</div>
<p>On Thursday, February 11, 85 concerned Mississippians gathered in the parish center at the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle in Jackson for the annual Catholic Day at the Capitol. Three issues were the focus of the advocacy gathering: adequate funding for the child welfare system in Mississippi; support for the maintenance of community-based mental health services; and raising adequate revenues to meet the State’s duties towards the common good. </p>
<p>Bishop Joseph R. Kopacz of Jackson welcomed the participants, reminding them of the remarks of Pope Francis to the U.S. Congress and his call to Christian responsibility for the common good. The Bishop also spoke from his own experience as godfather to a young woman adopted from the Pennsylvania foster care system and her struggles and those of her family to address childhood traumas.</p>
<p>Matthew Burkhart of Catholic Relief Services reminded participants of the call to Catholics to the “two feet” of social justice: individual acts of service to those in need and advocacy for greater justice for all those who are poor and vulnerable. </p>
<p>The panel that followed vividly described the plight of children and those needing mental health services: literal “atrocities” in a child welfare system under court order to institute major reforms; caseworkers shredding case files of children whom they were unable to serve; greater numbers of families “failing” within Mississippi’s economy; and multiple “adverse childhood experiences” (ACEs) such as abuse, neglect, hunger, and abandonment. Last year, there were 25,000 cases of abuse reported, but only 6,200 were “evidenced” (meaning there was a documented investigation) due to shortages of state workers. Thirty-five percent of Mississippi children live in poverty.</p>
<p>In recent years, Mississippi’s legislature has rebuffed efforts to increase significantly the funding for the child welfare system, rejecting the governor’s requests. Instead, lawmakers have approved various tax breaks and loopholes for corporations that have significantly decreased the corporate contributions to the tax base. The state relies heavily on regressive sales and property taxes where lower income families pay higher shares of their family income in taxes, as reflected in the table below. [1]</p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/nd8ak/2f79dfac5f04af8e4e5236cc6b23980e">MORE>></a></p>
Mississippi Catholics and Child Well Being </h4>
<div>
by Fred Kammer, SJ </div>
<div>
</div>
<p>On Thursday, February 11, 85 concerned Mississippians gathered in the parish center at the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle in Jackson for the annual Catholic Day at the Capitol. Three issues were the focus of the advocacy gathering: adequate funding for the child welfare system in Mississippi; support for the maintenance of community-based mental health services; and raising adequate revenues to meet the State’s duties towards the common good. </p>
<p>Bishop Joseph R. Kopacz of Jackson welcomed the participants, reminding them of the remarks of Pope Francis to the U.S. Congress and his call to Christian responsibility for the common good. The Bishop also spoke from his own experience as godfather to a young woman adopted from the Pennsylvania foster care system and her struggles and those of her family to address childhood traumas.</p>
<p>Matthew Burkhart of Catholic Relief Services reminded participants of the call to Catholics to the “two feet” of social justice: individual acts of service to those in need and advocacy for greater justice for all those who are poor and vulnerable. </p>
<p>The panel that followed vividly described the plight of children and those needing mental health services: literal “atrocities” in a child welfare system under court order to institute major reforms; caseworkers shredding case files of children whom they were unable to serve; greater numbers of families “failing” within Mississippi’s economy; and multiple “adverse childhood experiences” (ACEs) such as abuse, neglect, hunger, and abandonment. Last year, there were 25,000 cases of abuse reported, but only 6,200 were “evidenced” (meaning there was a documented investigation) due to shortages of state workers. Thirty-five percent of Mississippi children live in poverty.</p>
<p>In recent years, Mississippi’s legislature has rebuffed efforts to increase significantly the funding for the child welfare system, rejecting the governor’s requests. Instead, lawmakers have approved various tax breaks and loopholes for corporations that have significantly decreased the corporate contributions to the tax base. The state relies heavily on regressive sales and property taxes where lower income families pay higher shares of their family income in taxes, as reflected in the table below. [1]</p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/nd8ak/2f79dfac5f04af8e4e5236cc6b23980e">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Is the Payday Soon Over for Payday Lenders?
News Intro Text
[Jackson Free Press, February 17, 2016]
News Item Content
<p>By R.L. Nave Wednesday, February 17, 2016 </p>
<p>Like a sadder version of Las Vegas, the signs towering above Jackson's payday-loan shops and check-cashing joints seem designed to entice motorists in the city's major thoroughfares. In some cases, the businesses' color schemes mimic those of cheap fast-food restaurants. And, ironically, several of the businesses happen to operate out of repurposed fast-food restaurants.</p>
<p>The signs make statements that often are alliterative (e.g. "Quick Cash"), rhyme (e.g. "Fast Cash"), or straight and to the point (e.g. "Check Cashing" and "Payday Loans"). Because of the principles of supply and demand, one might argue that the concentration of these kinds of businesses—which say they offer customers the convenience of a microloan in exchange for not looking at their credit history for a premium—is a sign of an economy working the way it should.</p>
<p>De'Keither Stamps, who represents Ward 4 and serves as chairman of the Budget Committee, argues the converse. In his view, these businesses depress the economic potential in the city. Wearing a purple golf shirt buttoned to the neck in his City Hall office looking out onto President Street, Stamps said the "fringe economy" is holding Jackson back.</p>
<p>"We've got to figure out what we're going to do to change the economics of the city so that people can afford other types of retail and businesses," Stamps said.</p>
<p>The councilman's view is also rooted in supply-and-demand theory: In essence, the more money people spend on payday-loan and check-cashing fees, the less they have to help bolster the City's treasury by purchasing goods and services.</p>
<p>That's why Stamps is pushing for a one-year moratorium on future growth of such businesses. His proposed ordinance would deny business licenses to new payday-loan and check-cashing locations as well as pawn shops and liquor stores. Stamps said the ordinance would also include a financial-literacy component, which he believes could help end the intergenerational cycle of relying on high-interest financial services instead of traditional banks.</p>
<p>In Jackson, more than 30 percent of people live below the poverty line compared to 22 percent of people across Mississippi, itself the poorest state in the nation. But under the Mississippi Check Cashers Act, people can borrow up to $410 from payday lenders. State law allows the loan company to charge $20 or less per $100 on loans of up $250. For loans between $251 and $500, lender can charge up to $21.95 per $100.</p>
<p>"For example, a borrower writes a $500 check, pays the $90 fee, and receives $410 in cash. It is illegal to write a check for more than $500," according to a factsheet from the state banking department.</p>
<p>Charles Lee, director of consumer protection at the Mississippi Center for Justice, explains: "People use what's closest to them. If that's the closest financial—quote—institution to where they live, that's what they'll use."</p>
<p><strong>A Growing Trend</strong></p>
<p>If Stamps' proposal sounds radical, it isn't. As of 2010, the Mississippi cities of Byram, Canton, Clinton, Flowood, Jackson, Laurel, Pearl, Rankin County, Ridgeland, Starkville, and West Point had either imposed moratoria or restricted the businesses with zoning regulations.</p>
<p>Nationwide, more than 120 cities have imposed similar restrictions, information from the Washington, D.C.-based Consumer Federation of America shows.</p>
<p>If Jackson follows through, it would be the latest blow to a high-cost lending industry already reeling from regulatory crackdowns from the federal government as well as the state of Mississippi, which holds the distinction as home of the most payday-loan companies per capita in America.</p>
<p>In 2014, the Mississippi Department of Banking and Consumer Finance ordered All American Checking, a Madison-based payday lender, to end a practice that the department said was tantamount to illegal rollovers of payday loans. Mississippi law requires customers to pay loans in full before taking out a new loan.</p>
<p>State regulators said All American unlawfully allowed customers to pay the fees, but delay paying the principal. All America sued the state in federal court in Jackson on Jan. 29, saying the state's regulatory actions could unlawfully shutter the business.</p>
<p>Dale Danks Jr., an attorney for the company, did not return a phone message. In response to a follow-up email, Danks referred a reporter to the complaint, saying, "At this time, I do not feel it is proper to discuss matters concerning All American Check Cashing's motion against the Mississippi Banking Commission."</p>
<p>All American's complaint against Charlotte Corley, the state banking commissioner and other individuals, states that in June 2014, banking department agents showed up at six All American locations, including its corporate headquarters in Madison.</p>
<p>The company said the agents used "heavy-handed and unnecessary tactics" and forced their way into back rooms and bathrooms to present employees with a questionnaire about the company's lending practices.</p>
<p>"These heavy-handed tactics were intended to cause and, indeed, did cause fear in All American's employees," the complaint states.</p>
<p>Officials with the state banking department also did not respond to a phone message. A hearing is set in the matter for Feb. 12.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.jacksonfreepress.com/news/2016/feb/17/payday-soon-over-payday-lenders/">MORE>></a></p>
<p>Like a sadder version of Las Vegas, the signs towering above Jackson's payday-loan shops and check-cashing joints seem designed to entice motorists in the city's major thoroughfares. In some cases, the businesses' color schemes mimic those of cheap fast-food restaurants. And, ironically, several of the businesses happen to operate out of repurposed fast-food restaurants.</p>
<p>The signs make statements that often are alliterative (e.g. "Quick Cash"), rhyme (e.g. "Fast Cash"), or straight and to the point (e.g. "Check Cashing" and "Payday Loans"). Because of the principles of supply and demand, one might argue that the concentration of these kinds of businesses—which say they offer customers the convenience of a microloan in exchange for not looking at their credit history for a premium—is a sign of an economy working the way it should.</p>
<p>De'Keither Stamps, who represents Ward 4 and serves as chairman of the Budget Committee, argues the converse. In his view, these businesses depress the economic potential in the city. Wearing a purple golf shirt buttoned to the neck in his City Hall office looking out onto President Street, Stamps said the "fringe economy" is holding Jackson back.</p>
<p>"We've got to figure out what we're going to do to change the economics of the city so that people can afford other types of retail and businesses," Stamps said.</p>
<p>The councilman's view is also rooted in supply-and-demand theory: In essence, the more money people spend on payday-loan and check-cashing fees, the less they have to help bolster the City's treasury by purchasing goods and services.</p>
<p>That's why Stamps is pushing for a one-year moratorium on future growth of such businesses. His proposed ordinance would deny business licenses to new payday-loan and check-cashing locations as well as pawn shops and liquor stores. Stamps said the ordinance would also include a financial-literacy component, which he believes could help end the intergenerational cycle of relying on high-interest financial services instead of traditional banks.</p>
<p>In Jackson, more than 30 percent of people live below the poverty line compared to 22 percent of people across Mississippi, itself the poorest state in the nation. But under the Mississippi Check Cashers Act, people can borrow up to $410 from payday lenders. State law allows the loan company to charge $20 or less per $100 on loans of up $250. For loans between $251 and $500, lender can charge up to $21.95 per $100.</p>
<p>"For example, a borrower writes a $500 check, pays the $90 fee, and receives $410 in cash. It is illegal to write a check for more than $500," according to a factsheet from the state banking department.</p>
<p>Charles Lee, director of consumer protection at the Mississippi Center for Justice, explains: "People use what's closest to them. If that's the closest financial—quote—institution to where they live, that's what they'll use."</p>
<p><strong>A Growing Trend</strong></p>
<p>If Stamps' proposal sounds radical, it isn't. As of 2010, the Mississippi cities of Byram, Canton, Clinton, Flowood, Jackson, Laurel, Pearl, Rankin County, Ridgeland, Starkville, and West Point had either imposed moratoria or restricted the businesses with zoning regulations.</p>
<p>Nationwide, more than 120 cities have imposed similar restrictions, information from the Washington, D.C.-based Consumer Federation of America shows.</p>
<p>If Jackson follows through, it would be the latest blow to a high-cost lending industry already reeling from regulatory crackdowns from the federal government as well as the state of Mississippi, which holds the distinction as home of the most payday-loan companies per capita in America.</p>
<p>In 2014, the Mississippi Department of Banking and Consumer Finance ordered All American Checking, a Madison-based payday lender, to end a practice that the department said was tantamount to illegal rollovers of payday loans. Mississippi law requires customers to pay loans in full before taking out a new loan.</p>
<p>State regulators said All American unlawfully allowed customers to pay the fees, but delay paying the principal. All America sued the state in federal court in Jackson on Jan. 29, saying the state's regulatory actions could unlawfully shutter the business.</p>
<p>Dale Danks Jr., an attorney for the company, did not return a phone message. In response to a follow-up email, Danks referred a reporter to the complaint, saying, "At this time, I do not feel it is proper to discuss matters concerning All American Check Cashing's motion against the Mississippi Banking Commission."</p>
<p>All American's complaint against Charlotte Corley, the state banking commissioner and other individuals, states that in June 2014, banking department agents showed up at six All American locations, including its corporate headquarters in Madison.</p>
<p>The company said the agents used "heavy-handed and unnecessary tactics" and forced their way into back rooms and bathrooms to present employees with a questionnaire about the company's lending practices.</p>
<p>"These heavy-handed tactics were intended to cause and, indeed, did cause fear in All American's employees," the complaint states.</p>
<p>Officials with the state banking department also did not respond to a phone message. A hearing is set in the matter for Feb. 12.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.jacksonfreepress.com/news/2016/feb/17/payday-soon-over-payday-lenders/">MORE>></a></p>
Date
The Power of Encounter
News Intro Text
Pope Francis Visits the U.S.-Mexico Border
News Item Content
<p>By Christopher Kerr 02-12-2016</p>
<p>Do you remember the video clips of 5-year-old Sophie Cruz dashing across Constitution Avenue to Pope Francis’s popemobile during his visit to Washington, D.C., last September? The story of that encounter went viral: a young child with undocumented parents from Mexico who was granted permission to approach the pope, give him a letter, and receive a hug.</p>
<p>At the time, many seemed surprised by encounters like these during the pope’s U.S. trip — particularly that he would choose to make personal contact with the realities faced by marginalized populations. But this encounter-centered approach has been Francis’ way of operating since the outset of his pontificate.</p>
<p>In July 2013, he decided to visit the southern Italian island of Lampedusa to remember the thousands of African migrants who died in their attempt to reach the island. There he personally met with newly arrived migrants before celebrating mass in a sports field that had been converted into a migrant reception center. Citing the parable of the Good Samaritan during his homily, he asked, “Has any one of us grieved for the death of these [migrant] brothers and sisters? Has any one of us wept for these persons who were on the boat?”</p>
<p><a href="https://sojo.net/articles/power-encounter">MORE>></a></p>
<div>
</div>
<p>Do you remember the video clips of 5-year-old Sophie Cruz dashing across Constitution Avenue to Pope Francis’s popemobile during his visit to Washington, D.C., last September? The story of that encounter went viral: a young child with undocumented parents from Mexico who was granted permission to approach the pope, give him a letter, and receive a hug.</p>
<p>At the time, many seemed surprised by encounters like these during the pope’s U.S. trip — particularly that he would choose to make personal contact with the realities faced by marginalized populations. But this encounter-centered approach has been Francis’ way of operating since the outset of his pontificate.</p>
<p>In July 2013, he decided to visit the southern Italian island of Lampedusa to remember the thousands of African migrants who died in their attempt to reach the island. There he personally met with newly arrived migrants before celebrating mass in a sports field that had been converted into a migrant reception center. Citing the parable of the Good Samaritan during his homily, he asked, “Has any one of us grieved for the death of these [migrant] brothers and sisters? Has any one of us wept for these persons who were on the boat?”</p>
<p><a href="https://sojo.net/articles/power-encounter">MORE>></a></p>
<div>
</div>
Date
Remix the Narrative
News Intro Text
Be part of the Truth, Racial Healing & Transformation movement with remix the narrative: tell your story in your voice and ask others to do the same.
News Item Content
<p><a href="http://remixthenarrative.org/?utm_source=wkkf&utm_medium=socialshare&utm_content=RemixTheNarrative&utm_campaign=wkkfdigital#intro"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/remix the narrative.jpg" style="width: 600px; height: 291px;" /></a></p>
Date
A mistake at 17 shouldn't automatically send a kid to adult prison
News Intro Text
Editorial, February 3, 2016
News Item Content
<p>Roughly 6,000 17-year-olds were arrested in 2014 in Louisiana, the vast majority for nonviolent crimes. Every one of them was treated as an adult offender and funneled through adult jails. That is a bad approach to justice.</p>
<p>"These kids are not threats to public safety," said Stephen Phillippi, an LSU professor who authored a study requested by the Legislature on raising the juvenile age.</p>
<p>Being labeled as an adult offender for a youthful mistake can stick with people for life, affecting their ability to get an education, join the military or get a decent job. Spending even a short time in an adult prison could put 17-year-olds at risk of violence from older inmates and turn them into hardened offenders.</p>
<p>Research shows that "the brains of 17-year-olds are still developing, causing 17-year-olds to engage in more risky and impulsive behavior, and this behavior is exacerbated when in the presence of peers," according to the study from the Institute for Public Health and Justice at LSU in New Orleans. In other words, they aren't fully grown emotionally. That affects their ability to understand the long-term consequences of their actions.</p>
<p>Those factors don't excuse bad behavior but should make the state deal with these offenders differently.</p>
<p>Louisiana is out of step nationally. Forty-one other states classify 17-year-olds as juveniles and handle most of those cases in youth or family courts. At least four more states are working to raise the age of juvenile jurisdiction to 18, according to the LSU study.</p>
<p>Mr. Phillippi said the states that have most recently changed their juvenile offender age to 18 — including Mississippi in 2010 — have had smooth transitions and have in some cases saved money.</p>
<p>It is more expensive to house a juvenile offender on a daily basis, but they typically are released sooner than adult offenders, advocates say. In addition, there are some 17-year-olds who shouldn't be locked up at all. They should be in community-based education or treatment programs.</p>
<p>Research shows that the vast majority of juveniles grow out of antisocial activity as they become adults and learn to control impulsive behavior, according to the LSU study. Felons who are 17 years old are equally good candidates for rehabilitation as younger offenders committing the same crimes, researchers have found.</p>
<p>Of course, there are young people who are 17 — and even younger — who commit violent acts. The juvenile system may not be appropriate in those cases.</p>
<p>The LSU study recommends raising the juvenile offender age only for routine offenses. State law provides for the transfer of offenders as young as 14 to adult court for some other violent crimes. Juvenile advocates who hope the Legislature will raise the juvenile age to 18 this year say they aren't pushing to change that law.</p>
<p>No legislation has been filed yet, and the details will be important to understand.</p>
<p>But Louisiana has taken a misguided approach to sentencing for years, and not only for 17-year-olds.</p>
<p>The state's prison population doubled over the past 20 years to 40,000, mainly because of mandatory minimum sentences. "Only 37 percent of offenders in Louisiana have been convicted of violent crimes ... and the average sentence for a drug-related crime is almost 10 years," according to a 2014 report from Blueprint Louisiana, a statewide citizen group focused on reforms in criminal justice, education and other issues.</p>
<p>Using that many resources for prisons takes money away from education and health care and other vital services. When you consider the lost human potential, the costs are even greater.</p>
<p>And it is even worse to give up on children who have made a mistake and most likely will change their ways if given a chance.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.nola.com/crime/index.ssf/2016/02/juvenile_offender_age.html#incart_river_mobileshort_home">MORE>></a></p>
<p>"These kids are not threats to public safety," said Stephen Phillippi, an LSU professor who authored a study requested by the Legislature on raising the juvenile age.</p>
<p>Being labeled as an adult offender for a youthful mistake can stick with people for life, affecting their ability to get an education, join the military or get a decent job. Spending even a short time in an adult prison could put 17-year-olds at risk of violence from older inmates and turn them into hardened offenders.</p>
<p>Research shows that "the brains of 17-year-olds are still developing, causing 17-year-olds to engage in more risky and impulsive behavior, and this behavior is exacerbated when in the presence of peers," according to the study from the Institute for Public Health and Justice at LSU in New Orleans. In other words, they aren't fully grown emotionally. That affects their ability to understand the long-term consequences of their actions.</p>
<p>Those factors don't excuse bad behavior but should make the state deal with these offenders differently.</p>
<p>Louisiana is out of step nationally. Forty-one other states classify 17-year-olds as juveniles and handle most of those cases in youth or family courts. At least four more states are working to raise the age of juvenile jurisdiction to 18, according to the LSU study.</p>
<p>Mr. Phillippi said the states that have most recently changed their juvenile offender age to 18 — including Mississippi in 2010 — have had smooth transitions and have in some cases saved money.</p>
<p>It is more expensive to house a juvenile offender on a daily basis, but they typically are released sooner than adult offenders, advocates say. In addition, there are some 17-year-olds who shouldn't be locked up at all. They should be in community-based education or treatment programs.</p>
<p>Research shows that the vast majority of juveniles grow out of antisocial activity as they become adults and learn to control impulsive behavior, according to the LSU study. Felons who are 17 years old are equally good candidates for rehabilitation as younger offenders committing the same crimes, researchers have found.</p>
<p>Of course, there are young people who are 17 — and even younger — who commit violent acts. The juvenile system may not be appropriate in those cases.</p>
<p>The LSU study recommends raising the juvenile offender age only for routine offenses. State law provides for the transfer of offenders as young as 14 to adult court for some other violent crimes. Juvenile advocates who hope the Legislature will raise the juvenile age to 18 this year say they aren't pushing to change that law.</p>
<p>No legislation has been filed yet, and the details will be important to understand.</p>
<p>But Louisiana has taken a misguided approach to sentencing for years, and not only for 17-year-olds.</p>
<p>The state's prison population doubled over the past 20 years to 40,000, mainly because of mandatory minimum sentences. "Only 37 percent of offenders in Louisiana have been convicted of violent crimes ... and the average sentence for a drug-related crime is almost 10 years," according to a 2014 report from Blueprint Louisiana, a statewide citizen group focused on reforms in criminal justice, education and other issues.</p>
<p>Using that many resources for prisons takes money away from education and health care and other vital services. When you consider the lost human potential, the costs are even greater.</p>
<p>And it is even worse to give up on children who have made a mistake and most likely will change their ways if given a chance.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.nola.com/crime/index.ssf/2016/02/juvenile_offender_age.html#incart_river_mobileshort_home">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Jesuits Welcome Decisions on Juvenile Justice, Solitary Confinement
News Intro Text
January 28, 2016
News Item Content
<p>January 28, 2016 — On January 25 the Supreme Court of the United States and President Obama both announced important decisions that will improve our nation’s justice system for the better. During his address to the U.S. Congress last September, Pope Francis offered “encouragement to all those who are convinced that a just and necessary punishment must never exclude the dimension of hope and the goal of rehabilitation.” It is in the spirit of Pope Francis' words that the Jesuits of the United States applaud the Obama Administration and the Supreme Court for these life-changing actions. </p>
<p>The Supreme Court’s 6-3 decision in Montgomery v. Louisiana will now give individuals, who as children were sentenced to mandatory life in prison without the possibility of parole, an opportunity to appeal for judicial review and new sentences. Prior to the court’s decision, individuals sentenced in this manner as juveniles did not have the opportunity to challenge their sentences despite the Supreme Court’s finding in Miller v. Alabama (2012) that mandatory life without parole sentences for juveniles are cruel and unusual.</p>
<p>In addition to the Supreme Court decision, President Obama announced a ban on the use of solitary confinement of juveniles in the federal prison system, as well as stricter guidelines for the use of solitary confinement on adult inmates. On any given day in the United States there are between 80,000 and 100,000 inmates in solitary confinement. World opinion, as expressed by the United Nations, has called for an absolute prohibition on the use of any form of solitary confinement beyond 15 days, stating that such a practice constitutes psychological torture. In the United States, 46 states use some form of solitary confinement that lasts between 30 days and indefinite confinement.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>In response to these decisions, Fr. Timothy Kesicki, SJ, President of the Jesuit Conference of Canada and the United States, released the following statement: “These decisions reflect important truths about children and our justice system. First, all people, but especially children, have an inherent capacity to grow and change over time despite their worst mistakes. Any sentence that rules out the possibility of change is fundamentally flawed. Second, we have seen time and again the traumatic damage that solitary confinement causes young minds. The reliance on this practice has particularly impacted youth of color. Going forward, we hope lawmakers will further limit the use of solitary confinement to internationally accepted standards for all inmates.”</p>
<p>Despite these important victories, much more can and must be done to create a justice system that recognizes, in the pope’s words, that “God is in everyone’s life. Even if the life of a person has been a disaster.” As a first step, Congress should pass the Sentencing Reform and Corrections Act, which would provide some relief for nonviolent drug offenders during sentencing and offer additional anti-recidivism programming for inmates in federal prison.</p>
<p>We must embrace a path toward more fundamental change in our criminal justice system. In order to confront mass incarceration, lawmakers must abolish excessively harsh sentences, including the death penalty, and address the racial and economic disparities in policing and prosecutions that continue to undermine our shared values of fairness and equality before the law. Policymakers must ensure access to adequate legal representation for impoverished individuals, and prison conditions must be reformed to offer constructive punishment that facilitates rehabilitation and reduces recidivism.</p>
<p>In order to give individuals the chance to reintegrate successfully in society, lawmakers must reevaluate policies that bar former offenders from accessing educational, housing and other opportunities. More resources should go to proven and innovative crime prevention methods rather than costly punishments with poor outcomes. In short, we must stop relying on the justice system as the answer to poverty, addiction, and unmet mental health needs in our country. </p>
<p><a href="http://jesuits.org/news-detail?TN=NEWS-20160128015905">MORE>></a></p>
<p>The Supreme Court’s 6-3 decision in Montgomery v. Louisiana will now give individuals, who as children were sentenced to mandatory life in prison without the possibility of parole, an opportunity to appeal for judicial review and new sentences. Prior to the court’s decision, individuals sentenced in this manner as juveniles did not have the opportunity to challenge their sentences despite the Supreme Court’s finding in Miller v. Alabama (2012) that mandatory life without parole sentences for juveniles are cruel and unusual.</p>
<p>In addition to the Supreme Court decision, President Obama announced a ban on the use of solitary confinement of juveniles in the federal prison system, as well as stricter guidelines for the use of solitary confinement on adult inmates. On any given day in the United States there are between 80,000 and 100,000 inmates in solitary confinement. World opinion, as expressed by the United Nations, has called for an absolute prohibition on the use of any form of solitary confinement beyond 15 days, stating that such a practice constitutes psychological torture. In the United States, 46 states use some form of solitary confinement that lasts between 30 days and indefinite confinement.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>In response to these decisions, Fr. Timothy Kesicki, SJ, President of the Jesuit Conference of Canada and the United States, released the following statement: “These decisions reflect important truths about children and our justice system. First, all people, but especially children, have an inherent capacity to grow and change over time despite their worst mistakes. Any sentence that rules out the possibility of change is fundamentally flawed. Second, we have seen time and again the traumatic damage that solitary confinement causes young minds. The reliance on this practice has particularly impacted youth of color. Going forward, we hope lawmakers will further limit the use of solitary confinement to internationally accepted standards for all inmates.”</p>
<p>Despite these important victories, much more can and must be done to create a justice system that recognizes, in the pope’s words, that “God is in everyone’s life. Even if the life of a person has been a disaster.” As a first step, Congress should pass the Sentencing Reform and Corrections Act, which would provide some relief for nonviolent drug offenders during sentencing and offer additional anti-recidivism programming for inmates in federal prison.</p>
<p>We must embrace a path toward more fundamental change in our criminal justice system. In order to confront mass incarceration, lawmakers must abolish excessively harsh sentences, including the death penalty, and address the racial and economic disparities in policing and prosecutions that continue to undermine our shared values of fairness and equality before the law. Policymakers must ensure access to adequate legal representation for impoverished individuals, and prison conditions must be reformed to offer constructive punishment that facilitates rehabilitation and reduces recidivism.</p>
<p>In order to give individuals the chance to reintegrate successfully in society, lawmakers must reevaluate policies that bar former offenders from accessing educational, housing and other opportunities. More resources should go to proven and innovative crime prevention methods rather than costly punishments with poor outcomes. In short, we must stop relying on the justice system as the answer to poverty, addiction, and unmet mental health needs in our country. </p>
<p><a href="http://jesuits.org/news-detail?TN=NEWS-20160128015905">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Caught in the Middle
News Intro Text
American Citizens Denied Birth Certificates in Texas
News Item Content
<h2>
American Citizens Denied Birth Certificates in Texas</h2>
<p>BY JEANIE DONOVAN, M.P.A., M.P.H.</p>
<p>Birthright citizenship, referred to in legal doctrine as jus soli, is a well-established constitutional right in the United States. It has, however, come under scrutiny in reaction to the recent influx of immigrants from Mexico and Central America. Conservative presidential candidates, elected officials, and pundits have commented on the need to restrict birthright citizenship to stem the flow of immigrants.[1]</p>
<p> Although it is a constitutional right that would require federal action to change, states have taken calculated steps to restrict the clearly defined right to citizenship established by the Fourteenth Amendment. In Texas, officials have implemented a policy that denies access to birth certificates to children born in Texas to undocumented parents. The policy prompted a federal lawsuit, and a judge will soon determine the constitutionality and legality of Texas’ actions. In the meantime, perhaps Texas officials should give consideration to Pope Francis’ teachings on injustice.</p>
<p>In his recent address to Congress, Pope Francis addressed the divisiveness of such discriminatory behavior toward immigrants and urged leaders to redirect their efforts. He said: “Even in the developed world, the effects of unjust structures and actions are all too apparent. Our efforts must aim at restoring hope, righting wrongs, maintaining commitments, and thus promoting the well-being of individuals and of peoples.”[2]</p>
<p>The pontiff went on to remark about the immigrants who are journeying to the U.S. seeking safety and economic opportunity for themselves and their families. He then asked listeners a poignant question: “On this continent, too, thousands of persons are led to travel north in search of a better life for themselves and for their loved ones, in search of greater opportunities. Is this not what we want for our own children?”[3]</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Winter%20JustSouth%20Quarterly%20Caught%20in%20the%20Middle.pdf">MORE>></a></p>
American Citizens Denied Birth Certificates in Texas</h2>
<p>BY JEANIE DONOVAN, M.P.A., M.P.H.</p>
<p>Birthright citizenship, referred to in legal doctrine as jus soli, is a well-established constitutional right in the United States. It has, however, come under scrutiny in reaction to the recent influx of immigrants from Mexico and Central America. Conservative presidential candidates, elected officials, and pundits have commented on the need to restrict birthright citizenship to stem the flow of immigrants.[1]</p>
<p> Although it is a constitutional right that would require federal action to change, states have taken calculated steps to restrict the clearly defined right to citizenship established by the Fourteenth Amendment. In Texas, officials have implemented a policy that denies access to birth certificates to children born in Texas to undocumented parents. The policy prompted a federal lawsuit, and a judge will soon determine the constitutionality and legality of Texas’ actions. In the meantime, perhaps Texas officials should give consideration to Pope Francis’ teachings on injustice.</p>
<p>In his recent address to Congress, Pope Francis addressed the divisiveness of such discriminatory behavior toward immigrants and urged leaders to redirect their efforts. He said: “Even in the developed world, the effects of unjust structures and actions are all too apparent. Our efforts must aim at restoring hope, righting wrongs, maintaining commitments, and thus promoting the well-being of individuals and of peoples.”[2]</p>
<p>The pontiff went on to remark about the immigrants who are journeying to the U.S. seeking safety and economic opportunity for themselves and their families. He then asked listeners a poignant question: “On this continent, too, thousands of persons are led to travel north in search of a better life for themselves and for their loved ones, in search of greater opportunities. Is this not what we want for our own children?”[3]</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Winter%20JustSouth%20Quarterly%20Caught%20in%20the%20Middle.pdf">MORE>></a></p>
Date
ACTION ALERT
News Intro Text
Urge Your Senator to Support Criminal Justice Reform
News Item Content
<p><a href="http://cqrcengage.com/jesuit/app/onestep-write-a-letter?0&engagementId=138265"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Urge Your Senator to Support Criminal Justice Reform.jpg" /></a></p>
Date
Organizing Catholic Teach-Ins on Migration in Your Faith Community
News Intro Text
On January 21st Dr. Weishar gave a webinar on how to organize a Catholic Teach-In on Migration.
News Item Content
<p><a href="https://loyno.adobeconnect.com/_a1003397705/p6oe35zgu2e/?launcher=false&fcsContent=true&pbMode=normal"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Weishar Webinar.jpg" style="width: 600px; height: 400px;" /></a></p>
Date
Happy Birthday Medicaid!
News Intro Text
BY FRED KAMMER, S.J.
News Item Content
<p>By Fred Kammer, SJ </p>
<p>On July 30, 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed into law the bill that led to the Medicare and Medicaid programs that we know today. Medicare is widely popular, especially among seniors, as the health insurance program that covers 52.3 million Americans: 43.5 million elders and 8.8 million people who are disabled.[1] Medicaid insures one in five Americans and one in three American children. Medicaid, as a “health welfare” program covering poor children, parents, elders, persons with disabilities, and others, continues to be controversial despite its many successes for the American people. This article traces its reach, impact, and costs.</p>
<p><strong>Beneficiaries of Medicaid</strong></p>
<p>As reported by the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities (CBPP),[2] the Medicaid program reached 80 million low-income Americans in 2014 with essential health care services. This included 31 million children, 19 million adults (most of whom were low-income working parents), 5 million seniors (many of whom receive nursing home care), and 9 million persons with disabilities. In terms of participation, 87.2 percent of the children who are eligible for Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) participate in the program, as do 65.6 percent of low-income adults with children who are eligible under the program guidelines. In the Gulf South, Medicaid helps 11,677,200 persons, a majority of whom are children, elderly, or persons with disabilities.[3]</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JustSouth Quarterly Winter Medicaid Medicare.pdf">MORE>></a></p>
<p>On July 30, 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed into law the bill that led to the Medicare and Medicaid programs that we know today. Medicare is widely popular, especially among seniors, as the health insurance program that covers 52.3 million Americans: 43.5 million elders and 8.8 million people who are disabled.[1] Medicaid insures one in five Americans and one in three American children. Medicaid, as a “health welfare” program covering poor children, parents, elders, persons with disabilities, and others, continues to be controversial despite its many successes for the American people. This article traces its reach, impact, and costs.</p>
<p><strong>Beneficiaries of Medicaid</strong></p>
<p>As reported by the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities (CBPP),[2] the Medicaid program reached 80 million low-income Americans in 2014 with essential health care services. This included 31 million children, 19 million adults (most of whom were low-income working parents), 5 million seniors (many of whom receive nursing home care), and 9 million persons with disabilities. In terms of participation, 87.2 percent of the children who are eligible for Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) participate in the program, as do 65.6 percent of low-income adults with children who are eligible under the program guidelines. In the Gulf South, Medicaid helps 11,677,200 persons, a majority of whom are children, elderly, or persons with disabilities.[3]</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JustSouth Quarterly Winter Medicaid Medicare.pdf">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Fr. Kammer to Receive 2016 Roundtable Harry A. Fagan Award
News Intro Text
On January 25th, Fr. Kammer will receive the Harry A. Fagan Roundtable Award in Washington, DC. Congrats Fr. Kammer!
News Item Content
<p>2016 Harry A. Fagan Roundtable Award Winner</p>
<p>Fr. Fred Kammer, SJ, J. D., is a priest, an attorney, and a member of the Central and Southern Province of the Jesuits. He has been director of the Jesuit Social Research Institute (JSRI) since March, 2009. JSRI works to transform the Gulf South through action research, analysis, education, and advocacy on the core issues of poverty, race, and migration. The Institute is a collaboration of Loyola University New Orleans and the Society of Jesus rooted in the faith that does justice. Fred is the editor and regular contributor to JSRI’s publication “Just South” and writes regular columns on Catholic Social Teaching and current issues.</p>
<p>From 2002 to 2008, Fred was the Provincial Superior of the Jesuits of the New Orleans Province, guiding their post-Katrina recovery and service to the devastated region’s poor and needy. From 1992 to 2001, he was the President/CEO of Catholic Charities USA, the nation’s largest voluntary human service network. Fred has worked in a number of programs for the underprivileged, both as a lay volunteer, an attorney, an advocate, and an administrator. From 1990 to 1992, he was the Policy Advisor for Health and Welfare Issues, Department of Social Development and World Peace, U.S. Catholic Conference. Prior to that, from 1984 to 1989, he was Executive Director of Catholic Community Services of Baton Rouge, Inc. Earlier, from 1977 to 1983, he was Director of the Senior Citizens Law Project of the Atlanta Legal Aid Society.</p>
<p>Fred’s first book, Doing Faithjustice: An Introduction to Catholic Social Thought, was published by Paulist Press in May, 1991 (second printing, 1992; third printing, 2005). This book is considered by many in the U.S. to be “essential reading” for those committed to the “faith that does justice.” It is used as a text book for social justice and morality classes in a number of high schools and colleges. His second book, Salted with Fire: Spirituality for the Faithjustice Journey, was published in January, 1995, again by Paulist Press, and republished in 2008 . His latest book, Faith. Works. Wonders.–An Insider’s Guide to Catholic Charities, was published in September, 2009, by Wipf and Stock Publishers.</p>
<p>Fred native received his J.D. from Yale University and M. Div. from Loyola University in Chicago. He holds honorary doctorates from Fairfield University, Gonzaga University, Creighton University, Spring Hill College, and the University of San Francisco (1999).</p>
<p>Fred currently serves as chair of the board of the Ignatian Solidarity Network. He has also had a long association with the Jesuit Volunteer Corps as a founder of JVC:South, a leader for over 30 “Re-Orientation” retreats and now as a JVC board member. He has a strong commitment to nurturing in young people a passion for social justice. In fact, most people who meet and work with Fred would describe him as a passionate, dedicated, smart, tireless advocate for the poor and marginalized, one who has been able to stay in this work for the long haul because he is so firmly rooted in his faith and his Jesuit vocation. He has been a leader and role model for many people in the Catholic Church and in the Catholic church and health care arena for many years. He would never seek this kind of honor, but I’m sure it would mean a great deal to him to receive it at this time from peers at the Roundtable who I’m sure he admires – and who cherish the contributions he has made to their work through his writing and his witness. </p>
<p>The Roundtable Association of Catholic Diocesan Social Action Directors presents the Harry A. Fagan Award annually to a person or persons whose work, in the tradition of Catholic social teaching, has led to significant progress towards greater social justice and dignity for all members of society at the national or international level.</p>
<p>The Roundtable Association of Diocesan Social Action Directors honors an individual or individuals who have made unique contributions to the achievement of the Catholic vision of social justice in the national and/or international community.</p>
<p>Their work will:</p>
<p>• have made an impact on significant numbers of persons, or set a precedent or example which affected many</p>
<p>• have affected progress in the national or international communities toward eliminating social, economic, or political injustice or discrimination</p>
<p>• have affected progress towards guaranteeing basic human dignity and rights as defined in Catholic social teaching</p>
<p>They will have shown evidence of linking faith and justice, in light of Catholic social teaching, through education which leads to action (advocacy, empowerment, and organizing) on issues, policies, and social structures that contribute to the building of God’s kingdom on earth.</p>
<p><a href="http://catholicroundtable.org/harry-a-fagan-roundtable-award">MORE>> </a></p>
<p>Fr. Fred Kammer, SJ, J. D., is a priest, an attorney, and a member of the Central and Southern Province of the Jesuits. He has been director of the Jesuit Social Research Institute (JSRI) since March, 2009. JSRI works to transform the Gulf South through action research, analysis, education, and advocacy on the core issues of poverty, race, and migration. The Institute is a collaboration of Loyola University New Orleans and the Society of Jesus rooted in the faith that does justice. Fred is the editor and regular contributor to JSRI’s publication “Just South” and writes regular columns on Catholic Social Teaching and current issues.</p>
<p>From 2002 to 2008, Fred was the Provincial Superior of the Jesuits of the New Orleans Province, guiding their post-Katrina recovery and service to the devastated region’s poor and needy. From 1992 to 2001, he was the President/CEO of Catholic Charities USA, the nation’s largest voluntary human service network. Fred has worked in a number of programs for the underprivileged, both as a lay volunteer, an attorney, an advocate, and an administrator. From 1990 to 1992, he was the Policy Advisor for Health and Welfare Issues, Department of Social Development and World Peace, U.S. Catholic Conference. Prior to that, from 1984 to 1989, he was Executive Director of Catholic Community Services of Baton Rouge, Inc. Earlier, from 1977 to 1983, he was Director of the Senior Citizens Law Project of the Atlanta Legal Aid Society.</p>
<p>Fred’s first book, Doing Faithjustice: An Introduction to Catholic Social Thought, was published by Paulist Press in May, 1991 (second printing, 1992; third printing, 2005). This book is considered by many in the U.S. to be “essential reading” for those committed to the “faith that does justice.” It is used as a text book for social justice and morality classes in a number of high schools and colleges. His second book, Salted with Fire: Spirituality for the Faithjustice Journey, was published in January, 1995, again by Paulist Press, and republished in 2008 . His latest book, Faith. Works. Wonders.–An Insider’s Guide to Catholic Charities, was published in September, 2009, by Wipf and Stock Publishers.</p>
<p>Fred native received his J.D. from Yale University and M. Div. from Loyola University in Chicago. He holds honorary doctorates from Fairfield University, Gonzaga University, Creighton University, Spring Hill College, and the University of San Francisco (1999).</p>
<p>Fred currently serves as chair of the board of the Ignatian Solidarity Network. He has also had a long association with the Jesuit Volunteer Corps as a founder of JVC:South, a leader for over 30 “Re-Orientation” retreats and now as a JVC board member. He has a strong commitment to nurturing in young people a passion for social justice. In fact, most people who meet and work with Fred would describe him as a passionate, dedicated, smart, tireless advocate for the poor and marginalized, one who has been able to stay in this work for the long haul because he is so firmly rooted in his faith and his Jesuit vocation. He has been a leader and role model for many people in the Catholic Church and in the Catholic church and health care arena for many years. He would never seek this kind of honor, but I’m sure it would mean a great deal to him to receive it at this time from peers at the Roundtable who I’m sure he admires – and who cherish the contributions he has made to their work through his writing and his witness. </p>
<p>The Roundtable Association of Catholic Diocesan Social Action Directors presents the Harry A. Fagan Award annually to a person or persons whose work, in the tradition of Catholic social teaching, has led to significant progress towards greater social justice and dignity for all members of society at the national or international level.</p>
<p>The Roundtable Association of Diocesan Social Action Directors honors an individual or individuals who have made unique contributions to the achievement of the Catholic vision of social justice in the national and/or international community.</p>
<p>Their work will:</p>
<p>• have made an impact on significant numbers of persons, or set a precedent or example which affected many</p>
<p>• have affected progress in the national or international communities toward eliminating social, economic, or political injustice or discrimination</p>
<p>• have affected progress towards guaranteeing basic human dignity and rights as defined in Catholic social teaching</p>
<p>They will have shown evidence of linking faith and justice, in light of Catholic social teaching, through education which leads to action (advocacy, empowerment, and organizing) on issues, policies, and social structures that contribute to the building of God’s kingdom on earth.</p>
<p><a href="http://catholicroundtable.org/harry-a-fagan-roundtable-award">MORE>> </a></p>
Date
Dr. Weishar Will Host a Webinar on 01/21/16
News Intro Text
The Jubilee Year of Mercy: How to Organize Catholic Dialogs on Migration in Your Faith Community
News Item Content
<p>In this Jubilee Year of Mercy, Pope Francis has asked that we open our hearts to those marginalized by fear and indifference, so they can “feel the warmth of our presence, our friendship, and our fraternity.” One way that the Jesuit Social Research Institute at Loyola has been trying to live out this call for mercy is by organizing Catholic Teach-Ins on Migration, where members of a Catholic parish or school meet, listen to, and pray with undocumented immigrant members of the community. At the January 21 LIM webinar JSRI Migration Specialist Sue Weishar will discuss how to organize a Catholic Teach-In on Migration in your faith community and the powerful experiences of compassion and conversion she has witnessed at these encounters.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.lim.loyno.edu/webinars">More Information>></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.lim.loyno.edu/webinars">More Information>></a></p>
Date
From Sea to Shining Sea, We Welcome Thee
News Intro Text
New Orleans Welcomes Syrian Refugees
News Item Content
<p>by Sue Weishar, Ph.D.</p>
<p>On a brilliantly sunny, crisp winter afternoon last month, a diverse group of more than 100 New Orleanians gathered at the Monument to the Immigrant in Woldenberg Park to show our support for Syrian refugees and celebrate what makes New Orleans and our country worth fleeing halfway across the globe to reach. The <a href="http://www.nola.com/politics/index.ssf/2015/12/syrian_refugee_welcome_rally_r.html">Rally and March</a> to Welcome Syrian Refugees began with remarks by Farah Alkhafaf, who reminded those gathered that, having suffered through Hurricane Katrina, we know what it’s like to seek shelter elsewhere. Then Farah, the lead organizer of the rally and a student at UNO, asked everyone to “pass the peace” by shaking hands and greeting the people around them. Thus began an event that dared to counter the relentless narrative of fear and xenophobia that opportunistic political “leaders” have promulgated since the Paris terrorist attacks.</p>
<p>Having directed the refugee resettlement program at Catholic Charities New Orleans for many years, I was then asked to speak about our city’s long history of welcoming persecuted people. Since the arrival of Acadian refugees in the mid-18th Century, to refugees from the Haitian revolution at the turn of the 19th Century-- which doubled New Orleans’ population, to those fleeing war and persecution in Latin America, Vietnam, Bosnia, and Iraq in recent years, I reminded listeners that our city and state have always been enriched and strengthened by refugees and their ancestors.</p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/nlq2j/baf2da6f4ce973ba2b625ddbce45d591">MORE>> </a></p>
<p>On a brilliantly sunny, crisp winter afternoon last month, a diverse group of more than 100 New Orleanians gathered at the Monument to the Immigrant in Woldenberg Park to show our support for Syrian refugees and celebrate what makes New Orleans and our country worth fleeing halfway across the globe to reach. The <a href="http://www.nola.com/politics/index.ssf/2015/12/syrian_refugee_welcome_rally_r.html">Rally and March</a> to Welcome Syrian Refugees began with remarks by Farah Alkhafaf, who reminded those gathered that, having suffered through Hurricane Katrina, we know what it’s like to seek shelter elsewhere. Then Farah, the lead organizer of the rally and a student at UNO, asked everyone to “pass the peace” by shaking hands and greeting the people around them. Thus began an event that dared to counter the relentless narrative of fear and xenophobia that opportunistic political “leaders” have promulgated since the Paris terrorist attacks.</p>
<p>Having directed the refugee resettlement program at Catholic Charities New Orleans for many years, I was then asked to speak about our city’s long history of welcoming persecuted people. Since the arrival of Acadian refugees in the mid-18th Century, to refugees from the Haitian revolution at the turn of the 19th Century-- which doubled New Orleans’ population, to those fleeing war and persecution in Latin America, Vietnam, Bosnia, and Iraq in recent years, I reminded listeners that our city and state have always been enriched and strengthened by refugees and their ancestors.</p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/nlq2j/baf2da6f4ce973ba2b625ddbce45d591">MORE>> </a></p>
Date
JSRI to Sponsor THE WHOLE GRITTY CITY Screening and Discussion
News Intro Text
January 27, 2016
News Item Content
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/The WHole Gritty City jpg 0112.jpg" style="width: 690px; height: 906px;" /></p>
<p>Watch trailer <a href="http://thewholegrittycity.com/">HERE</a></p>
<p>Watch trailer <a href="http://thewholegrittycity.com/">HERE</a></p>
Date
Katrina and the Least Among Us
News Intro Text
A Ten Year Retrospective
News Item Content
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Katrina-ten years.jpg" style="width: 700px; height: 788px;" /></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Katrina-ten years-0915-kat.pdf">FULL PRINTABLE VERSION>></a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Katrina-ten years-0915-kat.pdf">FULL PRINTABLE VERSION>></a></p>
Date
Give Louisiana Workers The Gift They Truly Deserve: A Raise
News Intro Text
by Jeanie Donovan, MPA, MPH
News Item Content
<p>by Jeanie Donovan, MPA, MPH </p>
<p>The Christmas season is in full swing, which for some means an abundance of holiday shopping, eating, and festive gatherings. For others, however, the holiday season is a time of financial strain, unpredictable work schedules, and disappointed children. Minimum wage workers in the retail and service industries bear the brunt of increased consumerism during the holidays and reap little reward. Despite their long and unforgiving hours in the workplace, these workers often come home without enough earnings to pay their rent and bills, let alone buy food for special holiday meals or gifts to put under the Christmas tree.</p>
<p>The cashier at the grocery store, retail clerk at the mall, or server at a holiday party are examples of employees who put in long hours during the holiday season and typically make minimum wage or less. Many of these low-wage workers will end the year earning below the federal poverty line. For example, a single parent with one child who works a full-time minimum wage job earns just $15,080 before taxes. The federal poverty line for a family of two is $15,930—and that is considered by many to be an insufficient measure of what a family actually needs to earn to pay for basic expenses. Hard work clearly does not equal economic security.</p>
<p>So what can be done to change this? While gift drives and holiday giving campaigns can help working poor families enjoy some Christmas cheer, a more just and sustainable way would be to raise wages. Efforts to raise the federal minimum wage have stalled, but calls for state leaders to pass their own minimum wage laws are mounting. To date, 29 states and Washington D.C. have enacted state laws setting the minimum wage higher than the federal limit of $7.25. In 2014 alone, 10 state legislatures enacted legislation that increased their state’s minimum wage. Unfortunately, Louisiana was not one of them. Despite broad public support, state lawmakers quickly rejected several bills aimed at increasing Louisiana’s minimum wage during the 2014 legislative session.</p>
<p>Change may be on the horizon, though. Newly elected Louisiana governor John Bel Edwards has voiced his support for increasing the state’s minimum wage. What’s more, he is Catholic and his website states that his religious upbringing has “shaped his commitment to his community.” Catholic social teaching takes a clear stance on just wages and government’s role in protecting workers. The Catechism of the Catholic Church holds that remuneration for work should guarantee workers the opportunity to provide a dignified livelihood for themselves and their families on the material, social, cultural, and spiritual level. Moreover, Saint John XXIII explained “It can never be right for the State to shirk its obligation of working actively for the betterment of the condition of the workingman.”</p>
<p>As 2015 comes to a close and new legislative session approaches, Louisianans must call on their new governor and state legislators to give workers and families the gift they truly deserve: a raise. </p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/jm8xj/09dfe00c33134d35d66e89de8295dc9e">MORE>></a></p>
<p>The Christmas season is in full swing, which for some means an abundance of holiday shopping, eating, and festive gatherings. For others, however, the holiday season is a time of financial strain, unpredictable work schedules, and disappointed children. Minimum wage workers in the retail and service industries bear the brunt of increased consumerism during the holidays and reap little reward. Despite their long and unforgiving hours in the workplace, these workers often come home without enough earnings to pay their rent and bills, let alone buy food for special holiday meals or gifts to put under the Christmas tree.</p>
<p>The cashier at the grocery store, retail clerk at the mall, or server at a holiday party are examples of employees who put in long hours during the holiday season and typically make minimum wage or less. Many of these low-wage workers will end the year earning below the federal poverty line. For example, a single parent with one child who works a full-time minimum wage job earns just $15,080 before taxes. The federal poverty line for a family of two is $15,930—and that is considered by many to be an insufficient measure of what a family actually needs to earn to pay for basic expenses. Hard work clearly does not equal economic security.</p>
<p>So what can be done to change this? While gift drives and holiday giving campaigns can help working poor families enjoy some Christmas cheer, a more just and sustainable way would be to raise wages. Efforts to raise the federal minimum wage have stalled, but calls for state leaders to pass their own minimum wage laws are mounting. To date, 29 states and Washington D.C. have enacted state laws setting the minimum wage higher than the federal limit of $7.25. In 2014 alone, 10 state legislatures enacted legislation that increased their state’s minimum wage. Unfortunately, Louisiana was not one of them. Despite broad public support, state lawmakers quickly rejected several bills aimed at increasing Louisiana’s minimum wage during the 2014 legislative session.</p>
<p>Change may be on the horizon, though. Newly elected Louisiana governor John Bel Edwards has voiced his support for increasing the state’s minimum wage. What’s more, he is Catholic and his website states that his religious upbringing has “shaped his commitment to his community.” Catholic social teaching takes a clear stance on just wages and government’s role in protecting workers. The Catechism of the Catholic Church holds that remuneration for work should guarantee workers the opportunity to provide a dignified livelihood for themselves and their families on the material, social, cultural, and spiritual level. Moreover, Saint John XXIII explained “It can never be right for the State to shirk its obligation of working actively for the betterment of the condition of the workingman.”</p>
<p>As 2015 comes to a close and new legislative session approaches, Louisianans must call on their new governor and state legislators to give workers and families the gift they truly deserve: a raise. </p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/jm8xj/09dfe00c33134d35d66e89de8295dc9e">MORE>></a></p>
Date
1.7 Million Children Live in Poverty in Texas
News Intro Text
[Tegna Media]
News Item Content
<p>Texas has a lot to brag about: It’s a leader in job growth, energy production and building.</p>
<p>It’s also near the top of another list, but it’s not something you’ll likely see shared often on social media: child poverty.</p>
<p>Texas ranks 43rd in the country to be a kid, based on economic well-being, health and education, according to the Annie Casey Foundation, a private charitable watchdog organization.</p>
<p>In Travis County, U.S. Census numbers show child poverty has increased nearly each year since 2000.</p>
<p>In 2014, the county added an additional 9,860 children in poverty, totaling 64,000. About one in four children live in poverty in Texas—a staggering statistic that dates back to 1989. Today, that’s 1.7 million Texas children.</p>
<p>One of those children includes 13-year-old Paige Rogers, who lives in a group home run by the Foundation for the Homeless in north Austin. She has four siblings, ranging from 3 months old to 14 years old.</p>
<p>Just like many eighth graders, she has big dreams of becoming an artist or working with animals, but she talks a lot about getting a job for someone so young.</p>
<p>“I thought about working at, like, computer tech places and stuff,” Paige said, holding a crayon while coloring. “Let’s be honest, with a career, you get paid more rather than getting paid minimum wage at an ordinary job.”</p>
<p>Her mom, Kayla Dixon, works nights at a nursing home. Her dad, Jared Dixon, works during the day at a call center. They moved to Austin about six months ago from Lubbock in search of a better life.</p>
<p>“We probably bring together, like, $800 between the both of us,” said Dixon.</p>
<p>Before finding the group home, they slept in hotels and eventually their SUV.</p>
<p>“You keep on waiting on a time to get a place, but you know you don’t have a place to go to like everybody else does,” said Paige.</p>
<p>Most families, like Paige’s, move to Austin looking for a job. Unemployment is low in Texas and its lawmakers, especially its former governor, enjoy reminding the rest of the country.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.kens5.com/story/news/investigations/2015/12/13/state-our-children/76959510/">MORE>></a></p>
<p>It’s also near the top of another list, but it’s not something you’ll likely see shared often on social media: child poverty.</p>
<p>Texas ranks 43rd in the country to be a kid, based on economic well-being, health and education, according to the Annie Casey Foundation, a private charitable watchdog organization.</p>
<p>In Travis County, U.S. Census numbers show child poverty has increased nearly each year since 2000.</p>
<p>In 2014, the county added an additional 9,860 children in poverty, totaling 64,000. About one in four children live in poverty in Texas—a staggering statistic that dates back to 1989. Today, that’s 1.7 million Texas children.</p>
<p>One of those children includes 13-year-old Paige Rogers, who lives in a group home run by the Foundation for the Homeless in north Austin. She has four siblings, ranging from 3 months old to 14 years old.</p>
<p>Just like many eighth graders, she has big dreams of becoming an artist or working with animals, but she talks a lot about getting a job for someone so young.</p>
<p>“I thought about working at, like, computer tech places and stuff,” Paige said, holding a crayon while coloring. “Let’s be honest, with a career, you get paid more rather than getting paid minimum wage at an ordinary job.”</p>
<p>Her mom, Kayla Dixon, works nights at a nursing home. Her dad, Jared Dixon, works during the day at a call center. They moved to Austin about six months ago from Lubbock in search of a better life.</p>
<p>“We probably bring together, like, $800 between the both of us,” said Dixon.</p>
<p>Before finding the group home, they slept in hotels and eventually their SUV.</p>
<p>“You keep on waiting on a time to get a place, but you know you don’t have a place to go to like everybody else does,” said Paige.</p>
<p>Most families, like Paige’s, move to Austin looking for a job. Unemployment is low in Texas and its lawmakers, especially its former governor, enjoy reminding the rest of the country.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.kens5.com/story/news/investigations/2015/12/13/state-our-children/76959510/">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Payday Loans Weigh Down Holiday Borrowers
News Intro Text
[The PEW Charitable Trust]
News Item Content
<p><a href="http://www.pewtrusts.org/en/multimedia/data-visualizations/2012/payday-loans-really-add-up?img&utm_campaign=2015-12-16 PNN&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/HolidayInfographicSmallLoansv6_990_web.png" style="width: 700px; height: 1902px;" /></a></p>
Date
Patchwork of Paychecks
News Intro Text
[December 8, 2015/in 2015 Pubs, Allyson Fredericksen, Economic Justice, Economic Justice Pubs /by Allyson Fredericksen]
News Item Content
<p><strong>Executive Summary </strong></p>
<p>By Allyson Fredericksen</p>
<p><em>Not all wages are living wages. In October of this year, we found that across the United States the hourly, full-time wage paid to many workers falls far short of the amount necessary to cover basic needs and save a small amount for emergencies. For workers paid low wages, even a fulltime job is not enough, and they must either go without necessities or work multiple full-time jobs. </em></p>
<p>Adequate wages are only one difficulty that workers face in an economy with a widespread shortage of living wage jobs. Workers across the country struggle to find full-time work at any wage, let alone a living-wage. Women, Latinos and Latinas, and workers of color are especially likely to end up in part-time work, often patching together multiple jobs to make ends meet. So, both wages and hours must be considered when discussing the adequacy of workers’ earnings.</p>
<p>The Alliance for a Just Society has produced reports on jobs and wages since 1999, showing the wage needed to make ends meet and how many jobs are available at that living wage threshold.</p>
<p>The first report in this year’s series, “Pay Up!”, calculated a living wage in all 50 states and in Washington, D.C. and showed that a single adult worker must earn from $14.26 an hour (Arkansas) to $21.86 (Washington, D.C.) to make ends meet. This report calculates the availability of living-wage jobs nationally and in states across the country, and shows how difficult it is for job seekers to find such employment.</p>
<p>Nationwide, there are more than 17 million job seekers, including both the unemployed and those who are looking for a different or better job. However, there are only 5 million job openings total, paying any wage. Of these, only 2.7 million openings that pay at least $15 per hour – the new wage floor already established in several cities to bring minimum wages closer to living wages. Across the country, six out of seven job seekers will be unable to find a job that pays at least $15 per hour, and almost 13 million will be unable to find any job.</p>
<p>In every state and in Washington, D.C., the number of people looking for work exceeds the number of living wage jobs. In Alaska, Iowa, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wyoming, there are three job seekers for each job opening that pays enough for a single adult to make ends meet. In California,<span class="maroon"> Florida</span>, Maryland, Michigan, New Mexico, Rhode Island, and South Carolina there are 10 job seekers for every living wage job opening. The ratio is even greater for job openings that pay enough for families with children to make ends meet.</p>
<p>Occupational projections show that this is a trend unlikely to change in the near future. Nationally, four of the top five fastest growing occupations – those occupations with the most job openings – pay less than $15 per hour. This finding suggests that our economy is not growing in a way that is delivering returns to workers.</p>
<p>Additionally, the projected openings in the top five occupations for job seekers are less likely to be full-time. In all five of these leading occupations, including the relatively well-paid occupation category of Registered Nurses, workers are more likely to work part-time than are workers overall. In three of these leading occupations, workers are more likely to work part-time than full-time. Job-seekers face not only inadequate wages but also inadequate hours, making it even more difficult for them to make ends meet.</p>
<p>For part-time workers, a job that pays an hourly wage equal to the living wage would still not provide enough to make ends meet. If they are paid less than a living wage, it will take even more hours per week just to make ends meet. Furthermore, because part-time workers are less likely to receive benefits such as employer-sponsored health insurance and may commute between multiple jobs, their actual cost of living could be even greater than those with full-time jobs.</p>
<p>Tools exist to help ensure that all workers can make ends meet. They include increasing the federal minimum wage to at least $15 per hour; ensuring that state and federal subsidies go to businesses that produce full-time living wage jobs; strengthening the safety net; improving regulation of scheduling practices; and supporting workers’ ability to organize and collectively bargain for higher wages, full-time work, and benefits.</p>
<p>Such measures are needed to ensure that workers are properly compensated for their participation in the economy, while preserving their ability to lead lives outside work. These protections will contribute not only to workers’ economic security, but also to the well-being of their families and communities.</p>
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/paycheck image.jpg" /></p>
<p><a href="http://allianceforajustsociety.org/2015/12/patchwork-of-paychecks/">FULL REPORT>></a></p>
<p>By Allyson Fredericksen</p>
<p><em>Not all wages are living wages. In October of this year, we found that across the United States the hourly, full-time wage paid to many workers falls far short of the amount necessary to cover basic needs and save a small amount for emergencies. For workers paid low wages, even a fulltime job is not enough, and they must either go without necessities or work multiple full-time jobs. </em></p>
<p>Adequate wages are only one difficulty that workers face in an economy with a widespread shortage of living wage jobs. Workers across the country struggle to find full-time work at any wage, let alone a living-wage. Women, Latinos and Latinas, and workers of color are especially likely to end up in part-time work, often patching together multiple jobs to make ends meet. So, both wages and hours must be considered when discussing the adequacy of workers’ earnings.</p>
<p>The Alliance for a Just Society has produced reports on jobs and wages since 1999, showing the wage needed to make ends meet and how many jobs are available at that living wage threshold.</p>
<p>The first report in this year’s series, “Pay Up!”, calculated a living wage in all 50 states and in Washington, D.C. and showed that a single adult worker must earn from $14.26 an hour (Arkansas) to $21.86 (Washington, D.C.) to make ends meet. This report calculates the availability of living-wage jobs nationally and in states across the country, and shows how difficult it is for job seekers to find such employment.</p>
<p>Nationwide, there are more than 17 million job seekers, including both the unemployed and those who are looking for a different or better job. However, there are only 5 million job openings total, paying any wage. Of these, only 2.7 million openings that pay at least $15 per hour – the new wage floor already established in several cities to bring minimum wages closer to living wages. Across the country, six out of seven job seekers will be unable to find a job that pays at least $15 per hour, and almost 13 million will be unable to find any job.</p>
<p>In every state and in Washington, D.C., the number of people looking for work exceeds the number of living wage jobs. In Alaska, Iowa, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wyoming, there are three job seekers for each job opening that pays enough for a single adult to make ends meet. In California,<span class="maroon"> Florida</span>, Maryland, Michigan, New Mexico, Rhode Island, and South Carolina there are 10 job seekers for every living wage job opening. The ratio is even greater for job openings that pay enough for families with children to make ends meet.</p>
<p>Occupational projections show that this is a trend unlikely to change in the near future. Nationally, four of the top five fastest growing occupations – those occupations with the most job openings – pay less than $15 per hour. This finding suggests that our economy is not growing in a way that is delivering returns to workers.</p>
<p>Additionally, the projected openings in the top five occupations for job seekers are less likely to be full-time. In all five of these leading occupations, including the relatively well-paid occupation category of Registered Nurses, workers are more likely to work part-time than are workers overall. In three of these leading occupations, workers are more likely to work part-time than full-time. Job-seekers face not only inadequate wages but also inadequate hours, making it even more difficult for them to make ends meet.</p>
<p>For part-time workers, a job that pays an hourly wage equal to the living wage would still not provide enough to make ends meet. If they are paid less than a living wage, it will take even more hours per week just to make ends meet. Furthermore, because part-time workers are less likely to receive benefits such as employer-sponsored health insurance and may commute between multiple jobs, their actual cost of living could be even greater than those with full-time jobs.</p>
<p>Tools exist to help ensure that all workers can make ends meet. They include increasing the federal minimum wage to at least $15 per hour; ensuring that state and federal subsidies go to businesses that produce full-time living wage jobs; strengthening the safety net; improving regulation of scheduling practices; and supporting workers’ ability to organize and collectively bargain for higher wages, full-time work, and benefits.</p>
<p>Such measures are needed to ensure that workers are properly compensated for their participation in the economy, while preserving their ability to lead lives outside work. These protections will contribute not only to workers’ economic security, but also to the well-being of their families and communities.</p>
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/paycheck image.jpg" /></p>
<p><a href="http://allianceforajustsociety.org/2015/12/patchwork-of-paychecks/">FULL REPORT>></a></p>
Date
1 Million Unemployed Childless Adults Will Lose Food Assistance Benefits in 2016
News Intro Text
[Video]
News Item Content
<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uuuLEszrFok"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/SNAp 2.jpg" /></a></p>
Date
Compassion vs. Security: What to Do With Syrian Refugees?
News Intro Text
[National Catholic Register, November 25, 2015]
News Item Content
<p>BY MATT HADRO/CNA</p>
<p>WASHINGTON — As the U.S. plans to increase its intake of Syrian refugees to 10,000 next year, Americans — including Catholics — are trying to balance national security concerns with compassion for the refugees. </p>
<p>“Americans need to understand that responding to a core tenant of our faith to provide compassion and care to suffering people like Syrian refugees and maintaining national security are not mutually exclusive — it is not an either-or proposition,” said <span class="maroon">Susan Weishar, a migration fellow at the Jesuit Social Research Institute</span>, who directed immigration and refugee services for Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of New Orleans for 14 years.</p>
<p>“A rigorous, multilayered and lengthy vetting and security-clearance procedure is in place to screen refugees,” she told CNA. “As the leader of the free world, the wealthiest democracy on the planet, the U.S. must not turn its back on the Syrian refugees.”</p>
<p>However, there are intelligence gaps that could jeopardize the vetting process for refugees, said Seth Jones, who directs the International Security and Defense Policy Center at the Rand Corp. </p>
<p>“I actually think the U.S. needs better intel collection in Syria. So I would actually push more resources to setting up a technical architecture in Syria and then resources for human collection in Syria,” he told CNA.</p>
<p><strong>Debate Over Refugees</strong></p>
<p>The Obama administration has announced its plan to accept at least 10,000 Syrian refugees into the U.S. next year. The U.S. has only accepted close to 2,000 Syrian refugees total since the beginning of the Syrian civil war in 2011, and 1,682 of those were accepted in Fiscal Year 2015.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.ncregister.com/daily-news/compassion-vs.-security-what-to-do-with-syrian-refugees?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+NCRegisterDailyBlog+National+Catholic+Register#When%3A2015-11-25+14%3A43%3A01">MORE>></a></p>
<p>WASHINGTON — As the U.S. plans to increase its intake of Syrian refugees to 10,000 next year, Americans — including Catholics — are trying to balance national security concerns with compassion for the refugees. </p>
<p>“Americans need to understand that responding to a core tenant of our faith to provide compassion and care to suffering people like Syrian refugees and maintaining national security are not mutually exclusive — it is not an either-or proposition,” said <span class="maroon">Susan Weishar, a migration fellow at the Jesuit Social Research Institute</span>, who directed immigration and refugee services for Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of New Orleans for 14 years.</p>
<p>“A rigorous, multilayered and lengthy vetting and security-clearance procedure is in place to screen refugees,” she told CNA. “As the leader of the free world, the wealthiest democracy on the planet, the U.S. must not turn its back on the Syrian refugees.”</p>
<p>However, there are intelligence gaps that could jeopardize the vetting process for refugees, said Seth Jones, who directs the International Security and Defense Policy Center at the Rand Corp. </p>
<p>“I actually think the U.S. needs better intel collection in Syria. So I would actually push more resources to setting up a technical architecture in Syria and then resources for human collection in Syria,” he told CNA.</p>
<p><strong>Debate Over Refugees</strong></p>
<p>The Obama administration has announced its plan to accept at least 10,000 Syrian refugees into the U.S. next year. The U.S. has only accepted close to 2,000 Syrian refugees total since the beginning of the Syrian civil war in 2011, and 1,682 of those were accepted in Fiscal Year 2015.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.ncregister.com/daily-news/compassion-vs.-security-what-to-do-with-syrian-refugees?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+NCRegisterDailyBlog+National+Catholic+Register#When%3A2015-11-25+14%3A43%3A01">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Tax credit could help working families make ends meet
News Intro Text
[Nola.com, December 4, 2015]
News Item Content
<p>by The Editorial Board, Nola.com/Times-Picayune</p>
<p>he effort to give thousands of Louisiana workers a little extra in their tax refund failed at the end of the legislative session last summer. But New Orleans Rep. Walt Leger and business and community groups pushing for an increase in the state's earned income tax credit for low-income workers will have an important ally in 2016.</p>
<p>Gov.-elect John Bel Edwards said this week that he wants to double the state's earned income tax credit as part of his legislative agenda. That is what Rep. Leger tried to do this year. He kept the measure alive until the final day of the session, when it died.</p>
<p>Louisiana's earned income tax credit is 3.5 percent of the federal tax credit, which makes it the lowest among 26 states that offer one. Rep. Leger proposed that the Legislature increase the Louisiana credit to 7 percent.</p>
<p>He had an impressive group of allies: Entergy, the United Way of Southeast Louisiana, the Louisiana Association of United Ways, the Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops, the Jesuit Social Research Institute at Loyola University and AARP Louisiana, among others.</p>
<p>Entergy has seen the benefits of the extra money for individual families. The company helps its low-income customers file for the annual tax credit, which is paid as a refund.</p>
<p>But the Legislature balked at increasing the credit.</p>
<p>That is a shame. More than 224,000 families in Louisiana have difficulty paying for essentials because of low wages, high housing costs, expensive health care and difficulty finding child care, according to a study released last January by the<span class="maroon"><strong> Jesuit Social Research Institute</strong></span> in Loyola University's College of Social Sciences in New Orleans.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.nola.com/politics/index.ssf/2015/12/louisiana_income_tax_credit.html#incart_m-rpt-1">MORE>></a></p>
<p>he effort to give thousands of Louisiana workers a little extra in their tax refund failed at the end of the legislative session last summer. But New Orleans Rep. Walt Leger and business and community groups pushing for an increase in the state's earned income tax credit for low-income workers will have an important ally in 2016.</p>
<p>Gov.-elect John Bel Edwards said this week that he wants to double the state's earned income tax credit as part of his legislative agenda. That is what Rep. Leger tried to do this year. He kept the measure alive until the final day of the session, when it died.</p>
<p>Louisiana's earned income tax credit is 3.5 percent of the federal tax credit, which makes it the lowest among 26 states that offer one. Rep. Leger proposed that the Legislature increase the Louisiana credit to 7 percent.</p>
<p>He had an impressive group of allies: Entergy, the United Way of Southeast Louisiana, the Louisiana Association of United Ways, the Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops, the Jesuit Social Research Institute at Loyola University and AARP Louisiana, among others.</p>
<p>Entergy has seen the benefits of the extra money for individual families. The company helps its low-income customers file for the annual tax credit, which is paid as a refund.</p>
<p>But the Legislature balked at increasing the credit.</p>
<p>That is a shame. More than 224,000 families in Louisiana have difficulty paying for essentials because of low wages, high housing costs, expensive health care and difficulty finding child care, according to a study released last January by the<span class="maroon"><strong> Jesuit Social Research Institute</strong></span> in Loyola University's College of Social Sciences in New Orleans.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.nola.com/politics/index.ssf/2015/12/louisiana_income_tax_credit.html#incart_m-rpt-1">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Canaries in the Coal Mine
News Intro Text
The deep connection between environment destruction and poverty
News Item Content
<p><strong>The deep connection between environment destruction and poverty</strong></p>
<p>by Fred Kammer, SJ </p>
<p>One of the most significant insights of Pope Francis in his May 24 encyclical on the environment—Laudato Si’—is the direct connection between environmental degradation and the plight of people who are poor. A critical look at this connection can help to unlock the message of the entire document. [1]</p>
<p>The concern of Francis for the poor and the environment is not new to papal teaching nor Catholic social concern. In his 2009 encyclical Caritas in Veritate, Pope Benedict XVI developed the theme of a “covenant between human beings and the environment” [7] [2] in which he delineated a threefold responsibility that is part of the human relationship to the environment: “a responsibility towards the poor, towards future generations, and towards humanity as a whole” [48].</p>
<p>Before Benedict, St. Pope John Paul II had made the connection in his 1990 World Day of Peace message Peace with God the Creator, Peace with All of Creation. National and regional conferences of bishops also made the same connection in the years that followed. Of course, teaching at the hierarchical level was deeply influenced by the work of local Catholics and other people of good will on issues of environment preservation and “environmental justice” (often referring to the connection of environmental degradation and its profound impact especially on poor and minority communities).</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Canaries in the Cole Mine.pdf">MORE>></a></p>
<p>by Fred Kammer, SJ </p>
<p>One of the most significant insights of Pope Francis in his May 24 encyclical on the environment—Laudato Si’—is the direct connection between environmental degradation and the plight of people who are poor. A critical look at this connection can help to unlock the message of the entire document. [1]</p>
<p>The concern of Francis for the poor and the environment is not new to papal teaching nor Catholic social concern. In his 2009 encyclical Caritas in Veritate, Pope Benedict XVI developed the theme of a “covenant between human beings and the environment” [7] [2] in which he delineated a threefold responsibility that is part of the human relationship to the environment: “a responsibility towards the poor, towards future generations, and towards humanity as a whole” [48].</p>
<p>Before Benedict, St. Pope John Paul II had made the connection in his 1990 World Day of Peace message Peace with God the Creator, Peace with All of Creation. National and regional conferences of bishops also made the same connection in the years that followed. Of course, teaching at the hierarchical level was deeply influenced by the work of local Catholics and other people of good will on issues of environment preservation and “environmental justice” (often referring to the connection of environmental degradation and its profound impact especially on poor and minority communities).</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Canaries in the Cole Mine.pdf">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Understanding CST
News Intro Text
Catholic Social Thought and the Environment
News Item Content
<p><strong>Catholic Social Thought and the Environment </strong></p>
<p>By Fred Kammer, SJ </p>
<p>Contemporary environmental consciousness in the Church received a strong kickstart with St. Pope John Paul’s 1990 World Day of Peace message Peace with God the Creator, Peace with All of Creation and in a number of statements from conferences of bishops in recent years. [1] While there had been some environmental activism from the Catholic Rural Life Conference and other grassroots Catholic groups and church leaders at the local, national, and international levels prior to 1990, it intensified in the years following.</p>
<p>A strong component of that consciousness focused on stewardship of the environment, drawing inspiration from scripture. John Paul argued that through the Genesis work mandate “to subdue the earth,” humans image their Creator and share God’s creative action, a font of deep spirituality. [2] With the Lord, we become co-creators of the earth and the ways humans have developed society over time, what we might call “creation given” and “creation enhanced.”[3]</p>
<p>In his 2008 World Day of Peace message The Human Family, A Community of Peace, Pope Benedict XVI introduced the concept of a “covenant between human beings and the environment” [7][4]. In his 2009 encyclical Caritas in Veritate, the Holy Father developed a threefold responsibility tied to the environment: “a responsibility towards the poor, towards future generations, and towards humanity as a whole” [48]. Pope Benedict, in framing the environmental concerns in terms of covenant, took a giant step from just the “stewardship model”—which positions humans over-against the rest of creation—to a more adequate approach that takes seriously the solidarity that extends beyond the human species to other forms of life and their habitats. [5]</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/CST and the Environment_0.pdf">MORE>></a></p>
<p>By Fred Kammer, SJ </p>
<p>Contemporary environmental consciousness in the Church received a strong kickstart with St. Pope John Paul’s 1990 World Day of Peace message Peace with God the Creator, Peace with All of Creation and in a number of statements from conferences of bishops in recent years. [1] While there had been some environmental activism from the Catholic Rural Life Conference and other grassroots Catholic groups and church leaders at the local, national, and international levels prior to 1990, it intensified in the years following.</p>
<p>A strong component of that consciousness focused on stewardship of the environment, drawing inspiration from scripture. John Paul argued that through the Genesis work mandate “to subdue the earth,” humans image their Creator and share God’s creative action, a font of deep spirituality. [2] With the Lord, we become co-creators of the earth and the ways humans have developed society over time, what we might call “creation given” and “creation enhanced.”[3]</p>
<p>In his 2008 World Day of Peace message The Human Family, A Community of Peace, Pope Benedict XVI introduced the concept of a “covenant between human beings and the environment” [7][4]. In his 2009 encyclical Caritas in Veritate, the Holy Father developed a threefold responsibility tied to the environment: “a responsibility towards the poor, towards future generations, and towards humanity as a whole” [48]. Pope Benedict, in framing the environmental concerns in terms of covenant, took a giant step from just the “stewardship model”—which positions humans over-against the rest of creation—to a more adequate approach that takes seriously the solidarity that extends beyond the human species to other forms of life and their habitats. [5]</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/CST and the Environment_0.pdf">MORE>></a></p>
Date
We Are Not God: No way to devise a fair death penalty
News Intro Text
An interview with A.M. Marty Stroud III
News Item Content
<p>An Interview with A.M. “Marty” Stroud III</p>
<p>By ALEX MIKULICH, PH.D.</p>
<p>Glenn Ford was released from Angola’s death row in Louisiana in 2014 after he spent 30 years there for a murder he did not commit. In a rare and unusual twist for any death penalty case, the former district attorney who prosecuted and gained Ford’s conviction in Caddo Parish in 1984 apologized to Ford in 2015, just months before Ford succumbed to cancer on June 29. Sidney Garmon, director of the Louisiana Coalition for Alternatives to the Death Penalty, and I had the privilege of interviewing A.M. “Marty” Stroud III on May 29, 2015, in his Shreveport law office. The following is an abbreviated and edited version of our conversation. A video series of the interview is available at the Jesuit Social Research Institute’s YouTube page.</p>
<p><strong>How do you view the death penalty after Glenn Ford’s release?</strong></p>
<p><strong>AMS:</strong> People say it is “the system.” Who is the system? It’s just doing your job. I was a history major in college and I have studied the Nuremburg trials. One of the big defenses [by Nazi officials] was that they were “just doing their job—just following orders.” The judges in the Nuremburg tribunal universally rejected that defense. When you are dealing with issues of life and death, saying that you are “just doing your job” is not going to cut it. That is the problem with the death penalty system now. Glenn Ford spent 30 years on death row for a crime he did not commit, and no one takes responsibility. The [Louisiana] compensation statue is written in such a way that it is obscene. Nobody is held accountable for a [man] who spent 30 years on death row. They gave him a $20 cash card when he left prison. That is where the rub is. No one seems to care.</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Mikulich.compressed.pdf">MORE>></a></p>
<p>By ALEX MIKULICH, PH.D.</p>
<p>Glenn Ford was released from Angola’s death row in Louisiana in 2014 after he spent 30 years there for a murder he did not commit. In a rare and unusual twist for any death penalty case, the former district attorney who prosecuted and gained Ford’s conviction in Caddo Parish in 1984 apologized to Ford in 2015, just months before Ford succumbed to cancer on June 29. Sidney Garmon, director of the Louisiana Coalition for Alternatives to the Death Penalty, and I had the privilege of interviewing A.M. “Marty” Stroud III on May 29, 2015, in his Shreveport law office. The following is an abbreviated and edited version of our conversation. A video series of the interview is available at the Jesuit Social Research Institute’s YouTube page.</p>
<p><strong>How do you view the death penalty after Glenn Ford’s release?</strong></p>
<p><strong>AMS:</strong> People say it is “the system.” Who is the system? It’s just doing your job. I was a history major in college and I have studied the Nuremburg trials. One of the big defenses [by Nazi officials] was that they were “just doing their job—just following orders.” The judges in the Nuremburg tribunal universally rejected that defense. When you are dealing with issues of life and death, saying that you are “just doing your job” is not going to cut it. That is the problem with the death penalty system now. Glenn Ford spent 30 years on death row for a crime he did not commit, and no one takes responsibility. The [Louisiana] compensation statue is written in such a way that it is obscene. Nobody is held accountable for a [man] who spent 30 years on death row. They gave him a $20 cash card when he left prison. That is where the rub is. No one seems to care.</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Mikulich.compressed.pdf">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Ingratitude
News Intro Text
What Ignatius had to say.
News Item Content
<p><strong>What Ignatius had to say </strong></p>
<p>by Fred Kammer, SJ </p>
<p>As we prepare to celebrate our national Thanksgiving holiday, who better to turn to than Ignatius of Loyola for a Thanksgiving insight that has both personal and public implications. Ignatius wrote this in a letter:</p>
<p>"It seems to me in the light of the Divine Goodness, although others may think differently, that ingratitude is the most abominable of sins and that it should be detested in the sight of our Creator and Lord by all of His creatures who are capable of enjoying His divine and everlasting glory. For it is a forgetting of the gracious benefits and blessings received." [1]</p>
<p>As we gather around our family tables across the country, many of us will allude to the gifts we have received as individuals and families, as well as the freedoms pledged in our nation’s foundational documents (but not yet fully realized for millions of us). We recognize that ingratitude is somehow beneath us, especially as we view the millions of the world’s refugees, those dying in Middle East wars, the dead and wounded in recent Paris attacks, and hundreds of millions without enough to eat.</p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/3posj/2db120f280a721b815d514c4e8e23b44">MORE>></a></p>
<p>by Fred Kammer, SJ </p>
<p>As we prepare to celebrate our national Thanksgiving holiday, who better to turn to than Ignatius of Loyola for a Thanksgiving insight that has both personal and public implications. Ignatius wrote this in a letter:</p>
<p>"It seems to me in the light of the Divine Goodness, although others may think differently, that ingratitude is the most abominable of sins and that it should be detested in the sight of our Creator and Lord by all of His creatures who are capable of enjoying His divine and everlasting glory. For it is a forgetting of the gracious benefits and blessings received." [1]</p>
<p>As we gather around our family tables across the country, many of us will allude to the gifts we have received as individuals and families, as well as the freedoms pledged in our nation’s foundational documents (but not yet fully realized for millions of us). We recognize that ingratitude is somehow beneath us, especially as we view the millions of the world’s refugees, those dying in Middle East wars, the dead and wounded in recent Paris attacks, and hundreds of millions without enough to eat.</p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/3posj/2db120f280a721b815d514c4e8e23b44">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Security Screening of Refugees Admitted to the United States: A Detailed, Rigorous Process
News Intro Text
Source: U.S. Committee for Refugees & Immigrants
News Item Content
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/USCRI Page 1.jpg" /></p>
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/USCRI Page 2.jpg" /></p>
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/USCRI Page 2.jpg" /></p>
Date
Migration expert says refugees will benefit Louisiana and will ‘replenish the American dream’
News Intro Text
JSRI migration specialist, Dr. Sue Weishar, spoke with WGNO on November 16, 2015.
News Item Content
<p><a href="http://wgno.com/2015/11/17/migration-expert-says-refugees-will-benefit-louisiana-and-will-replenish-the-american-dream/"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Sue WGNO.jpg" /></a></p>
Date
Fr. Kammer to Receive 2016 Roundtable Harry A. Fagan Award
News Intro Text
Please join us in congratulating JSRI Executive Director, Fr. Fred Kammer, SJ.
News Item Content
<p><span>Posted by the Roundtable Association for Catholic Social Action on November 16, 2015:</span></p>
<p><em>The Roundtable is pleased to announce the 2016 Roundtable Harry A. Fagan Award Winner Fr. Fred Kammer. Please join us January 25, 2016 at the Omni Hotel in Washington, D.C. as we honor Fr. Kammer.</em></p>
<p><em>Fred currently serves as chair of the board of the Ignatian Solidarity Network. He has also had a long association with the Jesuit Volunteer Corps as a founder of JVC:South, a leader for over 30 “Re-Orientation” retreats and now as a JVC board member. He has a strong commitment to nurturing in young people a passion for social justice. In fact, most people who meet and work with Fred would describe him as a passionate, dedicated, smart, tireless advocate for the poor and marginalized, one who has been able to stay in this work for the long haul because he is so firmly rooted in his faith and his Jesuit vocation. He has been a leader and role model for many people in the Catholic Church and in the Catholic church and health care arena for many years. He would never seek this kind of honor, but I’m sure it would mean a great deal to him to receive it at this time from peers at the Roundtable who I’m sure he admires – and who cherish the contributions he has made to their work through his writing and his witness.</em></p>
<p>Original Post can be seen <a href="https://www.facebook.com/catholicroundtablesocialaction/posts/976218669083128?fref=nf">HERE</a>. </p>
<p><em>The Roundtable is pleased to announce the 2016 Roundtable Harry A. Fagan Award Winner Fr. Fred Kammer. Please join us January 25, 2016 at the Omni Hotel in Washington, D.C. as we honor Fr. Kammer.</em></p>
<p><em>Fred currently serves as chair of the board of the Ignatian Solidarity Network. He has also had a long association with the Jesuit Volunteer Corps as a founder of JVC:South, a leader for over 30 “Re-Orientation” retreats and now as a JVC board member. He has a strong commitment to nurturing in young people a passion for social justice. In fact, most people who meet and work with Fred would describe him as a passionate, dedicated, smart, tireless advocate for the poor and marginalized, one who has been able to stay in this work for the long haul because he is so firmly rooted in his faith and his Jesuit vocation. He has been a leader and role model for many people in the Catholic Church and in the Catholic church and health care arena for many years. He would never seek this kind of honor, but I’m sure it would mean a great deal to him to receive it at this time from peers at the Roundtable who I’m sure he admires – and who cherish the contributions he has made to their work through his writing and his witness.</em></p>
<p>Original Post can be seen <a href="https://www.facebook.com/catholicroundtablesocialaction/posts/976218669083128?fref=nf">HERE</a>. </p>
Date
5 answers from a New Orleans refugee specialist
News Intro Text
Dr. Weishar spoke to the Times-Picayune about Syrian refugees and the resettlement process on 11/17/15.
News Item Content
<p>By Jed Lipinski, NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune </p>
<p>The terrorist attacks in Paris last week raised concerns that Syrian civil war refugees arriving in Louisiana pose a security threat. The Islamic State group, which controls parts of Syria, claimed responsibility for the attacks, and Gov. Bobby Jindal responded with an executive order to block Syrian refugees from Louisiana. </p>
<p>To elucidate who these refugees are, why they're coming and what happens once they get here, NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune spoke Tuesday (Nov. 17) with Sue Weishar, a migration specialist at Loyola University's Jesuit Social Research Institute. She is the former director of immigration and refugees for Catholic Charities in New Orleans, which is helping resettle Syrian refugees.</p>
<p><strong>Before a Syrian refugee arrives in Louisiana, what sort of screening process do they go through?</strong></p>
<p>Since Sept. 11, 2001, the U.S. has built up a rigorous multi-layered security system for admitting refugees into this country. It's incredibly strict and time consuming; the process takes between 18 to 24 months. If there is any concern at all that someone meets the profile of a terrorist, they are simply not included. Out of millions of refugees from Syria, there are plenty of folks to choose from. They include widowed mothers with children.</p>
<p><strong>Who are the refugees who would be arriving here?</strong></p>
<p>Many of them are likely victims of the same terror that we are so appalled by. They may be professionals targeted and tortured by ISIS for their beliefs. They are, fundamentally, victims. But the Islamic State wants us to fear Syrian refugees so that we will refuse to take them in. Of course, after the Paris attacks, people have reason to make sure the screening process refugees pass through is efficient and thorough. As the leader of the free world, however, it's our responsibility to protect victims of terror. </p>
<p><a href="http://www.nola.com/politics/index.ssf/2015/11/5_questions_for_a_new_orleans.html">MORE>></a></p>
<p>The terrorist attacks in Paris last week raised concerns that Syrian civil war refugees arriving in Louisiana pose a security threat. The Islamic State group, which controls parts of Syria, claimed responsibility for the attacks, and Gov. Bobby Jindal responded with an executive order to block Syrian refugees from Louisiana. </p>
<p>To elucidate who these refugees are, why they're coming and what happens once they get here, NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune spoke Tuesday (Nov. 17) with Sue Weishar, a migration specialist at Loyola University's Jesuit Social Research Institute. She is the former director of immigration and refugees for Catholic Charities in New Orleans, which is helping resettle Syrian refugees.</p>
<p><strong>Before a Syrian refugee arrives in Louisiana, what sort of screening process do they go through?</strong></p>
<p>Since Sept. 11, 2001, the U.S. has built up a rigorous multi-layered security system for admitting refugees into this country. It's incredibly strict and time consuming; the process takes between 18 to 24 months. If there is any concern at all that someone meets the profile of a terrorist, they are simply not included. Out of millions of refugees from Syria, there are plenty of folks to choose from. They include widowed mothers with children.</p>
<p><strong>Who are the refugees who would be arriving here?</strong></p>
<p>Many of them are likely victims of the same terror that we are so appalled by. They may be professionals targeted and tortured by ISIS for their beliefs. They are, fundamentally, victims. But the Islamic State wants us to fear Syrian refugees so that we will refuse to take them in. Of course, after the Paris attacks, people have reason to make sure the screening process refugees pass through is efficient and thorough. As the leader of the free world, however, it's our responsibility to protect victims of terror. </p>
<p><a href="http://www.nola.com/politics/index.ssf/2015/11/5_questions_for_a_new_orleans.html">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Son of Immigrants Provides Hopeful Message on Immigration
News Intro Text
Pope Francis’ Visit to U.S.
News Item Content
<h4>
Pope Francis’ Visit to U.S.</h4>
<p>by Sue Weishar, Ph.D.</p>
<p>After the “Summer of Trump,” when the immigration debate reached new lows for rancor and resentment, Pope Francis’ remarks on immigration during his six day visit last month to the U.S. were a welcomed call to compassion and solidarity. </p>
<p>He began his first speech in the United States, held at the White House on Wednesday morning, September 23, by immediately identifying himself with our nation’s immigrant past: “As the son of an immigrant family I am happy to be a guest in this country, which was largely built by such families,” adding that, “American Catholics are committed to building a society which is truly tolerant and inclusive, to safeguarding the rights of individuals and communities, and to rejecting every form of unjust discrimination.”</p>
<p>During the motorcade on Constitution Avenue following his White House visit the pope was reminded how urgent the need for a just resolution to our nation’s immigration crisis is to millions of American families. Seeing a five-year-old girl trying to get his attention, he waved her over. When she was lifted up to receive his kiss, Sophie Cruz handed the pontiff a letter she had written asking him to urge the President and Congress to pass immigration reform so her undocumented parents could remain in the U.S.</p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/ziogj/14010b8b9e1f9149c2e8e7a8e2e7188b">MORE>></a></p>
Pope Francis’ Visit to U.S.</h4>
<p>by Sue Weishar, Ph.D.</p>
<p>After the “Summer of Trump,” when the immigration debate reached new lows for rancor and resentment, Pope Francis’ remarks on immigration during his six day visit last month to the U.S. were a welcomed call to compassion and solidarity. </p>
<p>He began his first speech in the United States, held at the White House on Wednesday morning, September 23, by immediately identifying himself with our nation’s immigrant past: “As the son of an immigrant family I am happy to be a guest in this country, which was largely built by such families,” adding that, “American Catholics are committed to building a society which is truly tolerant and inclusive, to safeguarding the rights of individuals and communities, and to rejecting every form of unjust discrimination.”</p>
<p>During the motorcade on Constitution Avenue following his White House visit the pope was reminded how urgent the need for a just resolution to our nation’s immigration crisis is to millions of American families. Seeing a five-year-old girl trying to get his attention, he waved her over. When she was lifted up to receive his kiss, Sophie Cruz handed the pontiff a letter she had written asking him to urge the President and Congress to pass immigration reform so her undocumented parents could remain in the U.S.</p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/ziogj/14010b8b9e1f9149c2e8e7a8e2e7188b">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Katrina and the Least Among Us
News Intro Text
A ten year retrospective - Part 2
News Item Content
<p>by Fred Kammer, SJ</p>
<p>Public Schools. New Orleans public education “can claim the most dramatic before-and-after Katrina picture.”[1] In the 1950s and 60s, whites fled integration to private and parochial schools. Middle-class blacks followed. The pre-Katrina system was 94% African-American with 73% qualifying for free and subsidized lunches. Orleans Parish public schools ranked 67th out of 68 Louisiana districts in math and reading. 62% of students attended schools rated “failing.”[2] Corruption was widespread. </p>
<p>A state takeover beginning pre-Katrina and post-Katrina “reforms” created the new Recovery School District to oversee 57 charter schools; and left the old Orleans Parish School Board to oversee 14 charters and operate five traditional schools. (The state board of education directly authorized four additional charters, and there is one independent state school.) The state fired over 7,500 public school teachers and paraprofessionals; most were African-American. [3] </p>
<p>Preliminary results of this vast experiment show markedly better test scores and higher graduation rates and enrollment in postsecondary institutions.[4] Last year, New Orleans ranked 41st out of 69 districts.[5] Post-Katrina perceptions vary significantly: only 32% of blacks believe the mostly-charter system is better versus 44% of whites “even though precious few whites attend the public schools.”[6] </p>
<p>The state has revoked or not renewed ten charters in ten years; five charter school boards voluntarily closed their schools.[7] The greatest challenge now is how to train, certify, and keep quality teachers in schools relying significantly on young and inexperienced teachers from “alternative pathway programs such as Teach for America and TeachNOLA.” [8] Teacher racial composition has changed from 71% black pre-Katrina to 49% in 2014.[9] </p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/31p9i/707cfbbce84a194b08368a5bee8fb69b">MORE>></a></p>
<p>Public Schools. New Orleans public education “can claim the most dramatic before-and-after Katrina picture.”[1] In the 1950s and 60s, whites fled integration to private and parochial schools. Middle-class blacks followed. The pre-Katrina system was 94% African-American with 73% qualifying for free and subsidized lunches. Orleans Parish public schools ranked 67th out of 68 Louisiana districts in math and reading. 62% of students attended schools rated “failing.”[2] Corruption was widespread. </p>
<p>A state takeover beginning pre-Katrina and post-Katrina “reforms” created the new Recovery School District to oversee 57 charter schools; and left the old Orleans Parish School Board to oversee 14 charters and operate five traditional schools. (The state board of education directly authorized four additional charters, and there is one independent state school.) The state fired over 7,500 public school teachers and paraprofessionals; most were African-American. [3] </p>
<p>Preliminary results of this vast experiment show markedly better test scores and higher graduation rates and enrollment in postsecondary institutions.[4] Last year, New Orleans ranked 41st out of 69 districts.[5] Post-Katrina perceptions vary significantly: only 32% of blacks believe the mostly-charter system is better versus 44% of whites “even though precious few whites attend the public schools.”[6] </p>
<p>The state has revoked or not renewed ten charters in ten years; five charter school boards voluntarily closed their schools.[7] The greatest challenge now is how to train, certify, and keep quality teachers in schools relying significantly on young and inexperienced teachers from “alternative pathway programs such as Teach for America and TeachNOLA.” [8] Teacher racial composition has changed from 71% black pre-Katrina to 49% in 2014.[9] </p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/31p9i/707cfbbce84a194b08368a5bee8fb69b">MORE>></a></p>
Date
“A Church Without Borders”
News Intro Text
By FR. SEAN CARROLL [Politico Magazine, September 22, 2015]
News Item Content
<p>By Fr. Sean Carroll</p>
<p>Originally appeared in: Politico Magazine </p>
<p>It is not every day that you receive a letter from Pope Francis.</p>
<p>I’d written to the pope last fall asking him to visit our outreach center for recently deported migrants in Nogales, Sonora, Mexico as part of his visit to the United States. Our student volunteers at Lourdes Catholic School in Nogales, Arizona, who also wrote to the pope, hoped beyond hope that he would respond.</p>
<p>Pope Francis did not disappoint. Last January, a letter arrived from the Vatican. The man many call the Migrant Pope answered us, praising the students for their work with migrants. He said, “These young people, who have come to learn how to strive against the propagation of stereotypes, from people who only see in immigration a source of illegality, social conflict and violence, can contribute much to show the world a church without borders … a church that extends to the world a culture of solidarity and care for people and families that are affected many times by heart-rending circumstances.”</p>
<p>While Pope Francis was not able to accept our invitation to visit, he will address Congress this week — the first pontiff to do so. What will he say about immigration? That’s a question I’ve asked myself dozens of times since I received his letter.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.politico.com/magazine/story/2015/09/pope-francis-immigration">MORE>> </a></p>
<p>Originally appeared in: Politico Magazine </p>
<p>It is not every day that you receive a letter from Pope Francis.</p>
<p>I’d written to the pope last fall asking him to visit our outreach center for recently deported migrants in Nogales, Sonora, Mexico as part of his visit to the United States. Our student volunteers at Lourdes Catholic School in Nogales, Arizona, who also wrote to the pope, hoped beyond hope that he would respond.</p>
<p>Pope Francis did not disappoint. Last January, a letter arrived from the Vatican. The man many call the Migrant Pope answered us, praising the students for their work with migrants. He said, “These young people, who have come to learn how to strive against the propagation of stereotypes, from people who only see in immigration a source of illegality, social conflict and violence, can contribute much to show the world a church without borders … a church that extends to the world a culture of solidarity and care for people and families that are affected many times by heart-rending circumstances.”</p>
<p>While Pope Francis was not able to accept our invitation to visit, he will address Congress this week — the first pontiff to do so. What will he say about immigration? That’s a question I’ve asked myself dozens of times since I received his letter.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.politico.com/magazine/story/2015/09/pope-francis-immigration">MORE>> </a></p>
Date
Summer JustSouth Quarterly
News Intro Text
In this issue: "The Joys and Challenges of Family Reunification", Catholic Social Thought and Unions", Stop Locking Up Our Future: End the School-to-Prison Pipeline", "The Suffering South: Anti-Union and Poorer for it"
News Item Content
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JustSouth+Quarterly+Summer+2015.compressed.pdf"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JSQ Summer 2015.jpg" /></a></p>
Date
Facts for Features: Katrina Impact
News Intro Text
[The Data Center, August 28, 2015]
News Item Content
<p>Allison Plyer, The Data Center</p>
<p>Published: Aug 28, 2015</p>
<div>
</div>
<p>NEW ORLEANS – August 12‚ 2015 – As we approach the 10th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, people around the world will reflect on the devastating impact that the storm and subsequent levee failures had on New Orleans and the entire Gulf Coast region.</p>
<p><strong>Flooding.</strong> When the levees protecting New Orleans failed in August 2005, approximately 80 percent of the city was flooded. The business district and main tourist centers were relatively undamaged, but vast expanses of many New Orleans neighborhoods were inundated, making Katrina the largest residential disaster in U.S. history. The extent of damage varied greatly from one part of town to another. Some areas received one foot of flooding while others were submerged by more than 10 feet of water.</p>
<p><strong>Deaths. </strong>Hurricane Katrina and the levee failures resulted in the deaths of at least 986 Louisiana residents. The major causes of death include: drowning (40%), injury and trauma (25%), and heart conditions (11%). Nearly half of all victims were over the age of 74.</p>
<p><strong>Displaced residents</strong>. The storm displaced more than a million people in the Gulf Coast region. Many people returned home within days, but up to 600,000 households were still displaced a month later. At their peak, hurricane evacuee shelters housed 273,000 people and, later, FEMA trailers housed at least 114,000 households.</p>
<p><strong>Population decrease.</strong> The population of New Orleans fell from 484,674 before Katrina (April 2000) to an estimated 230,172 after Katrina (July 2006) — a decrease of 254,502 people and a loss of over half of the city’s population.(1) By July of 2014, the population was back up to 384,320 — 79% of what it was in 2000.</p>
<p><strong>Housing damage.</strong> Katrina damaged more than a million housing units in the Gulf Coast region. About half of these damaged units were located in Louisiana. In New Orleans alone, 134,000 housing units — 70% of all occupied units — suffered damage from Hurricane Katrina and the subsequent flooding.</p>
<p><strong>Total damages</strong>. The total damages from Hurricanes Katrina and Rita were $150 billion — $135 billion from Katrina and $15 billion from Rita.(2)</p>
<p><strong>Recovery funding.</strong> Of the $120.5 billion in federal spending, the majority — approximately $75 billion — went to emergency relief, not rebuilding. Philanthropic giving, while more than double the giving for either the 2004 South Asian Tsunami or 9/11, was only $6.5 billion. Meanwhile, private insurance claims covered less than $30 billion of the losses.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.datacenterresearch.org/data-resources/katrina/facts-for-impact/">MORE>></a></p>
<div>
</div>
<p>Published: Aug 28, 2015</p>
<div>
</div>
<p>NEW ORLEANS – August 12‚ 2015 – As we approach the 10th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, people around the world will reflect on the devastating impact that the storm and subsequent levee failures had on New Orleans and the entire Gulf Coast region.</p>
<p><strong>Flooding.</strong> When the levees protecting New Orleans failed in August 2005, approximately 80 percent of the city was flooded. The business district and main tourist centers were relatively undamaged, but vast expanses of many New Orleans neighborhoods were inundated, making Katrina the largest residential disaster in U.S. history. The extent of damage varied greatly from one part of town to another. Some areas received one foot of flooding while others were submerged by more than 10 feet of water.</p>
<p><strong>Deaths. </strong>Hurricane Katrina and the levee failures resulted in the deaths of at least 986 Louisiana residents. The major causes of death include: drowning (40%), injury and trauma (25%), and heart conditions (11%). Nearly half of all victims were over the age of 74.</p>
<p><strong>Displaced residents</strong>. The storm displaced more than a million people in the Gulf Coast region. Many people returned home within days, but up to 600,000 households were still displaced a month later. At their peak, hurricane evacuee shelters housed 273,000 people and, later, FEMA trailers housed at least 114,000 households.</p>
<p><strong>Population decrease.</strong> The population of New Orleans fell from 484,674 before Katrina (April 2000) to an estimated 230,172 after Katrina (July 2006) — a decrease of 254,502 people and a loss of over half of the city’s population.(1) By July of 2014, the population was back up to 384,320 — 79% of what it was in 2000.</p>
<p><strong>Housing damage.</strong> Katrina damaged more than a million housing units in the Gulf Coast region. About half of these damaged units were located in Louisiana. In New Orleans alone, 134,000 housing units — 70% of all occupied units — suffered damage from Hurricane Katrina and the subsequent flooding.</p>
<p><strong>Total damages</strong>. The total damages from Hurricanes Katrina and Rita were $150 billion — $135 billion from Katrina and $15 billion from Rita.(2)</p>
<p><strong>Recovery funding.</strong> Of the $120.5 billion in federal spending, the majority — approximately $75 billion — went to emergency relief, not rebuilding. Philanthropic giving, while more than double the giving for either the 2004 South Asian Tsunami or 9/11, was only $6.5 billion. Meanwhile, private insurance claims covered less than $30 billion of the losses.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.datacenterresearch.org/data-resources/katrina/facts-for-impact/">MORE>></a></p>
<div>
</div>
Date
New Orleans 10 Years After Katrina: An Interview with Fred Kammer, S.J.
News Intro Text
America Magazine, August 29, 2015
News Item Content
<p>Sean Salai, S.J. | Aug 29 2015 | America Magazine </p>
<p>Fred Kammer, S.J., is a lawyer who directs the Jesuit Social Research Institute at Loyola University New Orleans. A New Orleans native and former Jesuit provincial superior in that city when Hurricane Katrina struck, Father Kammer holds a J.D. from Yale University, an M.Div from Loyola University Chicago, and B.A. from Spring Hill College. From 1992 to 2001, he was the President and CEO of Catholic Charities USA, the nation's largest voluntary social services provider. He also served as a policy adviser on health and welfare issues to the U.S. Catholic bishops from 1990 to 1992.</p>
<p>Father Kammer is author of “Doing Faithjustice: An Introduction to Catholic Social Thought” (Paulist Press; third printing, 2005), “Salted with Fire: Spirituality for the Faithjustice Journey” (Paulist Press, 1995), and “Faith. Works. Wonders.—An Insider's Guide to Catholic Charities” (2009, Wipf and Stock Publishers) in addition to the research and writing he does as a Catholic lobbyist on social issues. He also works as a retreat director and sits on the board of the Ignatian Solidarity Network.</p>
<p>Today, Aug. 29, is the tenth anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. On Aug. 28, I interviewed Father Kammer by telephone about his perspective on how the city has fared in these past ten years. The following transcript has been edited for content and length.</p>
<p><strong>What has changed in New Orleans over the past ten years since Hurricane Katrina devastated the city?</strong></p>
<p>There have been improvements in the criminal justice system. There’s an enormous experiment going on in public schools, with almost all of our public school students now in charter schools. There has been a major change in public housing, where we’ve torn down major housing projects which were there for decades and put back mixed-use housing complexes in their place. In the process, of course, we’ve destroyed more available housing for low-income families.</p>
<p>Demographically, the city is a hundred thousand people smaller. There has been a major investment in rebuilding the levees and rebuilding them better. A number of entrepreneurs have come to the city to do new things; for example, there are more restaurants in New Orleans than there were before Katrina, if you can believe it. There have been a whole array of public prosecutions of politicians which really started before Katrina. Over the last 15 years there have been a number of prosecutions of politicians—both black and white, state and local—who have been indicted, convicted, or pleaded guilty. We’ve had an enormous influx of Latino workers who came to rebuild the city and stayed, doubling our Hispanic population. And right now, in fact, there is construction occurring on many of the major cross-streets because there is still a couple billion dollars of infrastructure money that has not been spent yet. On Aug. 1, we opened a new hospital—the University Medical Center of New Orleans—to replace the old Charity Hospital that served the poor from the 1930s until it was destroyed in the storm.</p>
<p>Also, an enormous amount of private houses have been rebuilt and there’s much less available rental housing. Katrina destroyed about one-half of the available rental housing in New Orleans. Those are just some of the changes.</p>
<p><strong>What has stayed the same in New Orleans?</strong></p>
<p>While the numbers have changed, the percentages in terms of poverty have changed and even worsened. The number of children living in poverty before Katrina was 38 percent and that’s now 39 percent. And the income gap between white families and black families has widened. I would say that the racial perceptions of how things are going, between the white community and the black community, were different before Katrina and have remained different. According to various surveys, these perceptions of the city’s well-being diverge over the future of youth and the status of public schools. So the perceptions among the white and black population continue to be starkly different.</p>
<p>And the state of Louisiana has still failed to make a significant investment in wetlands. We continue to lose an enormous amount of our wetlands every day and every year, which is eroding away the city’s protection against future storms.</p>
<p><strong>What can you tell us about poverty and jobs in the city right now?</strong></p>
<p>The median household income between white and black has continued to grow in difference. Over the years since Katrina, white household income has grown by 22 percent and black household income has grown about 7 percent. And that continues the divide between white and black households, judging by median family income, and that’s despite the fact that we’ve spent an enormous amount of money statewide on Katrina recovery.</p>
<p><a href="http://americamagazine.org/content/all-things/new-orleans-10-years-after-katrina-interview-fred-kammer-sj">MORE>></a></p>
<p>Fred Kammer, S.J., is a lawyer who directs the Jesuit Social Research Institute at Loyola University New Orleans. A New Orleans native and former Jesuit provincial superior in that city when Hurricane Katrina struck, Father Kammer holds a J.D. from Yale University, an M.Div from Loyola University Chicago, and B.A. from Spring Hill College. From 1992 to 2001, he was the President and CEO of Catholic Charities USA, the nation's largest voluntary social services provider. He also served as a policy adviser on health and welfare issues to the U.S. Catholic bishops from 1990 to 1992.</p>
<p>Father Kammer is author of “Doing Faithjustice: An Introduction to Catholic Social Thought” (Paulist Press; third printing, 2005), “Salted with Fire: Spirituality for the Faithjustice Journey” (Paulist Press, 1995), and “Faith. Works. Wonders.—An Insider's Guide to Catholic Charities” (2009, Wipf and Stock Publishers) in addition to the research and writing he does as a Catholic lobbyist on social issues. He also works as a retreat director and sits on the board of the Ignatian Solidarity Network.</p>
<p>Today, Aug. 29, is the tenth anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. On Aug. 28, I interviewed Father Kammer by telephone about his perspective on how the city has fared in these past ten years. The following transcript has been edited for content and length.</p>
<p><strong>What has changed in New Orleans over the past ten years since Hurricane Katrina devastated the city?</strong></p>
<p>There have been improvements in the criminal justice system. There’s an enormous experiment going on in public schools, with almost all of our public school students now in charter schools. There has been a major change in public housing, where we’ve torn down major housing projects which were there for decades and put back mixed-use housing complexes in their place. In the process, of course, we’ve destroyed more available housing for low-income families.</p>
<p>Demographically, the city is a hundred thousand people smaller. There has been a major investment in rebuilding the levees and rebuilding them better. A number of entrepreneurs have come to the city to do new things; for example, there are more restaurants in New Orleans than there were before Katrina, if you can believe it. There have been a whole array of public prosecutions of politicians which really started before Katrina. Over the last 15 years there have been a number of prosecutions of politicians—both black and white, state and local—who have been indicted, convicted, or pleaded guilty. We’ve had an enormous influx of Latino workers who came to rebuild the city and stayed, doubling our Hispanic population. And right now, in fact, there is construction occurring on many of the major cross-streets because there is still a couple billion dollars of infrastructure money that has not been spent yet. On Aug. 1, we opened a new hospital—the University Medical Center of New Orleans—to replace the old Charity Hospital that served the poor from the 1930s until it was destroyed in the storm.</p>
<p>Also, an enormous amount of private houses have been rebuilt and there’s much less available rental housing. Katrina destroyed about one-half of the available rental housing in New Orleans. Those are just some of the changes.</p>
<p><strong>What has stayed the same in New Orleans?</strong></p>
<p>While the numbers have changed, the percentages in terms of poverty have changed and even worsened. The number of children living in poverty before Katrina was 38 percent and that’s now 39 percent. And the income gap between white families and black families has widened. I would say that the racial perceptions of how things are going, between the white community and the black community, were different before Katrina and have remained different. According to various surveys, these perceptions of the city’s well-being diverge over the future of youth and the status of public schools. So the perceptions among the white and black population continue to be starkly different.</p>
<p>And the state of Louisiana has still failed to make a significant investment in wetlands. We continue to lose an enormous amount of our wetlands every day and every year, which is eroding away the city’s protection against future storms.</p>
<p><strong>What can you tell us about poverty and jobs in the city right now?</strong></p>
<p>The median household income between white and black has continued to grow in difference. Over the years since Katrina, white household income has grown by 22 percent and black household income has grown about 7 percent. And that continues the divide between white and black households, judging by median family income, and that’s despite the fact that we’ve spent an enormous amount of money statewide on Katrina recovery.</p>
<p><a href="http://americamagazine.org/content/all-things/new-orleans-10-years-after-katrina-interview-fred-kammer-sj">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Facts of Features: Katrina Recovery
News Intro Text
[The Data Center, August 28, 2015]
News Item Content
<p>Allison Plyer, The Data Center</p>
<p>Published: Aug 28, 2015</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>New Orleans is a smaller city but continues to grow nearly ten years after Katrina.</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>
As of July 2014, the U.S. Census Bureau has estimated New Orleans’ population at 384,320, or 79 percent of its 2000 population of 484,674. The metro area, with 1,251,849 residents, has 94 percent of its 2000 population of 1,337,726.1</li>
<li>
According to the Census Bureau, the population of New Orleans and the metro area grew by 5,314 people and 9,900 people, respectively, between July 2013 and July 2014.</li>
<li>
As of June 2015, Valassis, Inc. data on households receiving mail indicates that more than half (40) of New Orleans’ 72 neighborhoods have recovered 90 percent of their June 2005 population, and 16 neighborhoods have more population than they did in June 2005.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Metro New Orleans is taking the first steps toward a new path, with signs of a more competitive economy and expanded amenities.</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>
New Orleans’ sales tax revenue for Jan-May 2015 was 29 percent higher than for the same months in 2005 pre-Katrina (despite the city’s smaller population today), and 49 percent higher than in 2009 at the depth of the Great Recession.2</li>
<li>
Metro New Orleans has rebounded from the Great Recession impressively. As of 2014, metro New Orleans had reached 5 percent above its 2008 recession-era employment level while the nation had reached just 1 percent above its 2008 job level.</li>
<li>
Entrepreneurship in metro New Orleans at 471 business startups per 100,000 adults in the three-year period ending in 2013 exceeds the nation by 64 percent.</li>
<li>
Bikeways and trails (including shared lanes) are growing exponentially in New Orleans. As of 2014, the city had 92.4 miles of bikeways as compared to the 10.7 miles that existed in 2004.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.datacenterresearch.org/data-resources/katrina/facts-for-features-katrina-recovery/">MORE>></a></p>
<p>Published: Aug 28, 2015</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>New Orleans is a smaller city but continues to grow nearly ten years after Katrina.</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>
As of July 2014, the U.S. Census Bureau has estimated New Orleans’ population at 384,320, or 79 percent of its 2000 population of 484,674. The metro area, with 1,251,849 residents, has 94 percent of its 2000 population of 1,337,726.1</li>
<li>
According to the Census Bureau, the population of New Orleans and the metro area grew by 5,314 people and 9,900 people, respectively, between July 2013 and July 2014.</li>
<li>
As of June 2015, Valassis, Inc. data on households receiving mail indicates that more than half (40) of New Orleans’ 72 neighborhoods have recovered 90 percent of their June 2005 population, and 16 neighborhoods have more population than they did in June 2005.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Metro New Orleans is taking the first steps toward a new path, with signs of a more competitive economy and expanded amenities.</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>
New Orleans’ sales tax revenue for Jan-May 2015 was 29 percent higher than for the same months in 2005 pre-Katrina (despite the city’s smaller population today), and 49 percent higher than in 2009 at the depth of the Great Recession.2</li>
<li>
Metro New Orleans has rebounded from the Great Recession impressively. As of 2014, metro New Orleans had reached 5 percent above its 2008 recession-era employment level while the nation had reached just 1 percent above its 2008 job level.</li>
<li>
Entrepreneurship in metro New Orleans at 471 business startups per 100,000 adults in the three-year period ending in 2013 exceeds the nation by 64 percent.</li>
<li>
Bikeways and trails (including shared lanes) are growing exponentially in New Orleans. As of 2014, the city had 92.4 miles of bikeways as compared to the 10.7 miles that existed in 2004.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.datacenterresearch.org/data-resources/katrina/facts-for-features-katrina-recovery/">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Katrina and the Least Among Us
News Intro Text
A ten year retrospective- Part 1
News Item Content
<p><strong>A ten year retrospective - Part 1</strong></p>
<p>by Fred Kammer, SJ</p>
<p>Katrina’s tenth anniversary (August 29th) brings many important stories about levees, wetlands, demography, entrepreneurs, venture capital, corruption convictions, and resiliency. JSRI’s interests and Gospel focus on the “least among us” cause us to examine in this issue what happened—or not—in terms of poverty, housing availability, and criminal justice. Next month we focus on public schools, health care, and new immigrants. The picture, like much of the past ten years, is a blend of good and bad, success and failure.</p>
<p>Poverty and Jobs. In brief, the income gap has widened, and New Orleans ranks second in income inequality among 300 U.S. cities.[1] Poverty is entrenched, and the percent of children living in poverty in New Orleans, 38% in 2005, has risen to 39%.[2] The racial income divide continues growing: white median household income in metro New Orleans, on a par with households nationwide, grew by 22% between 2005 and 2013 to $60,553. That was three times the 7% growth rate of black median households (to $25,102).[3] The disparity in 2013 incomes between white and black households was 54%, compared to 40% nationally.[4] This worsened despite $71 billion dollars received by the State of Louisiana for rebuilding. Closely tied was the fact that employment rates for white men in metro New Orleans was 77%, compared with 57% for black men.</p>
<p>Housing Affordability. According to an August 11th report from the New Orleans Metropolitan Association of Realtors, average New Orleans home prices climbed an amazing 46% since Katrina. (Increases in Jefferson Parish increased only 1%.)[5] For renters, the median gross New Orleans rents grew from $698 to $925 between 2004 and 2013.[6] One-bedroom apartment rents rose 33% and two-bedrooms by 41%. A key driver of inflated costs are estimates that Katrina destroyed over half of the region’s rental housing.[7] </p>
<p>In addition, public housing authorities took the opportunity to replace concentrated public housing complexes, even those untouched by Katrina, with mixed income apartments. However, the result is that there are 3,221 fewer low-income public housing apartments in the city.[8] In Orleans Parish, the percentage of those paying more than 50% of their income on rent and utilities—those termed “severely cost-burdened renters”—rose from 24% to 37% between 2004 and 2013. It should be no surprise, then, that the share of the metro poor living outside New Orleans has expanded from 46% in 1999 to 58% by 2013.[9] Even those with Housing Choice Vouchers, which tripled in number in Orleans Parish between 2000 and 2010, often found themselves consigned to high-poverty, low-opportunity neighborhoods by “discrimination against voucher users and differential access to rental housing opportunities generally on the basis of race.”[10] In 2010, 90% of voucher users in metro New Orleans were black.[11]</p>
<p>Criminal Justice. Before Katrina, New Orleans led the nation and the world in incarceration—more than five times the national average in 2005.[12] Since then, two consent decrees are forcing reform in the police department and the jail; an Inspector General’s office is holding criminal justice officials to account; our first independent Police Monitor was created; and constructing a new, smaller, and improved jail—holding two-thirds fewer people already—is the result of ongoing efforts by community members and local officials.[13] Violent crime is actually down in New Orleans by 17% since 2004, but the decrease has been less than that of the nation at 21%.[14] Innovation across the criminal justice system has started, but comprehensive cultural change needs strong leadership from city and system officials for years to come.[15] Orleans Parish still incarcerates at a rate twice that of the nation.[16]</p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/ze13i/3b0e69ffca0111b3799baad88a1c0526">MORE>></a></p>
<p>by Fred Kammer, SJ</p>
<p>Katrina’s tenth anniversary (August 29th) brings many important stories about levees, wetlands, demography, entrepreneurs, venture capital, corruption convictions, and resiliency. JSRI’s interests and Gospel focus on the “least among us” cause us to examine in this issue what happened—or not—in terms of poverty, housing availability, and criminal justice. Next month we focus on public schools, health care, and new immigrants. The picture, like much of the past ten years, is a blend of good and bad, success and failure.</p>
<p>Poverty and Jobs. In brief, the income gap has widened, and New Orleans ranks second in income inequality among 300 U.S. cities.[1] Poverty is entrenched, and the percent of children living in poverty in New Orleans, 38% in 2005, has risen to 39%.[2] The racial income divide continues growing: white median household income in metro New Orleans, on a par with households nationwide, grew by 22% between 2005 and 2013 to $60,553. That was three times the 7% growth rate of black median households (to $25,102).[3] The disparity in 2013 incomes between white and black households was 54%, compared to 40% nationally.[4] This worsened despite $71 billion dollars received by the State of Louisiana for rebuilding. Closely tied was the fact that employment rates for white men in metro New Orleans was 77%, compared with 57% for black men.</p>
<p>Housing Affordability. According to an August 11th report from the New Orleans Metropolitan Association of Realtors, average New Orleans home prices climbed an amazing 46% since Katrina. (Increases in Jefferson Parish increased only 1%.)[5] For renters, the median gross New Orleans rents grew from $698 to $925 between 2004 and 2013.[6] One-bedroom apartment rents rose 33% and two-bedrooms by 41%. A key driver of inflated costs are estimates that Katrina destroyed over half of the region’s rental housing.[7] </p>
<p>In addition, public housing authorities took the opportunity to replace concentrated public housing complexes, even those untouched by Katrina, with mixed income apartments. However, the result is that there are 3,221 fewer low-income public housing apartments in the city.[8] In Orleans Parish, the percentage of those paying more than 50% of their income on rent and utilities—those termed “severely cost-burdened renters”—rose from 24% to 37% between 2004 and 2013. It should be no surprise, then, that the share of the metro poor living outside New Orleans has expanded from 46% in 1999 to 58% by 2013.[9] Even those with Housing Choice Vouchers, which tripled in number in Orleans Parish between 2000 and 2010, often found themselves consigned to high-poverty, low-opportunity neighborhoods by “discrimination against voucher users and differential access to rental housing opportunities generally on the basis of race.”[10] In 2010, 90% of voucher users in metro New Orleans were black.[11]</p>
<p>Criminal Justice. Before Katrina, New Orleans led the nation and the world in incarceration—more than five times the national average in 2005.[12] Since then, two consent decrees are forcing reform in the police department and the jail; an Inspector General’s office is holding criminal justice officials to account; our first independent Police Monitor was created; and constructing a new, smaller, and improved jail—holding two-thirds fewer people already—is the result of ongoing efforts by community members and local officials.[13] Violent crime is actually down in New Orleans by 17% since 2004, but the decrease has been less than that of the nation at 21%.[14] Innovation across the criminal justice system has started, but comprehensive cultural change needs strong leadership from city and system officials for years to come.[15] Orleans Parish still incarcerates at a rate twice that of the nation.[16]</p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/ze13i/3b0e69ffca0111b3799baad88a1c0526">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Labor Day Statement
News Intro Text
United States Conference of Catholic Bishops
News Item Content
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Labor day 1.jpg" /></p>
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Labor day 2.jpg" /></p>
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Labor day 2.jpg" /></p>
Date
Katrina Immigrant Workers and Katrina Homeowners Press Conference and Rally for Immigration Reform
News Intro Text
Friday, August 28th at 12 noon on the Loyola Front Lawn.
News Item Content
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/rally.jpg" /></p>
Date
JSRI to Sponsor BIG CHARITY Screening and Discussion
News Intro Text
Wednesday, September 2 at 7:00 PM in Nunemaker Auditorium (Monroe Hall)
News Item Content
<p> </p>
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/big charity website.jpg" /></p>
<p>Watch full trailer <a href="http://www.bigcharityfilm.com/">HERE</a></p>
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/big charity website.jpg" /></p>
<p>Watch full trailer <a href="http://www.bigcharityfilm.com/">HERE</a></p>
Date
One life, one love: The Earth and black lives matter
News Intro Text
[Alex Mikulich, Ph.D., August 3, 2015]
News Item Content
<p>Alex Mikulich | Aug. 3, 2015</p>
<p>Pope Francis develops the key theme of “integral ecology” in his encyclical “Laudato Si’, on Care for Our Common Home.” Integral ecology links the largest theological themes of the Catholic tradition -- that we are all intimately one in God’s being -- with the nitty-gritty of loving our neighbor and caring for the smallest and most vulnerable creatures.</p>
<p>God lures us into a dance with each and every one of us together with the whole of creation. We all share one life, one Earth. One cannot and will not thrive unless all thrive in the interdependent web of life.</p>
<p>And yet, in the wake of the brutal murder of nine members of the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, S.C., do we perceive the intimate connections between care for the whole of creation and black lives?</p>
<p>Our African-American brothers and sisters can’t breathe (Eric Garner), can’t eat skittles or wear a hoodie (Trayvon Martin), can’t play loud music (Jordan Davis), can’t play as a child in a park (Tamir Rice), can’t seek help after an accident (Renisha McBride), can’t walk to a store with a friend (Rekia Boyd), and can’t pray in their own church (Cynthia Hurd, the Rev. Clementa Pinckney, Sharonda Coleman-Singleton, Tywanza Sanders, Ethel Lee Lance, Susie Jackson, the Rev. DePayne Middleton-Doctor, the Rev. Daniel Lee Simmons and Myra Thompson).</p>
<p>As Claudia Rankine in The New York Times said a black mother told her, “The condition of black life is one of mourning.” That is perpetual mourning. If predominantly white churches value black lives, we would share in that mourning, not in passing, but as brothers and sisters bound by an integral life in Christ.</p>
<p>Pinckney and eight members of his congregation at Emanuel AME Church welcomed Dylann Roof as one of their own. Two things about the witness of these nine church members haunt theologian Willie James Jennings. First, Jennings is haunted by the fact that Roof was present “in the intimate space of that bible study, sitting there at a table with these saints of God who were seeking to hear a holy word just for them, just for this moment. I would feel less pain if he would have simply walked into church and started shooting; then I could live with the fact that this young man did not … give God’s voice the chance to penetrate his contorted heart.”</p>
<p>The problem is that Roof “did hear the sound of grace and communion. God’s voice was sounding in Emmanuel. He simply resisted it.”</p>
<p>Jennings further elucidates how Roof “showed us the deaf ear of those seeking whiteness, a deafness that reaches deep into the soul and thwarts the power of God’s love.”</p>
<p>Second, Jennings is haunted by the forgiveness that the families of the victims offered Roof. He cites the granddaughter of the Rev. Daniel Lee Simmons, Alana Simmons, who said, “We are here to combat hate-filled actions with love-filled actions.”</p>
<p>Jennings struggles to understand how black folks are called upon throughout the centuries “in tortuous repetition to forgive those who kill us, and we do it. The only way I can fathom this grace of forgiveness is if the very life of God flows through people like these black families.”</p>
<p>Yet Jennings struggles with the way forgiveness is interpreted. Too often, it is used to avoid dealing with whiteness and the “state of war” it creates in America. Forgiveness can be a “soothing high” that does not address the lie that is white supremacy.</p>
<p>White Christians ought to be haunted, too. Now and too many times in the past, white people disassociate ourselves from the depth of connection we have with white people who foment racial terror.</p>
<p>We ought not dismiss Roof as a lunatic. Yet we do. As we disassociate ourselves from this American son and the way he was malformed, we lose the opportunity to examine our own malformation and the conversion to which we are called in this kairotic moment.</p>
<p>This is a kairos moment, when Pope Francis and the #BlackLivesMatter movement call us to personal and cultural transformation.</p>
<p>If we are going to take up the cultural transformation the pope invites, it will mean confronting how white supremacy is a form of “tyrannical anthropocentrism” that divides us from one another and the Earth. By “tyrannical anthropocentrism,” Francis means every “irresponsible domination of human beings over other creatures.”</p>
<p>The Atlantic slave trade initiated a tyrannical anthropocentrism, in which whiteness equates with innocence and blackness with savagery. The slave trade deified ownership of both people and land. W.E.B. Du Bois captured that deification when he wrote: “Whiteness is the ownership of the earth forever and ever, Amen!”</p>
<p>The disproportionate negative impacts of environmental degradation on communities of color exposes, as theologian Shawnee M. Daniels-Sykes explains, the overlapping interconnections between environmental racism and lack of care for black lives lost to gun violence.</p>
<p>Do we hear the cries of the earth and of our brothers and sisters at the Emanuel AME Church? Their cries evoke God’s cry, ever groaning with the whole of creation for loving embrace and justice.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://ncronline.org/news/politics/one-life-one-love-earth-and-black-lives-matter">More>></a></p>
<p>Pope Francis develops the key theme of “integral ecology” in his encyclical “Laudato Si’, on Care for Our Common Home.” Integral ecology links the largest theological themes of the Catholic tradition -- that we are all intimately one in God’s being -- with the nitty-gritty of loving our neighbor and caring for the smallest and most vulnerable creatures.</p>
<p>God lures us into a dance with each and every one of us together with the whole of creation. We all share one life, one Earth. One cannot and will not thrive unless all thrive in the interdependent web of life.</p>
<p>And yet, in the wake of the brutal murder of nine members of the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, S.C., do we perceive the intimate connections between care for the whole of creation and black lives?</p>
<p>Our African-American brothers and sisters can’t breathe (Eric Garner), can’t eat skittles or wear a hoodie (Trayvon Martin), can’t play loud music (Jordan Davis), can’t play as a child in a park (Tamir Rice), can’t seek help after an accident (Renisha McBride), can’t walk to a store with a friend (Rekia Boyd), and can’t pray in their own church (Cynthia Hurd, the Rev. Clementa Pinckney, Sharonda Coleman-Singleton, Tywanza Sanders, Ethel Lee Lance, Susie Jackson, the Rev. DePayne Middleton-Doctor, the Rev. Daniel Lee Simmons and Myra Thompson).</p>
<p>As Claudia Rankine in The New York Times said a black mother told her, “The condition of black life is one of mourning.” That is perpetual mourning. If predominantly white churches value black lives, we would share in that mourning, not in passing, but as brothers and sisters bound by an integral life in Christ.</p>
<p>Pinckney and eight members of his congregation at Emanuel AME Church welcomed Dylann Roof as one of their own. Two things about the witness of these nine church members haunt theologian Willie James Jennings. First, Jennings is haunted by the fact that Roof was present “in the intimate space of that bible study, sitting there at a table with these saints of God who were seeking to hear a holy word just for them, just for this moment. I would feel less pain if he would have simply walked into church and started shooting; then I could live with the fact that this young man did not … give God’s voice the chance to penetrate his contorted heart.”</p>
<p>The problem is that Roof “did hear the sound of grace and communion. God’s voice was sounding in Emmanuel. He simply resisted it.”</p>
<p>Jennings further elucidates how Roof “showed us the deaf ear of those seeking whiteness, a deafness that reaches deep into the soul and thwarts the power of God’s love.”</p>
<p>Second, Jennings is haunted by the forgiveness that the families of the victims offered Roof. He cites the granddaughter of the Rev. Daniel Lee Simmons, Alana Simmons, who said, “We are here to combat hate-filled actions with love-filled actions.”</p>
<p>Jennings struggles to understand how black folks are called upon throughout the centuries “in tortuous repetition to forgive those who kill us, and we do it. The only way I can fathom this grace of forgiveness is if the very life of God flows through people like these black families.”</p>
<p>Yet Jennings struggles with the way forgiveness is interpreted. Too often, it is used to avoid dealing with whiteness and the “state of war” it creates in America. Forgiveness can be a “soothing high” that does not address the lie that is white supremacy.</p>
<p>White Christians ought to be haunted, too. Now and too many times in the past, white people disassociate ourselves from the depth of connection we have with white people who foment racial terror.</p>
<p>We ought not dismiss Roof as a lunatic. Yet we do. As we disassociate ourselves from this American son and the way he was malformed, we lose the opportunity to examine our own malformation and the conversion to which we are called in this kairotic moment.</p>
<p>This is a kairos moment, when Pope Francis and the #BlackLivesMatter movement call us to personal and cultural transformation.</p>
<p>If we are going to take up the cultural transformation the pope invites, it will mean confronting how white supremacy is a form of “tyrannical anthropocentrism” that divides us from one another and the Earth. By “tyrannical anthropocentrism,” Francis means every “irresponsible domination of human beings over other creatures.”</p>
<p>The Atlantic slave trade initiated a tyrannical anthropocentrism, in which whiteness equates with innocence and blackness with savagery. The slave trade deified ownership of both people and land. W.E.B. Du Bois captured that deification when he wrote: “Whiteness is the ownership of the earth forever and ever, Amen!”</p>
<p>The disproportionate negative impacts of environmental degradation on communities of color exposes, as theologian Shawnee M. Daniels-Sykes explains, the overlapping interconnections between environmental racism and lack of care for black lives lost to gun violence.</p>
<p>Do we hear the cries of the earth and of our brothers and sisters at the Emanuel AME Church? Their cries evoke God’s cry, ever groaning with the whole of creation for loving embrace and justice.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://ncronline.org/news/politics/one-life-one-love-earth-and-black-lives-matter">More>></a></p>
Date
Bread or Stones?
News Intro Text
Louisiana congregations challenge child poverty
News Item Content
<h4>
Louisiana congregations challenge child poverty </h4>
<p>by Alí Bustamante </p>
<p>Recently the Annie E. Casey Foundation updated its Kids Count Data Book, which measures and ranks the wellbeing of children across the U.S. Louisiana ranked 48th among the 50 states in overall childhood wellbeing, the state’s lowest ranking since the Kids Count rankings began in 2012. Only New Mexico and Mississippi ranked lower than Louisiana this year, 49th and 50th respectively. The rest of the Gulf South also performed poorly, Alabama ranked 45th, Texas 41st, and Florida 37th.</p>
<p>The low Kids Count ranking speaks to how poorly legislators, policymakers, and communities in the Gulf South are addressing the economic wellbeing, education, health, and family and community wellbeing of the region’s 13.9 million children. However, the low ranking is nothing new to Louisiana and the rest of the Gulf South. Since 2012, Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas have ranked among the ten lowest performing states in the country every year. Florida achieved its highest ranking of 37th this year.</p>
<p>The Gulf South states lag the rest of the country in most of the 16 social and economic indicators that comprise the Kids Count childhood wellbeing rankings. Among these are: childhood poverty, low-birthweight babies, children whose parents lack secure employment, children without health insurance, children in single-parent families, fourth graders not proficient in reading, high school students not graduating on time, and, rate of teens not in school and not working. </p>
<p>Despite continuous reporting on children’s wellbeing by the Annie E. Casey Foundation and other governmental and non-governmental sources the Gulf South has found significant improvement elusive. Only Florida and Texas have made modest gains in their rankings while performance has declined for Alabama and Louisiana. Mississippi is the lowest performer in the country for the third time in the past four years.</p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/bklwi/f9edf0f554a2d86f07ff178dd0a6ee44">MORE>></a></p>
Louisiana congregations challenge child poverty </h4>
<p>by Alí Bustamante </p>
<p>Recently the Annie E. Casey Foundation updated its Kids Count Data Book, which measures and ranks the wellbeing of children across the U.S. Louisiana ranked 48th among the 50 states in overall childhood wellbeing, the state’s lowest ranking since the Kids Count rankings began in 2012. Only New Mexico and Mississippi ranked lower than Louisiana this year, 49th and 50th respectively. The rest of the Gulf South also performed poorly, Alabama ranked 45th, Texas 41st, and Florida 37th.</p>
<p>The low Kids Count ranking speaks to how poorly legislators, policymakers, and communities in the Gulf South are addressing the economic wellbeing, education, health, and family and community wellbeing of the region’s 13.9 million children. However, the low ranking is nothing new to Louisiana and the rest of the Gulf South. Since 2012, Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas have ranked among the ten lowest performing states in the country every year. Florida achieved its highest ranking of 37th this year.</p>
<p>The Gulf South states lag the rest of the country in most of the 16 social and economic indicators that comprise the Kids Count childhood wellbeing rankings. Among these are: childhood poverty, low-birthweight babies, children whose parents lack secure employment, children without health insurance, children in single-parent families, fourth graders not proficient in reading, high school students not graduating on time, and, rate of teens not in school and not working. </p>
<p>Despite continuous reporting on children’s wellbeing by the Annie E. Casey Foundation and other governmental and non-governmental sources the Gulf South has found significant improvement elusive. Only Florida and Texas have made modest gains in their rankings while performance has declined for Alabama and Louisiana. Mississippi is the lowest performer in the country for the third time in the past four years.</p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/bklwi/f9edf0f554a2d86f07ff178dd0a6ee44">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Catholic Teach-in on Migration
News Intro Text
Monday, August 3rd 6:30-8:30 at Holy Name of Jesus School Cafeteria
News Item Content
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Teach in jpg.jpg" /></p>
Date
INSTITUTE INDEX: New overtime rule a boon for Southern workers
News Intro Text
[The Institute for Southern Studies, July 3, 2015]
News Item Content
<p><span>By </span><a href="http://www.southernstudies.org/users/sue-sturgis" title="View user profile.">Sue Sturgi</a>, The Institute for Southern Studies</p>
<p>Under a proposed rule released this week by the Department of Labor, number of Americans who would be newly eligible for overtime pay of time-and-a-half when they work over 40 hours in a week: <strong><a href="http://www.npr.org/2015/07/02/419153342/new-rules-could-create-a-new-class-of-overtime-workers">5 million</a></strong></p>
<p>Current upper annual income limit for overtime eligibility:<strong><a href="http://www.nelp.org/news-releases/on-the-proposed-reform-of-federal-overtime-rules/">$23,660</a></strong></p>
<p>Limit under the proposed rule, which would also be <a href="http://www.epi.org/blog/what-the-new-proposed-overtime-rules-mean-for-workers/">indexed for inflation</a>: <strong><a href="http://www.nelp.org/news-releases/on-the-proposed-reform-of-federal-overtime-rules/">$50,440</a></strong></p>
<p>Percent of the U.S. workforce eligible for overtime in 1975: <strong><a href="http://www.epi.org/blog/an-updated-analysis-of-who-would-benefit-from-an-increased-overtime-salary-threshold/">65</a></strong></p>
<p>In 2013: <strong><a href="http://www.epi.org/blog/an-updated-analysis-of-who-would-benefit-from-an-increased-overtime-salary-threshold/">11</a></strong></p>
<p>Rank of the South among regions where the workforce would benefit most from the rule change: <strong><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/what-do-obama-overtime-rules-mean-2015-6">1</a></strong></p>
<p>Portion of 25- to 34-year-olds who the rule would make eligible for overtime, the age group that would benefit most: <strong><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/what-do-obama-overtime-rules-mean-2015-6">1 in 20</a></strong></p>
<p>Percent of the rule's beneficiaries who would be male:<strong><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/what-do-obama-overtime-rules-mean-2015-6"> 2.7</a></strong></p>
<p>Who would be female: <strong><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/what-do-obama-overtime-rules-mean-2015-6">3.9</a></strong></p>
<p>Number of mothers who would benefit from the rule change: <strong><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/what-new-overtime-law-means-for-everyone-2015-6">3.1 million</a></strong></p>
<p>Number of fathers: <strong><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/what-new-overtime-law-means-for-everyone-2015-6">3.2 million</a></strong></p>
<p>Number of children: <strong><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/what-new-overtime-law-means-for-everyone-2015-6">12.1 million</a></strong></p>
<p>Once the proposed rule is published in the Federal Register next week, number of days the public will have to submit comments: <strong><a href="http://www.dol.gov/whd/overtime/NPRM2015/">60</a></strong></p>
<p>Original article can be found <a href="http://www.southernstudies.org/2015/07/institute-index-new-overtime-rule-a-boon-for-south.html">HERE</a></p>
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/overtime_rule_map.png" /></p>
<p><span>Map </span><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/what-do-obama-overtime-rules-mean-2015-6">by Business Insider/Andy Kiersz</a><span> based on White House data.</span></p>
<p>Under a proposed rule released this week by the Department of Labor, number of Americans who would be newly eligible for overtime pay of time-and-a-half when they work over 40 hours in a week: <strong><a href="http://www.npr.org/2015/07/02/419153342/new-rules-could-create-a-new-class-of-overtime-workers">5 million</a></strong></p>
<p>Current upper annual income limit for overtime eligibility:<strong><a href="http://www.nelp.org/news-releases/on-the-proposed-reform-of-federal-overtime-rules/">$23,660</a></strong></p>
<p>Limit under the proposed rule, which would also be <a href="http://www.epi.org/blog/what-the-new-proposed-overtime-rules-mean-for-workers/">indexed for inflation</a>: <strong><a href="http://www.nelp.org/news-releases/on-the-proposed-reform-of-federal-overtime-rules/">$50,440</a></strong></p>
<p>Percent of the U.S. workforce eligible for overtime in 1975: <strong><a href="http://www.epi.org/blog/an-updated-analysis-of-who-would-benefit-from-an-increased-overtime-salary-threshold/">65</a></strong></p>
<p>In 2013: <strong><a href="http://www.epi.org/blog/an-updated-analysis-of-who-would-benefit-from-an-increased-overtime-salary-threshold/">11</a></strong></p>
<p>Rank of the South among regions where the workforce would benefit most from the rule change: <strong><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/what-do-obama-overtime-rules-mean-2015-6">1</a></strong></p>
<p>Portion of 25- to 34-year-olds who the rule would make eligible for overtime, the age group that would benefit most: <strong><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/what-do-obama-overtime-rules-mean-2015-6">1 in 20</a></strong></p>
<p>Percent of the rule's beneficiaries who would be male:<strong><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/what-do-obama-overtime-rules-mean-2015-6"> 2.7</a></strong></p>
<p>Who would be female: <strong><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/what-do-obama-overtime-rules-mean-2015-6">3.9</a></strong></p>
<p>Number of mothers who would benefit from the rule change: <strong><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/what-new-overtime-law-means-for-everyone-2015-6">3.1 million</a></strong></p>
<p>Number of fathers: <strong><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/what-new-overtime-law-means-for-everyone-2015-6">3.2 million</a></strong></p>
<p>Number of children: <strong><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/what-new-overtime-law-means-for-everyone-2015-6">12.1 million</a></strong></p>
<p>Once the proposed rule is published in the Federal Register next week, number of days the public will have to submit comments: <strong><a href="http://www.dol.gov/whd/overtime/NPRM2015/">60</a></strong></p>
<p>Original article can be found <a href="http://www.southernstudies.org/2015/07/institute-index-new-overtime-rule-a-boon-for-south.html">HERE</a></p>
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/overtime_rule_map.png" /></p>
<p><span>Map </span><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/what-do-obama-overtime-rules-mean-2015-6">by Business Insider/Andy Kiersz</a><span> based on White House data.</span></p>
Date
Dr. Mikulich Comments on the Supreme Court's Lethal Injection Decision
News Intro Text
"[Lethal injection] violates basic human dignity, and by imposing that kind of torture, it diminishes all of us. It dehumanizes us."
News Item Content
<p>Soli Salgado | <a href="http://ncronline.org/">National Catholic Reporter</a></p>
<p>As the Supreme Court upheld that the current procedure for lethal injection is constitutional in a 5-4 decision, Catholics, attorneys, and both proponents and opponents of the death penalty weighed in on the outcome of Glossip v. Gross.</p>
<p>The case, which tackled an unusually technical discussion on pharmaceutical options, ruled that Oklahoma's use of midazolam was not a form of cruel and unusual punishment when administered as the first of three drugs in the lethal cocktail, despite being a sedative rather than anesthetic.</p>
<p>But those on both sides of the debate -- including the Supreme Court justices in both the majority opinion and dissent -- agreed that this case transcended that specific issue indirectly.</p>
<p>Capital punishment is constitutional; therefore, there must be a constitutional way of carrying it out, Justice Samuel Alito wrote. Alito and proponents of the death penalty said challenging the use of midazolam was a tactic in unraveling the legality of the death penalty. While Justice Stephen Breyer's dissent -- joined by Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg -- leaned toward its abolition, the majority maintained its lawfulness.</p>
<p>The Catholic church denounces capital punishment when other methods that respect human dignity are available to protect society. And Pope Francis has gone so far as to call for an end to life sentences.</p>
<p>"It's hard to imagine what could be crueler than a prolonged, torturous death, or more unusual, given that 80% of the executions in the United States last year took place in just 3 states," the National Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty wrote in a statement following the ruling.</p>
<p>Opponents of the death penalty told NCR that how cruel and unusual this form of punishment is highlights the moral question: Can we find valid, ethical comfort in administering painless executions?</p>
<p><span class="maroon">"We need to be clear that there is no humane way to put a person to death,"</span> said Alex Mikulich, a Catholic theologian at the Jesuit Social Research Institute at Loyola University New Orleans. <span class="maroon">"[Lethal injection] violates basic human dignity, and by imposing that kind of torture, it diminishes all of us. It dehumanizes us."</span></p>
<p><span class="maroon">"I think people of faith who are against the death penalty -- we're at a point where we need to redouble our efforts to end this practice in our country," he continued. "We clearly cannot rely on the courts to end it."</span></p>
<p>The Glossip v. Gross decision fell on the anniversary of Furman v. Georgia, the 1972 case that first ruled capital punishment as unconstitutional; however, the court then suggested legislation that would make death sentences constitutional again, such as standardized guidelines for juries. This makes the United States one of nine nations that Amnesty International lists as "persistent executioners," joined by China, Iraq, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Sudan, Bangladesh and North Korea.</p>
<p>Under public pressure, European pharmaceutical companies that had provided states with the lethal drugs have stopped selling them for executions, forcing states to turn to alternates with unproven efficacy.</p>
<p>"The one thing that [this case] does show on the political side is that the campaign to make these drugs inaccessible has worked," said David Burge, an attorney and leading member of Georgia's Republican Party. "I'll be curious to see if these drugs will become harder to get."</p>
<p>Robert Blecker, a professor of criminal law, constitutional history, and the Eighth Amendment at New York Law School, told NCR that the question of midazolam was merely a make-way controversy that happens to be the "issue of the moment."</p>
<p>"Now that's passed, so we move back to the more vital question, which is the legitimacy of the death penalty," he said. "If you're going to say it's unconstitutional, then say it's unconstitutional. But to pretend that it's an open question, and then at the same time say, 'Well, any previous method would of course be inhumane' -- it's absurd."</p>
<p>Despite being a public supporter of the death penalty, Blecker, who wrote The Death of Punishment: Searching for Justice among the Worst of the Worst, has long been against lethal injection, "not because it might cause pain, but because it certainly causes confusion; it conflates punishment with medicine. This is killing we're talking about. This is not medicine."</p>
<p>For that reason, he advocates for firing squads, saying they are "more overtly and honestly presenting what they really are, which is punishment. ... Let's acknowledge what we're doing, and if we can't stomach it, then abolish it."</p>
<p>Over the past 30 years, Blecker -- a self-described retributivist -- has visited more than two dozen prisons in 10 states and said the comfortable living arrangements for those sentenced to life without parole is largely why he supports the death penalty. For example, some prisons allow inmates to participate in softball leagues or have vacation days. "This is the living hell that awaits them if you abolish the death penalty."</p>
<p>"The problem is we declare 'let the punishment fit the crime,' then in the actual administration of criminal justice, we do everything we can to undermine it. The death penalty is the only self-avowed punishment we have left," he said, noting that not a single mission statement in any U.S. correctional facility includes the word "punishment."</p>
<p>Agreeing with Alito's opinion on Glossip v. Gross, Blecker added that the Constitution should not have to guarantee a painless death for the condemned, as nobody gets that assurance when experiencing natural death.</p>
<p><a href="http://ncronline.org/news/politics/supreme-court-decision-adds-ongoing-debate-about-lethal-injection">FULL ARTICLE>></a></p>
<p>As the Supreme Court upheld that the current procedure for lethal injection is constitutional in a 5-4 decision, Catholics, attorneys, and both proponents and opponents of the death penalty weighed in on the outcome of Glossip v. Gross.</p>
<p>The case, which tackled an unusually technical discussion on pharmaceutical options, ruled that Oklahoma's use of midazolam was not a form of cruel and unusual punishment when administered as the first of three drugs in the lethal cocktail, despite being a sedative rather than anesthetic.</p>
<p>But those on both sides of the debate -- including the Supreme Court justices in both the majority opinion and dissent -- agreed that this case transcended that specific issue indirectly.</p>
<p>Capital punishment is constitutional; therefore, there must be a constitutional way of carrying it out, Justice Samuel Alito wrote. Alito and proponents of the death penalty said challenging the use of midazolam was a tactic in unraveling the legality of the death penalty. While Justice Stephen Breyer's dissent -- joined by Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg -- leaned toward its abolition, the majority maintained its lawfulness.</p>
<p>The Catholic church denounces capital punishment when other methods that respect human dignity are available to protect society. And Pope Francis has gone so far as to call for an end to life sentences.</p>
<p>"It's hard to imagine what could be crueler than a prolonged, torturous death, or more unusual, given that 80% of the executions in the United States last year took place in just 3 states," the National Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty wrote in a statement following the ruling.</p>
<p>Opponents of the death penalty told NCR that how cruel and unusual this form of punishment is highlights the moral question: Can we find valid, ethical comfort in administering painless executions?</p>
<p><span class="maroon">"We need to be clear that there is no humane way to put a person to death,"</span> said Alex Mikulich, a Catholic theologian at the Jesuit Social Research Institute at Loyola University New Orleans. <span class="maroon">"[Lethal injection] violates basic human dignity, and by imposing that kind of torture, it diminishes all of us. It dehumanizes us."</span></p>
<p><span class="maroon">"I think people of faith who are against the death penalty -- we're at a point where we need to redouble our efforts to end this practice in our country," he continued. "We clearly cannot rely on the courts to end it."</span></p>
<p>The Glossip v. Gross decision fell on the anniversary of Furman v. Georgia, the 1972 case that first ruled capital punishment as unconstitutional; however, the court then suggested legislation that would make death sentences constitutional again, such as standardized guidelines for juries. This makes the United States one of nine nations that Amnesty International lists as "persistent executioners," joined by China, Iraq, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Sudan, Bangladesh and North Korea.</p>
<p>Under public pressure, European pharmaceutical companies that had provided states with the lethal drugs have stopped selling them for executions, forcing states to turn to alternates with unproven efficacy.</p>
<p>"The one thing that [this case] does show on the political side is that the campaign to make these drugs inaccessible has worked," said David Burge, an attorney and leading member of Georgia's Republican Party. "I'll be curious to see if these drugs will become harder to get."</p>
<p>Robert Blecker, a professor of criminal law, constitutional history, and the Eighth Amendment at New York Law School, told NCR that the question of midazolam was merely a make-way controversy that happens to be the "issue of the moment."</p>
<p>"Now that's passed, so we move back to the more vital question, which is the legitimacy of the death penalty," he said. "If you're going to say it's unconstitutional, then say it's unconstitutional. But to pretend that it's an open question, and then at the same time say, 'Well, any previous method would of course be inhumane' -- it's absurd."</p>
<p>Despite being a public supporter of the death penalty, Blecker, who wrote The Death of Punishment: Searching for Justice among the Worst of the Worst, has long been against lethal injection, "not because it might cause pain, but because it certainly causes confusion; it conflates punishment with medicine. This is killing we're talking about. This is not medicine."</p>
<p>For that reason, he advocates for firing squads, saying they are "more overtly and honestly presenting what they really are, which is punishment. ... Let's acknowledge what we're doing, and if we can't stomach it, then abolish it."</p>
<p>Over the past 30 years, Blecker -- a self-described retributivist -- has visited more than two dozen prisons in 10 states and said the comfortable living arrangements for those sentenced to life without parole is largely why he supports the death penalty. For example, some prisons allow inmates to participate in softball leagues or have vacation days. "This is the living hell that awaits them if you abolish the death penalty."</p>
<p>"The problem is we declare 'let the punishment fit the crime,' then in the actual administration of criminal justice, we do everything we can to undermine it. The death penalty is the only self-avowed punishment we have left," he said, noting that not a single mission statement in any U.S. correctional facility includes the word "punishment."</p>
<p>Agreeing with Alito's opinion on Glossip v. Gross, Blecker added that the Constitution should not have to guarantee a painless death for the condemned, as nobody gets that assurance when experiencing natural death.</p>
<p><a href="http://ncronline.org/news/politics/supreme-court-decision-adds-ongoing-debate-about-lethal-injection">FULL ARTICLE>></a></p>
Date
Dr. Mikulich Discusses the Death Penalty on WWL’s Tommy Tucker Program
News Intro Text
06/30/15: Dr. Mikulich spoke with WWL's Tommy Tucker on the Supreme Court's recent lethal injection decision.
News Item Content
<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BCEPxeH42bQ"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/dp listen.jpg" /></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>To listen to a full version of the broadcast please click <a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?q=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.wwl.com%2Fa%2F106999087%2F6-30-6am-tommy-death-penalty.htm&redir_token=5GgwoKfRmdhpM1asVCqpnSrval18MTQzNTc3MDM5OUAxNDM1NjgzOTk5">HERE</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>To listen to a full version of the broadcast please click <a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?q=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.wwl.com%2Fa%2F106999087%2F6-30-6am-tommy-death-penalty.htm&redir_token=5GgwoKfRmdhpM1asVCqpnSrval18MTQzNTc3MDM5OUAxNDM1NjgzOTk5">HERE</a></p>
Date
Status of State Medicaid Expansion in 2015
News Intro Text
The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities illustrates the state of Medicaid expansion throughout the United States.
News Item Content
<p><a href="http://www.cbpp.org/status-of-state-medicaid-expansion-in-2015-0"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/health image.png" style="width: 700px; height: 642px;" /></a></p>
Date
Another Victory for the Right to Health Care
News Intro Text
Today, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld a key provision of the Affordable Care Act, ruling in a 6-3 decision that the federal government can continue to subsidize health policies in states that refused to set up their own insurance marketplaces.
News Item Content
<p>Today, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld a key provision of the Affordable Care Act, ruling in a 6-3 decision that the federal government can continue to subsidize health policies in states such as Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida that refused to set up their own insurance marketplaces. This is a victory for millions of people who otherwise could not afford health insurance. The case is described by the <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2015/06/26/us/obamacare-supreme-court.html">The New York Times</a> in this story:</p>
<p><em>The case concerned a central part of the Affordable Care Act, Mr. Obama's signature legislative achievement. The law created marketplaces, known as exchanges, to allow people who lack insurance to shop for individual health plans. Some states set up their own exchanges, but about three dozen allowed the federal government to step in to run them. Across the nation, about 85 percent of customers using the exchanges qualify for subsidies to help pay for coverage, based on their income .The question in the case, King v. Burwell, No. 14-114, was what to make of a phrase in the law that seems to say the subsidies are available only to people buying insurance on "an exchange established by the state."</em></p>
<div>
</div>
<p><em>The case concerned a central part of the Affordable Care Act, Mr. Obama's signature legislative achievement. The law created marketplaces, known as exchanges, to allow people who lack insurance to shop for individual health plans. Some states set up their own exchanges, but about three dozen allowed the federal government to step in to run them. Across the nation, about 85 percent of customers using the exchanges qualify for subsidies to help pay for coverage, based on their income .The question in the case, King v. Burwell, No. 14-114, was what to make of a phrase in the law that seems to say the subsidies are available only to people buying insurance on "an exchange established by the state."</em></p>
<div>
</div>
Date
Harold Baquet
News Intro Text
The Jesuit Social Research Institute is deeply saddened to hear of Harold Baquet's passing into eternal life. We share our deepest affection, prayers, and sorrow with his family.
News Item Content
<p><span class="green">The Jesuit Social Research Insitute is deeply saddened to hear of Harold Baquet's passing into eternal life. We share our deepest affection, prayers, and sorrow with his family. We, and the entire Loyola community, remember Harold with gratitude, love and joy. As President Wildes rightly said, Harold is "the epitome of a man with and for others in the great Ignatian tradition." He exuded what Pope Francis calls the "joy of the Gospel." We were touched gently, joyfully, and lovingly in every way by his presence. May our tears turn to joy in memory of his gifts of gratitude, joy, and love. May his divine gifts overflow in us. </span></p>
<p><span class="green"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/harold-baquet-new-orleans-photographerjpg-5392320f602762a4.jpg" /></span></p>
<p><span class="green"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/harold-baquet-new-orleans-photographerjpg-5392320f602762a4.jpg" /></span></p>
Date
Get Smart Louisiana
News Intro Text
Reforms Open Way for Smarter, Comprehensive Sentencing in the Future
News Item Content
<h4>
Reforms Open Way for Smarter, Comprehensive Sentencing in the Future</h4>
<p>by Alex Mikulich, Ph.D.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>A collective sigh of relief emanated from the statehouse at 6:00 pm on June 11, 2015. The Louisiana legislature passed a last-minute budget-bill that appears to avoid fiscal disaster—at least for now. Legislators performed political acrobatics that enable the Governor to claim this budget is revenue neutral when in fact, and by necessity, businesses will pay more taxes.[1] </p>
<p>Yet there is reason to hope beyond all the legislative antics. Governor Jindal says he intends to sign a package of significant criminal justice reform bills that actually save money and make our state a better place.[2] </p>
<p>HCR 82, authored by Representative Walt Leger, creates the Louisiana Justice Reinvestment Task Force to develop sentencing and corrections policy recommendations. HCR 82 sets Louisiana on a path toward more comprehensive sentencing reform that reduces over-incarceration, saves money, and makes our state safer. </p>
<p>The legislature gave strong bi-partisan support to a bill easing penalties for marijuana possession. Originally authored by Senator J.B. Morell (SB241) and Representative Austin Badon (HB149) (both of New Orleans), this sentencing reform will save the state nearly $17 million over five years according to the state’s fiscal analyst.[3] </p>
<div>
<p>Instead of sentencing a first-time offender to eight years in prison at high cost to the state, HB 149 means that an individual caught with less than 14 grams of marijuana (less than half an ounce) would face up to 15 days in jail and up to six months if caught with less than 2.5 pounds. A second-offense conviction would drop from a felony to a misdemeanor with a sentence of no more than six months. If a second offense occurs more than two years after the first conviction, the violation will be treated as a first offense. </p>
<p>The Jesuit Social Research Institute joined the Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops, the ACLU of Louisiana, and the Pelican Institute in supporting these criminal justice reforms. This broad coalition of groups and interests pushing criminal justice reform bodes well for future reform. The future will be even brighter if Louisiana elects a Governor this Fall who will champion comprehensive sentencing and criminal justice reforms. </p>
<p>Sheriffs and district attorneys defeated reform in the past. While their willingness to compromise and not block sentencing reductions this year is encouraging, they could stand in the way of future reform. Advocates will need to continue to press for more comprehensive policy change.</p>
<p>Louisiana is getting smart on crime. Now is the time to get even smarter and follow the lead of neighboring states like Texas and Mississippi that have enacted comprehensive sentencing legislation.[4]</p>
<hr />
<p>[1] Stephanie Grace, “Businesses will pony-up more taxes, but Bobby Jindal saves political face, claims no tax hikes,” The Baton Rouge Advocate, June 12, 2015 online at http://theadvocate.com/news/12626682-123/stephanie-grace-quick-take-on</p>
<p>[2] Kevin Litten, "Bobby Jindal says he’ll sign pot penalties legislation." The Times-Picayune, online at http://www.nola.com/politics/index.ssf/2015/05/medical_marijuana_jindal_sign.html</p>
<p>[3] Louisiana Legislative Fiscal Office online at https://www.legis.la.gov/legis/ViewDocument.aspx?d=958424 [4] Alex Mikulich, “Smart Criminal Justice Reform: Texas and Mississippi Leading Gulf South States,” JustSouth Quarterly (Fall 2014) online at https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JSQ%20Fall%202014%20Criminal%20Justice_1.pdf</p>
<hr />
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/j2soi/3aca22e277d5fe27c4717e56a3642199">MORE>></a></p>
</div>
<p> </p>
Reforms Open Way for Smarter, Comprehensive Sentencing in the Future</h4>
<p>by Alex Mikulich, Ph.D.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>A collective sigh of relief emanated from the statehouse at 6:00 pm on June 11, 2015. The Louisiana legislature passed a last-minute budget-bill that appears to avoid fiscal disaster—at least for now. Legislators performed political acrobatics that enable the Governor to claim this budget is revenue neutral when in fact, and by necessity, businesses will pay more taxes.[1] </p>
<p>Yet there is reason to hope beyond all the legislative antics. Governor Jindal says he intends to sign a package of significant criminal justice reform bills that actually save money and make our state a better place.[2] </p>
<p>HCR 82, authored by Representative Walt Leger, creates the Louisiana Justice Reinvestment Task Force to develop sentencing and corrections policy recommendations. HCR 82 sets Louisiana on a path toward more comprehensive sentencing reform that reduces over-incarceration, saves money, and makes our state safer. </p>
<p>The legislature gave strong bi-partisan support to a bill easing penalties for marijuana possession. Originally authored by Senator J.B. Morell (SB241) and Representative Austin Badon (HB149) (both of New Orleans), this sentencing reform will save the state nearly $17 million over five years according to the state’s fiscal analyst.[3] </p>
<div>
<p>Instead of sentencing a first-time offender to eight years in prison at high cost to the state, HB 149 means that an individual caught with less than 14 grams of marijuana (less than half an ounce) would face up to 15 days in jail and up to six months if caught with less than 2.5 pounds. A second-offense conviction would drop from a felony to a misdemeanor with a sentence of no more than six months. If a second offense occurs more than two years after the first conviction, the violation will be treated as a first offense. </p>
<p>The Jesuit Social Research Institute joined the Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops, the ACLU of Louisiana, and the Pelican Institute in supporting these criminal justice reforms. This broad coalition of groups and interests pushing criminal justice reform bodes well for future reform. The future will be even brighter if Louisiana elects a Governor this Fall who will champion comprehensive sentencing and criminal justice reforms. </p>
<p>Sheriffs and district attorneys defeated reform in the past. While their willingness to compromise and not block sentencing reductions this year is encouraging, they could stand in the way of future reform. Advocates will need to continue to press for more comprehensive policy change.</p>
<p>Louisiana is getting smart on crime. Now is the time to get even smarter and follow the lead of neighboring states like Texas and Mississippi that have enacted comprehensive sentencing legislation.[4]</p>
<hr />
<p>[1] Stephanie Grace, “Businesses will pony-up more taxes, but Bobby Jindal saves political face, claims no tax hikes,” The Baton Rouge Advocate, June 12, 2015 online at http://theadvocate.com/news/12626682-123/stephanie-grace-quick-take-on</p>
<p>[2] Kevin Litten, "Bobby Jindal says he’ll sign pot penalties legislation." The Times-Picayune, online at http://www.nola.com/politics/index.ssf/2015/05/medical_marijuana_jindal_sign.html</p>
<p>[3] Louisiana Legislative Fiscal Office online at https://www.legis.la.gov/legis/ViewDocument.aspx?d=958424 [4] Alex Mikulich, “Smart Criminal Justice Reform: Texas and Mississippi Leading Gulf South States,” JustSouth Quarterly (Fall 2014) online at https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JSQ%20Fall%202014%20Criminal%20Justice_1.pdf</p>
<hr />
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/j2soi/3aca22e277d5fe27c4717e56a3642199">MORE>></a></p>
</div>
<p> </p>
Date
US church grateful for Pope Francis' 'marvelous' encyclical
News Intro Text
by Brian Rowe, National Catholic Reporter [June 28, 2015]
News Item Content
<p>Brian Roewe | Jun. 18, 2015</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Happiness, hope and gratitude greeted Pope Francis' long-awaited encyclical, "Laudato Si', on Care for Our Common Home," in the U.S. church after its official release Thursday afternoon in Rome.</p>
<p>"Very excited, very pleased," said Patrick Carolan, executive director of the Franciscan Action Network (FAN). "It's a wonderful, awesome, hopeful document."</p>
<p>Social Service Sr. Simone Campbell, executive director of NETWORK, a national Catholic social justice lobby, said her "heart is singing" because the encyclical shows how interconnected everything is.</p>
<p>"Pope Francis puts this in a holistic context," Campbell said. "It allows us to see the integration of issues of housing and cities and violence, all in the context of ecology and the environment."</p>
<p>For Dan DiLeo, project manager of the Catholic Climate Covenant, his hope and excitement for a global response to climate change peaked after reading the encyclical, he said in an op-ed piece.</p>
<p>"After finally reading Laudato Si, I am absolutely convinced that Francis will indeed inspire humanity to save ourselves from ourselves and avoid catastrophic climate change. And I am unexpectedly peaceful about it," he wrote.</p>
<p>In the 184-page document, Francis outlined his vision of the global environmental state, one in which climate change is a reality and where excessive behaviors in consumption, profit and growth require recalibration and reassessment. The encyclical is divided into six chapters: the current state of the planet; the Gospel of creation; human roots of the ecological crisis; integral ecology; approaches and actions; and ecological education and spirituality.</p>
<p>"The urgent challenge to protect our common home includes a concern to bring the whole human family together to seek a sustainable and integral development, for we know that things can change," Francis wrote. "... I urgently appeal, then, for a new dialogue about how we are shaping the future of our planet."</p>
<p>Boston Cardinal Sean O'Malley, one of the Francis' closest advisers, said he welcomed "with joy and gratitude" the encyclical, noting that as the first pope to take the name of St. Francis of Assisi, the pope carried the saint's spirit and wisdom throughout the document.</p>
<p>O'Malley, a Capuchin Franciscan, identified two ideas emanating throughout Laudato Si': the environment as a common home that "needs immediate protection and healing at the global, national and local levels of life"; and those most in danger of environmental degradation are those already poor and vulnerable.</p>
<p>"This constant linkage throughout the encyclical of the dual need to respect and protect 'Our Common Home' and the need to respect and protect the dignity and lives of the poor may be regarded as the distinctive characteristic of this powerful message of Pope Francis. Both of these themes have been evident since the beginning of Pope Francis's pontificate but this letter joins them with new depth and specificity," the cardinal said in a statement.</p>
<p><strong>Returns church to its roots</strong></p>
<p>Franciscan Sr. Dawn Nothwehr, a professor at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago and author of Ecological Footprints: An Essential Franciscan Guide for Faith and Sustainable Living, said the encyclical returns church thinking to its roots.</p>
<p>"In reality, this is nothing new in all of Christianity," Nothwehr said. "If you go back to our Jewish roots, that's a very holistic approach. Look at Leviticus ... in all those early mandates, the legal was not separate from the moral. We're deeply turning back to some of those themes."</p>
<p>Bishop Emeritus William Skylstad of Spokane, Wash., described the encyclical in a single word: "Marvelous!"</p>
<p>"Pope Francis shares with us in this encyclical how [church teaching on the environment] applies to us in the modern world. We live in an increasingly connected world, and Laudato Si' shares in a remarkable way really how profound this connection should and must be," he told NCR in an email.</p>
<p>What especially resonated with Skylstad were aspects of Laudato Si' that addressed relationships people have with and for one another (particularly the poor) and humans' relationship with and responsibility for the environment.</p>
<p>"One of the great challenges in our world community today is the need for a revolution in relationships. Pope Francis does a remarkable job in challenging all of us. No one is to be excluded," he said.</p>
<p>The bishop served as director of the 2001 Columbia River pastoral project, a joint endeavor of U.S. and Canadian bishops that examined a bevy of environmental issues in the Pacific Northwest. He said the encyclical addresses many of the same issues as that pastoral and reinforced the bishops' work in the Columbia watershed.</p>
<p>"In addition, our world community is becoming much more sensitive to environmental degradation and the urgent need to do something about it. The high degree of interest in anticipating this document indicates a common concern about how we need to take care of the environment and the significant challenges we face in doing so," he said.</p>
<p>On the issue of climate change, Skylstad said the pope did not "shy away" from the expected controversy or in providing "recommendations to spur fresh political and economic thinking."</p>
<p>"In our polarized world, his teaching in this encyclical transcends the political controversy with a moral foundation for action, not a set of political prescriptions," he said.</p>
<p>Dan Misleh, executive director of the Catholic Climate Covenant, said it appeared the pope had the climate in mind throughout the encyclical, even outside the sections that addressed it directly.</p>
<p>"It seems like that was fairly prevalent even if it wasn't stated over and over again, although it appeared quite a bit," he told NCR.</p>
<div>
<p><strong>Conversation changing 'from fear to love'</strong></p>
<p>Maryann Cusimano Love, a fellow at the Institute for Policy Research & Catholic Studies at The Catholic University of America, said the pope is changing the climate conversation "from fear to love."</p>
<p>"Francis calls us home, to love our neighbors and our common home, our gift from God. Yes, he calls us to energy conversion, but from energies of despair and denial to God's sustainable energy of generous love and sharing," she said.</p>
<p>That Francis did not mince words in addressing climate change -- "It represents one of the principal challenges facing humanity in our day" -- didn't surprise Misleh given the pope has at his disposal one of the top scientific academies in the world in the Pontifical Academy of Sciences.</p>
<p>"That scientific information is easily accessible to him and to many others, and so he took it to heart and said, There is a limited amount of time to deal with this, we better hurry up," he said.</p>
<p>Misleh and several others who spoke to NCR saw as a central theme of Laudato Si' the emphasis on the interconnections among people across geography and generations and among the various environmental and societal issues Francis addressed.</p>
<p>In his discussion of "integral ecology," Francis links one of Catholic tradition's largest theological themes -- all are intimately one in God's being -- "with the nitty gritty of loving our neighbor and caring for the smallest and most vulnerable creatures," said Alex Mikulich, a research fellow at the Jesuit Social Research Institute at Loyola University New Orleans.</p>
<p>"We all share one life, one earth. One cannot and will not thrive unless all thrive in the interdependent and interconnected web of life," he said.</p>
<p>"[Francis] points to not just the environment in a silo of its own, but how the problems that we're having with the environment and the climate are affecting the people of the world. So not just the environment for the environment's sake, but really in how our fellow human beings are being affected by it," said Janine Walsh, FAN communications coordinator.</p>
<p>"He framed it the way the Franciscans do, so we're really happy about that, in that it's about all of creation," Carolan said.</p>
<p>Along those lines, Carolan said for him, one of the more powerful aspects of the encyclical addressed the connections between the largest emitters of greenhouse gases and those most impacted.</p>
<p>"The warming caused by huge consumption on the part of some rich countries has repercussions on the poorest areas of the world, especially Africa, where a rise in temperature, together with drought, has proved devastating for farming," Francis wrote.</p>
<p>The pope called not only for a scaling back of fossil fuel usage, but also for a cutback on consumption among developed countries.</p>
<p>"We all know that it is not possible to sustain the present level of consumption in developed countries and wealthier sectors of society, where the habit of wasting and discarding has reached unprecedented levels. The exploitation of the planet has already exceeded acceptable limits and we still have not solved the problem of poverty," he wrote.</p>
<p>That message is an important one for Americans to deeply consider, Misleh said, but also one that may be hard to digest. He said the pope appeared to be describing a richness in getting away at times from technology, which can distract from interpersonal connections with family, neighbors and the poor, but also distract from addressing real problems.</p>
<p>"We've got such a culture of waste, where very six, eight months there's a new cell phone on the market. And why? Why are we continuously grabbing that new cell phone when the old one is working just fine?" Walsh said.</p>
<p><strong>Nobility in little daily actions</strong></p>
<p>Conversations about actions have to address the global, community and individual levels, Carolan said. In Laudato Si', Francis heralded the small steps as a piece of environmental solutions: "There is a nobility in the duty to care for creation through little daily actions."</p>
<p>Carolan noted that the simple acts common to scaling back energy usage -- turning off lights, choosing a bike or public transportation, eating local or occasionally abstaining from meat -- can reduce individuals' consumption and carbon footprints but also help change mindsets.</p>
<p>While she loved the encyclical, Fransiscan Sr. Ilia Delio, visiting professor at Georgetown University, said she also fears it will produce little change in that it falls short of providing a model for how things should be.</p>
<p>"He's saying, Here's a negative, we are destroying ourselves, we are destroying our planet. But I've never seen anyone change because of a negative, except when they're children being disciplined by their parents," she said. "We change because of allure. So what's the attraction to us? Without that, I think people are going to say, 'Great guy, great points,' but they're not going to change."</p>
<p>Looking ahead, events are already planned to ensure that the encyclical conversation doesn't end with its release. FAN has planned a Meatless Fridays campaign, while the Catholic Climate Covenant has mailed and emailed homily helps to each of the 17,000-plus parishes in the country to use during four Sundays this summer.</p>
<p>The covenant has also planned a series of programs -- including regional events in Florida, Iowa and New Mexico and a theology and ministry conference at CUA ahead of the bishops' annual meeting in November -- to carry the encyclical conversation through Francis' U.S. visit in September and the United Nations' climate negotiations in December in Paris.</p>
<p>"Keep the dialogue going, keep the encyclical in people's minds and talk about not only what the encyclical means but what the local impact or local solutions might be," Misleh said.</p>
<p><a href="http://ncronline.org/news/faith-parish/us-church-grateful-pope-francis-marvelous-encyclical#">MORE>></a></p>
</div>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Happiness, hope and gratitude greeted Pope Francis' long-awaited encyclical, "Laudato Si', on Care for Our Common Home," in the U.S. church after its official release Thursday afternoon in Rome.</p>
<p>"Very excited, very pleased," said Patrick Carolan, executive director of the Franciscan Action Network (FAN). "It's a wonderful, awesome, hopeful document."</p>
<p>Social Service Sr. Simone Campbell, executive director of NETWORK, a national Catholic social justice lobby, said her "heart is singing" because the encyclical shows how interconnected everything is.</p>
<p>"Pope Francis puts this in a holistic context," Campbell said. "It allows us to see the integration of issues of housing and cities and violence, all in the context of ecology and the environment."</p>
<p>For Dan DiLeo, project manager of the Catholic Climate Covenant, his hope and excitement for a global response to climate change peaked after reading the encyclical, he said in an op-ed piece.</p>
<p>"After finally reading Laudato Si, I am absolutely convinced that Francis will indeed inspire humanity to save ourselves from ourselves and avoid catastrophic climate change. And I am unexpectedly peaceful about it," he wrote.</p>
<p>In the 184-page document, Francis outlined his vision of the global environmental state, one in which climate change is a reality and where excessive behaviors in consumption, profit and growth require recalibration and reassessment. The encyclical is divided into six chapters: the current state of the planet; the Gospel of creation; human roots of the ecological crisis; integral ecology; approaches and actions; and ecological education and spirituality.</p>
<p>"The urgent challenge to protect our common home includes a concern to bring the whole human family together to seek a sustainable and integral development, for we know that things can change," Francis wrote. "... I urgently appeal, then, for a new dialogue about how we are shaping the future of our planet."</p>
<p>Boston Cardinal Sean O'Malley, one of the Francis' closest advisers, said he welcomed "with joy and gratitude" the encyclical, noting that as the first pope to take the name of St. Francis of Assisi, the pope carried the saint's spirit and wisdom throughout the document.</p>
<p>O'Malley, a Capuchin Franciscan, identified two ideas emanating throughout Laudato Si': the environment as a common home that "needs immediate protection and healing at the global, national and local levels of life"; and those most in danger of environmental degradation are those already poor and vulnerable.</p>
<p>"This constant linkage throughout the encyclical of the dual need to respect and protect 'Our Common Home' and the need to respect and protect the dignity and lives of the poor may be regarded as the distinctive characteristic of this powerful message of Pope Francis. Both of these themes have been evident since the beginning of Pope Francis's pontificate but this letter joins them with new depth and specificity," the cardinal said in a statement.</p>
<p><strong>Returns church to its roots</strong></p>
<p>Franciscan Sr. Dawn Nothwehr, a professor at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago and author of Ecological Footprints: An Essential Franciscan Guide for Faith and Sustainable Living, said the encyclical returns church thinking to its roots.</p>
<p>"In reality, this is nothing new in all of Christianity," Nothwehr said. "If you go back to our Jewish roots, that's a very holistic approach. Look at Leviticus ... in all those early mandates, the legal was not separate from the moral. We're deeply turning back to some of those themes."</p>
<p>Bishop Emeritus William Skylstad of Spokane, Wash., described the encyclical in a single word: "Marvelous!"</p>
<p>"Pope Francis shares with us in this encyclical how [church teaching on the environment] applies to us in the modern world. We live in an increasingly connected world, and Laudato Si' shares in a remarkable way really how profound this connection should and must be," he told NCR in an email.</p>
<p>What especially resonated with Skylstad were aspects of Laudato Si' that addressed relationships people have with and for one another (particularly the poor) and humans' relationship with and responsibility for the environment.</p>
<p>"One of the great challenges in our world community today is the need for a revolution in relationships. Pope Francis does a remarkable job in challenging all of us. No one is to be excluded," he said.</p>
<p>The bishop served as director of the 2001 Columbia River pastoral project, a joint endeavor of U.S. and Canadian bishops that examined a bevy of environmental issues in the Pacific Northwest. He said the encyclical addresses many of the same issues as that pastoral and reinforced the bishops' work in the Columbia watershed.</p>
<p>"In addition, our world community is becoming much more sensitive to environmental degradation and the urgent need to do something about it. The high degree of interest in anticipating this document indicates a common concern about how we need to take care of the environment and the significant challenges we face in doing so," he said.</p>
<p>On the issue of climate change, Skylstad said the pope did not "shy away" from the expected controversy or in providing "recommendations to spur fresh political and economic thinking."</p>
<p>"In our polarized world, his teaching in this encyclical transcends the political controversy with a moral foundation for action, not a set of political prescriptions," he said.</p>
<p>Dan Misleh, executive director of the Catholic Climate Covenant, said it appeared the pope had the climate in mind throughout the encyclical, even outside the sections that addressed it directly.</p>
<p>"It seems like that was fairly prevalent even if it wasn't stated over and over again, although it appeared quite a bit," he told NCR.</p>
<div>
<p><strong>Conversation changing 'from fear to love'</strong></p>
<p>Maryann Cusimano Love, a fellow at the Institute for Policy Research & Catholic Studies at The Catholic University of America, said the pope is changing the climate conversation "from fear to love."</p>
<p>"Francis calls us home, to love our neighbors and our common home, our gift from God. Yes, he calls us to energy conversion, but from energies of despair and denial to God's sustainable energy of generous love and sharing," she said.</p>
<p>That Francis did not mince words in addressing climate change -- "It represents one of the principal challenges facing humanity in our day" -- didn't surprise Misleh given the pope has at his disposal one of the top scientific academies in the world in the Pontifical Academy of Sciences.</p>
<p>"That scientific information is easily accessible to him and to many others, and so he took it to heart and said, There is a limited amount of time to deal with this, we better hurry up," he said.</p>
<p>Misleh and several others who spoke to NCR saw as a central theme of Laudato Si' the emphasis on the interconnections among people across geography and generations and among the various environmental and societal issues Francis addressed.</p>
<p>In his discussion of "integral ecology," Francis links one of Catholic tradition's largest theological themes -- all are intimately one in God's being -- "with the nitty gritty of loving our neighbor and caring for the smallest and most vulnerable creatures," said Alex Mikulich, a research fellow at the Jesuit Social Research Institute at Loyola University New Orleans.</p>
<p>"We all share one life, one earth. One cannot and will not thrive unless all thrive in the interdependent and interconnected web of life," he said.</p>
<p>"[Francis] points to not just the environment in a silo of its own, but how the problems that we're having with the environment and the climate are affecting the people of the world. So not just the environment for the environment's sake, but really in how our fellow human beings are being affected by it," said Janine Walsh, FAN communications coordinator.</p>
<p>"He framed it the way the Franciscans do, so we're really happy about that, in that it's about all of creation," Carolan said.</p>
<p>Along those lines, Carolan said for him, one of the more powerful aspects of the encyclical addressed the connections between the largest emitters of greenhouse gases and those most impacted.</p>
<p>"The warming caused by huge consumption on the part of some rich countries has repercussions on the poorest areas of the world, especially Africa, where a rise in temperature, together with drought, has proved devastating for farming," Francis wrote.</p>
<p>The pope called not only for a scaling back of fossil fuel usage, but also for a cutback on consumption among developed countries.</p>
<p>"We all know that it is not possible to sustain the present level of consumption in developed countries and wealthier sectors of society, where the habit of wasting and discarding has reached unprecedented levels. The exploitation of the planet has already exceeded acceptable limits and we still have not solved the problem of poverty," he wrote.</p>
<p>That message is an important one for Americans to deeply consider, Misleh said, but also one that may be hard to digest. He said the pope appeared to be describing a richness in getting away at times from technology, which can distract from interpersonal connections with family, neighbors and the poor, but also distract from addressing real problems.</p>
<p>"We've got such a culture of waste, where very six, eight months there's a new cell phone on the market. And why? Why are we continuously grabbing that new cell phone when the old one is working just fine?" Walsh said.</p>
<p><strong>Nobility in little daily actions</strong></p>
<p>Conversations about actions have to address the global, community and individual levels, Carolan said. In Laudato Si', Francis heralded the small steps as a piece of environmental solutions: "There is a nobility in the duty to care for creation through little daily actions."</p>
<p>Carolan noted that the simple acts common to scaling back energy usage -- turning off lights, choosing a bike or public transportation, eating local or occasionally abstaining from meat -- can reduce individuals' consumption and carbon footprints but also help change mindsets.</p>
<p>While she loved the encyclical, Fransiscan Sr. Ilia Delio, visiting professor at Georgetown University, said she also fears it will produce little change in that it falls short of providing a model for how things should be.</p>
<p>"He's saying, Here's a negative, we are destroying ourselves, we are destroying our planet. But I've never seen anyone change because of a negative, except when they're children being disciplined by their parents," she said. "We change because of allure. So what's the attraction to us? Without that, I think people are going to say, 'Great guy, great points,' but they're not going to change."</p>
<p>Looking ahead, events are already planned to ensure that the encyclical conversation doesn't end with its release. FAN has planned a Meatless Fridays campaign, while the Catholic Climate Covenant has mailed and emailed homily helps to each of the 17,000-plus parishes in the country to use during four Sundays this summer.</p>
<p>The covenant has also planned a series of programs -- including regional events in Florida, Iowa and New Mexico and a theology and ministry conference at CUA ahead of the bishops' annual meeting in November -- to carry the encyclical conversation through Francis' U.S. visit in September and the United Nations' climate negotiations in December in Paris.</p>
<p>"Keep the dialogue going, keep the encyclical in people's minds and talk about not only what the encyclical means but what the local impact or local solutions might be," Misleh said.</p>
<p><a href="http://ncronline.org/news/faith-parish/us-church-grateful-pope-francis-marvelous-encyclical#">MORE>></a></p>
</div>
<p> </p>
Date
REPEAL THE DEATH PENALTY A SERIES
News Intro Text
On May 29, 2015 Alex Mikulich, Ph.D. interviewed A.M. "Marty" Stroud III in Shreveport, Louisiana about the death penalty. A brief introduction to the series and part 1 is now available.
News Item Content
<h2>
</h2>
<h2>
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_82ZLC0vHA4">REPEAL THE DEATH PENALTY A SERIES: Introduction</a></h2>
<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_82ZLC0vHA4&list=PLLa_i3Rl2cCsgUqkqbYR1uqKCoam4m49H"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/intro_0.jpg" /></a></p>
<h1>
</h1>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NvwqdlpPx-o&list=PLLa_i3Rl2cCsgUqkqbYR1uqKCoam4m49H&index=2"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/part 1.jpg" /></a></p>
<h2>
</h2>
<h2>
</h2>
<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fDhSITZq90Y&index=3&list=PLLa_i3Rl2cCsgUqkqbYR1uqKCoam4m49H"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/part 2.jpg" style="width: 619px; height: 342px;" /></a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Z5I9iYhNJ0&index=4&list=PLLa_i3Rl2cCsgUqkqbYR1uqKCoam4m49H"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/thumbnail_1.jpg" style="width: 619px; height: 341px;" /></a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zPQXoEfeq1U&index=5&list=PLLa_i3Rl2cCsgUqkqbYR1uqKCoam4m49H"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/episode 4.jpg" /></a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mvQRLetjdJs&index=6&list=PLLa_i3Rl2cCsgUqkqbYR1uqKCoam4m49H"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/part 5.jpg" style="height: 350px; width: 635px;" /></a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DVipzQG6x-s&list=PLLa_i3Rl2cCsgUqkqbYR1uqKCoam4m49H&index=7"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/part 6.jpg" style="width: 619px; height: 350px;" /></a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-fBtwCa3yw0"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/part 7.jpg" style="width: 619px; height: 322px;" /></a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gn3u8v2jUpE&feature=youtu.be"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Excluded Juries.jpg" style="width: 619px; height: 324px;" /></a></p>
</h2>
<h2>
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_82ZLC0vHA4">REPEAL THE DEATH PENALTY A SERIES: Introduction</a></h2>
<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_82ZLC0vHA4&list=PLLa_i3Rl2cCsgUqkqbYR1uqKCoam4m49H"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/intro_0.jpg" /></a></p>
<h1>
</h1>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NvwqdlpPx-o&list=PLLa_i3Rl2cCsgUqkqbYR1uqKCoam4m49H&index=2"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/part 1.jpg" /></a></p>
<h2>
</h2>
<h2>
</h2>
<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fDhSITZq90Y&index=3&list=PLLa_i3Rl2cCsgUqkqbYR1uqKCoam4m49H"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/part 2.jpg" style="width: 619px; height: 342px;" /></a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Z5I9iYhNJ0&index=4&list=PLLa_i3Rl2cCsgUqkqbYR1uqKCoam4m49H"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/thumbnail_1.jpg" style="width: 619px; height: 341px;" /></a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zPQXoEfeq1U&index=5&list=PLLa_i3Rl2cCsgUqkqbYR1uqKCoam4m49H"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/episode 4.jpg" /></a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mvQRLetjdJs&index=6&list=PLLa_i3Rl2cCsgUqkqbYR1uqKCoam4m49H"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/part 5.jpg" style="height: 350px; width: 635px;" /></a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DVipzQG6x-s&list=PLLa_i3Rl2cCsgUqkqbYR1uqKCoam4m49H&index=7"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/part 6.jpg" style="width: 619px; height: 350px;" /></a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-fBtwCa3yw0"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/part 7.jpg" style="width: 619px; height: 322px;" /></a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gn3u8v2jUpE&feature=youtu.be"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Excluded Juries.jpg" style="width: 619px; height: 324px;" /></a></p>
Date
JSRI's Ali Bustamante illustrates White House's findings on Medicaid Expansion in 2016
News Intro Text
From the 06/05/15 White House Study, Gulf South states would benefit the most from Medicaid Expansion in 2016.
News Item Content
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Medicaid_Expansion_Graph_June_2015.jpg" style="height: 403px; width: 700px;" /></p>
Date
Fr. Kammer testifies in support of HB 70
News Intro Text
"This bill would raise the state percentage of the Federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) from 3.5%---the lowest in the nation--- to 7%. The national average for state EITC is 16% of the Federal EITC."
News Item Content
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/new.jpg" /></p>
Date
Dr. Mikulich urges Congressman Cedric Richmond to support strengthening the CFPB's initial payday ruling
News Intro Text
"I urge you to sign on to Congressman Terrell F. Waters letter to the Director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, Mr. Richard Cordray to strengthen the CFPB’s payday lending rule."
News Item Content
<p> </p>
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/letter.jpg" style="height: 733px; width: 650px;" /></p>
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/letter.jpg" style="height: 733px; width: 650px;" /></p>
Date
Expanding Medicaid would cover 193,000 Louisiana residents: White House report
News Intro Text
[NOLA.com, 06/05/15]
News Item Content
<p>by Bruce Alpert, NOLA.com | Times-Picayune </p>
<p>WASHINGTON – The Obama administration is releasing new numbers Thursday (June 4) it says shows significant health and economic benefits if Louisiana and 21 other states reverse earlier decisions to reject federal funding for a major Medicaid expansion included in the Affordable Care Act.</p>
<p>The report, relying on data from the Urban Institute, says expanding Medicaid coverage would increase health coverage for 193,000 low-income Louisiana residents in 2016. It estimates that 4.3 million in the 22 states that didn't expand Medicaid – including Alabama, Texas, Mississippi and Florida -- would lose out on health coverage next year -- barring a reversal of policy.</p>
<p>The projection for Louisiana is lower than earlier estimates that 242,000 residents would gain coverage by expanding Medicaid.</p>
<p>In March, Families USA, a pro-Affordable Care Act research group, reported that 362,000 state residents would gain coverage from a Medicaid expansion, and that 56 percent are working. The breakdown of the 56 percent who are working, the report says, are 34,000 people employed as food service workers; 25,000 in sales; 17,000 in office and administrative support jobs; 24,000 in construction, 22,000 in cleaning and maintenance; 14,000 in transportation, including bus drivers and taxi drivers; and 14,000 in personal care, including child care workers,</p>
<p>Even with the lower numbers in the White House report, Obama administration officials said the benefits are substantial.</p>
<p>The report cites research that access to health care through Medicaid increases the probability that enrollees will have access to clinic care – including a primary care physician -- by 23.8 percentage points. It says women over 50 would have a 29.7 percent greater possibility of receiving a mammogram in a 12-month period, and that access to a pap smear would increase by 14.4 percent.</p>
<p>For low-income workers, having access to Medicaid means fewer economic struggles, the report said. It estimates 27,400 fewer Louisiana residents would have trouble paying bills because the burden of health costs would be removed.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.nola.com/politics/index.ssf/2015/06/expanding_medicaid_would_add_1.html">MORE>></a></p>
<p>WASHINGTON – The Obama administration is releasing new numbers Thursday (June 4) it says shows significant health and economic benefits if Louisiana and 21 other states reverse earlier decisions to reject federal funding for a major Medicaid expansion included in the Affordable Care Act.</p>
<p>The report, relying on data from the Urban Institute, says expanding Medicaid coverage would increase health coverage for 193,000 low-income Louisiana residents in 2016. It estimates that 4.3 million in the 22 states that didn't expand Medicaid – including Alabama, Texas, Mississippi and Florida -- would lose out on health coverage next year -- barring a reversal of policy.</p>
<p>The projection for Louisiana is lower than earlier estimates that 242,000 residents would gain coverage by expanding Medicaid.</p>
<p>In March, Families USA, a pro-Affordable Care Act research group, reported that 362,000 state residents would gain coverage from a Medicaid expansion, and that 56 percent are working. The breakdown of the 56 percent who are working, the report says, are 34,000 people employed as food service workers; 25,000 in sales; 17,000 in office and administrative support jobs; 24,000 in construction, 22,000 in cleaning and maintenance; 14,000 in transportation, including bus drivers and taxi drivers; and 14,000 in personal care, including child care workers,</p>
<p>Even with the lower numbers in the White House report, Obama administration officials said the benefits are substantial.</p>
<p>The report cites research that access to health care through Medicaid increases the probability that enrollees will have access to clinic care – including a primary care physician -- by 23.8 percentage points. It says women over 50 would have a 29.7 percent greater possibility of receiving a mammogram in a 12-month period, and that access to a pap smear would increase by 14.4 percent.</p>
<p>For low-income workers, having access to Medicaid means fewer economic struggles, the report said. It estimates 27,400 fewer Louisiana residents would have trouble paying bills because the burden of health costs would be removed.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.nola.com/politics/index.ssf/2015/06/expanding_medicaid_would_add_1.html">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Dr. Mikulich Urges Louisiana Judiciary Committee to Support SB241
News Intro Text
"I am writing to urge you to take a significant step to address our state’s fiscal crisis and reducing over-incarceration."
News Item Content
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/April 29_0.jpg" /></p>
Date
JSRI Associate Mary Baudouin to be honored
News Intro Text
On June 28th JSRI Associate Mary Baudouin will be presented with the Adjutor Hominum Award, the highest alumni award from Loyola University New Orleans.
News Item Content
<p>LOYOLA PRESS RELEASE - JUNE 1, 2015</p>
<p>A New Orleans native who spent much of her life working for social justice and ministering in the Catholic Church at the local and national levels has been honored with the highest alumni award from Loyola University New Orleans.</p>
<p>The Loyola Alumni Association has chosen Mary Ann Baudouin '78 to receive the Adjutor Hominum Award, which honors an outstanding Loyola graduate whose life exemplifies the values and philosophy of the Jesuit education — moral character, service to humanity and unquestionable integrity. The award presentation will be held as part of the university's Alumni Weekend celebration and reunion during the annual Alumni Association Jazz Brunch to be held on Sunday, June 28 at 11:30 a.m. at the Audubon Tea Room, 6500 Magazine St., located across from the Audubon Golf Course. The cost is $40 per person or $60 per couple and includes a Creole breakfast. Registration is available online.</p>
<p>“I am so touched to receive this award from the school that absolutely shaped me and inspired me to become an advocate for social justice," Baudouin said. "The Jesuits, my professors, and my friends at Loyola helped me to understand that our faith calls us to do what we can to create a world where the poor and excluded find a place at the table and also gave me practical tools and abiding hope needed to work for that kind of world.”</p>
<p>Baudouin graduated from Loyola in 1978 with a degree in social work. While at Loyola, she led a group of students who started LUCAP, the Loyola University Community Action Program, a student-led volunteer service and advocacy program now in its 40th year. Baudouin went on to earn a master's degree in social work from Washington University in St. Louis, Mo.</p>
<p>After returning to New Orleans, Baudouin built a career working in the social justice ministry in the Catholic Church, including 14 years with Catholic Charities and the Office of the Social Apostolate of the Archdiocese of New Orleans. When the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops wrote their pastoral letter on the U.S. economy in 1987, Baudouin coordinated their Office of Implementation for the United States Catholic Conference Office of Social Development and World Peace. She also spent seven years working as a consultant with faith-based and social service nonprofits in the South, specializing in the areas of strategic planning, board development and grant-writing.</p>
<p>Baudouin has worked since 2003 as the provincial assistant for social ministries of the Jesuits, first with the New Orleans Province and now with the newly formed United States Central and Southern Province. In addition to coordinating social justice ministries for the province, she is responsible for the annual Ministry of Management training seminar for priests and lay leaders of Jesuit works. She serves as an associate for the Jesuit Social Research Institute at Loyola, where she helps to lead Catholic dialogues on immigration and the child migrant crisis and human rights with a private prison company.</p>
<p>She currently serves on the boards of The Harry Tompson Center, St. Mary's Dominican High School (her alma mater) and the Jesuit Volunteer Corps. She was a founding board member of the Ignatian Solidarity Network and The Isaiah Fund.</p>
<p>Baudouin is married to Loyola alumnus Tom Fitzgerald '86 and has three children.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.loyno.edu/news/story/2015/6/1/3614">MORE>></a></p>
<p>A New Orleans native who spent much of her life working for social justice and ministering in the Catholic Church at the local and national levels has been honored with the highest alumni award from Loyola University New Orleans.</p>
<p>The Loyola Alumni Association has chosen Mary Ann Baudouin '78 to receive the Adjutor Hominum Award, which honors an outstanding Loyola graduate whose life exemplifies the values and philosophy of the Jesuit education — moral character, service to humanity and unquestionable integrity. The award presentation will be held as part of the university's Alumni Weekend celebration and reunion during the annual Alumni Association Jazz Brunch to be held on Sunday, June 28 at 11:30 a.m. at the Audubon Tea Room, 6500 Magazine St., located across from the Audubon Golf Course. The cost is $40 per person or $60 per couple and includes a Creole breakfast. Registration is available online.</p>
<p>“I am so touched to receive this award from the school that absolutely shaped me and inspired me to become an advocate for social justice," Baudouin said. "The Jesuits, my professors, and my friends at Loyola helped me to understand that our faith calls us to do what we can to create a world where the poor and excluded find a place at the table and also gave me practical tools and abiding hope needed to work for that kind of world.”</p>
<p>Baudouin graduated from Loyola in 1978 with a degree in social work. While at Loyola, she led a group of students who started LUCAP, the Loyola University Community Action Program, a student-led volunteer service and advocacy program now in its 40th year. Baudouin went on to earn a master's degree in social work from Washington University in St. Louis, Mo.</p>
<p>After returning to New Orleans, Baudouin built a career working in the social justice ministry in the Catholic Church, including 14 years with Catholic Charities and the Office of the Social Apostolate of the Archdiocese of New Orleans. When the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops wrote their pastoral letter on the U.S. economy in 1987, Baudouin coordinated their Office of Implementation for the United States Catholic Conference Office of Social Development and World Peace. She also spent seven years working as a consultant with faith-based and social service nonprofits in the South, specializing in the areas of strategic planning, board development and grant-writing.</p>
<p>Baudouin has worked since 2003 as the provincial assistant for social ministries of the Jesuits, first with the New Orleans Province and now with the newly formed United States Central and Southern Province. In addition to coordinating social justice ministries for the province, she is responsible for the annual Ministry of Management training seminar for priests and lay leaders of Jesuit works. She serves as an associate for the Jesuit Social Research Institute at Loyola, where she helps to lead Catholic dialogues on immigration and the child migrant crisis and human rights with a private prison company.</p>
<p>She currently serves on the boards of The Harry Tompson Center, St. Mary's Dominican High School (her alma mater) and the Jesuit Volunteer Corps. She was a founding board member of the Ignatian Solidarity Network and The Isaiah Fund.</p>
<p>Baudouin is married to Loyola alumnus Tom Fitzgerald '86 and has three children.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.loyno.edu/news/story/2015/6/1/3614">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Texas Loses Billions To Treat The Poor By Not Expanding Medicaid, Advocates Say
News Intro Text
When the Supreme Court ruled that the federal government could not compel states to expand Medicaid programs, many Southern and Midwestern states opted out. One quarter of the uninsured live in Texas.
News Item Content
<p><a href="http://www.npr.org/2015/05/29/410470081/texas-didn-t-expand-medicare-advocates-say-money-is-being-left-on-the-table"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/NPR.jpg" style="width: 600px; height: 401px;" /></a></p>
Date
“Offsets” Are Latest Budget-Balancing Tool
News Intro Text
Fr. Kammer spoke in support of Louisiana HB 70 on Tuesday. Committee members voted 8-6 to advance the bill to the full House.
News Item Content
<p>By SUE LINCOLN, 89.9 WWNO</p>
<p>A bill to increase a tax credit program by $47-million dollars found favor with the House Ways and Means Committee Tuesday. Speaker Pro Tem Walt Leger’s HB 70 would double Louisiana’s current Earned Income Tax Credit.</p>
<p>“This allows about 30-percent of the state of Louisiana to keep more of their earned money,” Leger told the committee.</p>
<p>There were the kind of arguments for the bill that you’d expect.</p>
<p>“I see this bill as a response to consistent criticism that I hear – in this building and in the community at large – about people ‘getting something for nothing’,” Leger explained. “This program is one that rewards people for working.”</p>
<p>Father Fred Kammer, with Loyola’s Social Research Institute, said increasing Louisiana’s credit from 3 ½ percent to 7 percent of the federal EITC would be a raise for Louisiana’s working poor.</p>
<p>“The dollar value to each family of the federal share was $2685,” Kammer said of the most recent tax year. “The state value was $94.”</p>
<p>There were objections, like this from Kenner Rep. Julie Stokes, who said she wasn’t comfortable with the timing.</p>
<p>“We’re going to be back in this building – probably in early 2016 – for a special session that will focus on tax reform,” Stokes said, urging a delay in acting on this bill. “I think that would probably be better timing.”</p>
<p>“I share your concerns with the timing,” Leger responded. “However, given the nature of our situation and the need for offsets, I thought it was an appropriate thing to bring at this time.”</p>
<p>“Offsets” ended up being the key argument. This bill could help offset the House-approved tax increases, thus assisting with keeping the budget within the governor’s “no net tax increase” guidelines.</p>
<p>“If we’re going to ultimately balance the budget – without vetoes – we need to just be cognizant that, at this point in the session, providing the Senate with some options on offsets is, I think, a valuable tool,” Leger explained.</p>
<p>Committee members, several crossing party lines, voted 8-6 to advance the bill to the full House.</p>
<p><a href="http://wwno.org/post/offsets-are-latest-budget-balancing-tool">MORE>></a></p>
<p>A bill to increase a tax credit program by $47-million dollars found favor with the House Ways and Means Committee Tuesday. Speaker Pro Tem Walt Leger’s HB 70 would double Louisiana’s current Earned Income Tax Credit.</p>
<p>“This allows about 30-percent of the state of Louisiana to keep more of their earned money,” Leger told the committee.</p>
<p>There were the kind of arguments for the bill that you’d expect.</p>
<p>“I see this bill as a response to consistent criticism that I hear – in this building and in the community at large – about people ‘getting something for nothing’,” Leger explained. “This program is one that rewards people for working.”</p>
<p>Father Fred Kammer, with Loyola’s Social Research Institute, said increasing Louisiana’s credit from 3 ½ percent to 7 percent of the federal EITC would be a raise for Louisiana’s working poor.</p>
<p>“The dollar value to each family of the federal share was $2685,” Kammer said of the most recent tax year. “The state value was $94.”</p>
<p>There were objections, like this from Kenner Rep. Julie Stokes, who said she wasn’t comfortable with the timing.</p>
<p>“We’re going to be back in this building – probably in early 2016 – for a special session that will focus on tax reform,” Stokes said, urging a delay in acting on this bill. “I think that would probably be better timing.”</p>
<p>“I share your concerns with the timing,” Leger responded. “However, given the nature of our situation and the need for offsets, I thought it was an appropriate thing to bring at this time.”</p>
<p>“Offsets” ended up being the key argument. This bill could help offset the House-approved tax increases, thus assisting with keeping the budget within the governor’s “no net tax increase” guidelines.</p>
<p>“If we’re going to ultimately balance the budget – without vetoes – we need to just be cognizant that, at this point in the session, providing the Senate with some options on offsets is, I think, a valuable tool,” Leger explained.</p>
<p>Committee members, several crossing party lines, voted 8-6 to advance the bill to the full House.</p>
<p><a href="http://wwno.org/post/offsets-are-latest-budget-balancing-tool">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Creating a Culture of Encounter
News Intro Text
How can a “culture of encounter” with undocumented immigrants be realized in our community, especially considering barriers of language, class, location, and privilege?
News Item Content
<p>by Susan Weishar, Ph.D.</p>
<p>As migrant deaths in the Mediterranean Sea continue to mount and U.S. politicians persist in hardline rhetoric opposing immigration reform, Pope Francis’s 2014 Message for the World Day of Migrants and Refugees takes on greater urgency: “A change of attitude towards migrants and refugees is needed on the part of everyone, moving away from attitudes of defensiveness and fear, indifference and marginalization—all typical of a throwaway culture—towards attitudes based on a culture of encounter, the only culture capable of building a better, more just and fraternal world.”[1]</p>
<p>How can a “culture of encounter” with undocumented immigrants be realized in our community, especially considering barriers of language, class, location, and privilege? Perhaps by creating a welcoming space of equals, where respect and dialog are nurtured and facilitated and the deepest values of our faith traditions are recognized and affirmed. These were the goals of the Catholic Teach-In on Migration for Young Catholics, held this past semester in the Audubon Room at Loyola.</p>
<p>Participants included fifteen immigrant teens and their parents—all members of the Congress of Day Laborers, sixty juniors and seniors from Jesuit, St. Mary’s Dominican, Cabrini, and Brother Martin High Schools, and twenty chaperones. Eleven Loyola students from Honors, the Spanish Department, and LUCAP’s Loyola Immigration Advocates served as small group discussion leaders. Simultaneous and consecutive interpretation were provided by sixteen students with Loyola’s Interpreting and Translation program.</p>
<p>The Teach-In began and ended in prayers for love and hospitality for those who migrate. Participants were asked to follow “ground rules”, i.e. treat each other with respect and aim to understand one another’s points of view. After brief overviews from JSRI staff on the Church’s teachings on migration and the U.S. role in undermining healthy economies and democracy in Central America, local Catholic high school students listened intently as young immigrants bravely told their migration stories in small group discussions, including why they and their families fled Central America, what their migration journeys were like, and the challenges they face in our community living undocumented. The small group discussions were led by Loyola students, who were trained by JSRI for this task. </p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/zqihi/308b5d9d7f9aed2139ac52b426411679">MORE>></a></p>
<p>As migrant deaths in the Mediterranean Sea continue to mount and U.S. politicians persist in hardline rhetoric opposing immigration reform, Pope Francis’s 2014 Message for the World Day of Migrants and Refugees takes on greater urgency: “A change of attitude towards migrants and refugees is needed on the part of everyone, moving away from attitudes of defensiveness and fear, indifference and marginalization—all typical of a throwaway culture—towards attitudes based on a culture of encounter, the only culture capable of building a better, more just and fraternal world.”[1]</p>
<p>How can a “culture of encounter” with undocumented immigrants be realized in our community, especially considering barriers of language, class, location, and privilege? Perhaps by creating a welcoming space of equals, where respect and dialog are nurtured and facilitated and the deepest values of our faith traditions are recognized and affirmed. These were the goals of the Catholic Teach-In on Migration for Young Catholics, held this past semester in the Audubon Room at Loyola.</p>
<p>Participants included fifteen immigrant teens and their parents—all members of the Congress of Day Laborers, sixty juniors and seniors from Jesuit, St. Mary’s Dominican, Cabrini, and Brother Martin High Schools, and twenty chaperones. Eleven Loyola students from Honors, the Spanish Department, and LUCAP’s Loyola Immigration Advocates served as small group discussion leaders. Simultaneous and consecutive interpretation were provided by sixteen students with Loyola’s Interpreting and Translation program.</p>
<p>The Teach-In began and ended in prayers for love and hospitality for those who migrate. Participants were asked to follow “ground rules”, i.e. treat each other with respect and aim to understand one another’s points of view. After brief overviews from JSRI staff on the Church’s teachings on migration and the U.S. role in undermining healthy economies and democracy in Central America, local Catholic high school students listened intently as young immigrants bravely told their migration stories in small group discussions, including why they and their families fled Central America, what their migration journeys were like, and the challenges they face in our community living undocumented. The small group discussions were led by Loyola students, who were trained by JSRI for this task. </p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/zqihi/308b5d9d7f9aed2139ac52b426411679">MORE>></a></p>
Date
CASS: MY COLLEAGUE’S 46 YEAR-OLD SISTER NEED NOT HAVE DIED
News Intro Text
[Rio Grande Guardian, May 13, 2015]
News Item Content
<p>[Rio Grande Guardian, May 13, 2015]</p>
<p>This week the 46 year-old sister of a co-worker died. She had had a treatable cancer of the uterus.</p>
<p>However, like most low-income citizens without health insurance, she had no medical home, and so she had waited to get medical help until her symptoms forced her to the doctor.</p>
<p>In March the pain became so bad that she went to a local hospital, which admitted her, not out of the goodness of their corporate heart, but because the law requires hospitals to care for those people who are suffering great pain.</p>
<p>With that admission, an emotional, financial, and terrifying roller coaster ride began for her and her family of whether or not she would be able to have surgery or cancer treatments. Everything depended on if she qualified for this program or that program. It turned out that she didn’t qualify for any of the programs. The doctor told the family he could do surgery if they gave him a $5000 down payment, an amount of money that they did not have, and so she was left to her fate, which was an early death.</p>
<p>In the end, it turns out, there was one program she did qualify for, and that was the County’s Indigent Funeral Program.</p>
<p>Before the funeral services, someone offered condolences to her mother, saying, “The Good Lord chose to take her to be with Him.” Her mom wailed, “God did not take her! She died because we did not have the money.”</p>
<p><a href="http://riograndeguardian.com/cass-my-colleagues-46-year-old-sister-need-not-have-died/">MORE>></a></p>
<p>This week the 46 year-old sister of a co-worker died. She had had a treatable cancer of the uterus.</p>
<p>However, like most low-income citizens without health insurance, she had no medical home, and so she had waited to get medical help until her symptoms forced her to the doctor.</p>
<p>In March the pain became so bad that she went to a local hospital, which admitted her, not out of the goodness of their corporate heart, but because the law requires hospitals to care for those people who are suffering great pain.</p>
<p>With that admission, an emotional, financial, and terrifying roller coaster ride began for her and her family of whether or not she would be able to have surgery or cancer treatments. Everything depended on if she qualified for this program or that program. It turned out that she didn’t qualify for any of the programs. The doctor told the family he could do surgery if they gave him a $5000 down payment, an amount of money that they did not have, and so she was left to her fate, which was an early death.</p>
<p>In the end, it turns out, there was one program she did qualify for, and that was the County’s Indigent Funeral Program.</p>
<p>Before the funeral services, someone offered condolences to her mother, saying, “The Good Lord chose to take her to be with Him.” Her mom wailed, “God did not take her! She died because we did not have the money.”</p>
<p><a href="http://riograndeguardian.com/cass-my-colleagues-46-year-old-sister-need-not-have-died/">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Louisiana EITC Fact Sheet Available
News Intro Text
Louisiana’s EITC: Investing in Our Families and Our Economy
News Item Content
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/EITC 1.jpg" /></p>
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/EITC 2.jpg" /></p>
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/EITC 2.jpg" /></p>
Date
Louisiana Medicaid Expansion Fact Sheet Available
News Intro Text
Medicaid Expansion in Louisiana: Caring for Our Families and Our Economy
News Item Content
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/new med 1.jpg" /></p>
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/new med 2.jpg" /></p>
<p>For printable PDF file click <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Medicaid Fact Sheet 4-30-2015.pdf">HERE</a></p>
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/new med 2.jpg" /></p>
<p>For printable PDF file click <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Medicaid Fact Sheet 4-30-2015.pdf">HERE</a></p>
Date
Pope Francis and the Environment
News Intro Text
Anticipating Earth Day, April 22, 2015
News Item Content
<p>Anticipating Earth Day, April 22, 2015 </p>
<p>by Fred Kammer, S.J. </p>
<p>As we approach the 45th anniversary of earth day next week, Catholics and others might well ask what Pope Francis thinks about our environment and our responsibilities for it. Francis watchers are looking to Rome for a planned encyclical on the environment due out this summer. This won’t be just about turning down the thermostat or saving leftovers; but the Pope already has indicated that he sees the defense of the environment as interwoven with the defense of the family and of the poor “as part of the same agenda of ensuring the survival and thriving of humanity.”[1]</p>
<p>The Pope met with United Nations officials in May of last year and urged the international community to address "the structural causes of poverty and hunger, attain more substantial results in protecting the environment, ensure dignified and productive labor for all and provide appropriate protection for the family, which is an essential element in sustainable human and social development."[2]</p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/np58h/0f9a42316cb5facb91e27547cda46552">MORE>></a></p>
<p>by Fred Kammer, S.J. </p>
<p>As we approach the 45th anniversary of earth day next week, Catholics and others might well ask what Pope Francis thinks about our environment and our responsibilities for it. Francis watchers are looking to Rome for a planned encyclical on the environment due out this summer. This won’t be just about turning down the thermostat or saving leftovers; but the Pope already has indicated that he sees the defense of the environment as interwoven with the defense of the family and of the poor “as part of the same agenda of ensuring the survival and thriving of humanity.”[1]</p>
<p>The Pope met with United Nations officials in May of last year and urged the international community to address "the structural causes of poverty and hunger, attain more substantial results in protecting the environment, ensure dignified and productive labor for all and provide appropriate protection for the family, which is an essential element in sustainable human and social development."[2]</p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/np58h/0f9a42316cb5facb91e27547cda46552">MORE>></a></p>
Date
JSRI PRESS RELEASE: JSRI Response to CFPB Initial Ruling
News Intro Text
JSRI comments on the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's initial rule on payday lending.
News Item Content
<p> </p>
<p>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE </p>
<p><strong>Encouraging Initial Rule Needs Strengthening, says Jesuit Social Research Institute</strong></p>
<p>New Orleans, LA- April 14, 2015: The Jesuit Social Research Institute welcomes the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s (CFPB) encouraging initial rule to curtail payday lending but we are concerned that the proposal leaves too many loopholes for continued abuses. </p>
<p>Significant additional rules are necessary to break a business model designed to catch families in a cycle of debt. </p>
<p>“When a family has nothing to eat because they have to repay loan sharks,” exclaimed Pope Francis on January 29, 2014, “that is not Christian, It is inhuman!” </p>
<p>As Bishop Stephen E. Blaire wrote to CFPB Director Cordray (November 13, 2013): </p>
<p><em>The Catechism of the Catholic Church </em>equates exploiting economic hardship with theft: “Even if it does not contradict provisions of civil law, any form of unjustly taking and keeping the property of others is against the seventh commandment: thus, deliberate retention of goods lent or objects lost; business fraud; paying unjust wages; forcing up prices by taking advantage of ignorance or hardship of another (#2409).”</p>
<p>Bishop Blaire explains that payday lending meets these criteria because it preys on the financial hardship of the poor, exploits their lack of understanding, and increases economic insecurity. </p>
<p>Payday lending violates the most cherished values of our faith and democracy: human dignity and freedom.</p>
<p>Payday loans led to the net loss of 671 jobs and drained at least $46 million from</p>
<p>Louisiana in 2011 according to a <a href="http://www.insightcced.org/uploads/assets/Net%20Economic%20Impact%20of%20Payday%20Lending.pdf">study</a> by the Insight Center for Community Development. A typical Louisiana borrower will need to take out 9 loans each year to pay off their original debt, resulting in $270 in fees for a one-time $100 loan.</p>
<p>We welcome the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s proposed rule that calls upon payday lenders to practice what any responsible lender does: consider the borrower’s ability to repay the loan while meeting other expenses without needing to re-borrow. This is an important first-step to stop predatory lending practices that prey upon financially insecure families and their inability to repay loans that trap them in a cycle of debt. </p>
<p>However, this rule needs to be strengthened and close loopholes that allow this perverse business model to persist. </p>
<p>We need federal regulations that require lenders to determine the ability of borrowers to repay a loan in consideration of both income and expenses and obligations. We also need to prohibit lenders from requiring a post-dated check or electronic access to a borrower’s checking account. </p>
<p>The Dodd-Frank Consumer Protection Act , signed into law by President Obama in July 2010, does not grant the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau authority to cap interest rates which is the single most effective way to constrain predatory lending. State interest rate caps thus remain critical even if new federal rules are set to regulate payday loans. </p>
<p>We understand that the CFPB proposal is only a first look at the agency’s approach. We look forward to working with our state, regional, and national partners to help the CFPB craft new rules that will ensure that the small dollar loan market is affordable, responsible, and safe, especially for individuals and families struggling to make ends meet. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Alex Mikulich, Ph.D.</p>
<p>Jesuit Social Research Institute</p>
<p>Loyola University New Orleans</p>
<p>mikulich@loyno.edu · (504)-864-7750</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Robert D. Gorman</p>
<p>Executive Director</p>
<p>Catholic Charities of the </p>
<p>Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux </p>
<p>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE </p>
<p><strong>Encouraging Initial Rule Needs Strengthening, says Jesuit Social Research Institute</strong></p>
<p>New Orleans, LA- April 14, 2015: The Jesuit Social Research Institute welcomes the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s (CFPB) encouraging initial rule to curtail payday lending but we are concerned that the proposal leaves too many loopholes for continued abuses. </p>
<p>Significant additional rules are necessary to break a business model designed to catch families in a cycle of debt. </p>
<p>“When a family has nothing to eat because they have to repay loan sharks,” exclaimed Pope Francis on January 29, 2014, “that is not Christian, It is inhuman!” </p>
<p>As Bishop Stephen E. Blaire wrote to CFPB Director Cordray (November 13, 2013): </p>
<p><em>The Catechism of the Catholic Church </em>equates exploiting economic hardship with theft: “Even if it does not contradict provisions of civil law, any form of unjustly taking and keeping the property of others is against the seventh commandment: thus, deliberate retention of goods lent or objects lost; business fraud; paying unjust wages; forcing up prices by taking advantage of ignorance or hardship of another (#2409).”</p>
<p>Bishop Blaire explains that payday lending meets these criteria because it preys on the financial hardship of the poor, exploits their lack of understanding, and increases economic insecurity. </p>
<p>Payday lending violates the most cherished values of our faith and democracy: human dignity and freedom.</p>
<p>Payday loans led to the net loss of 671 jobs and drained at least $46 million from</p>
<p>Louisiana in 2011 according to a <a href="http://www.insightcced.org/uploads/assets/Net%20Economic%20Impact%20of%20Payday%20Lending.pdf">study</a> by the Insight Center for Community Development. A typical Louisiana borrower will need to take out 9 loans each year to pay off their original debt, resulting in $270 in fees for a one-time $100 loan.</p>
<p>We welcome the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s proposed rule that calls upon payday lenders to practice what any responsible lender does: consider the borrower’s ability to repay the loan while meeting other expenses without needing to re-borrow. This is an important first-step to stop predatory lending practices that prey upon financially insecure families and their inability to repay loans that trap them in a cycle of debt. </p>
<p>However, this rule needs to be strengthened and close loopholes that allow this perverse business model to persist. </p>
<p>We need federal regulations that require lenders to determine the ability of borrowers to repay a loan in consideration of both income and expenses and obligations. We also need to prohibit lenders from requiring a post-dated check or electronic access to a borrower’s checking account. </p>
<p>The Dodd-Frank Consumer Protection Act , signed into law by President Obama in July 2010, does not grant the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau authority to cap interest rates which is the single most effective way to constrain predatory lending. State interest rate caps thus remain critical even if new federal rules are set to regulate payday loans. </p>
<p>We understand that the CFPB proposal is only a first look at the agency’s approach. We look forward to working with our state, regional, and national partners to help the CFPB craft new rules that will ensure that the small dollar loan market is affordable, responsible, and safe, especially for individuals and families struggling to make ends meet. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Alex Mikulich, Ph.D.</p>
<p>Jesuit Social Research Institute</p>
<p>Loyola University New Orleans</p>
<p>mikulich@loyno.edu · (504)-864-7750</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Robert D. Gorman</p>
<p>Executive Director</p>
<p>Catholic Charities of the </p>
<p>Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux </p>
Date
Interfaith Prayer Vigil for Justice and Compassion for Immigrants
News Intro Text
This Thursday, April 16 6-7:00 in front of the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals.
News Item Content
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Interfaith new.jpg" /></p>
Date
Overtaxing the Poor and Blaming Oil in the Gulf South
News Intro Text
by Ali R. Bustamante, JSRI Economic Policy Specialist
News Item Content
<p>by Ali R. Bustamante </p>
<p>Since June 2014, the average price of a barrel of oil has fallen from more than $100 to about $50.[1] Many states, including those in the Gulf South, are considering budget cuts to higher education and health care services in order to deal with oil revenue shortfalls. However, contrary to what state budget offices profess, pressure to cut the budgets of education, health, and social services stems from the inadequacy and regressive nature of tax structures and not from oil revenue shortfalls.</p>
<p><strong>Oil Revenues Have Long Lost Importance </strong></p>
<p>On average, sales and excise taxes, property taxes and state income taxes individually contribute more to state and local revenues than oil revenues in the Gulf South. The portion of the state budget linked to oil and gas revenue is about 13 percent in Louisiana and only 4.5 percent in Texas, the Gulf South’s two most oil-dependent states.[2] Conversely, sales and excise taxes alone represent 33.6 percent of state revenues in Louisiana and 31.7 percent in Texas.[3]</p>
<p>In the 1980s oil and gas revenue represented a much larger portion of state revenues—about 45 percent in Louisiana and 20 percent in Texas.4 A sudden shift in oil prices had the power to fuel a spending bonanza or to cripple state budgets. However, since the 1980s, the economies of the Gulf South have diversified and a smaller share of state and local revenues, as well as state and local employment, is tied to oil and gas than in past decades.</p>
<p>Today, a steep drop in oil prices no longer drives the Gulf South into recession or necessitates cuts in education and health services because these programs are largely funded by income and sales taxes. However, the increased stability of state and local revenues has come at a cost increasingly paid by low- and middleincome families.</p>
<p><strong>Unfair Taxation</strong></p>
<p>A new report from the nonpartisan Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy (ITEP) titled Who Pays: A Distributional Analysis of the Tax Systems in All Fifty States reveals that all state and local tax systems in the U.S. are regressive and unfair.[5] Florida and Texas have the second and third most regressive tax systems in the U.S. while Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi rank 12th, 19th, and 21st respectively.</p>
<p>In regressive tax systems, low- and middle-income families pay a greater share of their income in taxes than the wealthy. Progressive systems do the opposite, requiring higher tax contributions from those with more ability to pay. Catholic Social Teaching supports progressive taxation systems as just and equitable systems that reduce severe income and wealth inequalities.[6]</p>
<p>States in the Gulf South place a disproportionately greater burden on lowand middle-income families to sustain state and local tax revenues. The effective state and local tax rates by income level in the Gulf South show that the poorest families, the bottom 20 percent, pay at least two times more of their income in taxes than the top one percent.</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Overtaxing the Poor Spring 2015_0.pdf">MORE>></a></p>
<p>Since June 2014, the average price of a barrel of oil has fallen from more than $100 to about $50.[1] Many states, including those in the Gulf South, are considering budget cuts to higher education and health care services in order to deal with oil revenue shortfalls. However, contrary to what state budget offices profess, pressure to cut the budgets of education, health, and social services stems from the inadequacy and regressive nature of tax structures and not from oil revenue shortfalls.</p>
<p><strong>Oil Revenues Have Long Lost Importance </strong></p>
<p>On average, sales and excise taxes, property taxes and state income taxes individually contribute more to state and local revenues than oil revenues in the Gulf South. The portion of the state budget linked to oil and gas revenue is about 13 percent in Louisiana and only 4.5 percent in Texas, the Gulf South’s two most oil-dependent states.[2] Conversely, sales and excise taxes alone represent 33.6 percent of state revenues in Louisiana and 31.7 percent in Texas.[3]</p>
<p>In the 1980s oil and gas revenue represented a much larger portion of state revenues—about 45 percent in Louisiana and 20 percent in Texas.4 A sudden shift in oil prices had the power to fuel a spending bonanza or to cripple state budgets. However, since the 1980s, the economies of the Gulf South have diversified and a smaller share of state and local revenues, as well as state and local employment, is tied to oil and gas than in past decades.</p>
<p>Today, a steep drop in oil prices no longer drives the Gulf South into recession or necessitates cuts in education and health services because these programs are largely funded by income and sales taxes. However, the increased stability of state and local revenues has come at a cost increasingly paid by low- and middleincome families.</p>
<p><strong>Unfair Taxation</strong></p>
<p>A new report from the nonpartisan Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy (ITEP) titled Who Pays: A Distributional Analysis of the Tax Systems in All Fifty States reveals that all state and local tax systems in the U.S. are regressive and unfair.[5] Florida and Texas have the second and third most regressive tax systems in the U.S. while Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi rank 12th, 19th, and 21st respectively.</p>
<p>In regressive tax systems, low- and middle-income families pay a greater share of their income in taxes than the wealthy. Progressive systems do the opposite, requiring higher tax contributions from those with more ability to pay. Catholic Social Teaching supports progressive taxation systems as just and equitable systems that reduce severe income and wealth inequalities.[6]</p>
<p>States in the Gulf South place a disproportionately greater burden on lowand middle-income families to sustain state and local tax revenues. The effective state and local tax rates by income level in the Gulf South show that the poorest families, the bottom 20 percent, pay at least two times more of their income in taxes than the top one percent.</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Overtaxing the Poor Spring 2015_0.pdf">MORE>></a></p>
Date
[New] JustSouth Quarterly
News Intro Text
In this edition JSRI staff members examine homelessness/housing shortages; the modern day reality of the March on Washington; Catholic Social Thought and housing; and the over taxation of the poor and its connection to oil.
News Item Content
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JustSouth Quarterly Spring 2015_0.pdf"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JSQ Spring 2015.jpg" /></a></p>
Date
Catholic, Evangelical Lutheran Bishops Visit Texas Detention Facility, Call For An End To Detention Of Families
News Intro Text
[USCCB.org, 03/27/15]
Policy of family detention unworthy of our nation
Detention of families a ‘stain’ on administration’s record
Humane alternatives to detention available
Policy of family detention unworthy of our nation
Detention of families a ‘stain’ on administration’s record
Humane alternatives to detention available
News Item Content
<p>WASHINGTON—Catholic and Evangelical Lutheran bishops visited with young mothers and children who have fled violence in their home countries and are now incarcerated at Dilley Detention Center in Dilley, Texas, on March 27. The faith leaders called upon the federal government to halt the practice of family detentions, citing the harmful effects on mothers, children and the moral character of society.</p>
<p>Archbishop Gustavo García-Siller, M.Sp.S. of San Antonio, Texas, whose archdiocese includes Dilley, was joined by Bishop Eusebio Elizondo, auxiliary bishop of Seattle, and Bishop James Tamayo of Laredo, Texas. Bishops Michael Rinehart and H. Julian Gordy of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America also joined them on the visit. Since last summer, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has detained hundreds of families at detention centers in New Mexico, Texas, and Pennsylvania, under a new family detention policy aimed at families fleeing violence in Central America.</p>
<p>“After this visit, my primary question is: Why? Why do we feel compelled to place in detention such vulnerable individuals –traumatized young mothers with children fleeing persecution in their home countries?” said Archbishop García-Siller following the visit. “A great nation such as ours need not incarcerate the most vulnerable in the name of deterrence. The moral character of a society is judged by how it treats the most vulnerable in our midst. Our nation’s family detention policy is shameful and I implore our elected officials to end it."</p>
<p><a href="http://www.usccb.org/news/2015/15-050.cfm">MORE>></a></p>
<p>Archbishop Gustavo García-Siller, M.Sp.S. of San Antonio, Texas, whose archdiocese includes Dilley, was joined by Bishop Eusebio Elizondo, auxiliary bishop of Seattle, and Bishop James Tamayo of Laredo, Texas. Bishops Michael Rinehart and H. Julian Gordy of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America also joined them on the visit. Since last summer, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has detained hundreds of families at detention centers in New Mexico, Texas, and Pennsylvania, under a new family detention policy aimed at families fleeing violence in Central America.</p>
<p>“After this visit, my primary question is: Why? Why do we feel compelled to place in detention such vulnerable individuals –traumatized young mothers with children fleeing persecution in their home countries?” said Archbishop García-Siller following the visit. “A great nation such as ours need not incarcerate the most vulnerable in the name of deterrence. The moral character of a society is judged by how it treats the most vulnerable in our midst. Our nation’s family detention policy is shameful and I implore our elected officials to end it."</p>
<p><a href="http://www.usccb.org/news/2015/15-050.cfm">MORE>></a></p>
Date
FACTSHEET: THE CFPB CONSIDERS PROPOSAL TO END PAYDAY DEBT TRAPS
News Intro Text
On March 26th the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) announced that they are considering proposing rules that would end payday debt traps by requiring lenders to take steps to make sure consumers can repay their loans.
News Item Content
<p><em>Today the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) announced it is considering proposing rules that would end payday debt traps by requiring lenders to take steps to make sure consumers can repay their loans. The proposals under consideration would also restrict lenders from attempting to collect payment from consumers’ bank accounts in ways that tend to rack up excessive fees. The strong consumer protections being considered would apply to payday loans, vehicle title loans, deposit advance products, and certain high-cost installment and open-end loans.</em></p>
<p><strong>Overview</strong></p>
<p>The proposals under consideration cover both short-term and longer-term credit products that are often marketed heavily to financially vulnerable consumers. The CFPB recognizes consumers’ need for affordable credit but is concerned that the practices often associated with these products – such as failure to underwrite for affordable payments, repeatedly rolling over or refinancing loans, holding a security interest in a vehicle as collateral, accessing the consumer’s deposit account for repayment, and performing costly withdrawal attempts – can trap consumers in debt. Consumers can be forced to choose between reborrowing, defaulting, or falling behind on other obligations, and also may face deposit account fees and closures, vehicle repossessions, and other harms. For short-term loans, the CFPB has found that for consumers living paycheck to paycheck, the short timeframe can make it difficult to accumulate the necessary funds to pay off the principal and fees before the due date. Borrowers who cannot repay often roll over the loan – pay more fees to delay paying off the loan or take out a new loan to replace the old one. For many borrowers, what starts out as a short-term loan turns into an unaffordable, long-term cycle of debt. For longer-term loans, many consumers struggle to keep up with unaffordable payments, which can result in defaults, costly refinancing, or falling behind on other bills. The proposals under consideration provide two different approaches to ending debt traps – prevention and protection. Under the prevention requirements, lenders would have to determine at the outset that the consumer is not taking on unaffordable debt. Under the protection requirements, lenders would have to comply with various restrictions designed to ensure that consumers can affordably repay their debt. Lenders could choose which set of requirements to follow. The CFPB is publishing the outline of proposals under consideration in preparation for convening a Small Business Review Panel to gather feedback from small lenders, which is the next step in the rulemaking process.</p>
<p><a href="http://files.consumerfinance.gov/f/201503_cfpb-proposal-under-consideration.pdf">MORE>></a></p>
<div>
</div>
<p><strong>Overview</strong></p>
<p>The proposals under consideration cover both short-term and longer-term credit products that are often marketed heavily to financially vulnerable consumers. The CFPB recognizes consumers’ need for affordable credit but is concerned that the practices often associated with these products – such as failure to underwrite for affordable payments, repeatedly rolling over or refinancing loans, holding a security interest in a vehicle as collateral, accessing the consumer’s deposit account for repayment, and performing costly withdrawal attempts – can trap consumers in debt. Consumers can be forced to choose between reborrowing, defaulting, or falling behind on other obligations, and also may face deposit account fees and closures, vehicle repossessions, and other harms. For short-term loans, the CFPB has found that for consumers living paycheck to paycheck, the short timeframe can make it difficult to accumulate the necessary funds to pay off the principal and fees before the due date. Borrowers who cannot repay often roll over the loan – pay more fees to delay paying off the loan or take out a new loan to replace the old one. For many borrowers, what starts out as a short-term loan turns into an unaffordable, long-term cycle of debt. For longer-term loans, many consumers struggle to keep up with unaffordable payments, which can result in defaults, costly refinancing, or falling behind on other bills. The proposals under consideration provide two different approaches to ending debt traps – prevention and protection. Under the prevention requirements, lenders would have to determine at the outset that the consumer is not taking on unaffordable debt. Under the protection requirements, lenders would have to comply with various restrictions designed to ensure that consumers can affordably repay their debt. Lenders could choose which set of requirements to follow. The CFPB is publishing the outline of proposals under consideration in preparation for convening a Small Business Review Panel to gather feedback from small lenders, which is the next step in the rulemaking process.</p>
<p><a href="http://files.consumerfinance.gov/f/201503_cfpb-proposal-under-consideration.pdf">MORE>></a></p>
<div>
</div>
Date
Access to Paid Sick Days in Louisiana
News Intro Text
New report by the Institute for Women’s Policy Research (IWPR) finds that approximately 41 percent of all workers (45 percent of private sector workers, compared with 17 percent of public sector workers) living in Louisiana lack even a single paid sick day.
News Item Content
<p>by Jenny Xia (March 2015)</p>
<p>An analysis by the Institute for Women’s Policy Research (IWPR) finds that approximately 41 percent of all workers (45 percent of private sector workers, compared with 17 percent of public sector workers) living in Louisiana lack even a single paid sick day. This lack of access is even more pronounced among low-income and part-time workers. Access to paid sick days promotes safe and healthy work environments by reducing the spread of illness1 and workplace injuries,2 reduces health care costs, and supports children and families by helping parents meet their children’s health needs.3 This briefing paper presents estimates of access to paid sick days in Louisiana by sex, race and ethnicity, occupation, hours worked, and personal earnings through analysis of government data sources, including the 2011–2013 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS), and the 2013 American Community Survey (ACS).</p>
<p><a href="http://www.iwpr.org/publications/pubs/access-to-paid-sick-days-in-louisiana">FULL REPORT>></a></p>
<p>An analysis by the Institute for Women’s Policy Research (IWPR) finds that approximately 41 percent of all workers (45 percent of private sector workers, compared with 17 percent of public sector workers) living in Louisiana lack even a single paid sick day. This lack of access is even more pronounced among low-income and part-time workers. Access to paid sick days promotes safe and healthy work environments by reducing the spread of illness1 and workplace injuries,2 reduces health care costs, and supports children and families by helping parents meet their children’s health needs.3 This briefing paper presents estimates of access to paid sick days in Louisiana by sex, race and ethnicity, occupation, hours worked, and personal earnings through analysis of government data sources, including the 2011–2013 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS), and the 2013 American Community Survey (ACS).</p>
<p><a href="http://www.iwpr.org/publications/pubs/access-to-paid-sick-days-in-louisiana">FULL REPORT>></a></p>
Date
WATCH: LA VOZ DEL PUEBLO
News Intro Text
La Voz Del Pueblo is an 18-minute documentary that explores the difficult and violent Honduran reality through the perspective of journalists at the Jesuit-run radio station, Radio Progreso.
News Item Content
<p><a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/la-voz-del-pueblo/">[Ignatian Solidarity Network, 03/24/15]</a></p>
<p><em>The most violent country on the planet isn’t halfway across the globe; it is a 2.5 hour flight from Houston. Most U.S. citizens are at best dimly aware of the bloodshed that is the defining feature of present-day Honduras. Last summer, 2014, Honduran children surfaced on the southern U.S. border by the tens of thousands, prompting a Texas congressman to decry this “invasion of our nation.” Likewise, protesters in California met the young immigrants with angry slogans like “return to sender!” But did protesters have any understanding of the situation these youth were escaping? The violence they’d be thrown back into if they were indeed “returned to sender”?</em></p>
<p><em>La Voz Del Pueblo is an 18-minute documentary that explores the difficult and violent Honduran reality through the perspective of journalists at the Jesuit-run radio station, Radio Progreso.</em></p>
<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x2ZQx34dGZ0"><em><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Untitled2_0.jpg" style="float: left;" /></em></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><em>The most violent country on the planet isn’t halfway across the globe; it is a 2.5 hour flight from Houston. Most U.S. citizens are at best dimly aware of the bloodshed that is the defining feature of present-day Honduras. Last summer, 2014, Honduran children surfaced on the southern U.S. border by the tens of thousands, prompting a Texas congressman to decry this “invasion of our nation.” Likewise, protesters in California met the young immigrants with angry slogans like “return to sender!” But did protesters have any understanding of the situation these youth were escaping? The violence they’d be thrown back into if they were indeed “returned to sender”?</em></p>
<p><em>La Voz Del Pueblo is an 18-minute documentary that explores the difficult and violent Honduran reality through the perspective of journalists at the Jesuit-run radio station, Radio Progreso.</em></p>
<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x2ZQx34dGZ0"><em><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Untitled2_0.jpg" style="float: left;" /></em></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
Date
The H. James Yamauchi, S.J., Lectures in Religion
News Intro Text
JSRI Director, Fr. Fred Kammer will give the Spring 2015 lecture on Tuesday, March 24th at 7:00 PM. His talk is titled “Exodus, Pilgrimage, and Jubilee Solidarity: How Today’s Immigration Crisis Challenges People of Faith"
News Item Content
<p><em>The Yamauchi Lectures in Religion series was begun in 1985 in memory of Professor H. James Yamauchi, S.J., a celebrated former Chair of the Department of Religious Studies who taught at Loyola University New Orleans from 1956 to 1966. Father Yamauchi was known and loved for his enthusiastic knowledge of religion and his passionate communication of same to the New Orleans community. This lecture series seeks to perpetuate his work by bringing the results of religious scholarship to a wider audience.</em></p>
<hr />
<p><strong>Spring 2015</strong></p>
<p>Loyola University New Orleans’ College of Humanities and Natural Sciences & the Department of Religious Studies present the Spring 2015 Yamauchi Lecture:</p>
<p><strong>“Exodus, Pilgrimage, and Jubilee Solidarity: How Today’s Immigration Crisis Challenges People of Faith”</strong></p>
<p>How do the immigrants’ journeys and destinations reflect a long tradition of sacred pilgrimages?</p>
<p>How do the principles of Catholic social thought shape our judgments and actions in the face of amnesia, indifference, and xenophobia?</p>
<p><span>How can the plight of immigrants today be situated in the context of major events and figures in Salvation History?</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Tuesday, March 24, 7pm (</strong><strong>Reception at 6:15pm)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Audubon Room on the second floor of the Dana Student Center, Loyola University New Orleans</strong></p>
<p><strong>Free, and Open to the Public</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://chn.loyno.edu/religious-studies/yamauchi-lectures">MORE INFORMATION>></a></p>
<hr />
<p><strong>Spring 2015</strong></p>
<p>Loyola University New Orleans’ College of Humanities and Natural Sciences & the Department of Religious Studies present the Spring 2015 Yamauchi Lecture:</p>
<p><strong>“Exodus, Pilgrimage, and Jubilee Solidarity: How Today’s Immigration Crisis Challenges People of Faith”</strong></p>
<p>How do the immigrants’ journeys and destinations reflect a long tradition of sacred pilgrimages?</p>
<p>How do the principles of Catholic social thought shape our judgments and actions in the face of amnesia, indifference, and xenophobia?</p>
<p><span>How can the plight of immigrants today be situated in the context of major events and figures in Salvation History?</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Tuesday, March 24, 7pm (</strong><strong>Reception at 6:15pm)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Audubon Room on the second floor of the Dana Student Center, Loyola University New Orleans</strong></p>
<p><strong>Free, and Open to the Public</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://chn.loyno.edu/religious-studies/yamauchi-lectures">MORE INFORMATION>></a></p>
Date
Is the problem oil prices or tax structures?
News Intro Text
JSRI Economic Policy Specialist, Ali R. Bustamante examines what the price of oil has to do with cuts to higher education and healthcare.
News Item Content
<p>by Alí Bustamante, M.A.</p>
<p>Since June 2014, the average price of a barrel of oil has fallen from more than $100 to about $50.[1] Many states, including those in the Gulf South, are considering budget cuts to higher education, healthcare, and social services in order to deal with oil revenue shortfalls. But is the oil revenue shortfall really the culprit? Contrary to what state budget offices profess, pressure to public services stems from the inadequacy and regressive nature of tax structures and not from oil revenue shortfalls.</p>
<p>For example, the Gulf South’s most oil-revenue dependent state, Louisiana, has an oil revenue shortfall of $376 million for fiscal year 2014-15. However, the budget shortfall not related to oil revenues was already an alarming $1.2 billion before oil prices began to drop. Louisiana’s budget deficit is mainly driven by an inadequate and unfair tax structure of tax exemptions and credits for corporations and the wealthy worth more than $3 billion a year.[2]</p>
<p>Trickle-down economic theories have been wildly discredited, and yet the wealthy continue to shift their tax responsibilities onto the poor under the guise of stimulating economic growth.[3] The unfair structure of state and local taxes has contributed to rising income inequality and eroded state budgeting capacity.[4] </p>
<p>Florida and Texas have the second and third most unfair tax systems in the U.S. while Alabama, Louisiana and Mississippi rank 12th, 19th and 21st respectively.[5] In the Gulf South and across the U.S., the poorest families, the bottom 20 percent, pay at least two times more of their income (10.9 percent) in state taxes than the top 1 percent (5.4 percent). </p>
<p>Between 2009 and 2012, the share of total income growth captured by the top 1 percent in the Gulf South ranged from 49.2 percent in Mississippi to 259.9 percent in Florida.[6] In Florida and Louisiana, all income growth between 2009 and 2012 accrued to the top 1 percent.</p>
<p>Catholic Social Teaching supports progressive taxation systems as just and equitable ways to promote the common good and reduce severe income and wealth inequalities. [7] Progressive systems require higher tax contributions from those with more ability to pay. </p>
<p>Additionally, a more progressive state income tax with a higher effective tax rate, fewer tax exemptions, and an expanded state earned income tax credit (EITC) can increase state revenues, preserve essential funding to education, healthcare, and social services, and promote a more equitable and sustainable state. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>[1] See: Nasdaq End of day Commodity Futures Price Quotes for Crude Oil WTI (NYMEX).</p>
<p>[2] Sources: Louisiana Department of Revenue. 2014. Tax Exemption Budget 2013-2014.</p>
<p>[3] Andrews, Dan, Christopher Jencks, & Andrew Leigh. 2011. “Do Rising Top Incomes Lift All Boats?” The B.E. Journal of Economic Analysis & Policy 11: (1).</p>
<p>[4] See: Standard and Poor’s Ratings Services. 2014. DRAFT: Income Inequality Weighs On State Tax Revenues.</p>
<p>[5] Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy (ITEP). 2015. Who Pays: A Distributional Analysis of the Tax Systems in All Fifty States, Fifth Edition at (accessed Feb. 2, 2015). </p>
<p>[6] Sommeiller, Estelle and Mark Price. 2015. The Increasingly Unequal States of America: Income Inequality by State, 1917 to 2012. Economic Analysis Research Network.</p>
<p>[7] Saint Pope John XXIII. 1961. Mater et Magistra, No. 102.National Conference of Catholic Bishops. 1986. Economic Justice for All. United States.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/nlayh/d2dc3885b23ae5686558e2ab870e2521">MORE>></a></p>
<p>Since June 2014, the average price of a barrel of oil has fallen from more than $100 to about $50.[1] Many states, including those in the Gulf South, are considering budget cuts to higher education, healthcare, and social services in order to deal with oil revenue shortfalls. But is the oil revenue shortfall really the culprit? Contrary to what state budget offices profess, pressure to public services stems from the inadequacy and regressive nature of tax structures and not from oil revenue shortfalls.</p>
<p>For example, the Gulf South’s most oil-revenue dependent state, Louisiana, has an oil revenue shortfall of $376 million for fiscal year 2014-15. However, the budget shortfall not related to oil revenues was already an alarming $1.2 billion before oil prices began to drop. Louisiana’s budget deficit is mainly driven by an inadequate and unfair tax structure of tax exemptions and credits for corporations and the wealthy worth more than $3 billion a year.[2]</p>
<p>Trickle-down economic theories have been wildly discredited, and yet the wealthy continue to shift their tax responsibilities onto the poor under the guise of stimulating economic growth.[3] The unfair structure of state and local taxes has contributed to rising income inequality and eroded state budgeting capacity.[4] </p>
<p>Florida and Texas have the second and third most unfair tax systems in the U.S. while Alabama, Louisiana and Mississippi rank 12th, 19th and 21st respectively.[5] In the Gulf South and across the U.S., the poorest families, the bottom 20 percent, pay at least two times more of their income (10.9 percent) in state taxes than the top 1 percent (5.4 percent). </p>
<p>Between 2009 and 2012, the share of total income growth captured by the top 1 percent in the Gulf South ranged from 49.2 percent in Mississippi to 259.9 percent in Florida.[6] In Florida and Louisiana, all income growth between 2009 and 2012 accrued to the top 1 percent.</p>
<p>Catholic Social Teaching supports progressive taxation systems as just and equitable ways to promote the common good and reduce severe income and wealth inequalities. [7] Progressive systems require higher tax contributions from those with more ability to pay. </p>
<p>Additionally, a more progressive state income tax with a higher effective tax rate, fewer tax exemptions, and an expanded state earned income tax credit (EITC) can increase state revenues, preserve essential funding to education, healthcare, and social services, and promote a more equitable and sustainable state. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>[1] See: Nasdaq End of day Commodity Futures Price Quotes for Crude Oil WTI (NYMEX).</p>
<p>[2] Sources: Louisiana Department of Revenue. 2014. Tax Exemption Budget 2013-2014.</p>
<p>[3] Andrews, Dan, Christopher Jencks, & Andrew Leigh. 2011. “Do Rising Top Incomes Lift All Boats?” The B.E. Journal of Economic Analysis & Policy 11: (1).</p>
<p>[4] See: Standard and Poor’s Ratings Services. 2014. DRAFT: Income Inequality Weighs On State Tax Revenues.</p>
<p>[5] Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy (ITEP). 2015. Who Pays: A Distributional Analysis of the Tax Systems in All Fifty States, Fifth Edition at (accessed Feb. 2, 2015). </p>
<p>[6] Sommeiller, Estelle and Mark Price. 2015. The Increasingly Unequal States of America: Income Inequality by State, 1917 to 2012. Economic Analysis Research Network.</p>
<p>[7] Saint Pope John XXIII. 1961. Mater et Magistra, No. 102.National Conference of Catholic Bishops. 1986. Economic Justice for All. United States.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/nlayh/d2dc3885b23ae5686558e2ab870e2521">MORE>></a></p>
Date
CPPP Releases New Report on the State of TX Children
News Intro Text
New report finds expanded Pre-K, health care coverage among policy solutions that could help make Texas the #1 state for kids.
News Item Content
<div>
</div>
<div>
<p><strong>PRESS RELEASE</strong></p>
<p><strong><span>March 4, 2015 </span></strong><strong><span>• </span></strong><strong><span>Oliver Bernstein, 512-289-8618</span></strong></p>
</div>
<div>
</div>
<p>AUSTIN – One in four Texas children lives in poverty, threatening their potential and the state's continued prosperity. According to State of Texas Children 2015, a new Center for Public Policy Priorities (CPPP) report released today, slight improvements in health care and school nutrition don’t compensate for inadequate investments in education and child protection.</p>
<p>Detailed data are available for every county in Texas. Please contact Bernstein@cppp.org for child well-being data for your county.</p>
<p>"Texas is consistently ranked one of the nation’s worst states for children, but we can make our state the best place for kids if we enact smart public policies now," said Ann Beeson, Executive Director of CPPP. "With 1 in 11 U.S. kids living in Texas, the future of young Texans will determine the future of our country."</p>
<p>Key findings include:</p>
<ul>
<li>
One in four Texas children lives in poverty. For a family of four, that's less than $24,000 per year. The high child poverty rate combined with a relatively good parental employment rate means that many hard-working Texas parents aren't earning enough to provide adequately for their kids.</li>
<li>
Despite modest gains for kids, Texas is ranked 49th for the percentage of children with health insurance (13 percent uninsured). Kids are more likely to be uninsured when their parents are uninsured, and Texas continues to have the highest rate of uninsured adults in the nation.</li>
<li>
Nearly two million Texas kids live in households where access to nutritious food is limited and uncertain, threating children's health and ability to learn. Expanded school nutrition programs have successfully provided more meals to students, keeping kids healthier and helping them learn.</li>
</ul>
<p>Key policy recommendations:</p>
<ul>
<li>
Invest sufficiently in public education to meet student needs.</li>
<li>
Expand Pre-K statewide to high quality, full-day programs for currently eligible students.</li>
<li>
Close the Coverage Gap, and expand health insurance coverage options for families.</li>
<li>
Provide more support for informal kinship caregivers, and streamline the process for accessing kinship care benefits.</li>
<li>
Raise the state minimum wage, and change the state law that prohibits Texas cities from setting their own minimum wage.</li>
</ul>
<p>Lawmakers have a tremendous opportunity this legislative session to adopt policy solutions that can help children and all Texans. From expanded early childhood education to health insurance coverage that protects children and families, policy solutions are available to lawmakers now that can improve the state for Texas children.</p>
<p>"The decisions legislators make at the Capitol have major implications for our children," said Jennifer Lee, Research Associate at CPPP and the lead author of State of Texas Children 2015. "It’s time for all of us to stand up for Texas kids."</p>
<p>State of Texas Children 2015 is part of Texas Kids Count, a project of the Center for Public Policy Priorities, and is supported by the Annie E. Casey Foundation and Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>To read the full report click <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/cppp 15 tx kids report_0.pdf">HERE</a></p>
</div>
<div>
<p><strong>PRESS RELEASE</strong></p>
<p><strong><span>March 4, 2015 </span></strong><strong><span>• </span></strong><strong><span>Oliver Bernstein, 512-289-8618</span></strong></p>
</div>
<div>
</div>
<p>AUSTIN – One in four Texas children lives in poverty, threatening their potential and the state's continued prosperity. According to State of Texas Children 2015, a new Center for Public Policy Priorities (CPPP) report released today, slight improvements in health care and school nutrition don’t compensate for inadequate investments in education and child protection.</p>
<p>Detailed data are available for every county in Texas. Please contact Bernstein@cppp.org for child well-being data for your county.</p>
<p>"Texas is consistently ranked one of the nation’s worst states for children, but we can make our state the best place for kids if we enact smart public policies now," said Ann Beeson, Executive Director of CPPP. "With 1 in 11 U.S. kids living in Texas, the future of young Texans will determine the future of our country."</p>
<p>Key findings include:</p>
<ul>
<li>
One in four Texas children lives in poverty. For a family of four, that's less than $24,000 per year. The high child poverty rate combined with a relatively good parental employment rate means that many hard-working Texas parents aren't earning enough to provide adequately for their kids.</li>
<li>
Despite modest gains for kids, Texas is ranked 49th for the percentage of children with health insurance (13 percent uninsured). Kids are more likely to be uninsured when their parents are uninsured, and Texas continues to have the highest rate of uninsured adults in the nation.</li>
<li>
Nearly two million Texas kids live in households where access to nutritious food is limited and uncertain, threating children's health and ability to learn. Expanded school nutrition programs have successfully provided more meals to students, keeping kids healthier and helping them learn.</li>
</ul>
<p>Key policy recommendations:</p>
<ul>
<li>
Invest sufficiently in public education to meet student needs.</li>
<li>
Expand Pre-K statewide to high quality, full-day programs for currently eligible students.</li>
<li>
Close the Coverage Gap, and expand health insurance coverage options for families.</li>
<li>
Provide more support for informal kinship caregivers, and streamline the process for accessing kinship care benefits.</li>
<li>
Raise the state minimum wage, and change the state law that prohibits Texas cities from setting their own minimum wage.</li>
</ul>
<p>Lawmakers have a tremendous opportunity this legislative session to adopt policy solutions that can help children and all Texans. From expanded early childhood education to health insurance coverage that protects children and families, policy solutions are available to lawmakers now that can improve the state for Texas children.</p>
<p>"The decisions legislators make at the Capitol have major implications for our children," said Jennifer Lee, Research Associate at CPPP and the lead author of State of Texas Children 2015. "It’s time for all of us to stand up for Texas kids."</p>
<p>State of Texas Children 2015 is part of Texas Kids Count, a project of the Center for Public Policy Priorities, and is supported by the Annie E. Casey Foundation and Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>To read the full report click <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/cppp 15 tx kids report_0.pdf">HERE</a></p>
Date
Papal Economics
News Intro Text
Why the Church Rejects Both Collectivism & Individualism [Commonweal Magazine, 02/19/15]
News Item Content
<p> by Anthony Annett, <a href="https://www.commonwealmagazine.org/">Commonweal Magazine</a></p>
<p>Perhaps prompted by nervousness about the agenda of Pope Francis, recently there has been a flurry of activity pushing the compatibility of Catholicism with capitalism. In a recent op-ed in the Wall Street Journal, Tim Busch—trustee of the Catholic University of America—praises the power of free markets to lift people out of poverty. In his view, the free-market system advances the virtues enshrined in Catholic social teaching, and is therefore superior to “collectivist” economic systems in which big government impinges on personal freedom.</p>
<p>Busch presents a false dichotomy. Who does not oppose the collectivism associated with the oppressive Marxist regimes of the twentieth century? Catholic social teaching has always staked out a middle-ground position that opposes the excesses of collectivism on the one hand, and laissez-faire individualism on the other—the “twin rocks of shipwreck,” as Pope Pius XI put it in Quadragesimo anno (1931).</p>
<p>The Catholic Church has always taught that the right to private property is never absolute, and must always be subordinated to common use—making sure that the needs of all are met. And while collectivism can elevate common use at the expense of private ownership, free-market individualism errs in the opposite direction. Writing at the time of the Great Depression, Pius XI was particularly blunt: “The right ordering of economic life cannot be left to a free competition of forces,” he said. “For from this source, as from a poisoned spring, have originated and spread all the errors of individualist economic teaching.”</p>
<p><a href="https://www.commonwealmagazine.org/papal-economics">MORE>></a></p>
<p>Perhaps prompted by nervousness about the agenda of Pope Francis, recently there has been a flurry of activity pushing the compatibility of Catholicism with capitalism. In a recent op-ed in the Wall Street Journal, Tim Busch—trustee of the Catholic University of America—praises the power of free markets to lift people out of poverty. In his view, the free-market system advances the virtues enshrined in Catholic social teaching, and is therefore superior to “collectivist” economic systems in which big government impinges on personal freedom.</p>
<p>Busch presents a false dichotomy. Who does not oppose the collectivism associated with the oppressive Marxist regimes of the twentieth century? Catholic social teaching has always staked out a middle-ground position that opposes the excesses of collectivism on the one hand, and laissez-faire individualism on the other—the “twin rocks of shipwreck,” as Pope Pius XI put it in Quadragesimo anno (1931).</p>
<p>The Catholic Church has always taught that the right to private property is never absolute, and must always be subordinated to common use—making sure that the needs of all are met. And while collectivism can elevate common use at the expense of private ownership, free-market individualism errs in the opposite direction. Writing at the time of the Great Depression, Pius XI was particularly blunt: “The right ordering of economic life cannot be left to a free competition of forces,” he said. “For from this source, as from a poisoned spring, have originated and spread all the errors of individualist economic teaching.”</p>
<p><a href="https://www.commonwealmagazine.org/papal-economics">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Loyola New Orleans National Lawyers Guild Presents Student Week Against the Death Penalty
News Intro Text
JSRI will sponsor and participate in upcoming events at the Loyola Law School targeted to spread awareness about the death penalty and its implications.
News Item Content
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/stu death pen.jpg" /></p>
Date
Wage Theft by Employers is Costing U.S. Workers Billions of Dollars a Year
News Intro Text
Economic Policy Institute, February 13, 2015
News Item Content
<p>by ROSS EISENBREY</p>
<p>Rampant wage theft in the United States is a huge problem for struggling workers. Surveys reveal that the underpayment of owed wages can reduce affected workers’ income by 50 percent or more. Most recently, a careful study of minimum wage violations in New York and California in 2011 commissioned by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) determined that the affected employees’ lost weekly wages averaged 37–49 percent of their income. This wage theft drove between 15,000 and 67,000 families below the poverty line. Another 50,000–100,000 already impoverished families were driven deeper into poverty.</p>
<p>The extensive weekly minimum wage violations uncovered by the DOL study in California and New York alone amount to an estimated $1.6 billion–$2.5 billion over the course of a full year. Given that the combined population of California and New York is 18.5 percent of the U.S. total, it is reasonable to estimate that minimum wage violations nationwide amount to at least $8.6 billion a year, and as much as $13.8 billion a year. On the one hand, violations in these two states might be less frequent because the wage and hour enforcement effort in New York and California is greater than in most states and violations might be deterred (Florida, for example, does not have a state labor department). But on the other hand, their large immigrant populations might increase the prevalence of wage theft—the DOL study found that non-citizens were 1.6 to 3.1 times more likely to suffer from a minimum wage violation.</p>
<p>The DOL study vastly understates the total impact of wage theft because it reported only on minimum wage violations, which are more frequent than overtime violations but usually involve smaller per violation dollar amounts than many overtime pay violations. A bookkeeper, for example, earning an annual salary of $45,000, who works 10 hours of unpaid overtime a week might lose $325, whereas a minimum wage worker forced to work “off-the-clock” unpaid for 10 hours would lose “only” $72.50, or ten times the state minimum wage if it were higher than the federal minimum. (Overtime violations are very frequent among low wage workers: a 2009 study found that on a weekly basis, 19 percent of front-line workers in low wage industries were cheated out of overtime pay to which they were entitled.)</p>
<p>DOL’s new study shows the need for much greater efforts to ensure employer compliance. Helpfully, the president has called for increases in the budget and staffing of the Wage and Hour Division, but Congress should revisit the obsolete penalties for non-compliance: repeated or willful violations of the minimum wage and overtime requirements are subject to a maximum fine of only $1,100.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.epi.org/blog/wage-theft-by-employers-is-costing-u-s-workers-billions-of-dollars-a-year/">MORE>></a></p>
<p>Rampant wage theft in the United States is a huge problem for struggling workers. Surveys reveal that the underpayment of owed wages can reduce affected workers’ income by 50 percent or more. Most recently, a careful study of minimum wage violations in New York and California in 2011 commissioned by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) determined that the affected employees’ lost weekly wages averaged 37–49 percent of their income. This wage theft drove between 15,000 and 67,000 families below the poverty line. Another 50,000–100,000 already impoverished families were driven deeper into poverty.</p>
<p>The extensive weekly minimum wage violations uncovered by the DOL study in California and New York alone amount to an estimated $1.6 billion–$2.5 billion over the course of a full year. Given that the combined population of California and New York is 18.5 percent of the U.S. total, it is reasonable to estimate that minimum wage violations nationwide amount to at least $8.6 billion a year, and as much as $13.8 billion a year. On the one hand, violations in these two states might be less frequent because the wage and hour enforcement effort in New York and California is greater than in most states and violations might be deterred (Florida, for example, does not have a state labor department). But on the other hand, their large immigrant populations might increase the prevalence of wage theft—the DOL study found that non-citizens were 1.6 to 3.1 times more likely to suffer from a minimum wage violation.</p>
<p>The DOL study vastly understates the total impact of wage theft because it reported only on minimum wage violations, which are more frequent than overtime violations but usually involve smaller per violation dollar amounts than many overtime pay violations. A bookkeeper, for example, earning an annual salary of $45,000, who works 10 hours of unpaid overtime a week might lose $325, whereas a minimum wage worker forced to work “off-the-clock” unpaid for 10 hours would lose “only” $72.50, or ten times the state minimum wage if it were higher than the federal minimum. (Overtime violations are very frequent among low wage workers: a 2009 study found that on a weekly basis, 19 percent of front-line workers in low wage industries were cheated out of overtime pay to which they were entitled.)</p>
<p>DOL’s new study shows the need for much greater efforts to ensure employer compliance. Helpfully, the president has called for increases in the budget and staffing of the Wage and Hour Division, but Congress should revisit the obsolete penalties for non-compliance: repeated or willful violations of the minimum wage and overtime requirements are subject to a maximum fine of only $1,100.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.epi.org/blog/wage-theft-by-employers-is-costing-u-s-workers-billions-of-dollars-a-year/">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Faces of the Undocumented Immigration Battle
News Intro Text
MSNBC takes a look at the faces of the immigration battle in Post Katrina New Orleans.
News Item Content
<p><a href="http://www.msnbc.com/ronan-farrow-daily/watch/faces-of-the-undocumented-immigration-battle-400501827671?cid=sm_tw_ronan"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Untitled_0.jpg" style="width: 744px; height: 418px;" /></a></p>
Date
Honor Our Sacred Obligation: Raise the Minimum Wage
News Intro Text
The opportunity to enact the “Dream” still stands before us. There are many ways we can enact the Dream, one of which is raising the minimum wage to the level demanded by the March on Washington on March 28, 1963.
News Item Content
<p>by Alex Mikulich, Ph.D.</p>
<p>The question of the “State of the Dream” is often raised at annual celebrations of the Martin Luther King Holiday. I heard the question yet again at a recent panel discussion held at Dillard University. Dominant U.S. society, I responded, has never embraced Dr. King’s “Dream” or the goals of the March on Washington. </p>
<p>The opportunity to enact the “Dream” still stands before us. There are many ways we can enact the Dream, one of which is raising the minimum wage to the level demanded by the March on Washington on March 28, 1963.</p>
<p>Dr. King began his speech to marchers by marking the 100th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation, citing the great promises made in the Declaration of Independence and Constitution. This is the promise that all people would be guaranteed the unalienable rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. King stated:</p>
<p>It is obvious today that America has defaulted on this promissory note in so far as her citizens of color are concerned. Instead of honoring this sacred obligation, America has given the Negro people a bad check: a check which has come back marked "insufficient funds."</p>
<p>152 years after the Emancipation Proclamation, have we, as a nation, honored our sacred obligations to the promises of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness?</p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/j67qh/4eeeea6dd78fc7eee1929db33887cf47">MORE>></a></p>
<p>The question of the “State of the Dream” is often raised at annual celebrations of the Martin Luther King Holiday. I heard the question yet again at a recent panel discussion held at Dillard University. Dominant U.S. society, I responded, has never embraced Dr. King’s “Dream” or the goals of the March on Washington. </p>
<p>The opportunity to enact the “Dream” still stands before us. There are many ways we can enact the Dream, one of which is raising the minimum wage to the level demanded by the March on Washington on March 28, 1963.</p>
<p>Dr. King began his speech to marchers by marking the 100th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation, citing the great promises made in the Declaration of Independence and Constitution. This is the promise that all people would be guaranteed the unalienable rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. King stated:</p>
<p>It is obvious today that America has defaulted on this promissory note in so far as her citizens of color are concerned. Instead of honoring this sacred obligation, America has given the Negro people a bad check: a check which has come back marked "insufficient funds."</p>
<p>152 years after the Emancipation Proclamation, have we, as a nation, honored our sacred obligations to the promises of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness?</p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/j67qh/4eeeea6dd78fc7eee1929db33887cf47">MORE>></a></p>
Date
International Day Of Prayer And Awareness Against Human Trafficking
News Intro Text
[USBBC, February 8, 2015]
News Item Content
<p>February 8: International Day of Prayer and Awareness against Human Trafficking </p>
<p>The Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace and the International Union of Superiors General has designated February 8 as an annual day of prayer and awareness against human trafficking. February 8 is the feast day of St. Josephine Bakhita, who was kidnapped as a child and sold into slavery in Sudan and Italy. Once Josephine was freed, she became a Canossian nun and dedicated her life to sharing her testament of deliverance from slavery and comforting the poor and suffering. She was declared a Saint in 2000.</p>
<p> On February 8, Catholics all over the world are encouraged to host or attend prayer services to create greater awareness about this phenomenon. Through prayer, we not only reflect on the experiences of those that have suffered through this affront to human dignity, but also comfort, strengthen, and help empower survivors. </p>
<p>If you are in the Washington, DC area please join us on Sunday, February 8, 2015 for a Special Mass at Noon in the Upper Church of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. Or use this flyer to promote the day and visit our Become a SHEPHERD page to help you host an awareness raising event locally. In the words of the committee chairman for migration, Bishop Eusebio Elizondo, M.Sp.S.: "If just one person realizes from this day that they or someone they know is being trafficked, we will have made a difference."</p>
<p><a href="http://www.usccb.org/about/anti-trafficking-program/day-of-prayer.cfm.">MORE>></a></p>
<p>The Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace and the International Union of Superiors General has designated February 8 as an annual day of prayer and awareness against human trafficking. February 8 is the feast day of St. Josephine Bakhita, who was kidnapped as a child and sold into slavery in Sudan and Italy. Once Josephine was freed, she became a Canossian nun and dedicated her life to sharing her testament of deliverance from slavery and comforting the poor and suffering. She was declared a Saint in 2000.</p>
<p> On February 8, Catholics all over the world are encouraged to host or attend prayer services to create greater awareness about this phenomenon. Through prayer, we not only reflect on the experiences of those that have suffered through this affront to human dignity, but also comfort, strengthen, and help empower survivors. </p>
<p>If you are in the Washington, DC area please join us on Sunday, February 8, 2015 for a Special Mass at Noon in the Upper Church of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. Or use this flyer to promote the day and visit our Become a SHEPHERD page to help you host an awareness raising event locally. In the words of the committee chairman for migration, Bishop Eusebio Elizondo, M.Sp.S.: "If just one person realizes from this day that they or someone they know is being trafficked, we will have made a difference."</p>
<p><a href="http://www.usccb.org/about/anti-trafficking-program/day-of-prayer.cfm.">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Florida has fourth largest income gap in U.S., study shows
News Intro Text
[The Palm Beach Post, January 26, 2015]
News Item Content
<p><strong>By Jeff Ostrowski - Palm Beach Post Staff Writer</strong></p>
<p>In a sign of increasing wealth concentration, Florida’s richest 1 percent of residents make 43 times as much as the state’s bottom 99 percent, according to a study released Monday.</p>
<p>Florida has the nation’s fourth-highest income gap, the Economic Policy Institute calculated. Whether the growing gulf is a troubling trend or just an inevitable result of a free-market economy is open to debate.</p>
<div>
<p>The top 1 percent of Florida wage earners made an average of $1.49 million in 2012, the study found. The bottom 99 percent earned an average family income of $34,387.</p>
<p>Connecticut, the nation’s hedge fund capital, and New York, home of Wall Street, had the largest gaps between the top 1 percent and the bottom 99 percent.</p>
<p>It’s unclear if a wide gap is such a bad thing, however. Massachusetts, Texas and Illinois — states with large numbers of corporate headquarters — also rank high on this measure. But low-wage West Virginia — no one’s model of economic development — has one of the nation’s narrowest income gaps.</p>
<p>Still, the Economic Policy Institute found that the rich got richer after the Great Recession, while most everyone else struggled. The top 1 percent of Floridians posted income gains of 40 percent, while the bottom 99 percent suffered a 7 percent decline.</p>
<p>“What concerns me is that it’s continuing to get worse,” said Michael Dolega, senior economist at TD Bank in Toronto. “That paints a pretty bleak picture of the recovery in Florida. Job growth in Florida has been skewed toward the lower end of the wage scale.”</p>
<p>A widening income gap between the top and bottom might not be so bad if lower-tier wage earners are prospering, said University of Central Florida economist Sean Snaith.</p>
<p>“This is the paradox,” Snaith said. “You have these superstar earners who started a tech company that’s gone from being worth nothing to being worth billions.”</p>
<p>A more telling measure, Snaith said, is whether lower-income Floridians can move up the income ladder. The picture is mixed there, too. From 2009 to 2012, the 1 percent took a huge share of Florida’s income growth, the Economic Policy Institute found.</p>
<p>Snaith said those numbers were inflated by a stock market that crashed in 2009 and then roared back by 2012, a move that boosted income for the wealthy.</p>
<p>Income inequality has emerged as a pivotal issue for next year’s presidential election, but liberals and conservatives disagree on how to spur job growth and wages. President Barack Obama last week called for a higher minimum wage and stiffer taxes on the wealthy. Republicans counter that the correct answer is lower taxes and less regulation.</p>
<p>“Inequality doesn’t necessarily point the way to a specific policy path,” Snaith said.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.mypalmbeachpost.com/news/business/florida-has-fourth-largest-income-gap-in-us-study-/njxWC/#e4eead8f.3862469.735625">MORE>></a></p>
</div>
<p> </p>
<p>In a sign of increasing wealth concentration, Florida’s richest 1 percent of residents make 43 times as much as the state’s bottom 99 percent, according to a study released Monday.</p>
<p>Florida has the nation’s fourth-highest income gap, the Economic Policy Institute calculated. Whether the growing gulf is a troubling trend or just an inevitable result of a free-market economy is open to debate.</p>
<div>
<p>The top 1 percent of Florida wage earners made an average of $1.49 million in 2012, the study found. The bottom 99 percent earned an average family income of $34,387.</p>
<p>Connecticut, the nation’s hedge fund capital, and New York, home of Wall Street, had the largest gaps between the top 1 percent and the bottom 99 percent.</p>
<p>It’s unclear if a wide gap is such a bad thing, however. Massachusetts, Texas and Illinois — states with large numbers of corporate headquarters — also rank high on this measure. But low-wage West Virginia — no one’s model of economic development — has one of the nation’s narrowest income gaps.</p>
<p>Still, the Economic Policy Institute found that the rich got richer after the Great Recession, while most everyone else struggled. The top 1 percent of Floridians posted income gains of 40 percent, while the bottom 99 percent suffered a 7 percent decline.</p>
<p>“What concerns me is that it’s continuing to get worse,” said Michael Dolega, senior economist at TD Bank in Toronto. “That paints a pretty bleak picture of the recovery in Florida. Job growth in Florida has been skewed toward the lower end of the wage scale.”</p>
<p>A widening income gap between the top and bottom might not be so bad if lower-tier wage earners are prospering, said University of Central Florida economist Sean Snaith.</p>
<p>“This is the paradox,” Snaith said. “You have these superstar earners who started a tech company that’s gone from being worth nothing to being worth billions.”</p>
<p>A more telling measure, Snaith said, is whether lower-income Floridians can move up the income ladder. The picture is mixed there, too. From 2009 to 2012, the 1 percent took a huge share of Florida’s income growth, the Economic Policy Institute found.</p>
<p>Snaith said those numbers were inflated by a stock market that crashed in 2009 and then roared back by 2012, a move that boosted income for the wealthy.</p>
<p>Income inequality has emerged as a pivotal issue for next year’s presidential election, but liberals and conservatives disagree on how to spur job growth and wages. President Barack Obama last week called for a higher minimum wage and stiffer taxes on the wealthy. Republicans counter that the correct answer is lower taxes and less regulation.</p>
<p>“Inequality doesn’t necessarily point the way to a specific policy path,” Snaith said.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.mypalmbeachpost.com/news/business/florida-has-fourth-largest-income-gap-in-us-study-/njxWC/#e4eead8f.3862469.735625">MORE>></a></p>
</div>
<p> </p>
Date
Mr. Bustamante discusses extreme Poverty in Louisiana on "Health Issues"
News Intro Text
Mr. Bustamante joined Dr. Elmore Rigamer to talk about "Too Much for Too Many" and poverty in Louisiana on Christopher Sylvan's show.
News Item Content
<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iZxYxlQOOXQ"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/health show.jpg" /></a></p>
Date
JSRI signs that Immigration Reform is a Pro-Life Issue
News Intro Text
Catholic Leaders to Congress: Immigration Reform is a Pro-Life Issue [01/20/15]
News Item Content
<p>As Catholics committed to building a culture of life, we write to urge our fellow Catholics in Congress to support the U.S. bishops’ effort to pass comprehensive immigration reform. Our nation’s inhumane and flawed immigration policies leave migrant women, children and families abandoned by the side of the road. As Cardinal Séan O’Malley put it in a homily at the US-Mexico border last year: “We know that the border is lined with unmarked graves of thousands who die alone and nameless.” Immigration is “another pro-life issue,” the cardinal reminds us, echoing our Holy Father Pope Francis, who views abortion, extreme economic inequality and the death of migrants as part of a “globalization of indifference” and a “throwaway culture” that treats human beings as disposable.</p>
<p>There are more than two dozen pro-life Catholics in the House of Representatives. Many of them will join thousands of people of faith, including some of us, at the March for Life in Washington later this week. As brothers and sisters in faith, we urge these elected officials and all Catholics to defend the sanctity of human lives at all stages. We recognize the image of God in the migrant at the border, in the prisoner on death row, in the pregnant woman and in the hungry child.</p>
<p>The immigration crisis will not be solved by threats to shut down government agencies, enforcement-only strategies or piecemeal approaches. Breaking up immigrant families and denying protection to those fleeing gang or cartel violence, as just one example, is neither a humane or effective strategy. Comprehensive immigration reform that would create an earned path to citizenship for those in the shadows, expedite family reunification, strengthen refugee protection, and address why desperate people reluctantly uproot and cross borders, deserves a vote now.</p>
<p>Delay and partisan bickering will only lead to more hardship, suffering and death.</p>
<p>(Schools named for purposes of identification only, not endorsement)</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. Larry Snyder</p>
<p>President, Catholic Charities USA</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Archbishop Joseph A. Fiorenza (retired)</p>
<p>Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston</p>
<p> </p>
<p>John J. DeGioia</p>
<p>President, Georgetown University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Bishop William S. Skylstad (retired)</p>
<p>Diocese of Spokane</p>
<p>Former President, U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Donald M. Kerwin, Jr.</p>
<p>Executive Director, Center for Migration Studies</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Michael Galligan-Stierle</p>
<p>President, Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. Michael Sheeran, S.J.</p>
<p>President, Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. Michael J. Graham, S.J.</p>
<p>President, Xavier University (Ohio)</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. Robert L. Niehoff, S.J.</p>
<p>President, John Carroll University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. Michael J. Garanzini, S.J.</p>
<p>President, Loyola University Chicago</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. Kevin Wildes, S.J.</p>
<p>President, Loyola University New Orleans</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Thomas W. Keefe</p>
<p>President, University of Dallas</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. James J. Greenfield, OSFS</p>
<p>President, Conference of Major Superiors of Men</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Sr. Sharon Holland, IHM,</p>
<p>President, Leadership Conference of Women Religious</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. Timothy Kesicki, S.J.</p>
<p>President, Jesuit Conference USA</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Armando Borja</p>
<p>National Director, Jesuit Refugee Service/USA</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Stephen Schneck</p>
<p>Institute for Policy Research and Catholic Studies</p>
<p>The Catholic University of America</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Frank Monahan</p>
<p>Former Director, Office of Government Liaison</p>
<p>U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Francis X. Doyle</p>
<p>Associate General Secretary (retired)</p>
<p>U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Sr. Simone Campbell, SSS</p>
<p>Executive Director, NETWORK, A National Catholic Social Justice Lobby</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Sr. Patricia Chappell</p>
<p>Executive Director, Pax Christi USA</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. Joseph M. McShane, S.J.</p>
<p>President, Fordham University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. Philip L. Boroughs, S.J.</p>
<p>President, College of the Holy Cross</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. John P. Fitzgibbons, S.J.</p>
<p>President, Regis University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Patricia McGuire</p>
<p>President, Trinity Washington University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Antoine M. Garibaldi, Ph.D.</p>
<p>President, University of Detroit Mercy</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. Thomas B. Curran</p>
<p>President, Rockhurst University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>John J. Hurley</p>
<p>President, Canisius College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Linda M. LeMura, Ph.D.</p>
<p>President, Le Moyne College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Sr. Candace Introcaso</p>
<p>President, La Roche College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. Bernard O’Connor</p>
<p>President, DeSales University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Dr. Francesco C. Cesareo</p>
<p>President, Assumption College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Donna M. Carroll</p>
<p>President, Dominican University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Thomas W. Keefe</p>
<p>President, University of Dallas</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Thomas Kunkel</p>
<p>President, St. Norbert College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. Jeffrey von Arx, S.J.</p>
<p>President, Fairfield University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Moya Dittmeier</p>
<p>Executive Director, Conference for Mercy Higher Education</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. Allan Figueroa Deck, S.J.</p>
<p>Rector of the Jesuit Community</p>
<p>Loyola Marymount University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>A. Gabriel Esteban</p>
<p>President, Seton Hall University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Nancy H. Blattner</p>
<p>President, Caldwell University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Br. Norman Hipps</p>
<p>President, Saint Vincent College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>John Smarrelli Jr.</p>
<p>President, Christian Brothers University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Mary A. Meehan</p>
<p>President, Alverno College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Donald P. Taylor</p>
<p>President, Cabrini College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. Timothy Lenchak</p>
<p>President, Divine Word College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Anne Munley</p>
<p>President, Marywood University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Sharon Latchaw Hirsch</p>
<p>President, Rosemont College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Jim Collins</p>
<p>President, Loras College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Br. John R. Paige</p>
<p>President, Holy Cross College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Kathleen Maas Weigert</p>
<p>Professor of Women and Leadership</p>
<p>Loyola University Chicago</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Timothy Matovina</p>
<p>Executive Director, Institute for Latino Studies</p>
<p>University of Notre Dame</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. Daniel G. Groody</p>
<p>Director of Immigration Initiatives</p>
<p>Institute for Latino Studies</p>
<p>University of Notre Dame</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. T. Michael McNulty, S.J.</p>
<p>MacLean Professor of Philosophy</p>
<p>St. Joseph’s University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Helen Alvare</p>
<p>Professor of Law</p>
<p>George Mason University School of Law</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Jeannine Hill Fletcher</p>
<p>Professor of Theology</p>
<p>Fordham University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>John Sniegocki</p>
<p>Associate Professor of Christian Ethics</p>
<p>Xavier University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Suzanne C. Toton, Ed.D.</p>
<p>Associate Professor of Theology and Religious Studies</p>
<p>Villanova University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Tobias Winright</p>
<p>Maeder Endowed Chair of Health Care Ethics</p>
<p>Saint Louis University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Paul Lakeland</p>
<p>Director, Center for Catholic Studies</p>
<p>Fairfield University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Terrence W. Tilley</p>
<p>Professor of Catholic Theology</p>
<p>Fordham University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Vincent Miller</p>
<p>Gudorf Chair in Catholic Theology and Culture</p>
<p>University of Dayton</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Kathryn Getek Soltis</p>
<p>Assistant Professor of Christian Ethics</p>
<p>Villanova University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Hosffman Ospino</p>
<p>Assistant Professor of Theology and Education</p>
<p>Boston College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Kelly S. Johnson</p>
<p>Associate Professor, Religious Studies</p>
<p>University of Dayton</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Una M. Cadegan</p>
<p>Associate Professor, Department of History</p>
<p>University of Dayton</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Charles T. Strauss</p>
<p>Assistant Professor of History</p>
<p>Mount St. Mary’s University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Ron Pagnucco, Associate Professor</p>
<p>Department of Peace Studies</p>
<p>College of St. Benedict/St. John’s University</p>
<p> </p>
<p><span class="gold"><strong>Rev. Fred Kammer, S.J.</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="gold"><strong>Director, Jesuit Social Research Institute</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="gold"><strong>Loyola University New Orleans</strong></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span class="gold"><strong>Alex Mikulich</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="gold"><strong>Jesuit Social Research Institute</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="gold"><strong>Loyola University New Orleans</strong></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Leadership Team, Sisters of Mercy of the Americas</p>
<p>Sr. Pat McDermott, RSM President</p>
<p>Sr. Eileen Campbell, RSM</p>
<p>Sr. Anne Curtis, RSM</p>
<p>Sr. Deborah Troillett, RSM</p>
<p>Sr. Mary Pat Garvin, RSM</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. Raymond Finch, MM</p>
<p>Superior General, Maryknoll Fathers & Brothers</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Thomas Allio, Jr.</p>
<p>Diocesan Social Action Director (retired)</p>
<p>Diocese of Cleveland</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. Sean Carroll, S.J.</p>
<p>Executive Director, Kino Border Initiative</p>
<p>Nogales, AZ</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Charles C. Camosy</p>
<p>Associate Prof. of Theological and Social Ethics</p>
<p>Fordham University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Peter H. Beisheim</p>
<p>Director, Catholic Studies Department</p>
<p>Stonehill College, MA</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Christopher G. Kerr</p>
<p>Executive Director, Ignatian Solidarity Network</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Gerry Lee</p>
<p>Director, Maryknoll Office for Global Concerns.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Karen Clifton</p>
<p>Executive Director, Catholic Mobilizing Network</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Patrick Carolan</p>
<p>Executive Director, Franciscan Action Network</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Kerry A. Robinson</p>
<p>Executive Director, National Leadership Roundtable on Church Management</p>
<p> </p>
<p>John Gehring</p>
<p>Catholic Program Director, Faith in Public Life</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Walter Grazer</p>
<p>Former Policy Advisor for International Religious Freedom and Human Rights, U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Christopher Hale</p>
<p>Senior Fellow, Catholics in Alliance for the Common Good</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Richard R. Gaillardetz</p>
<p>Joseph Professor of Catholic Theology</p>
<p>Boston College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Mark J. Allman</p>
<p>Chair of Religious and Theological Studies</p>
<p>Merrimack College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Dolores Christie</p>
<p>Executive Director (retired)</p>
<p>Catholic Theological Society of America</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Christopher Pramuk</p>
<p>Associate Professor of Theology</p>
<p>Xavier University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Kevin Ahern</p>
<p>Assistant Professor of Religious Studies</p>
<p>Manhattan College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Daniel Finn</p>
<p>Professor of Economics and Theology</p>
<p>St. John’s University (MN)</p>
<p> </p>
<p>M. Shawn Copeland</p>
<p>Professor of Theology</p>
<p>Boston College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. John A. Coleman, S.J.</p>
<p>Associate Pastor, St. Ignatius Church (San Francisco)</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. Joseph Nangle, OFM</p>
<p>Washington, DC</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Eugene McCarraher</p>
<p>Associate Professor of Humanities</p>
<p>Villanova University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Sr. Paulette Skiba, BVM</p>
<p>Professor of Religious Studies</p>
<p>Clarke University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Thomas Ryan</p>
<p>Director, Loyola Institute for Ministry</p>
<p>Loyola University New Orleans</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Billy Kangas</p>
<p>Writer, Patheos Catholic</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Peter H. Beisheim</p>
<p>Director, Catholic Studies Department</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Lisa Sowell Cahill</p>
<p>Monan Professor of Theology</p>
<p>Boston College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>*Signers as of 01/20/15. For an updated list please click <a href="http://www.faithinpubliclife.org/immigrationlife/">HERE</a></p>
<p>There are more than two dozen pro-life Catholics in the House of Representatives. Many of them will join thousands of people of faith, including some of us, at the March for Life in Washington later this week. As brothers and sisters in faith, we urge these elected officials and all Catholics to defend the sanctity of human lives at all stages. We recognize the image of God in the migrant at the border, in the prisoner on death row, in the pregnant woman and in the hungry child.</p>
<p>The immigration crisis will not be solved by threats to shut down government agencies, enforcement-only strategies or piecemeal approaches. Breaking up immigrant families and denying protection to those fleeing gang or cartel violence, as just one example, is neither a humane or effective strategy. Comprehensive immigration reform that would create an earned path to citizenship for those in the shadows, expedite family reunification, strengthen refugee protection, and address why desperate people reluctantly uproot and cross borders, deserves a vote now.</p>
<p>Delay and partisan bickering will only lead to more hardship, suffering and death.</p>
<p>(Schools named for purposes of identification only, not endorsement)</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. Larry Snyder</p>
<p>President, Catholic Charities USA</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Archbishop Joseph A. Fiorenza (retired)</p>
<p>Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston</p>
<p> </p>
<p>John J. DeGioia</p>
<p>President, Georgetown University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Bishop William S. Skylstad (retired)</p>
<p>Diocese of Spokane</p>
<p>Former President, U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Donald M. Kerwin, Jr.</p>
<p>Executive Director, Center for Migration Studies</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Michael Galligan-Stierle</p>
<p>President, Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. Michael Sheeran, S.J.</p>
<p>President, Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. Michael J. Graham, S.J.</p>
<p>President, Xavier University (Ohio)</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. Robert L. Niehoff, S.J.</p>
<p>President, John Carroll University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. Michael J. Garanzini, S.J.</p>
<p>President, Loyola University Chicago</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. Kevin Wildes, S.J.</p>
<p>President, Loyola University New Orleans</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Thomas W. Keefe</p>
<p>President, University of Dallas</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. James J. Greenfield, OSFS</p>
<p>President, Conference of Major Superiors of Men</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Sr. Sharon Holland, IHM,</p>
<p>President, Leadership Conference of Women Religious</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. Timothy Kesicki, S.J.</p>
<p>President, Jesuit Conference USA</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Armando Borja</p>
<p>National Director, Jesuit Refugee Service/USA</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Stephen Schneck</p>
<p>Institute for Policy Research and Catholic Studies</p>
<p>The Catholic University of America</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Frank Monahan</p>
<p>Former Director, Office of Government Liaison</p>
<p>U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Francis X. Doyle</p>
<p>Associate General Secretary (retired)</p>
<p>U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Sr. Simone Campbell, SSS</p>
<p>Executive Director, NETWORK, A National Catholic Social Justice Lobby</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Sr. Patricia Chappell</p>
<p>Executive Director, Pax Christi USA</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. Joseph M. McShane, S.J.</p>
<p>President, Fordham University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. Philip L. Boroughs, S.J.</p>
<p>President, College of the Holy Cross</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. John P. Fitzgibbons, S.J.</p>
<p>President, Regis University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Patricia McGuire</p>
<p>President, Trinity Washington University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Antoine M. Garibaldi, Ph.D.</p>
<p>President, University of Detroit Mercy</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. Thomas B. Curran</p>
<p>President, Rockhurst University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>John J. Hurley</p>
<p>President, Canisius College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Linda M. LeMura, Ph.D.</p>
<p>President, Le Moyne College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Sr. Candace Introcaso</p>
<p>President, La Roche College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. Bernard O’Connor</p>
<p>President, DeSales University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Dr. Francesco C. Cesareo</p>
<p>President, Assumption College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Donna M. Carroll</p>
<p>President, Dominican University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Thomas W. Keefe</p>
<p>President, University of Dallas</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Thomas Kunkel</p>
<p>President, St. Norbert College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. Jeffrey von Arx, S.J.</p>
<p>President, Fairfield University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Moya Dittmeier</p>
<p>Executive Director, Conference for Mercy Higher Education</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. Allan Figueroa Deck, S.J.</p>
<p>Rector of the Jesuit Community</p>
<p>Loyola Marymount University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>A. Gabriel Esteban</p>
<p>President, Seton Hall University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Nancy H. Blattner</p>
<p>President, Caldwell University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Br. Norman Hipps</p>
<p>President, Saint Vincent College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>John Smarrelli Jr.</p>
<p>President, Christian Brothers University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Mary A. Meehan</p>
<p>President, Alverno College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Donald P. Taylor</p>
<p>President, Cabrini College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. Timothy Lenchak</p>
<p>President, Divine Word College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Anne Munley</p>
<p>President, Marywood University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Sharon Latchaw Hirsch</p>
<p>President, Rosemont College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Jim Collins</p>
<p>President, Loras College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Br. John R. Paige</p>
<p>President, Holy Cross College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Kathleen Maas Weigert</p>
<p>Professor of Women and Leadership</p>
<p>Loyola University Chicago</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Timothy Matovina</p>
<p>Executive Director, Institute for Latino Studies</p>
<p>University of Notre Dame</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. Daniel G. Groody</p>
<p>Director of Immigration Initiatives</p>
<p>Institute for Latino Studies</p>
<p>University of Notre Dame</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. T. Michael McNulty, S.J.</p>
<p>MacLean Professor of Philosophy</p>
<p>St. Joseph’s University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Helen Alvare</p>
<p>Professor of Law</p>
<p>George Mason University School of Law</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Jeannine Hill Fletcher</p>
<p>Professor of Theology</p>
<p>Fordham University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>John Sniegocki</p>
<p>Associate Professor of Christian Ethics</p>
<p>Xavier University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Suzanne C. Toton, Ed.D.</p>
<p>Associate Professor of Theology and Religious Studies</p>
<p>Villanova University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Tobias Winright</p>
<p>Maeder Endowed Chair of Health Care Ethics</p>
<p>Saint Louis University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Paul Lakeland</p>
<p>Director, Center for Catholic Studies</p>
<p>Fairfield University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Terrence W. Tilley</p>
<p>Professor of Catholic Theology</p>
<p>Fordham University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Vincent Miller</p>
<p>Gudorf Chair in Catholic Theology and Culture</p>
<p>University of Dayton</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Kathryn Getek Soltis</p>
<p>Assistant Professor of Christian Ethics</p>
<p>Villanova University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Hosffman Ospino</p>
<p>Assistant Professor of Theology and Education</p>
<p>Boston College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Kelly S. Johnson</p>
<p>Associate Professor, Religious Studies</p>
<p>University of Dayton</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Una M. Cadegan</p>
<p>Associate Professor, Department of History</p>
<p>University of Dayton</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Charles T. Strauss</p>
<p>Assistant Professor of History</p>
<p>Mount St. Mary’s University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Ron Pagnucco, Associate Professor</p>
<p>Department of Peace Studies</p>
<p>College of St. Benedict/St. John’s University</p>
<p> </p>
<p><span class="gold"><strong>Rev. Fred Kammer, S.J.</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="gold"><strong>Director, Jesuit Social Research Institute</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="gold"><strong>Loyola University New Orleans</strong></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span class="gold"><strong>Alex Mikulich</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="gold"><strong>Jesuit Social Research Institute</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="gold"><strong>Loyola University New Orleans</strong></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Leadership Team, Sisters of Mercy of the Americas</p>
<p>Sr. Pat McDermott, RSM President</p>
<p>Sr. Eileen Campbell, RSM</p>
<p>Sr. Anne Curtis, RSM</p>
<p>Sr. Deborah Troillett, RSM</p>
<p>Sr. Mary Pat Garvin, RSM</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. Raymond Finch, MM</p>
<p>Superior General, Maryknoll Fathers & Brothers</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Thomas Allio, Jr.</p>
<p>Diocesan Social Action Director (retired)</p>
<p>Diocese of Cleveland</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. Sean Carroll, S.J.</p>
<p>Executive Director, Kino Border Initiative</p>
<p>Nogales, AZ</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Charles C. Camosy</p>
<p>Associate Prof. of Theological and Social Ethics</p>
<p>Fordham University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Peter H. Beisheim</p>
<p>Director, Catholic Studies Department</p>
<p>Stonehill College, MA</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Christopher G. Kerr</p>
<p>Executive Director, Ignatian Solidarity Network</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Gerry Lee</p>
<p>Director, Maryknoll Office for Global Concerns.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Karen Clifton</p>
<p>Executive Director, Catholic Mobilizing Network</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Patrick Carolan</p>
<p>Executive Director, Franciscan Action Network</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Kerry A. Robinson</p>
<p>Executive Director, National Leadership Roundtable on Church Management</p>
<p> </p>
<p>John Gehring</p>
<p>Catholic Program Director, Faith in Public Life</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Walter Grazer</p>
<p>Former Policy Advisor for International Religious Freedom and Human Rights, U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Christopher Hale</p>
<p>Senior Fellow, Catholics in Alliance for the Common Good</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Richard R. Gaillardetz</p>
<p>Joseph Professor of Catholic Theology</p>
<p>Boston College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Mark J. Allman</p>
<p>Chair of Religious and Theological Studies</p>
<p>Merrimack College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Dolores Christie</p>
<p>Executive Director (retired)</p>
<p>Catholic Theological Society of America</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Christopher Pramuk</p>
<p>Associate Professor of Theology</p>
<p>Xavier University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Kevin Ahern</p>
<p>Assistant Professor of Religious Studies</p>
<p>Manhattan College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Daniel Finn</p>
<p>Professor of Economics and Theology</p>
<p>St. John’s University (MN)</p>
<p> </p>
<p>M. Shawn Copeland</p>
<p>Professor of Theology</p>
<p>Boston College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. John A. Coleman, S.J.</p>
<p>Associate Pastor, St. Ignatius Church (San Francisco)</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Rev. Joseph Nangle, OFM</p>
<p>Washington, DC</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Eugene McCarraher</p>
<p>Associate Professor of Humanities</p>
<p>Villanova University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Sr. Paulette Skiba, BVM</p>
<p>Professor of Religious Studies</p>
<p>Clarke University</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Thomas Ryan</p>
<p>Director, Loyola Institute for Ministry</p>
<p>Loyola University New Orleans</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Billy Kangas</p>
<p>Writer, Patheos Catholic</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Peter H. Beisheim</p>
<p>Director, Catholic Studies Department</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Lisa Sowell Cahill</p>
<p>Monan Professor of Theology</p>
<p>Boston College</p>
<p> </p>
<p>*Signers as of 01/20/15. For an updated list please click <a href="http://www.faithinpubliclife.org/immigrationlife/">HERE</a></p>
Date
Compassion, Gratitude, Solidarity
News Intro Text
President Obama's Executive Action on Immigration
News Item Content
<p>On November 20, 2014, President Obama announced he would take Executive Action on immigration that includes several provisions, including a policy that will provide temporary relief from deportation and work authorization for approximately 3.9 million undocumented immigrants for up to three years. In his speech to the nation the President explained that although the U.S. Senate had passed a bi-partisan comprehensive immigration reform bill in June 2013, because the U.S. House of Representatives refused to even bring the bill up for a vote, he felt compelled to act to “help make our immigration system more fair and more just.” </p>
<p>The parents of U.S. citizen children will be the main beneficiaries of this Executive Action. In a case-by-case review of their applications, parents must prove they have lived in the U.S. for five years, pass a stringent background check, come up to date on any back taxes, and pay a hefty fee to cover the costs of the program ($465/application).[1] </p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/jmshg/3b855cc926c5b6c37d8829646b95b13f">MORE>></a></p>
<p>The parents of U.S. citizen children will be the main beneficiaries of this Executive Action. In a case-by-case review of their applications, parents must prove they have lived in the U.S. for five years, pass a stringent background check, come up to date on any back taxes, and pay a hefty fee to cover the costs of the program ($465/application).[1] </p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/jmshg/3b855cc926c5b6c37d8829646b95b13f">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Press Coverage of "Too Much for Too Many"
News Intro Text
JSRI released Too Much for Too Many on January 13, 2015
News Item Content
<p><a href="http://973thedawg.com/study-shows-more-than-half-of-louisiana-families-struggle-with-money/">Study Shows More Than Half Of Louisiana Families Struggle With Money </a></p>
<p><strong>97.3 Radio the Dawg, January 15, 2015</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.nbc33tv.com/news/study-shows-most-louisian">Study shows most Louisiana families struggle financially </a></p>
<p><strong>NBC 33 TV News, January 14, 2015</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p> <a href="http://www.knoe.com/home/headlines/Study-finds-Louisiana-residents-are-not-making-enough-to-live-comfortably--288635831.html">Study finds Louisiana residents are not making enough to live comfortably </a></p>
<p><strong>KNOE, January 14, 2015</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://klfy.com/2015/01/14/cost-of-living-too-much-for-many-louisiana-families/">Cost of living too much for many Louisiana families </a></p>
<p><strong>KLFY News, January 14, 2015 </strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.katc.com/story/27852029/lafayette-metro-area-ranks-3rd-in-state-in-cost-of-living-study-reports"><span>Lafayette metro area ranks 3rd in state in cost of living, study reports</span></a></p>
<p class="layout__trailer--margin p-title entry-title type__font-size--xxl type__font-weight--bold"><strong>KATC, January 14, 2015</strong></p>
<p class="layout__trailer--margin p-title entry-title type__font-size--xxl type__font-weight--bold"> </p>
<p class="layout__trailer--margin p-title entry-title type__font-size--xxl type__font-weight--bold"><a href="http://www.wwl.com/Study-finds-over-half-of-families-in-Louisiana-str/20712765">Study finds over half of families in Louisiana struggle to make ends meet</a></p>
<p class="layout__trailer--margin p-title entry-title type__font-size--xxl type__font-weight--bold"><strong>WWL, January 14, 2015</strong></p>
<p class="layout__trailer--margin p-title entry-title type__font-size--xxl type__font-weight--bold"> </p>
<p class="layout__trailer--margin p-title entry-title type__font-size--xxl type__font-weight--bold"><a href="http://wwno.org/post/loyola-study-finds-families-struggling-meet-basic-needs">Loyola Study Finds Families Struggling To Meet Basic Needs</a></p>
<p class="layout__trailer--margin p-title entry-title type__font-size--xxl type__font-weight--bold"><strong>WWNO, January 14, 2015</strong></p>
<p class="layout__trailer--margin p-title entry-title type__font-size--xxl type__font-weight--bold"> </p>
<p class="layout__trailer--margin p-title entry-title type__font-size--xxl type__font-weight--bold"><a href="http://www.theneworleansadvocate.com/news/11329025-123/more-than-half-of-louisiana">More than half of Louisiana families can’t meet basic costs, report says</a></p>
<p class="layout__trailer--margin p-title entry-title type__font-size--xxl type__font-weight--bold"><strong>The New Orleans Advocate, January 14, 2015</strong></p>
<p class="layout__trailer--margin p-title entry-title type__font-size--xxl type__font-weight--bold"> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.labudget.org/lbp/2015/01/wednesday-january-14-2015/">Louisiana families struggle for economic security</a></p>
<p><b>The Daily Dime, January 14, 2015</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.nola.com/health/index.ssf/2015/01/louisianas_families_struggle_f.html#incart_m-rpt-2">224,000 Louisiana families struggle for even 'modest but dignified' lifestyle, Loyola study finds</a></p>
<p><strong>The Times- Picayune/NOLA.com, January 13, 2015</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.wbrz.com/news/report-it-takes-more-than-55k-to-live-secure-in-br/">Report: It takes more than $55k to live securely in BR</a></p>
<p><strong>WBRZ, January 13, 2014 </strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>97.3 Radio the Dawg, January 15, 2015</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.nbc33tv.com/news/study-shows-most-louisian">Study shows most Louisiana families struggle financially </a></p>
<p><strong>NBC 33 TV News, January 14, 2015</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p> <a href="http://www.knoe.com/home/headlines/Study-finds-Louisiana-residents-are-not-making-enough-to-live-comfortably--288635831.html">Study finds Louisiana residents are not making enough to live comfortably </a></p>
<p><strong>KNOE, January 14, 2015</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://klfy.com/2015/01/14/cost-of-living-too-much-for-many-louisiana-families/">Cost of living too much for many Louisiana families </a></p>
<p><strong>KLFY News, January 14, 2015 </strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.katc.com/story/27852029/lafayette-metro-area-ranks-3rd-in-state-in-cost-of-living-study-reports"><span>Lafayette metro area ranks 3rd in state in cost of living, study reports</span></a></p>
<p class="layout__trailer--margin p-title entry-title type__font-size--xxl type__font-weight--bold"><strong>KATC, January 14, 2015</strong></p>
<p class="layout__trailer--margin p-title entry-title type__font-size--xxl type__font-weight--bold"> </p>
<p class="layout__trailer--margin p-title entry-title type__font-size--xxl type__font-weight--bold"><a href="http://www.wwl.com/Study-finds-over-half-of-families-in-Louisiana-str/20712765">Study finds over half of families in Louisiana struggle to make ends meet</a></p>
<p class="layout__trailer--margin p-title entry-title type__font-size--xxl type__font-weight--bold"><strong>WWL, January 14, 2015</strong></p>
<p class="layout__trailer--margin p-title entry-title type__font-size--xxl type__font-weight--bold"> </p>
<p class="layout__trailer--margin p-title entry-title type__font-size--xxl type__font-weight--bold"><a href="http://wwno.org/post/loyola-study-finds-families-struggling-meet-basic-needs">Loyola Study Finds Families Struggling To Meet Basic Needs</a></p>
<p class="layout__trailer--margin p-title entry-title type__font-size--xxl type__font-weight--bold"><strong>WWNO, January 14, 2015</strong></p>
<p class="layout__trailer--margin p-title entry-title type__font-size--xxl type__font-weight--bold"> </p>
<p class="layout__trailer--margin p-title entry-title type__font-size--xxl type__font-weight--bold"><a href="http://www.theneworleansadvocate.com/news/11329025-123/more-than-half-of-louisiana">More than half of Louisiana families can’t meet basic costs, report says</a></p>
<p class="layout__trailer--margin p-title entry-title type__font-size--xxl type__font-weight--bold"><strong>The New Orleans Advocate, January 14, 2015</strong></p>
<p class="layout__trailer--margin p-title entry-title type__font-size--xxl type__font-weight--bold"> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.labudget.org/lbp/2015/01/wednesday-january-14-2015/">Louisiana families struggle for economic security</a></p>
<p><b>The Daily Dime, January 14, 2015</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.nola.com/health/index.ssf/2015/01/louisianas_families_struggle_f.html#incart_m-rpt-2">224,000 Louisiana families struggle for even 'modest but dignified' lifestyle, Loyola study finds</a></p>
<p><strong>The Times- Picayune/NOLA.com, January 13, 2015</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.wbrz.com/news/report-it-takes-more-than-55k-to-live-secure-in-br/">Report: It takes more than $55k to live securely in BR</a></p>
<p><strong>WBRZ, January 13, 2014 </strong></p>
<p> </p>
Date
Missed the Too Much for Too Many press conference?
News Intro Text
Watch NOLA.com's coverage of the report's findings, personal testimonies, and agencies that are calling for change.
News Item Content
<p><object classid="D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=9,0,47,0" height="270" id="flashObj" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://c.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f9?isVid=1&isUI=1" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="flashVars" value="videoId=3987832654001&playerID=2444926729001&playerKey=AQ~~,AAAAPmbRMTE~,BWCCSzT6s9lq78oeqpyg6ZlbiNyNyFzL&domain=embed&dynamicStreaming=true" /><param name="base" value="http://admin.brightcove.com" /><param name="seamlesstabbing" value="false" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="swLiveConnect" value="true" /><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always" /><embed allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" base="http://admin.brightcove.com" bgcolor="#FFFFFF" flashvars="videoId=3987832654001&playerID=2444926729001&playerKey=AQ~~,AAAAPmbRMTE~,BWCCSzT6s9lq78oeqpyg6ZlbiNyNyFzL&domain=embed&dynamicStreaming=true" height="270" name="flashObj" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/shockwave/download/index.cgi?P1_Prod_Version=ShockwaveFlash" seamlesstabbing="false" src="http://c.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f9?isVid=1&isUI=1" swliveconnect="true" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="480"></embed></object></p>
Date
JSRI SPECIAL REPORT
News Intro Text
TOO MUCH FOR TOO MANY: What does it cost families to live in Louisiana?
News Item Content
<p>Recently, a representative of Archbishop <span>Gregory Aymond of New Orleans asked me </span><span>this question from the archbishop, “How </span><span>much does it cost to live in New Orleans these </span><span>days?” It was a question that had haunted me </span><span>as an employer in the years immediately after </span><span>Katrina as reports and rumors mixed together </span><span>about rising prices of food, housing, utilities, </span><span>and other basics. The census does not give us </span><span>this information, nor do other reports from </span>state, local, or federal governments, even in the traditional measures of “official poverty.” Yet the questions about cost of living in New Orleans and other cities persist, as do the realities of so many families coming to churches and social agencies across our state for food, utility assistance, and other financial help—especially near the end of the month when paychecks, social security, and other financial support have been exhausted. Thus the report that follows. Staffed by our new Economic Policy Specialist Alí R. Bustamante, assisted by our fellows and student researchers, and made possible by a grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, the Jesuit Social Research Institute set out to study just what it costs typical families to live a modest but dignified life in Louisiana and its major cities. Put another way, what does “economic security” mean for families in our state? The question has critical implications and significant moral import for employers, policy-makers, and all of us concerned with the common good.</p>
<p><span>-Fred Kammer, S.J.</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JSRI SPECIAL REPORT Too Much for Too Many.pdf"><span>FULL REPORT>></span></a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JSRI SPECIAL REPORT Too Much for Too Many Charts.pdf"><span>ADDITIONAL CHARTS>></span></a></p>
<p><span>-Fred Kammer, S.J.</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JSRI SPECIAL REPORT Too Much for Too Many.pdf"><span>FULL REPORT>></span></a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JSRI SPECIAL REPORT Too Much for Too Many Charts.pdf"><span>ADDITIONAL CHARTS>></span></a></p>
Date
The four-decade rise in state imprisonment, in one animated GIF
News Intro Text
[The Washington Post, December 3, 2014]
News Item Content
<p>[The Washington Post, December 3, 2014]</p>
<p>By Niraj Chokshi</p>
<p>It’s no big secret that the state prison system is over-taxed.</p>
<p>Prisons in 17 states are over capacity and, despite shrinking for a few years, it looks as if the prison population will return to its long-term trend toward growth, as we reported a few weeks ago:</p>
<p>Since the late 1970s, the state prison population essentially knew only one direction: up. But, in 2009, something changed. After all those years of growth, the prison population begin to shrink. And the trend held steady — well, until last year, when growth made a comeback. Now, it seems, it may be here to stay.</p>
<p>The state prison population is poised to grow 3 percent by 2018, according to a Pew Charitable Trusts review of 34 state and outside group projections. Were the forecast accurate, it would suggest the old trend — decades of growth — may be back. Overall, that group is projected to swell by about 26,000 reaching nearly 945,000 in size four years from now, according to the data Pew collected last month and published Tuesday.</p>
<p>On Wednesday, the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities’s Nick Kasprak, Michael Mitchell, and Rob Cady published the interactive map below that shows just how much the imprisonment rate has swelled in each state: there isn’t a single one that hasn’t seen substantial growth.</p>
<p>North Carolina saw its imprisonment rate per 100,000 residents grow the least: 66 percent from 1978 to 2013. North Dakota’s grew the most, increasing nearly tenfold. Imprisonment rates more than tripled in 36 states.</p>
<p>Part of the reason behind North Dakota’s huge growth is that it started at the very bottom among states in 1978 with an imprisonment rate of just 21 per 100,000 residents. In 2013, Louisiana’s rate was largest, at 847 per 100,000 residents. In 44 states, the 2013 imprisonment rate was above the highest rate (234 per 100,000 residents in South Carolina) in 1978.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/govbeat/wp/2014/12/03/the-four-decade-rise-in-state-imprisonment-in-one-animated-gif/">To view interactive GIF on Washington Post's website >>></a></p>
<p>By Niraj Chokshi</p>
<p>It’s no big secret that the state prison system is over-taxed.</p>
<p>Prisons in 17 states are over capacity and, despite shrinking for a few years, it looks as if the prison population will return to its long-term trend toward growth, as we reported a few weeks ago:</p>
<p>Since the late 1970s, the state prison population essentially knew only one direction: up. But, in 2009, something changed. After all those years of growth, the prison population begin to shrink. And the trend held steady — well, until last year, when growth made a comeback. Now, it seems, it may be here to stay.</p>
<p>The state prison population is poised to grow 3 percent by 2018, according to a Pew Charitable Trusts review of 34 state and outside group projections. Were the forecast accurate, it would suggest the old trend — decades of growth — may be back. Overall, that group is projected to swell by about 26,000 reaching nearly 945,000 in size four years from now, according to the data Pew collected last month and published Tuesday.</p>
<p>On Wednesday, the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities’s Nick Kasprak, Michael Mitchell, and Rob Cady published the interactive map below that shows just how much the imprisonment rate has swelled in each state: there isn’t a single one that hasn’t seen substantial growth.</p>
<p>North Carolina saw its imprisonment rate per 100,000 residents grow the least: 66 percent from 1978 to 2013. North Dakota’s grew the most, increasing nearly tenfold. Imprisonment rates more than tripled in 36 states.</p>
<p>Part of the reason behind North Dakota’s huge growth is that it started at the very bottom among states in 1978 with an imprisonment rate of just 21 per 100,000 residents. In 2013, Louisiana’s rate was largest, at 847 per 100,000 residents. In 44 states, the 2013 imprisonment rate was above the highest rate (234 per 100,000 residents in South Carolina) in 1978.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/govbeat/wp/2014/12/03/the-four-decade-rise-in-state-imprisonment-in-one-animated-gif/">To view interactive GIF on Washington Post's website >>></a></p>
Date
What do Duck Dynasty and Wal-Mart have in common?
News Intro Text
Louisiana's $1 Billion Giveaway
Giveaways cost the U.S. taxpayers $50 billion a year
Giveaways cost the U.S. taxpayers $50 billion a year
News Item Content
<h2>
Louisiana's $1 Billion Giveaway</h2>
<h2>
Giveaways cost the U.S. taxpayers $50 billion a year</h2>
<p>by Fred Kammer, S.J. </p>
<p>The New Orleans Advocate, in an eight-part report<a href="http://blogs.theadvocate.com/specialreports/2014/11/26/giving-away-louisiana/">[1]</a>, has highlighted the burgeoning practice of creating tax-breaks (“tax incentives,” “tax loopholes,” “tax expenditures”) that now cost Louisiana $1.08 billion dollars a year. Legislatures create these benefits purportedly to induce businesses to locate in a state or expand there. Two examples from The Advocate illustrate these incentives:</p>
<ul>
<li>
Every time the Robertson clan films another episode of “Duck Dynasty,” Louisiana is on the hook for nearly $330,000, at last count.</li>
<li>
During the past three years, state taxpayers agreed to fork over nearly $700,000 to Wal-Mart to build new stores in two affluent suburbs.<a href="http://blogs.theadvocate.com/specialreports/2014/11/26/giving-away-louisiana/">[2]</a></li>
</ul>
<p>The report focuses on six programs which together have grown by an average of 17% a year over the past decade and their 2013 cost: film industry incentives whereby the state pays 30% of production costs of films made here ($251 million); refunds of property taxes businesses pay on inventory ($427 million); solar power tax credits to businesses and individuals ($61 million); tax exemptions for fracking wells ($240 million); the Enterprise Zone program ($70 million); and various property and sales tax benefits to lure “megaprojects” here (costing hundreds of millions).</p>
<p>In 2013 alone, these six programs totaled over $1 billion dollars in a state struggling to meet its budget and doing so by repeated cuts primarily in health care and education. Higher education spending has dropped from $1.13 billion in FY2009 to $535 million in FY2015. The difference often is made up in increased tuition for families.</p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/ji9bg/45929d930bcd44c1fc67934daf1ce068">MORE>></a></p>
Louisiana's $1 Billion Giveaway</h2>
<h2>
Giveaways cost the U.S. taxpayers $50 billion a year</h2>
<p>by Fred Kammer, S.J. </p>
<p>The New Orleans Advocate, in an eight-part report<a href="http://blogs.theadvocate.com/specialreports/2014/11/26/giving-away-louisiana/">[1]</a>, has highlighted the burgeoning practice of creating tax-breaks (“tax incentives,” “tax loopholes,” “tax expenditures”) that now cost Louisiana $1.08 billion dollars a year. Legislatures create these benefits purportedly to induce businesses to locate in a state or expand there. Two examples from The Advocate illustrate these incentives:</p>
<ul>
<li>
Every time the Robertson clan films another episode of “Duck Dynasty,” Louisiana is on the hook for nearly $330,000, at last count.</li>
<li>
During the past three years, state taxpayers agreed to fork over nearly $700,000 to Wal-Mart to build new stores in two affluent suburbs.<a href="http://blogs.theadvocate.com/specialreports/2014/11/26/giving-away-louisiana/">[2]</a></li>
</ul>
<p>The report focuses on six programs which together have grown by an average of 17% a year over the past decade and their 2013 cost: film industry incentives whereby the state pays 30% of production costs of films made here ($251 million); refunds of property taxes businesses pay on inventory ($427 million); solar power tax credits to businesses and individuals ($61 million); tax exemptions for fracking wells ($240 million); the Enterprise Zone program ($70 million); and various property and sales tax benefits to lure “megaprojects” here (costing hundreds of millions).</p>
<p>In 2013 alone, these six programs totaled over $1 billion dollars in a state struggling to meet its budget and doing so by repeated cuts primarily in health care and education. Higher education spending has dropped from $1.13 billion in FY2009 to $535 million in FY2015. The difference often is made up in increased tuition for families.</p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/ji9bg/45929d930bcd44c1fc67934daf1ce068">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Statement of Catholic Theologians on Racial Justice
News Intro Text
"As Catholic theologians, we wish to go on the record in calling for a serious examination of both policing and racial injustice in the US." [http://catholicmoraltheology.com/]
News Item Content
<p>Posted on: <a href="http://catholicmoraltheology.com/">http://catholicmoraltheology.com/</a></p>
<p>Advent is a season of waiting and of hoping. In the face of conflict, distrust, and division – in the wilderness – we are called to cry out for a different way. In consultation with several others, CMTer and former law enforcement officer Tobias Winright has prepared a statement of commitment to racial justice, which names the particularly difficult hope we might bring to illuminate darkness. We are happy to share the statement here on this blog. Many Catholic theologians, including myself and my co-editor, Jana Bennett, have already signed on to the statement. Please pray and act for truth and reconciliation this season…</p>
<p>Statement: Catholic Theologians for Police Reform and Racial Justice</p>
<p>The season of Advent is meant to be a time when Christians remember the birth of Jesus Christ, when God became human, born on the margins of society. To the poor shepherds, the angelic host proclaimed “peace, goodwill among people” (Luke 2:14), which refers to a shalom that is not merely the absence of conflict, but rather a just and lasting peace, wherein people are reconciled with one another, with God, and indeed with all creation. But this Advent, hope for a just peace must face the flagrant failures of a nation still bound by sin, our bondage to and complicity in racial injustice.</p>
<p>The killings of Black men, women and children – including but not limited to Rekia Boyd, Eric Garner, Michael Brown, John Crawford, 7 year-old Aiyana Stanley-Jones and 12 year-old Tamir Rice – by White policemen, and the failures of the grand jury process to indict some of the police officers involved, brought to our attention not only problems in law enforcement today, but also deeper racial injustice in our nation, our communities, and even our churches.</p>
<p>As Eric Garner’s dying words “I can’t breathe” are chanted in the streets, and as people of faith, we hear the echo of Jesus’ breathing on his disciples, telling them, “Peace be with you.” His spirit-filled breath gives his disciples, then and now, the power and obligation to raise our voices about the imperative of a just peace in a fragmented and violent world.</p>
<p>The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King’s “Letter from a Birmingham Jail” speaks searingly to our headline divisions today. The “cup of endurance runs over” again for African Americans and many others of good will. Our streets are filled with those exhausted by the need to explain yet again “why we can’t wait.”</p>
<p>King challenged “white moderate” Christians for being “more devoted to ‘order’ than to justice;” and for preferring “a negative peace which is the absence of tension to a positive peace which is the presence of justice.” This challenge to the White Christian community is as relevant today as it was over 50 years ago. Such a negative peace calls to mind the warning by the prophet Ezekiel, “They led my people astray, saying, ‘Peace!’ when there was no peace” (13:10).</p>
<p>Pope Francis’s warning of the explosive consequences of exclusion and fearful seeking of “security” based on such a negative peace are similarly prophetic:</p>
<p>“Today in many places we hear a call for greater security. But until exclusion and inequality in society and between peoples are reversed, it will be impossible to eliminate violence. The poor and the poorer peoples are accused of violence, yet without equal opportunities the different forms of aggression and conflict will find a fertile terrain for growth and eventually explode. When a society – whether local, national or global – is willing to leave a part of itself on the fringes, no political programmes or resources spent on law enforcement or surveillance systems can indefinitely guarantee tranquility. This is not the case simply because inequality provokes a violent reaction from those excluded from the system, but because the socioeconomic system is unjust at its root. Just as goodness tends to spread, the toleration of evil, which is injustice, tends to expand its baneful influence and quietly to undermine any political and social system, no matter how solid it may appear.” Evangelii Gaudium, 59</p>
<p>As Catholic theologians, we wish to go on the record in calling for a serious examination of both policing and racial injustice in the US. The time demands that we leave some mark that US Catholic theologians did not ignore what is happening in our midst – as the vast majority sadly did during the 1960s Civil Rights movement.</p>
<p><a href="http://catholicmoraltheology.com/statement-of-catholic-theologians-on-racial-justice/">MORE>></a></p>
<p>Advent is a season of waiting and of hoping. In the face of conflict, distrust, and division – in the wilderness – we are called to cry out for a different way. In consultation with several others, CMTer and former law enforcement officer Tobias Winright has prepared a statement of commitment to racial justice, which names the particularly difficult hope we might bring to illuminate darkness. We are happy to share the statement here on this blog. Many Catholic theologians, including myself and my co-editor, Jana Bennett, have already signed on to the statement. Please pray and act for truth and reconciliation this season…</p>
<p>Statement: Catholic Theologians for Police Reform and Racial Justice</p>
<p>The season of Advent is meant to be a time when Christians remember the birth of Jesus Christ, when God became human, born on the margins of society. To the poor shepherds, the angelic host proclaimed “peace, goodwill among people” (Luke 2:14), which refers to a shalom that is not merely the absence of conflict, but rather a just and lasting peace, wherein people are reconciled with one another, with God, and indeed with all creation. But this Advent, hope for a just peace must face the flagrant failures of a nation still bound by sin, our bondage to and complicity in racial injustice.</p>
<p>The killings of Black men, women and children – including but not limited to Rekia Boyd, Eric Garner, Michael Brown, John Crawford, 7 year-old Aiyana Stanley-Jones and 12 year-old Tamir Rice – by White policemen, and the failures of the grand jury process to indict some of the police officers involved, brought to our attention not only problems in law enforcement today, but also deeper racial injustice in our nation, our communities, and even our churches.</p>
<p>As Eric Garner’s dying words “I can’t breathe” are chanted in the streets, and as people of faith, we hear the echo of Jesus’ breathing on his disciples, telling them, “Peace be with you.” His spirit-filled breath gives his disciples, then and now, the power and obligation to raise our voices about the imperative of a just peace in a fragmented and violent world.</p>
<p>The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King’s “Letter from a Birmingham Jail” speaks searingly to our headline divisions today. The “cup of endurance runs over” again for African Americans and many others of good will. Our streets are filled with those exhausted by the need to explain yet again “why we can’t wait.”</p>
<p>King challenged “white moderate” Christians for being “more devoted to ‘order’ than to justice;” and for preferring “a negative peace which is the absence of tension to a positive peace which is the presence of justice.” This challenge to the White Christian community is as relevant today as it was over 50 years ago. Such a negative peace calls to mind the warning by the prophet Ezekiel, “They led my people astray, saying, ‘Peace!’ when there was no peace” (13:10).</p>
<p>Pope Francis’s warning of the explosive consequences of exclusion and fearful seeking of “security” based on such a negative peace are similarly prophetic:</p>
<p>“Today in many places we hear a call for greater security. But until exclusion and inequality in society and between peoples are reversed, it will be impossible to eliminate violence. The poor and the poorer peoples are accused of violence, yet without equal opportunities the different forms of aggression and conflict will find a fertile terrain for growth and eventually explode. When a society – whether local, national or global – is willing to leave a part of itself on the fringes, no political programmes or resources spent on law enforcement or surveillance systems can indefinitely guarantee tranquility. This is not the case simply because inequality provokes a violent reaction from those excluded from the system, but because the socioeconomic system is unjust at its root. Just as goodness tends to spread, the toleration of evil, which is injustice, tends to expand its baneful influence and quietly to undermine any political and social system, no matter how solid it may appear.” Evangelii Gaudium, 59</p>
<p>As Catholic theologians, we wish to go on the record in calling for a serious examination of both policing and racial injustice in the US. The time demands that we leave some mark that US Catholic theologians did not ignore what is happening in our midst – as the vast majority sadly did during the 1960s Civil Rights movement.</p>
<p><a href="http://catholicmoraltheology.com/statement-of-catholic-theologians-on-racial-justice/">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Key Facts About Poverty and Income in Texas
News Intro Text
More Than One-Third of Texans Live Below 200% of the
Federal Poverty Threshold [Center for Public Policy Priorities]
Federal Poverty Threshold [Center for Public Policy Priorities]
News Item Content
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/tx1 700 x 514.jpg" /></p>
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/tx 2.jpg" style="width: 700px; height: 514px;" /></p>
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/tx3.jpg" style="width: 700px; height: 514px;" /></p>
<p> </p>
<h2>
<span class="maroon"><a href="http://forabettertexas.org/images/EO_2014_ACSPovertyIncome_Charts.pdf">MORE FROM THE CENTER FOR PUBLIC POLICY PRIORITIES >></a></span></h2>
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/tx 2.jpg" style="width: 700px; height: 514px;" /></p>
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/tx3.jpg" style="width: 700px; height: 514px;" /></p>
<p> </p>
<h2>
<span class="maroon"><a href="http://forabettertexas.org/images/EO_2014_ACSPovertyIncome_Charts.pdf">MORE FROM THE CENTER FOR PUBLIC POLICY PRIORITIES >></a></span></h2>
Date
U.S. Jesuits Join Catholic Bishops in Welcoming Obama Administration’s Plan to Provide Immigration Relief
News Intro Text
Announcement welcome news for some immigrant families, while much work left to be done. [www.jesuit.org]
News Item Content
<p><a href="http://www.jesuit.org/">http://www.jesuit.org/</a></p>
<p>November 21, 2014 — The Jesuits of the United States, Jesuit Refugee Service/USA and the Kino Border Initiative, a bi-national border ministry in Nogales, Arizona and Nogales, Sonora, welcome President Obama’s announcement of temporary relief from deportation for as many as five million of our community members. At the same time we acknowledge that millions more families will continue to suffer under the constant specter of family separation caused by our broken immigration system, which can only be permanently resolved through positive, humane and practical legislation.</p>
<p>Through our ministries, we witness on a daily basis the tragic consequences of our nation’s current immigration laws and policies.</p>
<p>As Jesuits, we assess each immigration policy by whether it adheres to the Catholic and American value of promoting and affirming human dignity. The President has exercised his constitutional discretion to prioritize immigration enforcement resources, while offering a process by which some of the 11 million undocumented may apply for a temporary reprieve. Meanwhile, Congressional leaders must complete the urgent and necessary work of permanently fixing our unjust and broken immigration system. </p>
<p>Through the President’s order, the following groups will be offered the chance to apply for relief through a fee-based system: parents of U.S. citizen children who have lived in the U.S. for at least 5 years; parents of U.S. legal permanent resident children who have lived in the U.S. for at least 5 years; and Dreamers who arrived in the U.S. before their eighteenth birthday who have been living in the U.S. since January 1, 2010, and meet education or military service requirements.</p>
<p>To be sure, the President’s policy change is a major step forward, and we celebrate this move toward recognizing the worth and dignity of up to five million of our brothers, sisters, parishioners, friends, colleagues and companions. However, this is only a first step, and we will continue to struggle for a day when all men, women and children who live within our communities are welcomed as full members of our nation.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.jesuit.org/news-detail?TN=NEWS-20141121032132">MORE>></a></p>
<p>November 21, 2014 — The Jesuits of the United States, Jesuit Refugee Service/USA and the Kino Border Initiative, a bi-national border ministry in Nogales, Arizona and Nogales, Sonora, welcome President Obama’s announcement of temporary relief from deportation for as many as five million of our community members. At the same time we acknowledge that millions more families will continue to suffer under the constant specter of family separation caused by our broken immigration system, which can only be permanently resolved through positive, humane and practical legislation.</p>
<p>Through our ministries, we witness on a daily basis the tragic consequences of our nation’s current immigration laws and policies.</p>
<p>As Jesuits, we assess each immigration policy by whether it adheres to the Catholic and American value of promoting and affirming human dignity. The President has exercised his constitutional discretion to prioritize immigration enforcement resources, while offering a process by which some of the 11 million undocumented may apply for a temporary reprieve. Meanwhile, Congressional leaders must complete the urgent and necessary work of permanently fixing our unjust and broken immigration system. </p>
<p>Through the President’s order, the following groups will be offered the chance to apply for relief through a fee-based system: parents of U.S. citizen children who have lived in the U.S. for at least 5 years; parents of U.S. legal permanent resident children who have lived in the U.S. for at least 5 years; and Dreamers who arrived in the U.S. before their eighteenth birthday who have been living in the U.S. since January 1, 2010, and meet education or military service requirements.</p>
<p>To be sure, the President’s policy change is a major step forward, and we celebrate this move toward recognizing the worth and dignity of up to five million of our brothers, sisters, parishioners, friends, colleagues and companions. However, this is only a first step, and we will continue to struggle for a day when all men, women and children who live within our communities are welcomed as full members of our nation.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.jesuit.org/news-detail?TN=NEWS-20141121032132">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Fergusons Across America
News Intro Text
TUESDAY, NOV. 18 AT 6:30
SAINT CHARLES ROOM, DANNA CENTER,
LOYOLA UNIVERSITY NEW ORLEANS
SAINT CHARLES ROOM, DANNA CENTER,
LOYOLA UNIVERSITY NEW ORLEANS
News Item Content
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/ferg4.jpg" /></p>
Date
Out of Control: Pope Denounces Criminal Justice Systems [JustSouth E-News, November 2014]
News Intro Text
Pope Francis laments how societies have become overly punitive, thereby losing the capacity to practice the “primacy of life and the dignity of the human person.”
News Item Content
<p><span>by Alex Mikulich, Ph.D.</span></p>
<p>“The criminal justice system is out of control,”[1] proclaimed Pope Francis to the International Association of Penal Law on October 23, 2014. </p>
<p>Francis laments how societies have become overly punitive, thereby losing the capacity to practice the “primacy of life and the dignity of the human person.” </p>
<p>Sadly, Louisiana is a prime example of a criminal justice system out of control, as the state “locks up more of its people than anywhere in the world.”[2]</p>
<p>Newsmedia headlined the Pope’s call for the abolition of the death penalty and his declaration that the “life sentence was taken out of the Vatican’s Criminal Code” because a “life sentence is just a death penalty in disguise.” </p>
<p>Louisiana serves as exhibit #1 of applying the “death penalty in disguise,” as it incarcerates the highest percentage of inmates serving life sentences without the possibility of parole (LWOP), including some who never committed a violent crime. </p>
<p>As the Times-Picayune observes in an op-ed that underscores the Pope’s message, Louisiana’s “wasteful approach denies any possibility of redemption—throwing away lives but also throwing away money. An offender who begins a life sentence at 20-something and lives to be 70 will end up costing the state $1 million.”[3]</p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/7gw3f/b66f8c4f17b0fc0aaa15eada7010aa38">MORE>></a></p>
<p>“The criminal justice system is out of control,”[1] proclaimed Pope Francis to the International Association of Penal Law on October 23, 2014. </p>
<p>Francis laments how societies have become overly punitive, thereby losing the capacity to practice the “primacy of life and the dignity of the human person.” </p>
<p>Sadly, Louisiana is a prime example of a criminal justice system out of control, as the state “locks up more of its people than anywhere in the world.”[2]</p>
<p>Newsmedia headlined the Pope’s call for the abolition of the death penalty and his declaration that the “life sentence was taken out of the Vatican’s Criminal Code” because a “life sentence is just a death penalty in disguise.” </p>
<p>Louisiana serves as exhibit #1 of applying the “death penalty in disguise,” as it incarcerates the highest percentage of inmates serving life sentences without the possibility of parole (LWOP), including some who never committed a violent crime. </p>
<p>As the Times-Picayune observes in an op-ed that underscores the Pope’s message, Louisiana’s “wasteful approach denies any possibility of redemption—throwing away lives but also throwing away money. An offender who begins a life sentence at 20-something and lives to be 70 will end up costing the state $1 million.”[3]</p>
<p><a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/7gw3f/b66f8c4f17b0fc0aaa15eada7010aa38">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Can't make it to the Ignatian Family Teach-In for Justice this weekend?
News Intro Text
Watch it live!
News Item Content
<div class="av-special-heading av-special-heading-h2 blockquote modern-quote avia-builder-el-1 el_after_av_slideshow_full el_before_av_textblock avia-builder-el-first ">
<h2 class="av-special-heading-tag" itemprop="headline">
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/"><span>NOVEMBER 15 – NOVEMBER 17 || 2014</span></a></h2>
</div>
<section class="av_textblock_section" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="https://schema.org/CreativeWork">
<div class="avia_textblock " itemprop="text">
<p><em><a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Please note: Schedule is subject to change.</a></em></p>
</div>
</section>
<div class="av-special-heading av-special-heading-h3 avia-builder-el-3 el_after_av_textblock el_before_av_textblock ">
<h3 class="av-special-heading-tag" itemprop="headline">
</h3>
<h3 class="av-special-heading-tag" itemprop="headline">
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Saturday, November 15</a></h3>
<div class="special-heading-border">
<div class="special-heading-inner-border">
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/" style="line-height: 18px;"><strong>3:30 PM – 10:00 PM</strong></a></div>
</div>
</div>
<section class="av_textblock_section" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="https://schema.org/CreativeWork">
<div class="avia_textblock " itemprop="text">
<p><a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Day 1 of the IFTJ will feature mainstage presentations from keynote and student speakers, opportunities to network, share ideas, and more!</a></p>
</div>
</section>
<div class="avia-data-table-wrap avia_responsive_table">
<table class="avia-table avia-data-table avia-table-1 avia-builder-el-5 el_after_av_textblock el_before_av_heading" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="https://schema.org/Table">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">3:30</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Registration Begins</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">4:15</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Gathering, Music, & Reconnecting</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">4:40</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Welcome and Introductions</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">5:00</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Opening Prayer</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">5:15</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Breaking Open the IFTJ Theme</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">5:25</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Ignatian Network Speakers</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">5:45</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Keynote Speaker: Michael Lee, PhD</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">6:20</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Dinner Break</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">8:15</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Ignatian Network Speakers</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">8:35</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Keynote Speaker: Marie Dennis</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">9:10</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Documentary Premiere: Blood in the Backyard</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">9:30</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Prayer for the Jesuit Martyrs</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">9:50</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">T-Shirt Swap/Reflection Time</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">10:15</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Reflection Time</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
<div class="av-special-heading av-special-heading-h3 avia-builder-el-6 el_after_av_table el_before_av_textblock ">
<h3 class="av-special-heading-tag" itemprop="headline">
</h3>
<h3 class="av-special-heading-tag" itemprop="headline">
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Sunday, November 16</a></h3>
<div class="special-heading-border">
<div class="special-heading-inner-border">
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/" style="line-height: 18px;"><strong>8:30 AM – 9:00 PM</strong></a></div>
</div>
</div>
<section class="av_textblock_section" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="https://schema.org/CreativeWork">
<div class="avia_textblock " itemprop="text">
<p><a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Day 2 of the IFTJ will feature mainstage presentations from keynote and student speakers, 3 rounds of breakout sessions, and advocacy training/policy briefing, liturgy with Kevin Burke, S.J., and more!</a></p>
</div>
</section>
<div class="avia-data-table-wrap avia_responsive_table">
<table class="avia-table avia-data-table avia-table-2 avia-builder-el-8 el_after_av_textblock el_before_av_heading" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="https://schema.org/Table">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">8:40</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Re-gather / Announcements</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">9:00</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Opening Prayer</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">9:15</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Ignatian Network Speakers</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">9:35</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Keynote Speaker – Fr. Ismael Moreno Coto, S.J.</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">10:15</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Break</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">10:40</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Breakout Session #1</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">11:30</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Lunch</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">1:20</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Ignatian Network Speakers</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">1:50</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Breakout Session #2</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">2:40</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Break</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">3:00</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Breakout Session #3</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">3:50</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Break</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">4:10</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Policy Briefing</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">5:00</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Small Group Advocacy Training</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">5:50</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Dinner Break</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">7:45</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Liturgy – Kevin Burke, S.J., Celebrant</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">9:15</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Reflection Time</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
<div class="av-special-heading av-special-heading-h3 avia-builder-el-9 el_after_av_table el_before_av_textblock ">
<h3 class="av-special-heading-tag" itemprop="headline">
</h3>
<h3 class="av-special-heading-tag" itemprop="headline">
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Monday, November 17</a></h3>
<div class="special-heading-border">
<div class="special-heading-inner-border">
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/" style="line-height: 18px;"><strong>9:00 AM</strong></a></div>
</div>
</div>
<section class="av_textblock_section" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="https://schema.org/CreativeWork">
<div class="avia_textblock " itemprop="text">
<p><a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Day 3 of the IFTJ (Ignatian Family Advocacy Day) will kick-off with a public witness on Capitol Hill, followed by advocacy meetings with your Members of Congress! Please note that participants are responsible for booking their own meetings; ISN will provide support if needed.</a></p>
</div>
</section>
<div class="avia-data-table-wrap avia_responsive_table">
<table class="avia-table avia-data-table avia-table-3 avia-builder-el-11 el_after_av_textblock avia-builder-el-last" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="https://schema.org/Table">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">9:00</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Public Witness on Capitol Hill</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">10:00</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Advocacy Day</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
<p> </p>
<h2 class="av-special-heading-tag" itemprop="headline">
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/"><span>NOVEMBER 15 – NOVEMBER 17 || 2014</span></a></h2>
</div>
<section class="av_textblock_section" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="https://schema.org/CreativeWork">
<div class="avia_textblock " itemprop="text">
<p><em><a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Please note: Schedule is subject to change.</a></em></p>
</div>
</section>
<div class="av-special-heading av-special-heading-h3 avia-builder-el-3 el_after_av_textblock el_before_av_textblock ">
<h3 class="av-special-heading-tag" itemprop="headline">
</h3>
<h3 class="av-special-heading-tag" itemprop="headline">
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Saturday, November 15</a></h3>
<div class="special-heading-border">
<div class="special-heading-inner-border">
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/" style="line-height: 18px;"><strong>3:30 PM – 10:00 PM</strong></a></div>
</div>
</div>
<section class="av_textblock_section" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="https://schema.org/CreativeWork">
<div class="avia_textblock " itemprop="text">
<p><a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Day 1 of the IFTJ will feature mainstage presentations from keynote and student speakers, opportunities to network, share ideas, and more!</a></p>
</div>
</section>
<div class="avia-data-table-wrap avia_responsive_table">
<table class="avia-table avia-data-table avia-table-1 avia-builder-el-5 el_after_av_textblock el_before_av_heading" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="https://schema.org/Table">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">3:30</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Registration Begins</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">4:15</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Gathering, Music, & Reconnecting</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">4:40</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Welcome and Introductions</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">5:00</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Opening Prayer</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">5:15</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Breaking Open the IFTJ Theme</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">5:25</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Ignatian Network Speakers</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">5:45</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Keynote Speaker: Michael Lee, PhD</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">6:20</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Dinner Break</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">8:15</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Ignatian Network Speakers</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">8:35</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Keynote Speaker: Marie Dennis</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">9:10</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Documentary Premiere: Blood in the Backyard</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">9:30</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Prayer for the Jesuit Martyrs</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">9:50</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">T-Shirt Swap/Reflection Time</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">10:15</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Reflection Time</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
<div class="av-special-heading av-special-heading-h3 avia-builder-el-6 el_after_av_table el_before_av_textblock ">
<h3 class="av-special-heading-tag" itemprop="headline">
</h3>
<h3 class="av-special-heading-tag" itemprop="headline">
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Sunday, November 16</a></h3>
<div class="special-heading-border">
<div class="special-heading-inner-border">
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/" style="line-height: 18px;"><strong>8:30 AM – 9:00 PM</strong></a></div>
</div>
</div>
<section class="av_textblock_section" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="https://schema.org/CreativeWork">
<div class="avia_textblock " itemprop="text">
<p><a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Day 2 of the IFTJ will feature mainstage presentations from keynote and student speakers, 3 rounds of breakout sessions, and advocacy training/policy briefing, liturgy with Kevin Burke, S.J., and more!</a></p>
</div>
</section>
<div class="avia-data-table-wrap avia_responsive_table">
<table class="avia-table avia-data-table avia-table-2 avia-builder-el-8 el_after_av_textblock el_before_av_heading" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="https://schema.org/Table">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">8:40</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Re-gather / Announcements</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">9:00</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Opening Prayer</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">9:15</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Ignatian Network Speakers</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">9:35</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Keynote Speaker – Fr. Ismael Moreno Coto, S.J.</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">10:15</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Break</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">10:40</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Breakout Session #1</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">11:30</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Lunch</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">1:20</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Ignatian Network Speakers</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">1:50</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Breakout Session #2</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">2:40</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Break</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">3:00</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Breakout Session #3</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">3:50</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Break</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">4:10</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Policy Briefing</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">5:00</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Small Group Advocacy Training</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">5:50</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Dinner Break</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">7:45</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Liturgy – Kevin Burke, S.J., Celebrant</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">9:15</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Reflection Time</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
<div class="av-special-heading av-special-heading-h3 avia-builder-el-9 el_after_av_table el_before_av_textblock ">
<h3 class="av-special-heading-tag" itemprop="headline">
</h3>
<h3 class="av-special-heading-tag" itemprop="headline">
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Monday, November 17</a></h3>
<div class="special-heading-border">
<div class="special-heading-inner-border">
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/" style="line-height: 18px;"><strong>9:00 AM</strong></a></div>
</div>
</div>
<section class="av_textblock_section" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="https://schema.org/CreativeWork">
<div class="avia_textblock " itemprop="text">
<p><a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Day 3 of the IFTJ (Ignatian Family Advocacy Day) will kick-off with a public witness on Capitol Hill, followed by advocacy meetings with your Members of Congress! Please note that participants are responsible for booking their own meetings; ISN will provide support if needed.</a></p>
</div>
</section>
<div class="avia-data-table-wrap avia_responsive_table">
<table class="avia-table avia-data-table avia-table-3 avia-builder-el-11 el_after_av_textblock avia-builder-el-last" itemscope="itemscope" itemtype="https://schema.org/Table">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">9:00</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Public Witness on Capitol Hill</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">10:00</a></td>
<td>
<a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/iftj-live/">Advocacy Day</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
<p> </p>
Date
Another Misleading Proposal:
News Intro Text
U.S. House Budget Committee Opportunity Proposal [JustSouth Quarterly, Fall 2014]
News Item Content
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: Verdana; vertical-align: baseline;">by Fred Kammer, SJ</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: Verdana; vertical-align: baseline;">On July 24, 2014, U.S. House Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan released a discussion draft entitled Expanding Opportunity in America. That report observed, “Poverty is too high, unemployment is too high, labor-force participation is too low, and wage growth is too slow.”[1] The report’s proposals for expansion of the Earned Income Tax Credit, education reform, and criminal justice reform merit careful consideration. However, the draft’s first chapter—“reforming the safety net”—re-hashes ideas that will worsen poverty and erode what remains of the safety net. <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JSQ Fall 2014 Another Misleading Proposal_1.pdf">MORE>> </a></p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: Verdana; vertical-align: baseline;">On July 24, 2014, U.S. House Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan released a discussion draft entitled Expanding Opportunity in America. That report observed, “Poverty is too high, unemployment is too high, labor-force participation is too low, and wage growth is too slow.”[1] The report’s proposals for expansion of the Earned Income Tax Credit, education reform, and criminal justice reform merit careful consideration. However, the draft’s first chapter—“reforming the safety net”—re-hashes ideas that will worsen poverty and erode what remains of the safety net. <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JSQ Fall 2014 Another Misleading Proposal_1.pdf">MORE>> </a></p>
Date
DISPATCH FROM HONDURAS: What Life Is Like In The Murder Capital Of The World
News Intro Text
[Business Insider- Australia, October 31, 2014]
News Item Content
<p>by: Jeremy Relph, <em>Business Insider Australia </em></p>
<p>On a Saturday morning in late August 2013, 10-year-old Daniel Chacon awoke early. It was hot, as mornings often are in Bordos de Agua Azul, his neighbourhood in San Pedro Sula, Honduras. His family was poor, barely scraping together a living by selling pickled vegetables on the roadside.</p>
<p>Daniel and his 14-year-old brother insisted on contributing as best they could. They’d managed to talk their parents into renting a horse and buggy, which they used to collect discarded boxes, selling the cardboard to recycling collectors for pennies a pound.</p>
<p>It may have seemed like a tedious job, but there was an element of risk to the task because of an unfortunate characteristic of the area: Since 2011, San Pedro Sula has been the world’s most murderous city. (Tegucigalpa, the capital of Honduras, holds the No. 4 spot.) Children fleeing these horrors have recently become a political issue in the US, where they are increasingly turning up in search of asylum and safety. But Daniel and his brother are among those who stayed.</p>
<p>Occasionally during their rounds, they’d split up to cover more ground, taking turns leaving the cart to scout for boxes on foot. At 2 p.m., Daniel’s brother was making his way back to the cart through the crowded streets of the Medina neighbourhood when shots rang out. Police sped by on motorcycles.</p>
<p>By the time he arrived, Daniel was dead.</p>
<p>“He got shot,” a bystander told him. “They took him to the hospital.”</p>
<p>Sadly, the slaying of a child for no discernible reason is hardly a noteworthy event in Honduras, where there are on average some 19 homicides reported every day. In San Pedro Sula, residents are murdered at the annual rate of 169 per 100,000 residents, a staggering figure that dwarfs the US leader, Flint, Michigan, where the murder rate is 62 for every 100,000.</p>
<p>While the Obama administration struggles to get a handle on the problem — having recently instituted a “get tough” detention policy designed to slow the influx of families seeking asylum — children like Daniel Chacon are caught in the crossfire every day.</p>
<p>In an effort to understand what life is like in the world’s murder capital, we spent 2 weeks in San Pedro Sula. We found a city in crisis, but also a place steeped in hope, where the circus still comes to town, the local crime reporter struggles with an overwhelming task, and life goes on — until it doesn’t.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com.au/murder-capital-san-pedro-sula-2014-10">MORE>> </a></p>
<p>On a Saturday morning in late August 2013, 10-year-old Daniel Chacon awoke early. It was hot, as mornings often are in Bordos de Agua Azul, his neighbourhood in San Pedro Sula, Honduras. His family was poor, barely scraping together a living by selling pickled vegetables on the roadside.</p>
<p>Daniel and his 14-year-old brother insisted on contributing as best they could. They’d managed to talk their parents into renting a horse and buggy, which they used to collect discarded boxes, selling the cardboard to recycling collectors for pennies a pound.</p>
<p>It may have seemed like a tedious job, but there was an element of risk to the task because of an unfortunate characteristic of the area: Since 2011, San Pedro Sula has been the world’s most murderous city. (Tegucigalpa, the capital of Honduras, holds the No. 4 spot.) Children fleeing these horrors have recently become a political issue in the US, where they are increasingly turning up in search of asylum and safety. But Daniel and his brother are among those who stayed.</p>
<p>Occasionally during their rounds, they’d split up to cover more ground, taking turns leaving the cart to scout for boxes on foot. At 2 p.m., Daniel’s brother was making his way back to the cart through the crowded streets of the Medina neighbourhood when shots rang out. Police sped by on motorcycles.</p>
<p>By the time he arrived, Daniel was dead.</p>
<p>“He got shot,” a bystander told him. “They took him to the hospital.”</p>
<p>Sadly, the slaying of a child for no discernible reason is hardly a noteworthy event in Honduras, where there are on average some 19 homicides reported every day. In San Pedro Sula, residents are murdered at the annual rate of 169 per 100,000 residents, a staggering figure that dwarfs the US leader, Flint, Michigan, where the murder rate is 62 for every 100,000.</p>
<p>While the Obama administration struggles to get a handle on the problem — having recently instituted a “get tough” detention policy designed to slow the influx of families seeking asylum — children like Daniel Chacon are caught in the crossfire every day.</p>
<p>In an effort to understand what life is like in the world’s murder capital, we spent 2 weeks in San Pedro Sula. We found a city in crisis, but also a place steeped in hope, where the circus still comes to town, the local crime reporter struggles with an overwhelming task, and life goes on — until it doesn’t.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com.au/murder-capital-san-pedro-sula-2014-10">MORE>> </a></p>
Date
Pope Francis calls for abolishing death penalty and life imprisonment
News Intro Text
[National Catholic Reporter, October 23, 2014]
News Item Content
<p>by <span>Francis X. Rocca</span></p>
<p><span>Catholic News Service</span></p>
<p>October 23, 2014</p>
<p> </p>
<div>
<p>Pope Francis called for abolition of the death penalty as well as life imprisonment, and denounced what he called a "penal populism" that promises to solve society's problems by punishing crime instead of pursuing social justice.</p>
<p>"It is impossible to imagine that states today cannot make use of another means than capital punishment to defend peoples' lives from an unjust aggressor," the pope said Thursday in a meeting with representatives of the International Association of Penal Law.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"All Christians and people of good will are thus called today to struggle not only for abolition of the death penalty, whether it be legal or illegal and in all its forms, but also to improve prison conditions, out of respect for the human dignity of persons deprived of their liberty. And this, I connect with life imprisonment," he said. "Life imprisonment is a hidden death penalty."</p>
<p>The pope noted that the Vatican recently eliminated the death penalty from its own penal code.</p>
<p>According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, cited by Pope Francis in his talk, "the traditional teaching of the church does not exclude recourse to the death penalty, if this is the only possible way of effectively defending human lives against the unjust aggressor," but modern advances in protecting society from dangerous criminals mean that "cases in which the execution of the offender is an absolute necessity are very rare, if not practically nonexistent." <a href="http://ncronline.org/blogs/francis-chronicles/pope-francis-calls-abolishing-death-penalty-and-life-imprisonment">MORE>></a></p>
</div>
<p> </p>
<p><span>Catholic News Service</span></p>
<p>October 23, 2014</p>
<p> </p>
<div>
<p>Pope Francis called for abolition of the death penalty as well as life imprisonment, and denounced what he called a "penal populism" that promises to solve society's problems by punishing crime instead of pursuing social justice.</p>
<p>"It is impossible to imagine that states today cannot make use of another means than capital punishment to defend peoples' lives from an unjust aggressor," the pope said Thursday in a meeting with representatives of the International Association of Penal Law.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>"All Christians and people of good will are thus called today to struggle not only for abolition of the death penalty, whether it be legal or illegal and in all its forms, but also to improve prison conditions, out of respect for the human dignity of persons deprived of their liberty. And this, I connect with life imprisonment," he said. "Life imprisonment is a hidden death penalty."</p>
<p>The pope noted that the Vatican recently eliminated the death penalty from its own penal code.</p>
<p>According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, cited by Pope Francis in his talk, "the traditional teaching of the church does not exclude recourse to the death penalty, if this is the only possible way of effectively defending human lives against the unjust aggressor," but modern advances in protecting society from dangerous criminals mean that "cases in which the execution of the offender is an absolute necessity are very rare, if not practically nonexistent." <a href="http://ncronline.org/blogs/francis-chronicles/pope-francis-calls-abolishing-death-penalty-and-life-imprisonment">MORE>></a></p>
</div>
<p> </p>
Date
Too Much? CEO Compensation and Catholic Social Teaching [America, October 2014]
News Intro Text
James Martin, SJ address of the Catholic Finance Association in New York City: October 7, 2014.
News Item Content
<p><em><span class="intro">Addressing the Catholic Finance Association in New York City: October 7, 2014. </span></em></p>
<p><span class="intro">I am happy to come to this conversation not only as a Jesuit priest, but also as a proud graduate of the Wharton School of Business. To establish some bona fides, I was a finance major at Wharton, took a job in the Financial Management Program at General Electric in New York City, which was then the International Finance and Accounting headquarters of GE, worked after my training program for a year in international accounting, and then took a job running the FMP program at GE Capital in Stamford, Connecticut, and finally moved into human resources. So I come before you as someone who knows that business is a real vocation, who still has many friends in business (and specifically in finance) and who also knows that business is a real way to contribute to the common good. </span></p>
<p><span class="intro">So I approach our discussion of executive compensation from a financial point of view and a human resource point of view, but also, of course, from a Catholic point of view. You will hear a lot about the financial perspective and the human resource perspective tonight from our other distinguished participants, but I think what I might be able to contribute is the Catholic perspective.</span></p>
<p><span class="intro">The Catholic perspective on salaries, compensation and labor is the Christian perspective in general, and the basis of that is always the Gospels. You all know what Jesus commands us in the Gospels, and, we might say even more accurately, invites us to: Love our neighbor. Pray for those who persecute you. Forgive someone seventy times seven times. And of course care for the poor. Jesus is born into a poor family in a poor town, he works as a carpenter, which at the time would've been seen as a very low-class occupation (below the peasantry, since the carpenter did not have the benefit of a stable plot of land), he sees the disparities between the rich and poor in his own lifetime, and he constantly pointed us to the poor and the marginalized in his public ministry. So this is the Christian perspective. <a href="http://www.americamagazine.org/content/all-things/too-much-ceo-compensation-and-catholic-social-teaching?utm_source=Main+Reader+List&utm_campaign=b06f611613-July+18_The_Week_at_Commonweal&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_407bf353a2-b06f611613-91268989">MORE>></a></span></p>
<hr />
<p><a href="http://www.loyno.edu/news/story/2014/10/8/3513">James Martin, SJ will headline Loyola’s Presidential Guest Series Saturday, Oct. 25 at 7 p.m. His talk will be followed by a book signing.</a></p>
<p><span class="intro">I am happy to come to this conversation not only as a Jesuit priest, but also as a proud graduate of the Wharton School of Business. To establish some bona fides, I was a finance major at Wharton, took a job in the Financial Management Program at General Electric in New York City, which was then the International Finance and Accounting headquarters of GE, worked after my training program for a year in international accounting, and then took a job running the FMP program at GE Capital in Stamford, Connecticut, and finally moved into human resources. So I come before you as someone who knows that business is a real vocation, who still has many friends in business (and specifically in finance) and who also knows that business is a real way to contribute to the common good. </span></p>
<p><span class="intro">So I approach our discussion of executive compensation from a financial point of view and a human resource point of view, but also, of course, from a Catholic point of view. You will hear a lot about the financial perspective and the human resource perspective tonight from our other distinguished participants, but I think what I might be able to contribute is the Catholic perspective.</span></p>
<p><span class="intro">The Catholic perspective on salaries, compensation and labor is the Christian perspective in general, and the basis of that is always the Gospels. You all know what Jesus commands us in the Gospels, and, we might say even more accurately, invites us to: Love our neighbor. Pray for those who persecute you. Forgive someone seventy times seven times. And of course care for the poor. Jesus is born into a poor family in a poor town, he works as a carpenter, which at the time would've been seen as a very low-class occupation (below the peasantry, since the carpenter did not have the benefit of a stable plot of land), he sees the disparities between the rich and poor in his own lifetime, and he constantly pointed us to the poor and the marginalized in his public ministry. So this is the Christian perspective. <a href="http://www.americamagazine.org/content/all-things/too-much-ceo-compensation-and-catholic-social-teaching?utm_source=Main+Reader+List&utm_campaign=b06f611613-July+18_The_Week_at_Commonweal&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_407bf353a2-b06f611613-91268989">MORE>></a></span></p>
<hr />
<p><a href="http://www.loyno.edu/news/story/2014/10/8/3513">James Martin, SJ will headline Loyola’s Presidential Guest Series Saturday, Oct. 25 at 7 p.m. His talk will be followed by a book signing.</a></p>
Date
Is Amnesty a Dirty Word?
News Intro Text
Louisiana chooses amnesia over amnesty.
News Item Content
<p><span class="intro">by Sue Weishar, Ph.D.</span></p>
<p><span class="intro"> How is it that in Louisiana, a state with a rapidly diminishing coastline, the highest incarceration rate in the world, and a crumbling infrastructure, “amnesty” for “illegal aliens” is the issue dominating political ads in the U.S. Senate race? This in the same state that announced a <a href="http://www.shreveporttimes.com/story/news/local/louisiana/2014/09/22/la-tax-amnesty-collections-expected-harder/16060881/">tax amnesty</a> for delinquent taxpayers on September 12. In April the <a href="http://www.wwl.com/pages/18909240.php?">New Orleans Municipal Court </a>announced an amnesty plan to encourage thousands of residents to come to court to avoid being arrested on outstanding misdemeanor warrants. Amnesty is a time-tested public policy strategy to clean the slate and give people a fresh start. Why has “amnesty” for undocumented immigrants become such a dirty word? </span></p>
<p><span class="intro"> Anyone with a working set of eyeballs could see that Latino workers were essential to the state’s recovery efforts after Hurricane Katrina. Although at the time no one was very interested in asking about the legal status of the workers doing the dirty, dangerous work of digging south Louisiana out of the smelly gray muck that blanketed the region, researchers from <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/rebuilding_after_katrina.pdf">Tulane and Berkeley</a> universities did inquire. They found that half the reconstruction workforce at the height of disaster recovery in March 2006 was Latino, and that half of those workers were undocumented. You might think that a state that has benefited so substantially from the labor of undocumented immigrants might be more open to the concept of amnesty. Instead we’ve opted for amnesia. <a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/r0kvf/cb0ae369bd4ef953320564092dfb7f60">MORE>></a></span></p>
<p><span class="intro"> How is it that in Louisiana, a state with a rapidly diminishing coastline, the highest incarceration rate in the world, and a crumbling infrastructure, “amnesty” for “illegal aliens” is the issue dominating political ads in the U.S. Senate race? This in the same state that announced a <a href="http://www.shreveporttimes.com/story/news/local/louisiana/2014/09/22/la-tax-amnesty-collections-expected-harder/16060881/">tax amnesty</a> for delinquent taxpayers on September 12. In April the <a href="http://www.wwl.com/pages/18909240.php?">New Orleans Municipal Court </a>announced an amnesty plan to encourage thousands of residents to come to court to avoid being arrested on outstanding misdemeanor warrants. Amnesty is a time-tested public policy strategy to clean the slate and give people a fresh start. Why has “amnesty” for undocumented immigrants become such a dirty word? </span></p>
<p><span class="intro"> Anyone with a working set of eyeballs could see that Latino workers were essential to the state’s recovery efforts after Hurricane Katrina. Although at the time no one was very interested in asking about the legal status of the workers doing the dirty, dangerous work of digging south Louisiana out of the smelly gray muck that blanketed the region, researchers from <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/rebuilding_after_katrina.pdf">Tulane and Berkeley</a> universities did inquire. They found that half the reconstruction workforce at the height of disaster recovery in March 2006 was Latino, and that half of those workers were undocumented. You might think that a state that has benefited so substantially from the labor of undocumented immigrants might be more open to the concept of amnesty. Instead we’ve opted for amnesia. <a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/r0kvf/cb0ae369bd4ef953320564092dfb7f60">MORE>></a></span></p>
Date
Smart Criminal Justice Reform:
News Intro Text
Mississippi and Texas Leading Gulf South States
News Item Content
<h2>
Mississippi and Texas Leading Gulf South States</h2>
<p>By Alex Mikulich, Ph.D.</p>
<p> “Today, a vicious cycle of poverty, criminality, and incarceration <span>traps too many Americans and weakens too many communities” said </span><span>U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder in a major policy initiative </span><span>presented last August. He explained that “many aspects of our </span><span>criminal justice system may actually exacerbate these problems rather </span><span>than alleviate them.”[1] </span></p>
<p><span> </span><span>Calling for a new approach to the “war on drugs,” the attorney </span><span>general lamented “our system is broken” as “too many Americans go </span><span>to too many prisons for far too long and for no truly good law </span><span>enforcement reason.”[2] </span></p>
<p><span> </span><span>Seventeen states, supported by the Justice Department and </span><span>leaders of both parties, have directed funding away from prison </span><span>construction toward evidence-based programs and services such as </span><span>drug treatment and supervision, designed to reduce recidivism.</span></p>
<p><span> </span><span>The effort to pursue alternatives to incarceration for low-level, </span><span>nonviolent crimes is one of five key principles of the U.S. Justice </span><span>Department’s “Smart on Crime: Reforming the Criminal Justice </span><span>System for the 21st Century” policy initiative.[3] </span></p>
<p><span> </span><span>Holder praised Texas for investing in drug treatment for </span><span>nonviolent offenders and changes in parole policies that reduced its </span><span>prison population by more than 5,000 inmates in 2012. Similar efforts i</span><span>n Arkansas helped reduce its prison population by more than 1,400. <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JSQ Fall 2014 Criminal Justice.pdf">MORE>></a></span></p>
<div>
</div>
Mississippi and Texas Leading Gulf South States</h2>
<p>By Alex Mikulich, Ph.D.</p>
<p> “Today, a vicious cycle of poverty, criminality, and incarceration <span>traps too many Americans and weakens too many communities” said </span><span>U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder in a major policy initiative </span><span>presented last August. He explained that “many aspects of our </span><span>criminal justice system may actually exacerbate these problems rather </span><span>than alleviate them.”[1] </span></p>
<p><span> </span><span>Calling for a new approach to the “war on drugs,” the attorney </span><span>general lamented “our system is broken” as “too many Americans go </span><span>to too many prisons for far too long and for no truly good law </span><span>enforcement reason.”[2] </span></p>
<p><span> </span><span>Seventeen states, supported by the Justice Department and </span><span>leaders of both parties, have directed funding away from prison </span><span>construction toward evidence-based programs and services such as </span><span>drug treatment and supervision, designed to reduce recidivism.</span></p>
<p><span> </span><span>The effort to pursue alternatives to incarceration for low-level, </span><span>nonviolent crimes is one of five key principles of the U.S. Justice </span><span>Department’s “Smart on Crime: Reforming the Criminal Justice </span><span>System for the 21st Century” policy initiative.[3] </span></p>
<p><span> </span><span>Holder praised Texas for investing in drug treatment for </span><span>nonviolent offenders and changes in parole policies that reduced its </span><span>prison population by more than 5,000 inmates in 2012. Similar efforts i</span><span>n Arkansas helped reduce its prison population by more than 1,400. <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JSQ Fall 2014 Criminal Justice.pdf">MORE>></a></span></p>
<div>
</div>
Date
[NEW] JustSouth Quarterly Fall 2014
News Intro Text
This edition: Dr. Mikulich discusses criminal justice reform in the Gulf South; Fr. Kammer shares about Catholic Social Thought/freedom and reviews pilot programs like the Opportunity Grant (OG); Dr. Weishar reflects upon JSRI's "Catholic Teach-In on the Child Migrant Crisis and Its Causes".
News Item Content
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JSQ Fall 2014.pdf"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Cover.JPG" /></a></p>
<p>To receive future publications by the Jesuit Social Research Institute please <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/subscribe-jsri-publications">click here. </a></p>
<p>To receive future publications by the Jesuit Social Research Institute please <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/subscribe-jsri-publications">click here. </a></p>
Date
New Archbishop of Chicago Highlights Opposition between Catholic Teaching and Libertarianism
News Intro Text
On June 3, 2014, speaking at Catholic University of America, then Archbishop of Spokane Blase Cupich provided the following response to a talk by Cardinal Oscar Rodriguez Maradiaga.
News Item Content
<p>On June 3, 2014, speaking at Catholic University of America, then Archbishop of Spokane Blase Cupich provided the following response to a talk by Cardinal Oscar Rodriguez Maradiaga.<span> </span>In his address Archbishop Cupich makes clear the diametrical opposition between libertarianism and Catholic Social Thought in the context of a very helpful exposition of the thinking of Pope Francis and its high consistency with the teaching of his two predecessors Saint Pope John Paul II and Benedict XVI:</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Archbishop Cupich on Pope Francis and CST at CUA-0614-fran.pdf"><font color="#333333" face="Georgia" size="3"><span>Full Text >></span></font></a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Archbishop Cupich on Pope Francis and CST at CUA-0614-fran.pdf"><font color="#333333" face="Georgia" size="3"><span>Full Text >></span></font></a></p>
Date
Missed Fr. Gregory Boyle, S.J. at Loyola Last Week?
News Intro Text
JSRI co-sponsored the Loyola Honor's Program Biever Lecture "Tattoos on the Heart, An Evening with the Rev. Gregory Boyle, S.J.". Fr. Boyle is the founder and executive director of Homeboy Industries, the largest gang intervention, rehabilitation and re-entry program in the United States.
News Item Content
<div>
</div>
<p><a href="http://vimeo.com/106335450"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/greg boyle.JPG" /></a></p>
</div>
<p><a href="http://vimeo.com/106335450"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/greg boyle.JPG" /></a></p>
Date
JSRI to Co-Sponsor Immigration Conference at University of Florida
News Intro Text
5th Conference on Immigration to the US South:
Immigration Reform and Beyond?
October 23-25, 2014
Immigration Reform and Beyond?
October 23-25, 2014
News Item Content
<p class="AlignCenter">The 5th Conference on Immigration to the US South (formerly Conference on Immigration to the Southeast) is a multidisciplinary meeting focusing on immigration and its impact in the US South. Conference panels will also engage in comparative analysis of other regions and bring in transnational and global perspectives. Under the theme, “Immigration Reform and Beyond,” the conference will feature keynote presentations by Archbishop Thomas Wenski (Archbishop of Miami), Dr. Mae Ngai (Lung Family Professor of Asian American Studies and Professor of History at Columbia University), and Monica Ramirez (El Centro de los Derechos del Migrante). In addition, several conference presentations aim to promote an understanding of short-term and long-term challenges of immigration reform. Other panels will focus on undocumented youth, immigrant detention, legal and policy issues, media and public opinion, immigrant health and education issues, and best practices in community-based and faith-based organizing.</p>
<p class="AlignCenter"><strong><a href="http://reg.conferences.dce.ufl.edu/SSP/1400041408" target="_blank">Register for the conference here</a></strong><br />
Registration deadline is October 13, 2014 </p>
<h2 class="AlignCenter">
<a href="http://www.latam.ufl.edu/Data/Sites/43/media/final-program-to-review-9-15-14.pdf" target="_blank"><span>Conference Program</span></a></h2>
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/poster.jpg" /></p>
<p class="AlignCenter"><strong><a href="http://reg.conferences.dce.ufl.edu/SSP/1400041408" target="_blank">Register for the conference here</a></strong><br />
Registration deadline is October 13, 2014 </p>
<h2 class="AlignCenter">
<a href="http://www.latam.ufl.edu/Data/Sites/43/media/final-program-to-review-9-15-14.pdf" target="_blank"><span>Conference Program</span></a></h2>
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/poster.jpg" /></p>
Date
Refusing to Expand Medicaid: Political Decisions with Deadly Consequences
News Intro Text
24 states have refused the expansion, although a few are reconsidering that decision. Without such a change in state policy, “5.7 million people will be deprived of health insurance coverage in 2016.”[1]
News Item Content
<p>by Fred Kammer, SJ</p>
<p> The Affordable Care Act (ACA) had three major provisions to promote expanded health coverage to Americans: a mandate for employers with fifty or more full-time employees to provide health insurance; an individual mandate to purchase insurance (with federal subsidies to assist families with incomes below 400% of the federal poverty level); and expansion of Medicaid coverage to all individuals with incomes at or below 138% of the federal poverty level. (138% of the federal poverty line is now $16,105 per year for an individual or $27,310 for a family of three.) In addition, the ACA created on line markets (“exchanges”) to promote insurance competition, prevented exclusion of people from coverage for pre-existing conditions, eliminated annual or lifetime dollar limits on insurance benefits, and allowed young adults to remain on their parents’ plans until 26 years old.</p>
<p> In June, 2012, the U.S. Supreme Court broke with decades of Medicaid law and provided that the Medicaid expansion was optional for the states. Since then, 26 states and the District of Columbia have chosen to implement the Medicaid Expansion, with the federal government absorbing 100% of the cost for the first three years. The federal share declines to, and remains at, 90% by the year 2021. Participating states must assume the balance. <a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/r0wkf/6f57e7798f5f657d8b14ce8b8b28b0b7">MORE>></a></p>
<p> The Affordable Care Act (ACA) had three major provisions to promote expanded health coverage to Americans: a mandate for employers with fifty or more full-time employees to provide health insurance; an individual mandate to purchase insurance (with federal subsidies to assist families with incomes below 400% of the federal poverty level); and expansion of Medicaid coverage to all individuals with incomes at or below 138% of the federal poverty level. (138% of the federal poverty line is now $16,105 per year for an individual or $27,310 for a family of three.) In addition, the ACA created on line markets (“exchanges”) to promote insurance competition, prevented exclusion of people from coverage for pre-existing conditions, eliminated annual or lifetime dollar limits on insurance benefits, and allowed young adults to remain on their parents’ plans until 26 years old.</p>
<p> In June, 2012, the U.S. Supreme Court broke with decades of Medicaid law and provided that the Medicaid expansion was optional for the states. Since then, 26 states and the District of Columbia have chosen to implement the Medicaid Expansion, with the federal government absorbing 100% of the cost for the first three years. The federal share declines to, and remains at, 90% by the year 2021. Participating states must assume the balance. <a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/r0wkf/6f57e7798f5f657d8b14ce8b8b28b0b7">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Biever Guest Lecture Series: Tattoos on the Heart, An Evening with the Rev. Gregory Boyle, S.J.
News Intro Text
When: Monday, September 15, 2014 7:00 P.M.
Where: St. Charles Room, Dana Student Center, Loyola University
Where: St. Charles Room, Dana Student Center, Loyola University
News Item Content
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-bottom: 8px; border: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(31, 73, 125); background-color: rgb(253, 253, 253);">The Loyola University New Orleans Honors Program is hosting Fr. Greg Boyle, S.J., the founder and executive director of Homeboy Industries, the largest gang intervention, rehabilitation and re-entry program in the United States, now in its 25th year.</span><span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(31, 73, 125); background-color: rgb(253, 253, 253);"> </span></p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-bottom: 8px; border: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(31, 73, 125); background-color: rgb(253, 253, 253);">His dedication to finding a place for all in our society brought him to the Boyle Heights community of East Los Angeles, where he served as pastor of Dolores Mission Church, from 1986 through 1992. It was there that Boyle started what would become Homeboy Industries, a nonprofit organization that employs and trains more than 300 former gang-members every year in seven social enterprises.</span><span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(31, 73, 125); background-color: rgb(253, 253, 253);"> </span><span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(31, 73, 125); background-color: rgb(253, 253, 253);">Homeboy Industries also provides critical services to the 12,000 people who walk through the doors every year seeking a better life.</span><span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(31, 73, 125); background-color: rgb(253, 253, 253);"> </span></p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-bottom: 8px; border: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(31, 73, 125); background-color: rgb(253, 253, 253);">Boyle is the author of The New York Times bestselling book, "Tattoos on the Heart: The Power of Boundless Compassion," a book students in the honors program are reading.</span></p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-bottom: 8px; border: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(31, 73, 125); background-color: rgb(253, 253, 253);">His dedication to finding a place for all in our society brought him to the Boyle Heights community of East Los Angeles, where he served as pastor of Dolores Mission Church, from 1986 through 1992. It was there that Boyle started what would become Homeboy Industries, a nonprofit organization that employs and trains more than 300 former gang-members every year in seven social enterprises.</span><span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(31, 73, 125); background-color: rgb(253, 253, 253);"> </span><span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(31, 73, 125); background-color: rgb(253, 253, 253);">Homeboy Industries also provides critical services to the 12,000 people who walk through the doors every year seeking a better life.</span><span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(31, 73, 125); background-color: rgb(253, 253, 253);"> </span></p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-bottom: 8px; border: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgb(31, 73, 125); background-color: rgb(253, 253, 253);">Boyle is the author of The New York Times bestselling book, "Tattoos on the Heart: The Power of Boundless Compassion," a book students in the honors program are reading.</span></p>
Date
Understanding the Border Crisis Panel Discussion
News Intro Text
When: September 23, 2014 at 7:30 P.M.
Where: Miller Hall 114, Loyola University New Orleans
Where: Miller Hall 114, Loyola University New Orleans
News Item Content
<p><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/BORDERCRISIS.jpg" /></p>
Date
USCCB Labor Day Statement 2014
News Intro Text
Labor Day gives us the chance to see how work in America matches up to the lofty ideals of our Catholic tradition.
News Item Content
<h5 style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-top: 15px; margin-bottom: 2px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); border-bottom-width: 1px !important; border-bottom-style: solid !important; border-bottom-color: rgb(153, 153, 153) !important; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important;">
Archbishop Thomas G. Wenski of Miami<br />
Chairman, Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development<br />
United States Conference of Catholic Bishops<br />
September 1, 2014</h5>
<p style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.2em; margin-bottom: 8px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">This year Pope Francis canonized Saint John XXIII and Saint John Paul II. Both made immense contributions to the social teaching of the Church on the dignity of labor and its importance to human flourishing. St. John Paul II called work "probably the essential key to the whole social question" (<em style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; line-height: normal; font-family: arial; font-weight: inherit !important; color: inherit !important;">Laborem Exercens</em>, No. 3) and St. John XXIII stressed workers are "entitled to a wage that is determined in accordance with the precepts of justice" (<em style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; line-height: normal; font-family: arial; font-weight: inherit !important; color: inherit !important;">Pacem in Terris</em>, No. 20).</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.2em; margin-bottom: 8px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">Pope Francis added to this tradition that work "is fundamental to the dignity of a person.... [It] 'anoints' us with dignity, fills us with dignity, makes us similar to God... gives one the ability to maintain oneself, one's family, [and] to contribute to the growth of one's own nation." Work helps us realize our humanity and is necessary for human flourishing. Work is not a punishment for sin but rather a means by which we make a gift of ourselves to each other and our communities. We simply cannot advance the common good without decent work and a strong commitment to solidarity.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.2em; margin-bottom: 8px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><a href="http://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/human-life-and-dignity/labor-employment/labor-day-statement-2014.cfm">MORE>></a></p>
Archbishop Thomas G. Wenski of Miami<br />
Chairman, Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development<br />
United States Conference of Catholic Bishops<br />
September 1, 2014</h5>
<p style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.2em; margin-bottom: 8px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">This year Pope Francis canonized Saint John XXIII and Saint John Paul II. Both made immense contributions to the social teaching of the Church on the dignity of labor and its importance to human flourishing. St. John Paul II called work "probably the essential key to the whole social question" (<em style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; line-height: normal; font-family: arial; font-weight: inherit !important; color: inherit !important;">Laborem Exercens</em>, No. 3) and St. John XXIII stressed workers are "entitled to a wage that is determined in accordance with the precepts of justice" (<em style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; line-height: normal; font-family: arial; font-weight: inherit !important; color: inherit !important;">Pacem in Terris</em>, No. 20).</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.2em; margin-bottom: 8px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">Pope Francis added to this tradition that work "is fundamental to the dignity of a person.... [It] 'anoints' us with dignity, fills us with dignity, makes us similar to God... gives one the ability to maintain oneself, one's family, [and] to contribute to the growth of one's own nation." Work helps us realize our humanity and is necessary for human flourishing. Work is not a punishment for sin but rather a means by which we make a gift of ourselves to each other and our communities. We simply cannot advance the common good without decent work and a strong commitment to solidarity.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.2em; margin-bottom: 8px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><a href="http://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/human-life-and-dignity/labor-employment/labor-day-statement-2014.cfm">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Dr. Alex Mikulich on "Health Issues"
News Intro Text
Dr. Mikulich recently appeared on "Health Issues Television" to discuss hyper-incarceration and racism with Christopher Sylvain.
News Item Content
<h5>
Dr. Alex Mikulich discusses hyper-incarceration and racism with Christopher Sylvain on <em>Health Issues Television</em>.</h5>
<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0OlvA_JkqP8&feature=youtu.be&list=UUz5KPRNWtDUQzOqr9mEwkYg"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/cp am_0.JPG" /></a></p>
Dr. Alex Mikulich discusses hyper-incarceration and racism with Christopher Sylvain on <em>Health Issues Television</em>.</h5>
<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0OlvA_JkqP8&feature=youtu.be&list=UUz5KPRNWtDUQzOqr9mEwkYg"><img alt="" src="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/cp am_0.JPG" /></a></p>
Date
Michael's Journey
News Intro Text
More than 57,000 unaccompanied children have crossed America’s southern border this year, fleeing violence in search of a new home. This is the story of one of them.
News Item Content
<div>
<span>BY ALEX ALTMAN/NEW ORLEANS | TIME AUG 7, 2014</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<p>Michael looks scared. He’s been sitting in the corner of the auditorium for an hour, his shoulders hunched, eyes down, right arm occasionally hooking around his father’s. Slender and good looking, he wears the uniform of a global 13-year-old: aqua polo, blue jeans, Nikes. When it’s time to speak, he walks to the front of a room crammed with more than 100 Americans. On a hot August night, they have come to a Catholic school in New Orleans’ Mid-City district to learn about their new neighbors and hear a few give testimony.</p>
<p>“I’m here because my uncle was threatened by the gangs,” Michael begins, speaking through an interpreter. Then he stops and wipes his eyes as the tears start to flow.</p>
<p>Michael’s journey to New Orleans began last August, in San Pedro Sula, Honduras. It is of one of the world’s most violent cities, a place where 13-year-old boys are recruiting targets for the maras, the murderous thugs who control the streets, traffic drugs and collect “war taxes” from businesses and families. Visiting a relative after dark in the city’s forbidding barrios often requires the use of ritualistic signals—a honk of the car’s horn, or a flash of its headlights—lest you be confused for a turf-encroaching rival and shot.</p>
<p>Michael’s parents fled this menacing scene nearly a decade ago, leaving him and his older sister in the care of an uncle while they sought greater economic opportunity. When bullets pierced the walls of his uncle’s house last summer, Michael and his sister Yerlin, 17, set out for the U.S. in the back of a truck. Over the course of several grueling weeks, they evaded military checkpoints in Guatemala, floated into Mexico aboard a raft, then endured a clattering five-day bus ride north toward the U.S. border. They swam across the Rio Grande into South Texas and scampered up the riverbank, where they joined fellow unaccompanied children and a mother shepherding two kids. Together they trudged hours through the desert, until they came upon a U.S. Border Patrol agent. He drove them to a detention center.</p>
<p>“Welcome to the icebox,” the agent said.</p>
<p>From there, Michael and Yerlin—whose last name is being withheld because they are undocumented minors—were sent to a shelter for unaccompanied immigrant children in El Paso. There Michael came down with appendicitis, says Jolene Elberth of the Congress of Day Laborers, who works with the family as part of her role at the New Orleans Workers’ Center for Racial Justice. Michael’s mother, an undocumented immigrant, couldn’t get on a plane to join him for fear of being detained and deported. Once the surgery was done, Michael and Yerlin finally flew to New Orleans, arriving more than a month after leaving San Pedro Sula.</p>
<div class="image-wrapper special-medium-2x special-medium alignleft">
<figure class="inline-special_medium_2x">
<img alt="Michael's Journey - Immigration in New Orleans" data-loaded="true" src="http://timedotcom.files.wordpress.com/2014/08/widmer_immigration_lowres-39.jpg?w=760" /><figcaption class="image-caption"></figcaption></figure>
</div>
<p>As harrowing as it sounds, their story is hardly unique. More than 57,000 children have crossed the southern border unaccompanied this year, the vast majority from the war-torn Central American nations of El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras. The situation at the southwest border has become, according to President Obama, a “humanitarian crisis.”</p>
<p>Like all crises, the public perception has been warped by the attendant politics. The news is awash in stories about local communities rising up to reject the children or the histrionics of elected officials posturing for some future job. These controversies are just a tiny piece of a complex picture. Unaccompanied children detained in the U.S. are cycled relatively quickly through the balky U.S. immigration system. From there they scatter into cities and towns throughout the country. In nearly all cases, they are reunited with family members already here as they await a court’s determination of whether they can stay.</p>
<p>During the first six months of 2014, according to the Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Refugee Resettlement, unaccompanied children have been placed in all 50 states, from the lone kid shipped to Montana to the more than 3,000 sent to Texas, California and Florida. They are everywhere, often thousands of miles from besieged border towns. Some kids will melt away into the shadows. But the majority will become at least temporary fixtures in their adopted hometowns—heading to school, playing sports, wending their way through the legal system as they seek asylum.</p>
<p>According to a government tally through July 7, so far 1,071 children have been relocated to Louisiana this year. The vast majority of them have come to New Orleans and its surrounding suburbs. This is the story of one of those families and the people who have welcomed them.</p>
<p><img alt="" class="size-special_medium_2x wp-image-3043780" data-loaded="true" height="35" src="https://timedotcom.files.wordpress.com/2014/07/half10pxrule.png?w=760&h=35" width="760" /></p>
<p><span><span>STRAINS AND STRESSES</span></span></p>
<p>Michael’s parents, Ivan and Maria, arrived in New Orleans in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. As Hondurans, the Crescent City was a natural destination. South Louisiana has had a strong Central American community since around the turn of the 20th century, dating back to this port city’s role as a hub in the banana trade. The Honduran contingent swelled further after Hurricane Mitch battered Honduras in 1998, devastating some 70% of the nation’s transportation infrastructure and a similar fraction of its agricultural economy.</p>
<p>“After Katrina, they welcomed us to help reconstruct the city. They needed us,” says Ivan. He found work as a mechanic; Maria got jobs cleaning houses. By the time the unaccompanied children began arriving in ever greater numbers, there were already perhaps 50,000 undocumented immigrants in the area, local advocates estimate.</p>
<p>“We have this whole hidden Latino community,” says Salvador Longoria, the president of the board of directors at Puentes New Orleans, a nonprofit that promotes civic engagement for Latinos. “Everybody is ready to receive these children.”</p>
<p>That includes a robust network of faith-based charities, who are working to educate churchgoers about the geopolitics driving the immigrant surge, helping their new neighbors acquire legal representation and easing their transition into the community. “I think a lot of people are confused about the issues, and the legal processes involved and the principles at stake,” says Susan Weishar, a migration specialist at Loyola University’s Jesuit Social Research Institute, who organized a “teach-in” on the crisis for locals.</p>
</div>
<p><a href="http://time.com/michaels-journey/">MORE>></a></p>
<span>BY ALEX ALTMAN/NEW ORLEANS | TIME AUG 7, 2014</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<p>Michael looks scared. He’s been sitting in the corner of the auditorium for an hour, his shoulders hunched, eyes down, right arm occasionally hooking around his father’s. Slender and good looking, he wears the uniform of a global 13-year-old: aqua polo, blue jeans, Nikes. When it’s time to speak, he walks to the front of a room crammed with more than 100 Americans. On a hot August night, they have come to a Catholic school in New Orleans’ Mid-City district to learn about their new neighbors and hear a few give testimony.</p>
<p>“I’m here because my uncle was threatened by the gangs,” Michael begins, speaking through an interpreter. Then he stops and wipes his eyes as the tears start to flow.</p>
<p>Michael’s journey to New Orleans began last August, in San Pedro Sula, Honduras. It is of one of the world’s most violent cities, a place where 13-year-old boys are recruiting targets for the maras, the murderous thugs who control the streets, traffic drugs and collect “war taxes” from businesses and families. Visiting a relative after dark in the city’s forbidding barrios often requires the use of ritualistic signals—a honk of the car’s horn, or a flash of its headlights—lest you be confused for a turf-encroaching rival and shot.</p>
<p>Michael’s parents fled this menacing scene nearly a decade ago, leaving him and his older sister in the care of an uncle while they sought greater economic opportunity. When bullets pierced the walls of his uncle’s house last summer, Michael and his sister Yerlin, 17, set out for the U.S. in the back of a truck. Over the course of several grueling weeks, they evaded military checkpoints in Guatemala, floated into Mexico aboard a raft, then endured a clattering five-day bus ride north toward the U.S. border. They swam across the Rio Grande into South Texas and scampered up the riverbank, where they joined fellow unaccompanied children and a mother shepherding two kids. Together they trudged hours through the desert, until they came upon a U.S. Border Patrol agent. He drove them to a detention center.</p>
<p>“Welcome to the icebox,” the agent said.</p>
<p>From there, Michael and Yerlin—whose last name is being withheld because they are undocumented minors—were sent to a shelter for unaccompanied immigrant children in El Paso. There Michael came down with appendicitis, says Jolene Elberth of the Congress of Day Laborers, who works with the family as part of her role at the New Orleans Workers’ Center for Racial Justice. Michael’s mother, an undocumented immigrant, couldn’t get on a plane to join him for fear of being detained and deported. Once the surgery was done, Michael and Yerlin finally flew to New Orleans, arriving more than a month after leaving San Pedro Sula.</p>
<div class="image-wrapper special-medium-2x special-medium alignleft">
<figure class="inline-special_medium_2x">
<img alt="Michael's Journey - Immigration in New Orleans" data-loaded="true" src="http://timedotcom.files.wordpress.com/2014/08/widmer_immigration_lowres-39.jpg?w=760" /><figcaption class="image-caption"></figcaption></figure>
</div>
<p>As harrowing as it sounds, their story is hardly unique. More than 57,000 children have crossed the southern border unaccompanied this year, the vast majority from the war-torn Central American nations of El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras. The situation at the southwest border has become, according to President Obama, a “humanitarian crisis.”</p>
<p>Like all crises, the public perception has been warped by the attendant politics. The news is awash in stories about local communities rising up to reject the children or the histrionics of elected officials posturing for some future job. These controversies are just a tiny piece of a complex picture. Unaccompanied children detained in the U.S. are cycled relatively quickly through the balky U.S. immigration system. From there they scatter into cities and towns throughout the country. In nearly all cases, they are reunited with family members already here as they await a court’s determination of whether they can stay.</p>
<p>During the first six months of 2014, according to the Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Refugee Resettlement, unaccompanied children have been placed in all 50 states, from the lone kid shipped to Montana to the more than 3,000 sent to Texas, California and Florida. They are everywhere, often thousands of miles from besieged border towns. Some kids will melt away into the shadows. But the majority will become at least temporary fixtures in their adopted hometowns—heading to school, playing sports, wending their way through the legal system as they seek asylum.</p>
<p>According to a government tally through July 7, so far 1,071 children have been relocated to Louisiana this year. The vast majority of them have come to New Orleans and its surrounding suburbs. This is the story of one of those families and the people who have welcomed them.</p>
<p><img alt="" class="size-special_medium_2x wp-image-3043780" data-loaded="true" height="35" src="https://timedotcom.files.wordpress.com/2014/07/half10pxrule.png?w=760&h=35" width="760" /></p>
<p><span><span>STRAINS AND STRESSES</span></span></p>
<p>Michael’s parents, Ivan and Maria, arrived in New Orleans in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. As Hondurans, the Crescent City was a natural destination. South Louisiana has had a strong Central American community since around the turn of the 20th century, dating back to this port city’s role as a hub in the banana trade. The Honduran contingent swelled further after Hurricane Mitch battered Honduras in 1998, devastating some 70% of the nation’s transportation infrastructure and a similar fraction of its agricultural economy.</p>
<p>“After Katrina, they welcomed us to help reconstruct the city. They needed us,” says Ivan. He found work as a mechanic; Maria got jobs cleaning houses. By the time the unaccompanied children began arriving in ever greater numbers, there were already perhaps 50,000 undocumented immigrants in the area, local advocates estimate.</p>
<p>“We have this whole hidden Latino community,” says Salvador Longoria, the president of the board of directors at Puentes New Orleans, a nonprofit that promotes civic engagement for Latinos. “Everybody is ready to receive these children.”</p>
<p>That includes a robust network of faith-based charities, who are working to educate churchgoers about the geopolitics driving the immigrant surge, helping their new neighbors acquire legal representation and easing their transition into the community. “I think a lot of people are confused about the issues, and the legal processes involved and the principles at stake,” says Susan Weishar, a migration specialist at Loyola University’s Jesuit Social Research Institute, who organized a “teach-in” on the crisis for locals.</p>
</div>
<p><a href="http://time.com/michaels-journey/">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Catholic Teach-In on Child Refugee Crisis Makes Headlines
News Intro Text
On August 5, 2014 the Jesuit Social Research Institute held the Catholic Teach-In on the Child Refugee Crisis and Its Causes. If you were unable to join us please take a look at some of the local and national coverage about this event.
News Item Content
<p>On August 5, 2014 the Jesuit Social Research Institute held the Catholic Teach-In on the Child Refugee Crisis and Its Causes. If you were unable to join us please take a look at some of the media coverage this event received. </p>
<p> </p>
<p><em>TIME Magazine</em></p>
<p><a href="http://time.com/michaels-journey/">Michael's Journey</a></p>
<p><em>The Times-Picayune </em></p>
<p><a href="http://www.nola.com/opinions/index.ssf/2014/08/catholics_hear_refugees_explai.html">Catholics hear refugees explain why they fled Central America </a></p>
<p><em>The Advocate </em></p>
<p><a href="http://theadvocate.com/news/neworleans/9925333-148/no-becomes-hub-for-honduran">N.O. a hub for Honduran children fleeing violence</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><em>TIME Magazine</em></p>
<p><a href="http://time.com/michaels-journey/">Michael's Journey</a></p>
<p><em>The Times-Picayune </em></p>
<p><a href="http://www.nola.com/opinions/index.ssf/2014/08/catholics_hear_refugees_explai.html">Catholics hear refugees explain why they fled Central America </a></p>
<p><em>The Advocate </em></p>
<p><a href="http://theadvocate.com/news/neworleans/9925333-148/no-becomes-hub-for-honduran">N.O. a hub for Honduran children fleeing violence</a></p>
Date
My Job Is To Know Their Names: Serving Homeless Guests in Downtown New Orleans
News Intro Text
Liam Fitzgerald shares his experiences and over all mission at New Orleans' Harry Tompson Center.
News Item Content
<p>by Liam Fitzgerald</p>
<p>I walk in and see the mural of water on the wall: the Great Flood, the parting of the Red Sea, the Baptism of Jesus, and Hurricane Katrina. Waters of rebirth. I see dozens of people, mostly men, all around, greeting each other, greeting me, making appointments, taking care of business. Off to my left I hear names being called. A few names every few minutes. Everyone pauses to listen. “Oscar B____.” A sixty-year-old man in a baseball cap smiles and strolls off to take his turn. The buzz of conversation picks back up. It is sticky and hot—a typical New Orleans summer day. We are outside, but shaded. I do not really mind the heat; it is comforting in a way. Palm trees and vines grow in planters all around. It feels like an oasis from the asphalt of the city. A wooden deck connects six brown trailers.</p>
<p>This is the Rebuild Center. Oscar and the other men and women are homeless. At the Center they are called guests. Volunteers call their names from lists to take showers, get their laundry done, see a doctor, or make phone calls in the various trailers that surround a central courtyard. Why fresh air and plants? Calm is the focus of the Center’s outdoor design. It is a new way of serving the homeless, and I am a part of it. <a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/v35cf/c9698a590768c2136c1aae7a51321338">MORE>></a></p>
<p>I walk in and see the mural of water on the wall: the Great Flood, the parting of the Red Sea, the Baptism of Jesus, and Hurricane Katrina. Waters of rebirth. I see dozens of people, mostly men, all around, greeting each other, greeting me, making appointments, taking care of business. Off to my left I hear names being called. A few names every few minutes. Everyone pauses to listen. “Oscar B____.” A sixty-year-old man in a baseball cap smiles and strolls off to take his turn. The buzz of conversation picks back up. It is sticky and hot—a typical New Orleans summer day. We are outside, but shaded. I do not really mind the heat; it is comforting in a way. Palm trees and vines grow in planters all around. It feels like an oasis from the asphalt of the city. A wooden deck connects six brown trailers.</p>
<p>This is the Rebuild Center. Oscar and the other men and women are homeless. At the Center they are called guests. Volunteers call their names from lists to take showers, get their laundry done, see a doctor, or make phone calls in the various trailers that surround a central courtyard. Why fresh air and plants? Calm is the focus of the Center’s outdoor design. It is a new way of serving the homeless, and I am a part of it. <a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/v35cf/c9698a590768c2136c1aae7a51321338">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops on Unaccompanied Refugee Minors
News Intro Text
The Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops (LCCB) acknowledges the
humanitarian crisis surrounding unaccompanied refugee minors who have entered our
country from El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras.
humanitarian crisis surrounding unaccompanied refugee minors who have entered our
country from El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras.
News Item Content
<p>The Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops (LCCB) acknowledges the humanitarian crisis surrounding unaccompanied refugee minors who have entered our country from El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras. We must address this reality with a spirit that honors the sanctity of the family and works to protect the vulnerable.</p>
<p>Our Catholic faith calls us to be compassionate to all as a concrete way of respecting the life and dignity of the human person. Such an approach is not conditioned upon one’s immigration status or nationality. In fact, Jesus Himself was a refugee and therefore in seeing these refugee children today we are presented with a tangible opportunity to see the face of Christ. Catholic teaching affirms that it is in the face of the immigrant, the refugee, the asylum-seeker, and the trafficking victim that we see the face of Christ. Jesus definitely states, “I was a stranger and you welcomed me,” as a means to teach how we are to give of ourselves for the sake of the most vulnerable (Mt. 25:35). In a pertinent reflection on how we are to welcome children, Jesus proclaims: “Whoever receives a child such as this in my name receives me.” (Mt. 18:5). <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/LCCB-Border kids-Statement on Unaccompanied Minors 8-4-14-mig.pdf">MORE>></a></p>
<p>Our Catholic faith calls us to be compassionate to all as a concrete way of respecting the life and dignity of the human person. Such an approach is not conditioned upon one’s immigration status or nationality. In fact, Jesus Himself was a refugee and therefore in seeing these refugee children today we are presented with a tangible opportunity to see the face of Christ. Catholic teaching affirms that it is in the face of the immigrant, the refugee, the asylum-seeker, and the trafficking victim that we see the face of Christ. Jesus definitely states, “I was a stranger and you welcomed me,” as a means to teach how we are to give of ourselves for the sake of the most vulnerable (Mt. 25:35). In a pertinent reflection on how we are to welcome children, Jesus proclaims: “Whoever receives a child such as this in my name receives me.” (Mt. 18:5). <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/LCCB-Border kids-Statement on Unaccompanied Minors 8-4-14-mig.pdf">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Cardinal Parolin in Mexico: Migration and Respect for the Person
News Intro Text
In relation to the phenomenon of migration, we urgently need to overcome atavistic fears and to establish common strategies at sub-regional, regional and worldwide levels to include all sectors of society.
News Item Content
<p>Vatican City, 15 July 2014 (VIS) – Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin spoke at yesterday's meeting between Mexico and the Holy See dedicated to “international migration and development”, attended also by the foreign ministers of Honduras, El Salvador and Guatemala, on the theme of the responsibility of the parties involved in the phases of departure, transit and arrival of migrants. The following are extensive extracts from his address, given in Spanish.</p>
<p>“The great contribution of Christianity to humanity, then, with the maturing of the times, will be recognised for the enlightenment that universal fraternity is a political category. Reason enlightened by faith joyfully shows that the human family are all children of the same Father. ... In a radical way, Christianity has stated from the very beginning that we are all free, we are all equal, we are all brothers. As a result, the dignity of the person derives not from their economic situation, political affiliation, level of education, immigration status or religious belief. Every human being, for the very fact of being a person, possesses a dignity that deserves to be treated with the utmost respect. <a href="http://www.news.va/en/news/cardinal-parolin-in-mexico-migration-and-respect-f">MORE>></a></p>
<p>“The great contribution of Christianity to humanity, then, with the maturing of the times, will be recognised for the enlightenment that universal fraternity is a political category. Reason enlightened by faith joyfully shows that the human family are all children of the same Father. ... In a radical way, Christianity has stated from the very beginning that we are all free, we are all equal, we are all brothers. As a result, the dignity of the person derives not from their economic situation, political affiliation, level of education, immigration status or religious belief. Every human being, for the very fact of being a person, possesses a dignity that deserves to be treated with the utmost respect. <a href="http://www.news.va/en/news/cardinal-parolin-in-mexico-migration-and-respect-f">MORE>></a></p>
Date
The Pope Calls for Urgent Intervention in the Humanitarian Crisis of Migrant Children
News Intro Text
'A change of attitude towards migrants and refugees is needed on the part of everyone, moving away from attitudes of defensiveness and fear, indifference and marginalisation – all typical of a throwaway culture'
News Item Content
<p>Vatican City, 15 July 2014 (VIS) – Yesterday Pope Francis sent a message to the organisers, speakers and participants in the “Mexico/Holy See Colloquium on Migration and Development”, which was read during the inaugural session of the event by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin. In the text, the Pontiff urges the international community to promote the adoption of new forms of legal and safe migration and called for protection and a suitable reception for the many children who migrate cross the border with the United States unaccompanied. He also highlights the need for policies to inform potential migrants of the dangers of such a journey and above all, for initiatives to promote development in their countries of origin. <a href="http://www.news.va/en/news/the-pope-calls-for-urgent-intervention-in-the-huma">MORE>></a></p>
Date
The Monstrous Elegance of White Supremacy
News Intro Text
"Meanwhile, racism, elegant, lovely, monstrous, carries on." -Ta-Nehisi Coates
News Item Content
<h2>
<span>By Alex Mikulich, Ph.D.</span></h2>
<p>"Meanwhile, racism, elegant, lovely, monstrous, carries on." So concludes <em>The Atlantic</em> essayist Ta-Nehisi Coates in his incisive analysis of overt racism by the rancher Cliven Bundy and the owner of the Los Angeles Clippers basketball team, Donald Sterling.[1]</p>
<p>The deeper problem concerns what the heralded Canadian Jesuit theologian Bernard Lonergan describes as cultural bias. Lonergan asks: "How, indeed, is the mind to become conscious of its own bias when that bias springs from a communal flight from understanding and is supported by the whole texture of civilization?" <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/The%20Monstrous%20Elegance%20of%20White%20Supremacy_0.pdf">MORE>></a></p>
<span>By Alex Mikulich, Ph.D.</span></h2>
<p>"Meanwhile, racism, elegant, lovely, monstrous, carries on." So concludes <em>The Atlantic</em> essayist Ta-Nehisi Coates in his incisive analysis of overt racism by the rancher Cliven Bundy and the owner of the Los Angeles Clippers basketball team, Donald Sterling.[1]</p>
<p>The deeper problem concerns what the heralded Canadian Jesuit theologian Bernard Lonergan describes as cultural bias. Lonergan asks: "How, indeed, is the mind to become conscious of its own bias when that bias springs from a communal flight from understanding and is supported by the whole texture of civilization?" <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/The%20Monstrous%20Elegance%20of%20White%20Supremacy_0.pdf">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Catholic Leaders Lament Obstacles to Medicaid Expansion
News Intro Text
Fr. Fred Kammer, S.J. discusses the need for Medicaid expansion in the Gulf South with America Magazine.
News Item Content
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; border: 0px; outline: 0px; vertical-align: top; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.450000762939453px; clear: left; text-align: justify;">by Sean Salai, S.J. </p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; border: 0px; outline: 0px; vertical-align: top; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.450000762939453px; clear: left; text-align: justify;">White House report has indicated that 24 state legislatures chose not to opt into the Obamacare Medicaid expansion this year, implying an ongoing GOP resistance that Southern Catholic leaders fear will hurt the working poor.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; border: 0px; outline: 0px; vertical-align: top; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.450000762939453px; text-align: justify;">According to the report, released on July 2, only 26 state legislatures have so far opted into the Affordable Care Act’s offer of financial assistance for states that expand Medicaid coverage to include non-elderly family members whose incomes are below 133 percent of the federal poverty level. <a href="http://www.americamagazine.org/content/all-things/catholic-leaders-lament-obstacles-medicaid-expansion">MORE>></a></p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; border: 0px; outline: 0px; vertical-align: top; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.450000762939453px; clear: left; text-align: justify;">White House report has indicated that 24 state legislatures chose not to opt into the Obamacare Medicaid expansion this year, implying an ongoing GOP resistance that Southern Catholic leaders fear will hurt the working poor.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; border: 0px; outline: 0px; vertical-align: top; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.450000762939453px; text-align: justify;">According to the report, released on July 2, only 26 state legislatures have so far opted into the Affordable Care Act’s offer of financial assistance for states that expand Medicaid coverage to include non-elderly family members whose incomes are below 133 percent of the federal poverty level. <a href="http://www.americamagazine.org/content/all-things/catholic-leaders-lament-obstacles-medicaid-expansion">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Kids in Crisis: The surge of unaccompanied immigrant children to the border
News Intro Text
A humanitarian crisis of epic proportion is unfolding along the U.S.-Mexico border. Since October of last year 52,000 children have been apprehended by U.S. Border Patrol after crossing into the U.S. without family members.
News Item Content
<h2>
<span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">By Sue Weishar, Ph.D. </span></h2>
<p>A humanitarian crisis of epic proportion is unfolding along the U.S.-Mexico border. Since October of last year 52,000 children have been apprehended by U.S. Border Patrol after crossing into the U.S. without family members.[1] Officials estimate that 90,000 unaccompanied migrant children may be apprehended by the end of the year, as many as 140,000 children next year.[2] On June 2 President Obama appointed the head of the Federal Emergency Management Agency to lead the government's response to the crisis. His administration is requesting $1.4 billion in additional funding from Congress to help feed, house, and transport the children and has turned to the Defense Department to provide temporary housing.[3] <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Kids%20in%20Crisis_0.pdf">MORE>></a></p>
<span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">By Sue Weishar, Ph.D. </span></h2>
<p>A humanitarian crisis of epic proportion is unfolding along the U.S.-Mexico border. Since October of last year 52,000 children have been apprehended by U.S. Border Patrol after crossing into the U.S. without family members.[1] Officials estimate that 90,000 unaccompanied migrant children may be apprehended by the end of the year, as many as 140,000 children next year.[2] On June 2 President Obama appointed the head of the Federal Emergency Management Agency to lead the government's response to the crisis. His administration is requesting $1.4 billion in additional funding from Congress to help feed, house, and transport the children and has turned to the Defense Department to provide temporary housing.[3] <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Kids%20in%20Crisis_0.pdf">MORE>></a></p>
Date
A Last Will and Testament: The Freedom Riders' enduring legacy
News Intro Text
At a time when there seems to be deepening conflict over the meaning of freedom, I invite readers to take the opportunity this Independence Day to reflect upon the sacrifices made by the Freedom Riders in 1964.
News Item Content
<p>by Alex Mikulich, Ph.D.</p>
<p>At a time when there seems to be deepening conflict over the meaning of freedom, I invite readers to take the opportunity this Independence Day to reflect upon the sacrifices made by the Freedom Riders in 1964. The Freedom Riders teach us about the deep yearning of African Americans for the full human flourishing of everyone. </p>
<p>Take the example of Diane Nash, one of the student leaders trained in nonviolence under the tutelage of the Reverend John Lawson at Fisk University in 1959-1960. Alongside John L. Lewis, among others, Nash helped lead the nonviolent sit-ins in Nashville in early 1960. <a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/78p5e/727bcc6267bf0faa39684207d4cfc370">MORE>></a></p>
<p>At a time when there seems to be deepening conflict over the meaning of freedom, I invite readers to take the opportunity this Independence Day to reflect upon the sacrifices made by the Freedom Riders in 1964. The Freedom Riders teach us about the deep yearning of African Americans for the full human flourishing of everyone. </p>
<p>Take the example of Diane Nash, one of the student leaders trained in nonviolence under the tutelage of the Reverend John Lawson at Fisk University in 1959-1960. Alongside John L. Lewis, among others, Nash helped lead the nonviolent sit-ins in Nashville in early 1960. <a href="https://t.e2ma.net/webview/78p5e/727bcc6267bf0faa39684207d4cfc370">MORE>></a></p>
Date
The KIDS COUNT Gulf South: Children in the region continue not to count much!
News Intro Text
In recent years, scholars and policy-makers have developed alternative measures of "poverty" that look at a range of issues in measuring human well-being beyond the simpler economic "poverty line."
News Item Content
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: Verdana; vertical-align: baseline; list-style-type: none;">By Fred Kammer, S.J.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: Verdana; vertical-align: baseline; list-style-type: none;">In recent years, scholars and policy-makers have developed alternative measures of "poverty" that look at a range of issues in measuring human well-being beyond the simpler economic "poverty line." While there are a variety of such measures, the one that gained acceptance internationally is the <em style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">Human Development Report</em> and its Human Development Index adopted by the United Nations Development Program in 1990.[1] The focus is more on the "human development' than 'poverty,' drawing on the work of economist Mahbub ul Haq at the World Bank in the 1970s. </p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: Verdana; vertical-align: baseline; list-style-type: none;">...Dr. Haq argued that <em style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">existing measures of human progress failed to account for the true purpose of development-to improve people's lives.</em> In particular, he believed that the commonly used measure of Gross Domestic Product failed to adequately measure well-being.[2] <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/The%20Kids%20Count%20Gulf%20South_0.pdf" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 32px 0px 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background: url(http://www.loyno.edu/assets/shared/images/css/icons/pdf.gif) 100% 50% no-repeat transparent;">MORE>></a></p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: Verdana; vertical-align: baseline; list-style-type: none;">In recent years, scholars and policy-makers have developed alternative measures of "poverty" that look at a range of issues in measuring human well-being beyond the simpler economic "poverty line." While there are a variety of such measures, the one that gained acceptance internationally is the <em style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">Human Development Report</em> and its Human Development Index adopted by the United Nations Development Program in 1990.[1] The focus is more on the "human development' than 'poverty,' drawing on the work of economist Mahbub ul Haq at the World Bank in the 1970s. </p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; border: 0px; font-family: Verdana; vertical-align: baseline; list-style-type: none;">...Dr. Haq argued that <em style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;">existing measures of human progress failed to account for the true purpose of development-to improve people's lives.</em> In particular, he believed that the commonly used measure of Gross Domestic Product failed to adequately measure well-being.[2] <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/The%20Kids%20Count%20Gulf%20South_0.pdf" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 32px 0px 0px; border: 0px; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background: url(http://www.loyno.edu/assets/shared/images/css/icons/pdf.gif) 100% 50% no-repeat transparent;">MORE>></a></p>
Date
[NEW!] JustSouth Quarterly Summer 2014
News Intro Text
This issue includes articles about the KIDS COUNT Index in the Gulf South, Catholic Social Thought and wages, the surge of unaccompanied immigrant children to the border, and a look at the endurance of white supremacy.
News Item Content
<p>Featured articles include:</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/The Kids Count Gulf South.pdf">"The Kids Count Gulf South: Children in the region continue not to count much!"</a> --Kammer </p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Catholic Social Thought and Wages.pdf">"Catholic Social Thought and Wages"</a> --Kammer</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Kids in Crisis.pdf">"Kids in Crisis: The surge of unaccompanied immigrant children to the border"</a> --Weishar </p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/The Monstrous Elegance of White Supremacy.pdf">"The Monstrous Elegance of White Supremacy"</a> --Mikulich</p>
<p> </p>
<p>To receive future <em>JustSouth</em> publications please click <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/subscribe-jsri-publications">here</a>. </p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/The Kids Count Gulf South.pdf">"The Kids Count Gulf South: Children in the region continue not to count much!"</a> --Kammer </p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Catholic Social Thought and Wages.pdf">"Catholic Social Thought and Wages"</a> --Kammer</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Kids in Crisis.pdf">"Kids in Crisis: The surge of unaccompanied immigrant children to the border"</a> --Weishar </p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/The Monstrous Elegance of White Supremacy.pdf">"The Monstrous Elegance of White Supremacy"</a> --Mikulich</p>
<p> </p>
<p>To receive future <em>JustSouth</em> publications please click <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/subscribe-jsri-publications">here</a>. </p>
Date
"We Belong to Each Other": Forgetting Our Oneness at a Town Hall Meeting
News Intro Text
Immigrant workers, many undocumented, were essential in rebuilding Lakeview and much of the Gulf Coast after Katrina [1]. I came to the meeting assuming that a neighborhood that had benefited so much from immigrant laborers would be open to the possibility of immigration reform. I was proven wrong.
News Item Content
<p>by Sue Weishar, Ph.D.</p>
<p><span>In late August last year, two months after the U.S. Senate had passed a bipartisan immigration reform bill, I attended a Town Hall meeting called by Congressman Steve Scalise. The meeting was held in Lakeview-- one of the New Orleans neighborhoods hardest hit by flooding when the levees failed in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Immigrant workers, many undocumented, were essential in rebuilding Lakeview and much of the Gulf Coast after Katrina [1]. I came to the meeting assuming that a neighborhood that had benefited so much from immigrant laborers would be open to the possibility of immigration reform. I was proven wrong. </span><a href="http://t.e2ma.net/webview/bgyze/7d4a359f89a6c98e8c1bb9074a0f61d2">More>></a></p>
<p><span>In late August last year, two months after the U.S. Senate had passed a bipartisan immigration reform bill, I attended a Town Hall meeting called by Congressman Steve Scalise. The meeting was held in Lakeview-- one of the New Orleans neighborhoods hardest hit by flooding when the levees failed in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Immigrant workers, many undocumented, were essential in rebuilding Lakeview and much of the Gulf Coast after Katrina [1]. I came to the meeting assuming that a neighborhood that had benefited so much from immigrant laborers would be open to the possibility of immigration reform. I was proven wrong. </span><a href="http://t.e2ma.net/webview/bgyze/7d4a359f89a6c98e8c1bb9074a0f61d2">More>></a></p>
Date
Catholic Leaders Agree: Immigrant Families Need a Vote NOW
News Intro Text
Fr. Fred Kammer, S.J. and 29 Catholic leaders urge Speaker Boehner to keep families together by doing his part to pass immigration reform.
News Item Content
<div>
<span class="intro">Dear Speaker Boehner,</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro">We write to you as fellow Catholics with heavy hearts and a profound sense of urgency. As the House of Representatives still delays passing comprehensive immigration reform, mothers are torn apart from children, migrants are dying in the desert and our nation is weakened.</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>Mr. Speaker, how can we fail to act?</strong></span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Legislative obstruction in the face of preventable suffering and death is not only a failure of leadership. It is immoral and shameful. The eyes of our God — who hungers for justice and commands us to welcome the stranger and bind the wounds of those left by the side of the road — are on us.</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>Are we deaf to the cries of families and aspiring Americans separated by a broken system?</strong></span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">We stand with U.S. Catholic bishops who will celebrate Mass on Capitol Hill today, and who come once again to advocate for humane and </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">practical immigration reform.</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>Will you pray with us that the House of Representatives puts aside partisanship and passes comprehensive reform?</strong></span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Pope Francis reminds us that a “globalization of indifference” prevents us from seeing that every migrant, regardless of status, has inherent human dignity. As Catholics who share your commitment to the sanctity of life in the womb, we must not be complicit in the suffering of migrants dying in the shadows. Cardinal Sean O’Malley of Boston, who has called justice for immigrants a “pro-life” issue, spoke during a Mass on the U.S.-Mexico border last month of the “unmarked graves of thousands who die alone and nameless.”</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Is our nation so callous that we fail to weep for those nameless lost? We pray that you and your colleagues in the House have the moral </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">courage to show real leadership and act.</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Sincerely,</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>REV. LARRY SNYDER</strong>, CEO </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Catholic Charities USA</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>REV. THOMAS H. SMOLICH, S.J.</strong>, President </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Jesuit Conference</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>PATRICIA MCGUIRE,</strong> President </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Trinity Washington University</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>REV. DANIEL GROODY, CSC</strong>, Director of Immigration </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Initiatives, Institute for Latino Studies </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">University of Notre Dame</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>REV. STEPHEN A. PRIVETT, S.J.</strong>, President </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">University of San Francisco</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>DONNA M. CARROLL,</strong> President </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Dominican University</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>REV. CLETE KILEY</strong>, Director for Immigration Policy </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">UNITE HERE</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>REV. CHARLES CURRIE, S.J.</strong>, Executive Director </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Jesuit Commons</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>REV. DREW CHRISTIANSEN, S.J.</strong>, Distinguished </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Professor of Ethics & Global Development </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Georgetown University</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>REV. MICHAEL U. PUCKE</strong>, St. Julie Billiart Parish </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Hamilton County, Ohio</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>REV. ANTHONY KUTCHER</strong>, President </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">National Federation of Priests’ Councils </span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>SR. SIMONE CAMPBELL, SSS</strong>, Executive Director </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">NETWORK, A Catholic Social Justice Lobby</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>STEPHEN F. SCHNECK</strong>, Director, Institute for Policy </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Research & Catholic Studies </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">The Catholic University of America</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>SR. SALLY DUFFY, SC</strong>, Executive Director </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">SC Ministry Foundation, Cincinnati, Ohio</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>MOYA K. DITTMEIER</strong>, Executive Director </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Conference for Mercy Higher Education</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>REV. LEONIR CHIARELLO, C.S.</strong>, Executive Director </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Scalabrini International Migration Network</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>DONALD KERWIN</strong>, Executive Director </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Center for Migration Studies of New York</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>FRANCIS X. DOYLE</strong>, Associate General Secretary </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">(retired), U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>REV. FRED KAMMER, S.J.</strong>, Director</span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Jesuit Social Research Institute </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Loyola University New Orleans</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>REV. JOHN BAUMANN, S.J.</strong>, Founder </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">PICO National Network</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>CHRISTOPHER G. KERR,</strong> Executive Director </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Ignatian Solidarity Network </span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>PATRICK CAROLAN</strong>, Executive Director </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Franciscan Action Network</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>SR. PAT MCDERMOTT, RSM</strong>, President </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Institute of the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>SR. CAROL ZINN, SSJ</strong>, President </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Leadership Conference of Women Religious</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>SR. PATRICIA CHAPPELL</strong>, Executive Director </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Pax Christi USA</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>FRANCIS J. BUTLER</strong>, President </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Drexel Philanthropic Advisors</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>JOHN GEHRING</strong>, Catholic Program Director </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Faith in Public Life</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>GERRY LEE</strong>, Director </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Maryknoll Office for Global Concerns</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>CHRISTOPHER J. HALE</strong>, Senior Fellow </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Catholics in Alliance for the Common Good</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>REV. KEVIN WILDES, S.J.</strong>, President </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Loyola University New Orleans</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro">For a copy of the letter, please visit <a href="http://www.faithinpubliclife.org/">Faith in Public Life</a> or click <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Catholic Leaders Agree.pdf">HERE</a></span></div>
<span class="intro">Dear Speaker Boehner,</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro">We write to you as fellow Catholics with heavy hearts and a profound sense of urgency. As the House of Representatives still delays passing comprehensive immigration reform, mothers are torn apart from children, migrants are dying in the desert and our nation is weakened.</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>Mr. Speaker, how can we fail to act?</strong></span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Legislative obstruction in the face of preventable suffering and death is not only a failure of leadership. It is immoral and shameful. The eyes of our God — who hungers for justice and commands us to welcome the stranger and bind the wounds of those left by the side of the road — are on us.</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>Are we deaf to the cries of families and aspiring Americans separated by a broken system?</strong></span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">We stand with U.S. Catholic bishops who will celebrate Mass on Capitol Hill today, and who come once again to advocate for humane and </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">practical immigration reform.</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>Will you pray with us that the House of Representatives puts aside partisanship and passes comprehensive reform?</strong></span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Pope Francis reminds us that a “globalization of indifference” prevents us from seeing that every migrant, regardless of status, has inherent human dignity. As Catholics who share your commitment to the sanctity of life in the womb, we must not be complicit in the suffering of migrants dying in the shadows. Cardinal Sean O’Malley of Boston, who has called justice for immigrants a “pro-life” issue, spoke during a Mass on the U.S.-Mexico border last month of the “unmarked graves of thousands who die alone and nameless.”</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Is our nation so callous that we fail to weep for those nameless lost? We pray that you and your colleagues in the House have the moral </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">courage to show real leadership and act.</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Sincerely,</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>REV. LARRY SNYDER</strong>, CEO </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Catholic Charities USA</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>REV. THOMAS H. SMOLICH, S.J.</strong>, President </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Jesuit Conference</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>PATRICIA MCGUIRE,</strong> President </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Trinity Washington University</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>REV. DANIEL GROODY, CSC</strong>, Director of Immigration </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Initiatives, Institute for Latino Studies </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">University of Notre Dame</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>REV. STEPHEN A. PRIVETT, S.J.</strong>, President </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">University of San Francisco</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>DONNA M. CARROLL,</strong> President </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Dominican University</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>REV. CLETE KILEY</strong>, Director for Immigration Policy </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">UNITE HERE</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>REV. CHARLES CURRIE, S.J.</strong>, Executive Director </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Jesuit Commons</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>REV. DREW CHRISTIANSEN, S.J.</strong>, Distinguished </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Professor of Ethics & Global Development </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Georgetown University</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>REV. MICHAEL U. PUCKE</strong>, St. Julie Billiart Parish </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Hamilton County, Ohio</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>REV. ANTHONY KUTCHER</strong>, President </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">National Federation of Priests’ Councils </span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>SR. SIMONE CAMPBELL, SSS</strong>, Executive Director </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">NETWORK, A Catholic Social Justice Lobby</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>STEPHEN F. SCHNECK</strong>, Director, Institute for Policy </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Research & Catholic Studies </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">The Catholic University of America</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>SR. SALLY DUFFY, SC</strong>, Executive Director </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">SC Ministry Foundation, Cincinnati, Ohio</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>MOYA K. DITTMEIER</strong>, Executive Director </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Conference for Mercy Higher Education</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>REV. LEONIR CHIARELLO, C.S.</strong>, Executive Director </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Scalabrini International Migration Network</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>DONALD KERWIN</strong>, Executive Director </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Center for Migration Studies of New York</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>FRANCIS X. DOYLE</strong>, Associate General Secretary </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">(retired), U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>REV. FRED KAMMER, S.J.</strong>, Director</span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Jesuit Social Research Institute </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Loyola University New Orleans</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>REV. JOHN BAUMANN, S.J.</strong>, Founder </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">PICO National Network</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>CHRISTOPHER G. KERR,</strong> Executive Director </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Ignatian Solidarity Network </span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>PATRICK CAROLAN</strong>, Executive Director </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Franciscan Action Network</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>SR. PAT MCDERMOTT, RSM</strong>, President </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Institute of the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>SR. CAROL ZINN, SSJ</strong>, President </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Leadership Conference of Women Religious</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>SR. PATRICIA CHAPPELL</strong>, Executive Director </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Pax Christi USA</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>FRANCIS J. BUTLER</strong>, President </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Drexel Philanthropic Advisors</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>JOHN GEHRING</strong>, Catholic Program Director </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Faith in Public Life</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>GERRY LEE</strong>, Director </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Maryknoll Office for Global Concerns</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>CHRISTOPHER J. HALE</strong>, Senior Fellow </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Catholics in Alliance for the Common Good</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro"><strong>REV. KEVIN WILDES, S.J.</strong>, President </span></div>
<div>
<span class="intro">Loyola University New Orleans</span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="intro">For a copy of the letter, please visit <a href="http://www.faithinpubliclife.org/">Faith in Public Life</a> or click <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Catholic Leaders Agree.pdf">HERE</a></span></div>
Date
The Importance of Louisiana Expanding Medicaid
News Intro Text
The Louisiana Budget Project shows the number of Louisianans who would benefit from Medicaid expansion by district.
News Item Content
<p><img alt="" src="http://www.labudget.org/lbp/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Medicaid-by-district-tables-01.jpg" style="width: 600px; height: 700px; float: right;" /></p>
<p><img alt="" src="http://www.labudget.org/lbp/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Medicaid-by-district-tables-02.jpg" style="height: 700px; width: 600px; float: right;" /></p>
<p><img alt="" src="http://www.labudget.org/lbp/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Medicaid-by-district-tables-02.jpg" style="height: 700px; width: 600px; float: right;" /></p>
Date
The Audacity of Hope: What sustains us in the face of injustice?
News Intro Text
Facing legislative obstinacy or the "sheer mendacity" of those who fabricate facts or data to maintain exploitation of the least among us, what do people of faith do? What can they do against the odds and against those who are far better funded and often far more numerous?
News Item Content
<p>by Fred Kammer, S.J. </p>
<p>In the past two weeks the Louisiana Legislature rejected regulation of payday lending that would have protected working poor families from predatory loans, refused to extend federally-funded Medicaid coverage to hundreds of thousands of workers unable to afford health care, and determined that our lowest paid workers did not deserve a raise. Legislators in other Gulf South states made similar decisions on so many fronts, decisions driven not by care for their own people but by special interests, business lobbyists, prejudice, and yes, virulent opposition to President Obama and the Affordable Care Act.</p>
<p>For overwhelmed advocates for the "least among us," it has not been a good year. For the poor and working poor, it has been more of the same mean-spiritedness and lack of compassion that has left this region at the bottom of almost every indicator of educational achievement, health status, and economic well-being. <a href="http://t.e2ma.net/webview/3pcre/5332a6a21c3aac6726019cc86cc51cde">MORE>></a></p>
<p>In the past two weeks the Louisiana Legislature rejected regulation of payday lending that would have protected working poor families from predatory loans, refused to extend federally-funded Medicaid coverage to hundreds of thousands of workers unable to afford health care, and determined that our lowest paid workers did not deserve a raise. Legislators in other Gulf South states made similar decisions on so many fronts, decisions driven not by care for their own people but by special interests, business lobbyists, prejudice, and yes, virulent opposition to President Obama and the Affordable Care Act.</p>
<p>For overwhelmed advocates for the "least among us," it has not been a good year. For the poor and working poor, it has been more of the same mean-spiritedness and lack of compassion that has left this region at the bottom of almost every indicator of educational achievement, health status, and economic well-being. <a href="http://t.e2ma.net/webview/3pcre/5332a6a21c3aac6726019cc86cc51cde">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Of Tears and Terror: Families Torn Apart By Community Raids in the New Orleans Area
News Intro Text
Given the primacy of the family in the spiritual, ethical, social, and emotional formation of children, the unprecedented increase in deportations since President Obama took office is deeply disturbing.
News Item Content
<p>By Sue Weishar, Ph.D. </p>
<p>The family holds a central place in Catholic Social Teaching. Key Church teachings describe the family as "the sanctuary of life,"[1] the "essential cell of human society,"[2] and the "domestic Church."[3] Given the primacy of the family in the spiritual, ethical, social, and emotional formation of children, the unprecedented increase in deportations since President Obama took office is deeply distrurbing. An Urban Institute study found that one child was left behind for every two immigrants apprehended by immigration authorities in worksite raids.[4] Approximately 1,100 immigrants are being deported a day- causing profound grief, anguish, and hardship for tens of thousands of children a year. If the current pace of deportations continues, the Obama administration will have deported more than 2 million immigrants by the of 2014, a deplorable record for an American president.[5]</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JSRI Spring Quarterly 2014 Immigration_1.pdf">MORE>> </a></p>
<p>The family holds a central place in Catholic Social Teaching. Key Church teachings describe the family as "the sanctuary of life,"[1] the "essential cell of human society,"[2] and the "domestic Church."[3] Given the primacy of the family in the spiritual, ethical, social, and emotional formation of children, the unprecedented increase in deportations since President Obama took office is deeply distrurbing. An Urban Institute study found that one child was left behind for every two immigrants apprehended by immigration authorities in worksite raids.[4] Approximately 1,100 immigrants are being deported a day- causing profound grief, anguish, and hardship for tens of thousands of children a year. If the current pace of deportations continues, the Obama administration will have deported more than 2 million immigrants by the of 2014, a deplorable record for an American president.[5]</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JSRI Spring Quarterly 2014 Immigration_1.pdf">MORE>> </a></p>
Date
Jesuit Colleague Killed in Honduras
News Intro Text
On Friday, April 11, Jesuits and lay colleagues at two social ministries apostolates in Honduras learned Carlos Mejía Orellana was murdered inside his home. Mejía Orellana worked as the marketing director at Radio Progreso for 14 years.
News Item Content
<p>Posted By: In Our Company, April 16, 2014</p>
<p>On Friday, April 11, Jesuits and lay colleagues at two social ministries apostolates in Honduras learned Carlos Mejía Orellana was murdered inside his home. Mejía Orellana worked as the marketing director at Radio Progreso for 14 years. He was among the 16 employees at Radio Progreso and the Team for Reflection, Investigation, and Communication (ERIC) who have received repeated death threats for their journalism, community organizing and human rights work.</p>
<p>The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights had called upon the government of Honduras on three separate occasions to protect the lives and safety of staff at these Jesuits apostolates.</p>
<p>At a press conference on Saturday, Fr. Ismael “Melo” Moreno, SJ, director of these institutions, said that Mejía Orellana’s murder is another example of the failed security policy of the Honduran government and its lack of political will to take effective measures to protect its citizens.</p>
<p>In September 2013, the U.S. Jesuit Conference organized a delegation to meet with Jesuits and collaborators in Honduras to learn about their work to organize communities and protect their land from mining companies and other powerful interests, work that became even more important and dangerous following the military coup in 2009. With corruption rampant in the Honduran police force and among elected officials, community members insist that violent acts like the murder of Mejía Orellana often take place with impunity. <a href="http://inourcompany.org/2014/04/16/jesuit-colleague-killed-in-honduras/">MORE>></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Related Articles: <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Winter 2013- Honduran Agony-Weishar-Baudouin-jsq_3.pdf">Honduran Agony: The Spiral of Violence and Corruption By Sue Weishar, P.h.D and Mary Baudouin </a></p>
<p>On Friday, April 11, Jesuits and lay colleagues at two social ministries apostolates in Honduras learned Carlos Mejía Orellana was murdered inside his home. Mejía Orellana worked as the marketing director at Radio Progreso for 14 years. He was among the 16 employees at Radio Progreso and the Team for Reflection, Investigation, and Communication (ERIC) who have received repeated death threats for their journalism, community organizing and human rights work.</p>
<p>The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights had called upon the government of Honduras on three separate occasions to protect the lives and safety of staff at these Jesuits apostolates.</p>
<p>At a press conference on Saturday, Fr. Ismael “Melo” Moreno, SJ, director of these institutions, said that Mejía Orellana’s murder is another example of the failed security policy of the Honduran government and its lack of political will to take effective measures to protect its citizens.</p>
<p>In September 2013, the U.S. Jesuit Conference organized a delegation to meet with Jesuits and collaborators in Honduras to learn about their work to organize communities and protect their land from mining companies and other powerful interests, work that became even more important and dangerous following the military coup in 2009. With corruption rampant in the Honduran police force and among elected officials, community members insist that violent acts like the murder of Mejía Orellana often take place with impunity. <a href="http://inourcompany.org/2014/04/16/jesuit-colleague-killed-in-honduras/">MORE>></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Related Articles: <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Winter 2013- Honduran Agony-Weishar-Baudouin-jsq_3.pdf">Honduran Agony: The Spiral of Violence and Corruption By Sue Weishar, P.h.D and Mary Baudouin </a></p>
Date
Legislatures Protect Business that Preys on the Poor
News Intro Text
Alabama and Louisiana legislatures defeated legislation this session to cap payday loans at 36% annual percentage rate (APR).
News Item Content
<p>By Dr. Alex Mikulich</p>
<p><span>Alabama and Louisiana legislatures defeated legislation this session to cap payday loans at 36% annual percentage rate (APR). Alabama also defeated HB 145 to create a state database to enforce existing law limiting borrowers to $500 in payday loan debt. </span></p>
<p><span>The people of Louisiana “cry out” for capping payday loans at 36% annual percentage rate (APR), said Representative Ted James (Baton Rouge) in his closing argument for HB239 on April 7, 2014. </span></p>
<p><span>Echoing God’s message in </span><i>Exodus</i><span> </span><i>3: 7-8</i><span>, “I hear the cry of my people,” Representative James urged his colleagues to hear the cry of the people. He urged his colleagues to take to heart the courageous voices of victims of the payday debt trap who testified about their suffering. Finally, he named many organizations advocating for the 36% APR cap. </span></p>
<p><a href="http://t.e2ma.net/webview/vrwle/780a65b7a3d880d4bd19c61e37d5e5f6"><span>MORE>></span></a></p>
<p><span>Alabama and Louisiana legislatures defeated legislation this session to cap payday loans at 36% annual percentage rate (APR). Alabama also defeated HB 145 to create a state database to enforce existing law limiting borrowers to $500 in payday loan debt. </span></p>
<p><span>The people of Louisiana “cry out” for capping payday loans at 36% annual percentage rate (APR), said Representative Ted James (Baton Rouge) in his closing argument for HB239 on April 7, 2014. </span></p>
<p><span>Echoing God’s message in </span><i>Exodus</i><span> </span><i>3: 7-8</i><span>, “I hear the cry of my people,” Representative James urged his colleagues to hear the cry of the people. He urged his colleagues to take to heart the courageous voices of victims of the payday debt trap who testified about their suffering. Finally, he named many organizations advocating for the 36% APR cap. </span></p>
<p><a href="http://t.e2ma.net/webview/vrwle/780a65b7a3d880d4bd19c61e37d5e5f6"><span>MORE>></span></a></p>
Date
Inside Jesuit Justice: A Forty- Year Journey into the Public Square
News Intro Text
Jesuits articulated the mission of faith and justice most dramatically in the 1970s, following two major Catholic events.
News Item Content
<p>By Fr. Fred Kammer, S.J.</p>
<p>Jesuits articulated the mission of faith and justice most dramatically in the 1970s, following two major Catholic events. First was the Second Vatican Council and its 1965 declaration that: </p>
<p><em>The joys and hopes, the griefs and the anxieties of the people of this age, especially those who are poor in any way afflicted, these too are the joys and hopes, the griefs and the anxieties of the followers of Christ. [1]</em></p>
<p>The second was the Synod of Bishops in 1971, which taught that "action for justice [is] a constitutive element of the preaching of the gospel..." [2] </p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JSRI Spring Quarterly 2014 Jesuit Justice_1.pdf">MORE>></a></p>
<p>Jesuits articulated the mission of faith and justice most dramatically in the 1970s, following two major Catholic events. First was the Second Vatican Council and its 1965 declaration that: </p>
<p><em>The joys and hopes, the griefs and the anxieties of the people of this age, especially those who are poor in any way afflicted, these too are the joys and hopes, the griefs and the anxieties of the followers of Christ. [1]</em></p>
<p>The second was the Synod of Bishops in 1971, which taught that "action for justice [is] a constitutive element of the preaching of the gospel..." [2] </p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JSRI Spring Quarterly 2014 Jesuit Justice_1.pdf">MORE>></a></p>
Date
Six Myths of Payday Lending
News Intro Text
Although payday lenders advertise as if they were friends in your moment of need, payday loans throw most borrowers into a cycle of debt, dulling their ability to make a living. The payday loan industry thrives upon a web of myths.
News Item Content
<p>By Alex Mikulich, P.h.D.</p>
<p>In Shakespeare's <em>Hamlet</em>, Polonius instructs his son Laertes: "Neither a borrower nor lender be, for loan oft loses both itself and friend, and borrowing dulls the edge of husbandry." The wisdom in Shakespeare's time was that too often one would lose both money and friend through borrowing or lending. Even worse, borrowing or lending would dull one's ability to make a living (husbandry). Ultimately, Polonius instructs his son: "To thy own self be true."</p>
<p>Shakespeare's wisdom endures in the case of predatory lending. Although payday lenders advertise as if they were friends in your moment of need, payday loans throw most borrowers into a cycle of debt, dulling their ability to make a living. </p>
<p>The payday loan industry thrives upon a web of myths. <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JSRI Spring Quarterly 2014 Payday_0.pdf">MORE>></a></p>
<p>In Shakespeare's <em>Hamlet</em>, Polonius instructs his son Laertes: "Neither a borrower nor lender be, for loan oft loses both itself and friend, and borrowing dulls the edge of husbandry." The wisdom in Shakespeare's time was that too often one would lose both money and friend through borrowing or lending. Even worse, borrowing or lending would dull one's ability to make a living (husbandry). Ultimately, Polonius instructs his son: "To thy own self be true."</p>
<p>Shakespeare's wisdom endures in the case of predatory lending. Although payday lenders advertise as if they were friends in your moment of need, payday loans throw most borrowers into a cycle of debt, dulling their ability to make a living. </p>
<p>The payday loan industry thrives upon a web of myths. <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JSRI Spring Quarterly 2014 Payday_0.pdf">MORE>></a></p>
Date
We Cannot Be Indifferent
News Intro Text
In the face of political inaction and human suffering we renew our call for just and humane immigration reform.
News Item Content
<p>Last year Pope Francis visited the tiny Italian island of Lampedusa, off the coast of Sicily. The Holy Father threw a wreath of flowers into the sea in remembrance of the countless migrants and refugees from Africa and the Middle East who have lost their lives, sometimes forcibly turned back in rickety rafts while trying to reach European shores.</p>
<p>On April 1, 2014 Pope Francis' visit to the Lampedusa was echoed by a delegation of our own U.S. Catholic Bishops to the desert of Arizona. Areas of our border are also "Lampedusas" where migrant lives are treated as cheap and too often are lost- a reminder of the true cost of inaction in the face of inhumane and uncaring policies.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.capwiz.com/jesuit/issues/alert/?alertid=63151801&type=ML">MORE>></a></p>
<p>On April 1, 2014 Pope Francis' visit to the Lampedusa was echoed by a delegation of our own U.S. Catholic Bishops to the desert of Arizona. Areas of our border are also "Lampedusas" where migrant lives are treated as cheap and too often are lost- a reminder of the true cost of inaction in the face of inhumane and uncaring policies.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.capwiz.com/jesuit/issues/alert/?alertid=63151801&type=ML">MORE>></a></p>
Date
ATTENTION STUDENTS!
News Intro Text
The deadline for the JSRI summer research grants is MONDAY, MARCH 31. Apply now for an opportunity to conduct social justice research and earn $2,200.
News Item Content
<p><span>About the Grants</span></p>
<p>The Jesuit Social Research Institute is pleased to announce the opening of the 2014 Keller Family Summer Research Grant application process, made possible by the Keller Family Foundation. Four grants of $2,200 each will be awarded as stipends for summer research, writing, and presentations. Graduate, law, and undergraduate students are eligible.</p>
<p>The purpose of the grants is to incentivize and support Loyola University students from various disciplines to pursue research in the field of social justice in the city of New Orleans, the metropolitan area, or the State of Louisiana, specifically on the topics of racism, poverty, and migration (e.g. immigration, migrant workers, trafficking). The grants aim to nurture a new generation of social justice scholars and practitioners, foster innovative and interdisciplinary scholarship about social justice and social services work, and improve the lives of low-income and disadvantaged individuals, families, and communities. </p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Summer%20Research-guidelines-0214-jsri.pdf">MORE >> </a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JSRI%20Summer%20Grant%20Application.doc">APPLICATION</a></p>
<hr />
<p><span>The applicant is responsible for submitting a complete packet of materials on or before the application deadline. Incomplete packets will not be considered. A complete packet contains the following materials: </span></p>
<p>I. Completed <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JSRI%20Summer%20Grant%20Application.doc">Application Form</a></p>
<p>II. Current official academic transcript</p>
<p>III. Sign-off on the application from faculty research supervisor</p>
<p>IV. A two page, double spaced personal statement describing your:</p>
<p><span>1. </span>Background.</p>
<p><span>2. </span>General preparedness to undertake project or program of study.</p>
<p><span><em>3. </em></span>Any previous research experience and social justice related work.</p>
<p><span>4. </span>How your proposed research/study plan fits into your broader educational goals and relates to social justice, and</p>
<p><span>5. </span>Expectations of how your research/ study will contribute to your overall education at Loyola University.</p>
<p>V. Optional: A student may attach any letters of endorsement from other faculty, local agency personnel, or service learning supervisor.</p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><span>DEADLINE:</span></p>
<p align="center">Applications and all supporting materials must be received on or before</p>
<p align="center"><span>March 31, 2014—4:30 PM</span></p>
<p align="center"> </p>
<p align="center"><span>Submit by email to: <a href="mailto:jsri@loyno.edu">jsri@loyno.edu</a></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><span><u>AND</u></span><span> submit by hard copy to JSRI offices, Suite 306, Mercy Hall </span></p>
<p>The Jesuit Social Research Institute is pleased to announce the opening of the 2014 Keller Family Summer Research Grant application process, made possible by the Keller Family Foundation. Four grants of $2,200 each will be awarded as stipends for summer research, writing, and presentations. Graduate, law, and undergraduate students are eligible.</p>
<p>The purpose of the grants is to incentivize and support Loyola University students from various disciplines to pursue research in the field of social justice in the city of New Orleans, the metropolitan area, or the State of Louisiana, specifically on the topics of racism, poverty, and migration (e.g. immigration, migrant workers, trafficking). The grants aim to nurture a new generation of social justice scholars and practitioners, foster innovative and interdisciplinary scholarship about social justice and social services work, and improve the lives of low-income and disadvantaged individuals, families, and communities. </p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Summer%20Research-guidelines-0214-jsri.pdf">MORE >> </a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JSRI%20Summer%20Grant%20Application.doc">APPLICATION</a></p>
<hr />
<p><span>The applicant is responsible for submitting a complete packet of materials on or before the application deadline. Incomplete packets will not be considered. A complete packet contains the following materials: </span></p>
<p>I. Completed <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JSRI%20Summer%20Grant%20Application.doc">Application Form</a></p>
<p>II. Current official academic transcript</p>
<p>III. Sign-off on the application from faculty research supervisor</p>
<p>IV. A two page, double spaced personal statement describing your:</p>
<p><span>1. </span>Background.</p>
<p><span>2. </span>General preparedness to undertake project or program of study.</p>
<p><span><em>3. </em></span>Any previous research experience and social justice related work.</p>
<p><span>4. </span>How your proposed research/study plan fits into your broader educational goals and relates to social justice, and</p>
<p><span>5. </span>Expectations of how your research/ study will contribute to your overall education at Loyola University.</p>
<p>V. Optional: A student may attach any letters of endorsement from other faculty, local agency personnel, or service learning supervisor.</p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><span>DEADLINE:</span></p>
<p align="center">Applications and all supporting materials must be received on or before</p>
<p align="center"><span>March 31, 2014—4:30 PM</span></p>
<p align="center"> </p>
<p align="center"><span>Submit by email to: <a href="mailto:jsri@loyno.edu">jsri@loyno.edu</a></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><span><u>AND</u></span><span> submit by hard copy to JSRI offices, Suite 306, Mercy Hall </span></p>
Date
Why Lynch Italians?
News Intro Text
Throughout the history of our country newcomers have been vilified as dangerous others—less than human. As the New Orleans community honors its Italian heritage this weekend it is an opportune time to reflect—have we learned from the mistakes of our collective past?
News Item Content
<p>This weekend local residents will celebrate their Italian, as well as Irish, ancestry at parades and block parties with the joy and abandonment for which New Orleans is famous. On the Feast Day of St. Joseph, March 19<sup>th</sup>, St. Joseph Day altars will be featured at churches with Italian roots throughout the metro area. </p>
<p><span>Tomorrow, March 14</span><sup>th</sup><span>, is also a unique day in the history of Italian immigration to New Orleans, but not for reasons we celebrate. It was on March 14, 1891, that eleven Italians were lynched at the hands of a mob at Orleans Parish Prison. The brutal murders were precipitated by the assassination of a popular Chief of Police, David Hennessy, who was shot in front of his home on Girod Street on the foggy evening of October 15, 1890. When a friend rushed to his aid, Hennessy allegedly whispered to him, “The Dagoes did it.” The chief was taken to Charity Hospital but died the following morning without ever having identified his assassins.</span>[1] <a href="http://t.e2ma.net/webview/ntwce/de039b14184ec43ac701ee75c200502e">MORE>></a></p>
<div>
<hr />
<p> </p>
<div id="edn1">
<p>[1] John V. Baiamonte, Jr., “Who Killa de Chief” Revisited: The Hennessy Assassination and Its Aftermath, 1890 -1991,” <em>Louisiana History: The Journal of the Louisiana Historical Association,</em> Vol. 33, No. 2, (Spring, 1992), p. 122 and Clive Webb, “The lynching of Sicilian immigrants in the American South, 1886-1910,” <em>American Nineteenth Century History</em>, Vol. 3, No. 1, Spring 2002, p. 45.</p>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p>
<p><span>Tomorrow, March 14</span><sup>th</sup><span>, is also a unique day in the history of Italian immigration to New Orleans, but not for reasons we celebrate. It was on March 14, 1891, that eleven Italians were lynched at the hands of a mob at Orleans Parish Prison. The brutal murders were precipitated by the assassination of a popular Chief of Police, David Hennessy, who was shot in front of his home on Girod Street on the foggy evening of October 15, 1890. When a friend rushed to his aid, Hennessy allegedly whispered to him, “The Dagoes did it.” The chief was taken to Charity Hospital but died the following morning without ever having identified his assassins.</span>[1] <a href="http://t.e2ma.net/webview/ntwce/de039b14184ec43ac701ee75c200502e">MORE>></a></p>
<div>
<hr />
<p> </p>
<div id="edn1">
<p>[1] John V. Baiamonte, Jr., “Who Killa de Chief” Revisited: The Hennessy Assassination and Its Aftermath, 1890 -1991,” <em>Louisiana History: The Journal of the Louisiana Historical Association,</em> Vol. 33, No. 2, (Spring, 1992), p. 122 and Clive Webb, “The lynching of Sicilian immigrants in the American South, 1886-1910,” <em>American Nineteenth Century History</em>, Vol. 3, No. 1, Spring 2002, p. 45.</p>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p>
Date
JSRI Youtube Channel
News Intro Text
JSRI has developed a Youtube Channel that features short videos about the many aspects of Catholic Social Teaching.
News Item Content
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCX2G0sKy5-AD6znWh5OpJIA">Jesuit Social Research Institute Youtube Channel </a></p>
<p>The following videos were made in a collaboration between JSRI Director, Fr. Fred Kammer, S.J. and the <a href="http://lim.loyno.edu/">Loyola Institute for Ministry</a>.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ye1Zv0udtCc">Key Principles of Catholic Social Teaching </a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IMdx1oSej4E">Modern Catholic Social Teaching </a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VlrJjiwRSWs">Biblical Roots of Catholic Social Teaching </a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZzB1EK_Sr_k">Economic Systems and Catholic Social Teaching </a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4juZabguSHo">Civic Responsibility and Catholic Social Teaching </a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NtRoJcOp_8U">Living the Principles of Catholic Social Teaching </a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=880uOptg_XQ">The Future of Catholic Social Teaching </a></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>The following videos were made in a collaboration between JSRI Director, Fr. Fred Kammer, S.J. and the <a href="http://lim.loyno.edu/">Loyola Institute for Ministry</a>.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ye1Zv0udtCc">Key Principles of Catholic Social Teaching </a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IMdx1oSej4E">Modern Catholic Social Teaching </a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VlrJjiwRSWs">Biblical Roots of Catholic Social Teaching </a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZzB1EK_Sr_k">Economic Systems and Catholic Social Teaching </a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4juZabguSHo">Civic Responsibility and Catholic Social Teaching </a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NtRoJcOp_8U">Living the Principles of Catholic Social Teaching </a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=880uOptg_XQ">The Future of Catholic Social Teaching </a></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
Date
2014 Summer Research Grant Application
News Intro Text
JSRI is currently accepting applications for summer research proposals. All Loyola University undergraduate, graduate, and law students are encouraged to apply.
News Item Content
<p><strong>About the Grants</strong></p>
<p>The Jesuit Social Research Institute is pleased to announce the opening of the 2014 Keller Family Summer Research Grant application process, made possible by the Keller Family Foundation. Four grants of $2,200 each will be awarded as stipends for summer research, writing, and presentations. Graduate, law, and undergraduate students are eligible.</p>
<p>The purpose of the grants is to incentivize and support Loyola University students from various disciplines to pursue research in the field of social justice in the city of New Orleans, the metropolitan area, or the State of Louisiana, specifically on the topics of racism, poverty, and migration (e.g. immigration, migrant workers, trafficking). The grants aim to nurture a new generation of social justice scholars and practitioners, foster innovative and interdisciplinary scholarship about social justice and social services work, and improve the lives of low-income and disadvantaged individuals, families, and communities. </p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Summer Research-guidelines-0214-jsri.pdf">MORE >> </a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JSRI Summer Grant Application.doc">APPLICATION</a></p>
<hr />
<p><strong>The applicant is responsible for submitting a complete packet of materials on or before the application deadline. Incomplete packets will not be considered. A complete packet contains the following materials: </strong></p>
<p>I. Completed <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JSRI Summer Grant Application.doc">Application Form</a></p>
<p>II. Current official academic transcript</p>
<p>III. Sign-off on the application from faculty research supervisor</p>
<p>IV. A two page, double spaced personal statement describing your:</p>
<p><strong>1. </strong>Background.</p>
<p><strong>2. </strong>General preparedness to undertake project or program of study.</p>
<p><strong><em>3. </em></strong>Any previous research experience and social justice related work.</p>
<p><strong>4. </strong>How your proposed research/study plan fits into your broader educational goals and relates to social justice, and</p>
<p><strong>5. </strong>Expectations of how your research/ study will contribute to your overall education at Loyola University.</p>
<p>V. Optional: A student may attach any letters of endorsement from other faculty, local agency personnel, or service learning supervisor.</p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><strong>DEADLINE: </strong></p>
<p align="center">Applications and all supporting materials must be received on or before</p>
<p align="center"><strong>March 31, 2014—4:30 PM</strong></p>
<p align="center"> </p>
<p align="center"><strong>Submit by email to: <a href="mailto:jsri@loyno.edu">jsri@loyno.edu</a></strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><strong><u>AND</u></strong><strong> submit by hard copy to JSRI offices, Suite 306, Mercy Hall </strong></p>
<p>The Jesuit Social Research Institute is pleased to announce the opening of the 2014 Keller Family Summer Research Grant application process, made possible by the Keller Family Foundation. Four grants of $2,200 each will be awarded as stipends for summer research, writing, and presentations. Graduate, law, and undergraduate students are eligible.</p>
<p>The purpose of the grants is to incentivize and support Loyola University students from various disciplines to pursue research in the field of social justice in the city of New Orleans, the metropolitan area, or the State of Louisiana, specifically on the topics of racism, poverty, and migration (e.g. immigration, migrant workers, trafficking). The grants aim to nurture a new generation of social justice scholars and practitioners, foster innovative and interdisciplinary scholarship about social justice and social services work, and improve the lives of low-income and disadvantaged individuals, families, and communities. </p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Summer Research-guidelines-0214-jsri.pdf">MORE >> </a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JSRI Summer Grant Application.doc">APPLICATION</a></p>
<hr />
<p><strong>The applicant is responsible for submitting a complete packet of materials on or before the application deadline. Incomplete packets will not be considered. A complete packet contains the following materials: </strong></p>
<p>I. Completed <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JSRI Summer Grant Application.doc">Application Form</a></p>
<p>II. Current official academic transcript</p>
<p>III. Sign-off on the application from faculty research supervisor</p>
<p>IV. A two page, double spaced personal statement describing your:</p>
<p><strong>1. </strong>Background.</p>
<p><strong>2. </strong>General preparedness to undertake project or program of study.</p>
<p><strong><em>3. </em></strong>Any previous research experience and social justice related work.</p>
<p><strong>4. </strong>How your proposed research/study plan fits into your broader educational goals and relates to social justice, and</p>
<p><strong>5. </strong>Expectations of how your research/ study will contribute to your overall education at Loyola University.</p>
<p>V. Optional: A student may attach any letters of endorsement from other faculty, local agency personnel, or service learning supervisor.</p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><strong>DEADLINE: </strong></p>
<p align="center">Applications and all supporting materials must be received on or before</p>
<p align="center"><strong>March 31, 2014—4:30 PM</strong></p>
<p align="center"> </p>
<p align="center"><strong>Submit by email to: <a href="mailto:jsri@loyno.edu">jsri@loyno.edu</a></strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><strong><u>AND</u></strong><strong> submit by hard copy to JSRI offices, Suite 306, Mercy Hall </strong></p>
Date
Won't raising the minimum wage cost jobs?
News Intro Text
The minimum wage debate is hot. The Fair Minimum Wage Act of 2013 (FMWA) would raise the minimum from $7.25 to $10.10 over three years and then index to inflation. Why?
News Item Content
<p><span>By Fred Kammer, S.J.</span></p>
<p class="e2ma-p-div"><span class="e2ma-style"> </span><span>The minimum wage debate is hot. <i>The Fair Minimum Wage Act of 2013</i> (FMWA) would raise the minimum from $7.25 to $10.10 over three years and then index it to inflation. Why? The minimum wage has declined in value measured against inflation, average U.S. wages, U.S. productivity, and the poverty line. A parent working full-time year-round at minimum wage cannot keep the smallest family (one parent, one child) above the poverty line. <span class="e2ma-style">[1]</span></span></p>
<p class="e2ma-p-div"><span class="e2ma-style"> </span>Opponents claim that the number of minimum wage workers is small (3.7 million), most are young and part-time, and “relatively few of them live below the poverty line.”<span class="e2ma-style">[2]</span> The argument is misleading. First, FMWA will affect not just current minimum wage workers, but 16.7 million workers earning less than $10.10. Another 11.1 million workers would benefit indirectly from the “ripple effect” of employers adjusting overall pay ladders. Of these 27.8 million, 55 percent are women, 88 percent are at least 20 years old, 54 percent work full-time, 26.5% are parents, and the average worker earns half of his or her family’s total income. <span class="e2ma-style">[3]</span> Further, between 1979 and 2011, the “share of low-wage workers (those earning less than $10 per hour in 2011 dollars) aged 25 to 64 grew from 48 percent to 60 percent…”<span class="e2ma-style">[4]</span></p>
<div class="e2ma-p-div">
<a href="http://e2.ma/webview/zu16d/a9bb4dee8205e517071f3b9d1687dbcd"><span class="e2ma-style">More >></span></a></div>
<div class="e2ma-p-div">
<div class="e2ma-p-div">
</div>
</div>
<p> </p>
<p class="e2ma-p-div"><span class="e2ma-style"> </span><span>The minimum wage debate is hot. <i>The Fair Minimum Wage Act of 2013</i> (FMWA) would raise the minimum from $7.25 to $10.10 over three years and then index it to inflation. Why? The minimum wage has declined in value measured against inflation, average U.S. wages, U.S. productivity, and the poverty line. A parent working full-time year-round at minimum wage cannot keep the smallest family (one parent, one child) above the poverty line. <span class="e2ma-style">[1]</span></span></p>
<p class="e2ma-p-div"><span class="e2ma-style"> </span>Opponents claim that the number of minimum wage workers is small (3.7 million), most are young and part-time, and “relatively few of them live below the poverty line.”<span class="e2ma-style">[2]</span> The argument is misleading. First, FMWA will affect not just current minimum wage workers, but 16.7 million workers earning less than $10.10. Another 11.1 million workers would benefit indirectly from the “ripple effect” of employers adjusting overall pay ladders. Of these 27.8 million, 55 percent are women, 88 percent are at least 20 years old, 54 percent work full-time, 26.5% are parents, and the average worker earns half of his or her family’s total income. <span class="e2ma-style">[3]</span> Further, between 1979 and 2011, the “share of low-wage workers (those earning less than $10 per hour in 2011 dollars) aged 25 to 64 grew from 48 percent to 60 percent…”<span class="e2ma-style">[4]</span></p>
<div class="e2ma-p-div">
<a href="http://e2.ma/webview/zu16d/a9bb4dee8205e517071f3b9d1687dbcd"><span class="e2ma-style">More >></span></a></div>
<div class="e2ma-p-div">
<div class="e2ma-p-div">
</div>
</div>
<p> </p>
Date
THE AFFORDABLE CARE ACT: Who, Why, and What?
News Intro Text
We recently saw the assault on the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act [PPACA] close the federal government (costing at least $25 billion dollars) and almost wreck the economy by refusing to lift the debt limit.
News Item Content
<p>By Fred Kammer, S.J.</p>
<p>We recently saw the assault on the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act [PPACA] close the federal government (costing at least $25 billion dollars) and almost wreck the economy by refusing to lift the debt limit. Lest we go through that again, it is important to remind ourselves about the who, why, and what of our current health care reform. </p>
<p>We look first at those without health care coverage. Current estimates indicate that approximately 50 million people are now without health care (and a whopping 86 million more uninsured at some point in a two-year period, including 18.6 million people in the five Gulf South states!). </p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Winter 2013- Affordable Care Act.pdf">More>></a></p>
<p>We recently saw the assault on the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act [PPACA] close the federal government (costing at least $25 billion dollars) and almost wreck the economy by refusing to lift the debt limit. Lest we go through that again, it is important to remind ourselves about the who, why, and what of our current health care reform. </p>
<p>We look first at those without health care coverage. Current estimates indicate that approximately 50 million people are now without health care (and a whopping 86 million more uninsured at some point in a two-year period, including 18.6 million people in the five Gulf South states!). </p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Winter 2013- Affordable Care Act.pdf">More>></a></p>
Date
Of Slavery and Discrimination
News Intro Text
At times it is important for us to reiterate both Catholic teaching and the Jesuit values of Loyola. The Catechism of the Catholic Church condemns slavery as an offense against the 7th Commandment and racial discrimination as “incompatible with God’s design.”
News Item Content
<p>At times it is important for us to reiterate both Catholic teaching and the Jesuit values of Loyola University. The <em>Catechism of the Catholic Church</em> condemns slavery as an offense against the 7<sup>th</sup> Commandment for its assault on human dignity (#2424) and racial discrimination as “incompatible with God’s design” (#1935). Any defense of slavery or racial discrimination insults all those who have struggled for human dignity and racial justice at Loyola and throughout this land and minimizes the incredible violence, lynching, destruction of families, forced labor, sexual assaults, denial of rights, and systematic dehumanization that have been integral to both slavery and discrimination.</p>
<p>The Civil Rights Act of 1964 is a critical legal achievement aimed to end second-class treatment of people of color. More importantly, Catholic social teaching and Jesuit values call all of us to ongoing conversion to positively promote racial equality, sharing of goods, mutual aid, and collaboration with all racial and ethnic groups.</p>
<p>The Civil Rights Act of 1964 is a critical legal achievement aimed to end second-class treatment of people of color. More importantly, Catholic social teaching and Jesuit values call all of us to ongoing conversion to positively promote racial equality, sharing of goods, mutual aid, and collaboration with all racial and ethnic groups.</p>
Date
Honduran Agony: The Spiral of Violence and Corruption
News Intro Text
JSRI Associate Mary Baudouin recounts the injustices she witnessed in Honduras this past September. While Dr. Susan Weishar connects these struggles with first hand accounts experienced by local Honduran natives.
News Item Content
<h3>
<span>By Sue Weishar, Ph.D. and Mary Baudouin </span></h3>
<p>In mid- September, JSRI Associate Mary Baudouin joined a U.S. Jesuit Conference delegation for a week of traveling across Honduras to learn about the political and social problems confronting that Central American country of 8.3 million people. The delegation visited small <em>campesino</em> communities struggling to make a living after losing their land to multinational mining companies; a filthy, overcrowded prison farm where a prisoner explained he was not even present at the trial that convited him of murder; a church parish where mothers prayed to hear from their sons who had left for the United States; and a Jesuit advocacy and research center valiantly exposing the corruption and abuse strangling the country. </p>
<p>"The rule of law basically does not exist," Baudouin said. "If someone is threatened by a gang, there is nobody to call to do anything about it. People fear the police almost as much as the marco-traffickers, with whom the police are widely believed to complicit. The Bishop of La Ceibe told us of people forced at gunpoint to sell their land to mining companies. The level of violence is shocking, and the impunity enjoyed by criminal actors has led to an overwhelming sense of hopelessness. I am embarrassed to say that i knew almost nothing about how bad things have become there, even though I have known Hondurans my whole life growing up in New Orleans." </p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Winter 2013- Honduran Agony-Weishar-Baudouin-jsq_1.pdf">Read full article >></a></p>
<span>By Sue Weishar, Ph.D. and Mary Baudouin </span></h3>
<p>In mid- September, JSRI Associate Mary Baudouin joined a U.S. Jesuit Conference delegation for a week of traveling across Honduras to learn about the political and social problems confronting that Central American country of 8.3 million people. The delegation visited small <em>campesino</em> communities struggling to make a living after losing their land to multinational mining companies; a filthy, overcrowded prison farm where a prisoner explained he was not even present at the trial that convited him of murder; a church parish where mothers prayed to hear from their sons who had left for the United States; and a Jesuit advocacy and research center valiantly exposing the corruption and abuse strangling the country. </p>
<p>"The rule of law basically does not exist," Baudouin said. "If someone is threatened by a gang, there is nobody to call to do anything about it. People fear the police almost as much as the marco-traffickers, with whom the police are widely believed to complicit. The Bishop of La Ceibe told us of people forced at gunpoint to sell their land to mining companies. The level of violence is shocking, and the impunity enjoyed by criminal actors has led to an overwhelming sense of hopelessness. I am embarrassed to say that i knew almost nothing about how bad things have become there, even though I have known Hondurans my whole life growing up in New Orleans." </p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Winter 2013- Honduran Agony-Weishar-Baudouin-jsq_1.pdf">Read full article >></a></p>
Date
February is Ignatian Family Advocacy Month
News Intro Text
The month of February has been designated by the Ignatian Solidarity Network as Ignatian Family Advocacy Month.
News Item Content
<p>The month of February has been designated by the Ignatian Solidarity Network as Ignatian Family Advocacy Month. The month focuses upon the need for <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Border-Visions-Immigration-Reform-Summer-2013-JSQ.pdf">Immigration Reform</a> and <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/CST_Distributive_Justice.pdf">distributive justice</a> by establishing a <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/minimum-wage-gateway-worker-dignity">fair minimum wage</a> and protecting the <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Fall%203013-FINAL-I%20was%20hungry-Kammer-jsq_0.pdf">Supplemental Nutrition Assistant Program (SNAP)</a>. More information about the month and resources are available <a href="http://ignatiansolidarity.net/ifam/">here</a>. </p>
Date
Martin Luther King, Jr.: Becoming maladjusted for the beloved community
News Intro Text
Dr. Alex Mikulich reminds us of the call of Dr. King to resist systemic and structural injustice in all its forms.
News Item Content
<p class="e2ma-p-div"><span class="e2ma-style">by Dr. Alex Mikulich</span></p>
<p class="e2ma-p-div">I am struck every Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday by the contrast between the way American society treated the living Dr. King and the icon the nation venerates today. </p>
<p class="e2ma-p-div">As society venerates an icon, I wonder if we lose the heart and soul of Dr. King’s message to become “courageously maladjusted” and transform the “midnight” of militarism, consumerism, and racism into the light of racial and economic justice. </p>
<div class="e2ma-p-div">
<p class="e2ma-p-div">One need not venture too far into the archives of Civil Rights history to find how numerous “foot soldiers” gave their lives for civil rights and how many leaders, including Dr. King, knew they were risking their lives. Nor do we need to venture too far to learn that too<span class="e2ma-style"> many </span>white Americans, north and south, felt threatened by the Civil Rights movement and Dr. King’s critique of American society. As a child, I recall how conversations among family and friends either dismissed him as a pariah or feared him as a “radical.”</p>
<p class="e2ma-p-div">Too often the media or speakers take a narrow focus on Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech as if he never wrote or said anything else. Too frequently King’s dream that his “four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character” is cited without reference to the speech’s opening indictment: “we’ve come here today to dramatize a shameful condition.” Indeed, Dr. King did call for individuals to be judged by their character in the context of calling the nation to transform structures of economic and racial injustice into the Beloved Community. </p>
<p class="e2ma-p-div">Dr. King communicated his pride in becoming “maladjusted.” While he always recognized that people need a balanced life to avoid becoming neurotic or schizophrenic, he invited Americans to become maladjusted to injustice. Passive acceptance of an unjust system, King wrote in <i>The Strength to Love </i>and said repeatedly, is to “cooperate with that system and thereby to become a participant in its evil.”</p>
<p class="e2ma-p-div">To paraphrase Dr. King, we must never “adjust to the evils of segregation and discrimination" or “to economic conditions that will take necessities from the many to give luxuries to the few,” or “to the madness of militarism.” These evils endure as the “midnight” we live today. </p>
<p class="e2ma-p-div">There seems to be no enlightened path forward when so many seem well adjusted to the “midnight” of injustice. In his essay and speech “A Knock at Midnight,” King called people of faith to be the light of the Gospel in this midnight. It was only by embracing the “darkest hour of struggle,” where faith “adjourns the assemblies of hopelessness and brings new light into the dark chambers of pessimism.”</p>
<p class="e2ma-p-div">Dr. King’s voice and witness still rings out to us: only by becoming a community of faith maladjusted in Jesus may we be the light of truth that shines in a new morning of peace rooted in justice and love. How will we take up this communal task?</p>
</div>
<p><a href="http://e2.ma/webview/zup1d/53ce6c3a83de49f8f4f8cb7ccc3fced4">More>></a></p>
<p class="e2ma-p-div">I am struck every Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday by the contrast between the way American society treated the living Dr. King and the icon the nation venerates today. </p>
<p class="e2ma-p-div">As society venerates an icon, I wonder if we lose the heart and soul of Dr. King’s message to become “courageously maladjusted” and transform the “midnight” of militarism, consumerism, and racism into the light of racial and economic justice. </p>
<div class="e2ma-p-div">
<p class="e2ma-p-div">One need not venture too far into the archives of Civil Rights history to find how numerous “foot soldiers” gave their lives for civil rights and how many leaders, including Dr. King, knew they were risking their lives. Nor do we need to venture too far to learn that too<span class="e2ma-style"> many </span>white Americans, north and south, felt threatened by the Civil Rights movement and Dr. King’s critique of American society. As a child, I recall how conversations among family and friends either dismissed him as a pariah or feared him as a “radical.”</p>
<p class="e2ma-p-div">Too often the media or speakers take a narrow focus on Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech as if he never wrote or said anything else. Too frequently King’s dream that his “four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character” is cited without reference to the speech’s opening indictment: “we’ve come here today to dramatize a shameful condition.” Indeed, Dr. King did call for individuals to be judged by their character in the context of calling the nation to transform structures of economic and racial injustice into the Beloved Community. </p>
<p class="e2ma-p-div">Dr. King communicated his pride in becoming “maladjusted.” While he always recognized that people need a balanced life to avoid becoming neurotic or schizophrenic, he invited Americans to become maladjusted to injustice. Passive acceptance of an unjust system, King wrote in <i>The Strength to Love </i>and said repeatedly, is to “cooperate with that system and thereby to become a participant in its evil.”</p>
<p class="e2ma-p-div">To paraphrase Dr. King, we must never “adjust to the evils of segregation and discrimination" or “to economic conditions that will take necessities from the many to give luxuries to the few,” or “to the madness of militarism.” These evils endure as the “midnight” we live today. </p>
<p class="e2ma-p-div">There seems to be no enlightened path forward when so many seem well adjusted to the “midnight” of injustice. In his essay and speech “A Knock at Midnight,” King called people of faith to be the light of the Gospel in this midnight. It was only by embracing the “darkest hour of struggle,” where faith “adjourns the assemblies of hopelessness and brings new light into the dark chambers of pessimism.”</p>
<p class="e2ma-p-div">Dr. King’s voice and witness still rings out to us: only by becoming a community of faith maladjusted in Jesus may we be the light of truth that shines in a new morning of peace rooted in justice and love. How will we take up this communal task?</p>
</div>
<p><a href="http://e2.ma/webview/zup1d/53ce6c3a83de49f8f4f8cb7ccc3fced4">More>></a></p>
Date
January is Poverty Awareness Month
News Intro Text
The month of January has been designated by the U.S. Catholic Bishops as Poverty Awareness Month.
News Item Content
<p>The month of January has been designated by the U.S. Catholic Bishops as Poverty Awareness Month. Resources are available <a href="http://www.usccb.org/about/catholic-campaign-for-human-development/poverty-education/poverty-awareness-month.cfm">here</a>. Catholic Social Teaching focuses on poverty as an assault on human life and dignity <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/CSTandPoverty-Winter2009jsq_0.pdf">here</a>. </p>
Date
This is National Migration Week
News Intro Text
January 5-11 is National Migration Week, focusing the attention of Catholics and others on the plight of refugees, immigrants, and migrant workers here in the United States and across the world.
News Item Content
<p>January 5-11 is National Migration Week, focusing the attention of Catholics and others on the plight of refugees, immigrants, and migrant workers here in the United States and across the world. The <a href="http://www.justiceforimmigrants.org/index.shtml">Justice for Immigrants website</a> of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops contains extensive materials on people on the move and what each of us can do to respect and promote their rights. See JSRI materials on migration<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/migration"> here</a>.</p>
Date
Florida Bishops urge Governor to spare life of Askari Muhammad
News Intro Text
The Florida Catholic bishops urged Governor Rick Scott to spare the life of Askari Muhammad, who is scheduled for execution on January 7th. Catholic groups around the state planned observances.
News Item Content
<table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="600">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p align="center"><strong>Do not repay evil for evil;</strong><br />
<strong>Catholic bishops of Florida urge Governor Scott to spare the life of Askari Muhammad </strong><br />
</p>
<p><strong>Tallahassee (January 3, 2014) </strong>- The Catholic bishops of Florida appeal to Governor Scott to spare the life of Askari Muhammad, formerly known as Thomas Knight, scheduled to be executed January 7, 2014, at 6:00 p.m. near Starke, FL. We express our most profound sympathies to the loved ones of the victims who were tragically killed as a result of his actions: Lillian Gans, Sydney Gans, and Officer Richard Burke. <br />
<br />
The Florida Supreme Court recently upheld the use of a new drug in Florida's lethal injection process. However, any method of carrying out the death penalty only perpetuates violence among us. The Catholic Church holds that all life is sacred, even the lives of those who have caused great harm. We urge the State of Florida to show mercy to Mr. Muhammad. As St. Paul wrote in his letter to the Romans, "Do not be conquered by evil but conquer evil with good." (Romans 12:21)<br />
<br />
While the number of U.S. executions decreased, Florida was responsible for the second highest number of executions (7) carried out in 2013. In the new year, we pray that Florida reverses this trend and joins the 18 states that have ended the use of the death penalty.<br />
<br />
Catholic faithful and members of the community are invited to gather in solidarity at the following times and locations:<br />
<br />
<u>Archdiocese of Miami</u><br />
A prayer vigil will be held following 11:45 a.m. Mass on Tuesday, January 7 at St. Martha Catholic Church, 9401 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami Shores. Contact: Juan Di Prado, (305) 762-1046, <a href="mailto:jdiprado@theadom.org" title="mailto:jdiprado@theadom.org">jdiprado@theadom.org</a>.<br />
<br />
<u>Diocese of St. Augustine</u><br />
Prayer vigils will be held on Tuesday, January 7 at the following locations:</p>
<ul>
<li>
In front of the St. Augustine Beach City Hall, corner of A1A and 16th Street, 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Contact: Nancy O'Byrne, (904) 461-9216, <a href="mailto:obyrnen@bellsouth.net" title="mailto:obyrnen@bellsouth.net">obyrnen@bellsouth.net</a></li>
<li>
In front of the new Duval County Unified Courthouse, 501 W. Adams Street, Jacksonville, 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Contact: Jackie Gunning, (904) 449-3328, jacqueline.gunning@bmcjax.com or Sr. Maureen Kelley, 904-704-0313, <a href="mailto:mkelleyop@att.net" title="mailto:mkelleyop@att.net">mkelleyop@att.net</a></li>
<li>
In front of the Flagler County Courthouse, 1769 E. Moody Blvd, Bunnell from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Contact: Jackie Morelewicz, (386) 986-3146, <a href="mailto:jackiem@cfl.rr.com" title="mailto:jackiem@cfl.rr.com">jackiem@cfl.rr.com</a></li>
<li>
Across the highway from the Florida State Prison Execution Building, Starke from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Contact: John Linnehan, (904) 504-1004, <a href="mailto:metanoia.mx@gmail.com" title="mailto:metanoia.mx@gmail.com">metanoia.mx@gmail.com</a></li>
</ul>
<p> <br />
A carpool will be leaving on Tuesday, January 7 at 4:30 p.m. from the parking lot of St. Augustine Church and Catholic Student Center, 1738 W. University Avenue, Gainesville to attend a prayer service at Florida State Prison near Starke. Contact: Michelle Garcia, (352) 372-3533, <a href="mailto:info@catholicgators.com" title="mailto:info@catholicgators.com">info@catholicgators.com</a>.<br />
<br />
Additional Contact: Kathleen Bagg, Office of Communications, Diocese of St. Augustine, (904) 262-3200.<br />
<br />
<u>Diocese of St. Petersburg</u><br />
Spirit FM 90.5 WBVM Tampa will be praying on air Tuesday, January 7 beginning at 5:50 pm. Spirit FM is also available on the internet (www.spiritfm905.com).<br />
<br />
A prayer vigil will be held at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church, 550 U.S. Highway 41 S., Inverness on Tuesday, January 7 at 5:30 p.m.<br />
<br />
Nativity Catholic Church will hold a Prayer Vigil in the Chapel on for Monday, January 6 at 7:00 p.m., 705 E. Brandon Boulevard, Brandon.<br />
<br />
Contact: Sabrina Burton Schultz, Diocese of St. Petersburg, (727) 344-1611, <a href="mailto:sab@dosp.org" title="mailto:sab@dosp.org">sab@dosp.org</a>.<br />
<br />
<u>Diocese of Orlando</u><br />
A prayer service will be held at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 6803 Old Hwy 441 South, Mt. Dora on Tuesday, January 7 at 3:00 p.m.<br />
<br />
A bus will be leaving from the parking lot of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 201 University Blvd., Daytona Beach on January 7 at 2:30 p.m. for a prayer service outside of the prison in Starke at 6:00 p.m.<br />
<br />
Contact: Office of Advocacy and Justice, (407) 246-4819, <a href="mailto:advocacyjustice@orlandodiocese.org" title="mailto:advocacyjustice@orlandodiocese.org">advocacyjustice@orlandodiocese.org</a>.<br />
<br />
<u>Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee</u><br />
A holy hour will take place at Basilica of St. Michael the Archangel, 19 N Palafox St, Pensacola, on Monday, January 6 at 5:00 p.m. (CST). Contact: (850) 438-4985.<br />
<br />
A holy hour will be held at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 1008 Fortune Avenue, Panama City, on Monday, January 6 at 7:00 p.m. (CST). Contact: (850) 763-1821, <a href="mailto:stj.office@knology.net" title="mailto:stj.office@knology.net">stj.office@knology.net</a>.<br />
<br />
A prayer service to end the use of the death penalty is held at Immaculate Conception parish, 2750 South Byron Butler Parkway, Perry, every Thursday afternoon at 3:00 p.m.<br />
<br />
Additional Contact: Peggy DeKeyser, Office of Communications, Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee, (850) 435-3528, <a href="mailto:dekeyserp@ptdiocese.org" title="mailto:dekeyserp@ptdiocese.org">dekeyserp@ptdiocese.org</a>.<br />
<br />
Tallahassee Citizens Against the Death Penalty will sponsor an interfaith prayer vigil scheduled for Tuesday, January 7 at 6:00 p.m. in front of the Governor's Mansion in Tallahassee and a service of remembrance in the Capitol Building Plaza Level Rotunda the day after the execution, Wednesday, January 8 at noon. Contact: Sheila Meehan, (850) 524-0080.<br />
<br />
<u>Diocese of Palm Beach</u><br />
Catholic Charities Respect Life Office in partnership with the Diocese of Palm Beach and Pax Christi will host a prayer service on Tuesday, January 7 at 5:30 p.m. at the Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola, 9999 N. Military Trail, Palm Beach Gardens. The service will be followed by a procession and silent vigil in front of the Cathedral from 5:45 - 6:15 p.m. Contact: Dianne Laubert, (561) 313-2280, <a href="mailto:dlaubert@diocesepb.org" title="mailto:dlaubert@diocesepb.org">dlaubert@diocesepb.org</a>.<br />
<br />
<u>Diocese of Venice</u><br />
A prayer vigil will be held in the Chapel at St. Katharine Drexel Catholic Church, 1922 SW 20th Avenue, Cape Coral on Sunday, January 5, at 7:00 p.m. Contact: Maria, (239) 540-7096, <a href="mailto:maria1403@juno.com" title="mailto:maria1403@juno.com">maria1403@juno.com</a>.<br />
<br />
Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church, 425 South Tamiami Trail, Osprey, will hold a prayer vigil on Tuesday, January 7 at 5:30 p.m. Contact: Janine Marrone, (941) 497-4917.</p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p> </p>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p align="center"><strong>Do not repay evil for evil;</strong><br />
<strong>Catholic bishops of Florida urge Governor Scott to spare the life of Askari Muhammad </strong><br />
</p>
<p><strong>Tallahassee (January 3, 2014) </strong>- The Catholic bishops of Florida appeal to Governor Scott to spare the life of Askari Muhammad, formerly known as Thomas Knight, scheduled to be executed January 7, 2014, at 6:00 p.m. near Starke, FL. We express our most profound sympathies to the loved ones of the victims who were tragically killed as a result of his actions: Lillian Gans, Sydney Gans, and Officer Richard Burke. <br />
<br />
The Florida Supreme Court recently upheld the use of a new drug in Florida's lethal injection process. However, any method of carrying out the death penalty only perpetuates violence among us. The Catholic Church holds that all life is sacred, even the lives of those who have caused great harm. We urge the State of Florida to show mercy to Mr. Muhammad. As St. Paul wrote in his letter to the Romans, "Do not be conquered by evil but conquer evil with good." (Romans 12:21)<br />
<br />
While the number of U.S. executions decreased, Florida was responsible for the second highest number of executions (7) carried out in 2013. In the new year, we pray that Florida reverses this trend and joins the 18 states that have ended the use of the death penalty.<br />
<br />
Catholic faithful and members of the community are invited to gather in solidarity at the following times and locations:<br />
<br />
<u>Archdiocese of Miami</u><br />
A prayer vigil will be held following 11:45 a.m. Mass on Tuesday, January 7 at St. Martha Catholic Church, 9401 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami Shores. Contact: Juan Di Prado, (305) 762-1046, <a href="mailto:jdiprado@theadom.org" title="mailto:jdiprado@theadom.org">jdiprado@theadom.org</a>.<br />
<br />
<u>Diocese of St. Augustine</u><br />
Prayer vigils will be held on Tuesday, January 7 at the following locations:</p>
<ul>
<li>
In front of the St. Augustine Beach City Hall, corner of A1A and 16th Street, 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Contact: Nancy O'Byrne, (904) 461-9216, <a href="mailto:obyrnen@bellsouth.net" title="mailto:obyrnen@bellsouth.net">obyrnen@bellsouth.net</a></li>
<li>
In front of the new Duval County Unified Courthouse, 501 W. Adams Street, Jacksonville, 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Contact: Jackie Gunning, (904) 449-3328, jacqueline.gunning@bmcjax.com or Sr. Maureen Kelley, 904-704-0313, <a href="mailto:mkelleyop@att.net" title="mailto:mkelleyop@att.net">mkelleyop@att.net</a></li>
<li>
In front of the Flagler County Courthouse, 1769 E. Moody Blvd, Bunnell from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Contact: Jackie Morelewicz, (386) 986-3146, <a href="mailto:jackiem@cfl.rr.com" title="mailto:jackiem@cfl.rr.com">jackiem@cfl.rr.com</a></li>
<li>
Across the highway from the Florida State Prison Execution Building, Starke from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Contact: John Linnehan, (904) 504-1004, <a href="mailto:metanoia.mx@gmail.com" title="mailto:metanoia.mx@gmail.com">metanoia.mx@gmail.com</a></li>
</ul>
<p> <br />
A carpool will be leaving on Tuesday, January 7 at 4:30 p.m. from the parking lot of St. Augustine Church and Catholic Student Center, 1738 W. University Avenue, Gainesville to attend a prayer service at Florida State Prison near Starke. Contact: Michelle Garcia, (352) 372-3533, <a href="mailto:info@catholicgators.com" title="mailto:info@catholicgators.com">info@catholicgators.com</a>.<br />
<br />
Additional Contact: Kathleen Bagg, Office of Communications, Diocese of St. Augustine, (904) 262-3200.<br />
<br />
<u>Diocese of St. Petersburg</u><br />
Spirit FM 90.5 WBVM Tampa will be praying on air Tuesday, January 7 beginning at 5:50 pm. Spirit FM is also available on the internet (www.spiritfm905.com).<br />
<br />
A prayer vigil will be held at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church, 550 U.S. Highway 41 S., Inverness on Tuesday, January 7 at 5:30 p.m.<br />
<br />
Nativity Catholic Church will hold a Prayer Vigil in the Chapel on for Monday, January 6 at 7:00 p.m., 705 E. Brandon Boulevard, Brandon.<br />
<br />
Contact: Sabrina Burton Schultz, Diocese of St. Petersburg, (727) 344-1611, <a href="mailto:sab@dosp.org" title="mailto:sab@dosp.org">sab@dosp.org</a>.<br />
<br />
<u>Diocese of Orlando</u><br />
A prayer service will be held at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 6803 Old Hwy 441 South, Mt. Dora on Tuesday, January 7 at 3:00 p.m.<br />
<br />
A bus will be leaving from the parking lot of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 201 University Blvd., Daytona Beach on January 7 at 2:30 p.m. for a prayer service outside of the prison in Starke at 6:00 p.m.<br />
<br />
Contact: Office of Advocacy and Justice, (407) 246-4819, <a href="mailto:advocacyjustice@orlandodiocese.org" title="mailto:advocacyjustice@orlandodiocese.org">advocacyjustice@orlandodiocese.org</a>.<br />
<br />
<u>Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee</u><br />
A holy hour will take place at Basilica of St. Michael the Archangel, 19 N Palafox St, Pensacola, on Monday, January 6 at 5:00 p.m. (CST). Contact: (850) 438-4985.<br />
<br />
A holy hour will be held at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 1008 Fortune Avenue, Panama City, on Monday, January 6 at 7:00 p.m. (CST). Contact: (850) 763-1821, <a href="mailto:stj.office@knology.net" title="mailto:stj.office@knology.net">stj.office@knology.net</a>.<br />
<br />
A prayer service to end the use of the death penalty is held at Immaculate Conception parish, 2750 South Byron Butler Parkway, Perry, every Thursday afternoon at 3:00 p.m.<br />
<br />
Additional Contact: Peggy DeKeyser, Office of Communications, Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee, (850) 435-3528, <a href="mailto:dekeyserp@ptdiocese.org" title="mailto:dekeyserp@ptdiocese.org">dekeyserp@ptdiocese.org</a>.<br />
<br />
Tallahassee Citizens Against the Death Penalty will sponsor an interfaith prayer vigil scheduled for Tuesday, January 7 at 6:00 p.m. in front of the Governor's Mansion in Tallahassee and a service of remembrance in the Capitol Building Plaza Level Rotunda the day after the execution, Wednesday, January 8 at noon. Contact: Sheila Meehan, (850) 524-0080.<br />
<br />
<u>Diocese of Palm Beach</u><br />
Catholic Charities Respect Life Office in partnership with the Diocese of Palm Beach and Pax Christi will host a prayer service on Tuesday, January 7 at 5:30 p.m. at the Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola, 9999 N. Military Trail, Palm Beach Gardens. The service will be followed by a procession and silent vigil in front of the Cathedral from 5:45 - 6:15 p.m. Contact: Dianne Laubert, (561) 313-2280, <a href="mailto:dlaubert@diocesepb.org" title="mailto:dlaubert@diocesepb.org">dlaubert@diocesepb.org</a>.<br />
<br />
<u>Diocese of Venice</u><br />
A prayer vigil will be held in the Chapel at St. Katharine Drexel Catholic Church, 1922 SW 20th Avenue, Cape Coral on Sunday, January 5, at 7:00 p.m. Contact: Maria, (239) 540-7096, <a href="mailto:maria1403@juno.com" title="mailto:maria1403@juno.com">maria1403@juno.com</a>.<br />
<br />
Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church, 425 South Tamiami Trail, Osprey, will hold a prayer vigil on Tuesday, January 7 at 5:30 p.m. Contact: Janine Marrone, (941) 497-4917.</p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p> </p>
Date
December Monthly Calls Us to Gospel Solidarity
News Intro Text
In the December Monthly, Dr. Mikulich calls to mind the joy of living Gospel Solidarity
News Item Content
<p>In the <a href="http://e2.ma/message/70vwd/vr4vzb">December </a><em><a href="http://e2.ma/message/70vwd/vr4vzb">JustSouth Monthly</a>, </em>Dr. Alex Mikulich reflects on the call of Pope Francis to live the joy of Gospel solidarity and its place in our reflection on the mystery of Christmas and the angel's message to the poor shepherds.</p>
Date
JustSouth Monthly focuses on gratitude for immigrant workers
News Intro Text
The November JustSouth Monthly focused attention on the importance of gratitude to workers in our discussion of immigration reform.
News Item Content
<p>In the November 2013 <em>JustSouth Monthly, </em>Dr. Sue Weishar called upon New Orleaneans and others to remember the importance of gratitude in the Ignatian tradition and its application to discussions of immigrant workers, reminding all of us of the critical contribution which immigrant workers made to the rebuilding of New Orleans and the Gulf Coast after hurricane Katrina. See <a href="http://e2.ma/message/b4gud/vr4vzb">monthly.</a></p>
Date
JSRI Launches JustSouth Monthly
News Intro Text
In October JSRI converted its JustSouth Enews into the JustSouth Monthly, focusing on perspectives on faith doing justice. The monthly is distributed to all Loyola students, staff, and faculty and 1500 persons on the JSRI mailing list.
News Item Content
<p>In October JSRI converted its <em>JustSouth Enews</em> into the <em>JustSouth Monthly,</em> focusing on perspectives on faith doing justice and well as reports on JSRI activities and upcoming events. The monthly is distributed to all Loyola students, staff, and faculty and 1500 persons on the JSRI mailing list. The <a href="http://e2.ma/message/r04qd/vr4vzb">October Monthly</a> featured <em>The Globalization of Indifference: Pope Francis asks, "Who is responsible?"</em> by JSRI director Fred Kammer, SJ.</p>
Date
New JustSouth Quarterly published
News Intro Text
The Fall 2013 JustSouth Quarterly addresses the assault on the hungry, CST and hunger, and marching for racial justice.
News Item Content
<p>The new <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/justsouth-quarterly"><em>JustSouth Quarterly </em></a>addresses the relentless assault on America's hungry, Catholic Soclal Thought and hunger, and the meaning of the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington.</p>
Date
Lazarus and the Rich Men
News Intro Text
Three new reflections on what Pope Benedict called one of the "three great parables" of Jesus.
News Item Content
<p>In a new column, Catholics in Alliance for the Common Good offer us three examples of how the parable of the rich man and Lazarus is so compellingly true in our 2013 economy and justice system. <a href="http://catholicsinalliance.org/palumbocgf100913.php">The column by Ben Palumbo,</a> board member, is good reading for fall break for students and faculty and beyond.</p>
Date
Katrina Homeowners speak out for Comprehensive Immigration Reform
News Intro Text
On August 29, 2013, the Jesuit Social Research Institute held a press conference to mark the eighth anniversary of Katrina Hurricane in which homeowners, assisted by immigrant workers in rebuilding after the storm, called for reform of the broken U.S. immigration system.
News Item Content
<p>On August 29, 2013, the Jesuit Social Research Institute held a press conference to mark the eighth anniversary of Katrina Hurricane and call for reform of the U.S. immigration system by highlighting the role immigrant laborers played in rebuilding New Orleans. Area homeowners, assisted by immigrant workers in rebuilding after Katrina, shared their experiences and spoke about why they believe our country needs compassionate and common-sense immigration reform.</p>
<p>These testimonies come at a time where the <img alt="" src="/jsri/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/images/Katrina%20Homeowners.JPG" style="width: 314px; height: 250px; float: right;" />U.S. Senate bi-partisan bill for comprehensive immigration reform and the debate on immigration shifts to the House of Representatives. The Senate bill, passed in June, includes measures which would further strengthen the border, revamp our out-dated and inefficient visa processing system, protect the rights of American workers, and create a road map for earned citizenship for over 11 million undocumented immigrants living and working in the U.S.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/8jmcv1wvg0kndah/08-29-2013%20Presser-Loyola.mp3?n=76725538 https://www.dropbox.com/s/8jmcv1wvg0kndah/08-29-2013%20Presser-Loyola.mp3?n=76725538">To listen to audio of the press conference click here.</a></p>
<p>These testimonies come at a time where the <img alt="" src="/jsri/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/images/Katrina%20Homeowners.JPG" style="width: 314px; height: 250px; float: right;" />U.S. Senate bi-partisan bill for comprehensive immigration reform and the debate on immigration shifts to the House of Representatives. The Senate bill, passed in June, includes measures which would further strengthen the border, revamp our out-dated and inefficient visa processing system, protect the rights of American workers, and create a road map for earned citizenship for over 11 million undocumented immigrants living and working in the U.S.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/8jmcv1wvg0kndah/08-29-2013%20Presser-Loyola.mp3?n=76725538 https://www.dropbox.com/s/8jmcv1wvg0kndah/08-29-2013%20Presser-Loyola.mp3?n=76725538">To listen to audio of the press conference click here.</a></p>
Date
Fr. Kammer reflection on Labor Day justice published in Washington Post
News Intro Text
On September 2, 2013 the Washington Post published a reflection by Fr. Fred Kammer, SJ on the dignity and right to just wages for fast-food restaurant workers in the United States.
News Item Content
<p>On September 2, 2013 the <em>Washington Post</em> published a reflection by Fr. Fred Kammer, SJ on the dignity and right to just wages for fast-food restaurant workers in the United States. In "Labor Day justice: What’s the real cost of your cheap, fast food?", Fr. Kammer notes the growing economic inequality across the nation and the stagnation of wages and salaries, especially for those at the bottom of the income scale. Due to this, Fr. Kammer echoes the call of other religious leaders for an increase in the minimum wage to a just wage.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/on-faith/wp/2013/09/02/labor-day-justice-whats-the-real-cost-of-your-cheap-fast-food/">Click here to read Fr. Kammer's article at the <em>Washington Post</em>.</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/human-life-and-dignity/labor-employment/labor-day-statement-2013.cfm">Click here to read the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops' Labor Day statement.</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/on-faith/wp/2013/09/02/labor-day-justice-whats-the-real-cost-of-your-cheap-fast-food/">Click here to read Fr. Kammer's article at the <em>Washington Post</em>.</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/human-life-and-dignity/labor-employment/labor-day-statement-2013.cfm">Click here to read the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops' Labor Day statement.</a></p>
Date
Is there a moral duty to raise the minimum wage?
News Intro Text
The July 2013 edition of the JustSouth E-newsletter examines the moral imperative of raising the minimum wage, the Supreme Court's ruling on the Voting Rights Act, and reasons to support the Senate's recent comprehensive immigration reform bill.
News Item Content
<p>The July 2013 edition of the JustSouth E-newsletter examines the moral imperative of raising the minimum wage, the Supreme Court's ruling on the Voting Rights Act, and reasons to support the Senate's recent comprehensive immigration reform bill.</p>
<p><a href="http://e2.ma/webview/vbocd/b28e1bf777d43cf62aef0b2965979c6c">Read the full edition of the March E-newsletter here.</a></p>
<ul>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/minimum-wage-gateway-worker-dignity">Minimum Wage: Gateway to Worker Dignity</a>--Kammer</li>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/1965-voting-rights-act">Gutting the Voting Rights Act: U.S. Supreme Court Removes Key Enforcement Provision</a>--Mikulich</li>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/senate-bill-744">Let Us Count the Reasons: Why Support the Senate’s Comprehensive Immigration Reform Bill</a>--Weishar</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://e2.ma/webview/vbocd/b28e1bf777d43cf62aef0b2965979c6c">Read the full edition of the March E-newsletter here.</a></p>
<ul>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/minimum-wage-gateway-worker-dignity">Minimum Wage: Gateway to Worker Dignity</a>--Kammer</li>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/1965-voting-rights-act">Gutting the Voting Rights Act: U.S. Supreme Court Removes Key Enforcement Provision</a>--Mikulich</li>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/senate-bill-744">Let Us Count the Reasons: Why Support the Senate’s Comprehensive Immigration Reform Bill</a>--Weishar</li>
</ul>
Date
Senate passes comprehensive immigration reform bill
News Intro Text
On June 27, the Senate passed the S.744 immigration reform bill. Though the bill does offer a path to citizenship for millions of undocumented immigrants in the U.S., it also contains a number of negative amendments. The bill faces an uphill battle to gain approval in the House.
News Item Content
<p>On June 27, the Senate passed the S.744 immigration reform bill. Though the bill does offer a path to citizenship for millions of undocumented immigrants in the U.S., it also contains a number of negative amendments. The bill faces an uphill battle to gain approval in the House.</p>
<p>Click here to read the <a href="http://www.jesuit.org/2013/06/27/u-s-jesuit-conference-statement-on-passage-of-the-senates-border-security-economic-opportunity-and-immigration-modernization-act-of-2013/">U.S. Jesuit Conference Statement on Passage of the Senate’s Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act of 2013</a>.</p>
<p>Click here to read the <a href="http://www.jesuit.org/2013/06/27/u-s-jesuit-conference-statement-on-passage-of-the-senates-border-security-economic-opportunity-and-immigration-modernization-act-of-2013/">U.S. Jesuit Conference Statement on Passage of the Senate’s Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act of 2013</a>.</p>
Date
A Call for Immigration Reform
News Intro Text
On June 5, the Archdiocese of New Orleans held a prayer service in support of comprehensive immigration reform, as Congress works to fix our nation’s broken system.
News Item Content
<p>On June 5, the Archdiocese of New Orleans held a prayer service in support of comprehensive immigration reform, as Congress works to fix our nation’s broken system. During the service, a number of immigrant families told their stories and Archbishop Aymond called on all Catholics to work seek reform that protects families and the common good. The service was sponsored by the Archidiocese of New Orleans, Catholic Charities New Orleans, and the Jesuit Social Research Institute.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/human-life-and-dignity/immigration/churchteachingonimmigrationreform.cfm">Learn more about the Church's position on immigration reform>></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.capwiz.com/justiceforimmigrants/issues/alert/?alertid=62312721&type=CO"><span class="xc_maintext">Send an electronic postcard your U.S. Senators and Representatives asking that they pass just and compassionate immigration reform legislation in the 113th Congress>></span></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/human-life-and-dignity/immigration/churchteachingonimmigrationreform.cfm">Learn more about the Church's position on immigration reform>></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.capwiz.com/justiceforimmigrants/issues/alert/?alertid=62312721&type=CO"><span class="xc_maintext">Send an electronic postcard your U.S. Senators and Representatives asking that they pass just and compassionate immigration reform legislation in the 113th Congress>></span></a></p>
<p> </p>
Date
America Magazine reviews Dr. Alex Mikulich's book on Hyper-Incarceration
News Intro Text
The May 13th edition of America Magazine included a review by Nathan Schneider of Dr. Alex Mikulich's latest book The Scandal of White Complicity in U.S. Hyper-Incarceration.
News Item Content
<p>The May 13th edition of America Magazine included a review by Nathan Schneider of Dr. Alex Mikulich's latest book The Scandal of White Complicity in U.S. Hyper-Incarceration.</p>
<p><a href="http://americamagazine.org/issue/culture/criminal-injustice-system">Click here to read the review>></a></p>
<p><a href="http://americamagazine.org/issue/culture/criminal-injustice-system">Click here to read the review>></a></p>
Date
Are we troublemakers for the beloved community?
News Intro Text
The April 2013 edition of the JustSouth E-Newsletter commemorates the 50th anniversary of MLK's Letter from Birmingham Jail, gives an overview of recent efforts at immigration reform, and explores the impact of state Medicaid decisions on people of color.
News Item Content
<p>The April 2013 edition of the JustSouth E-Newsletter commemorates the 50th anniversary of MLK's <em>Letter from Birmingham Jail</em>, gives an overview of recent efforts at immigration reform, and explores the impact of state Medicaid decisions on people of color.</p>
<p><a href="http://e2.ma/message/jmw4c/vfr11c">Read the full edition of the March E-newsletter here.</a></p>
<ul>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/troublemakers-beloved-community">Troublemakers of the Beloved Community: The 50th Anniversary of the <em>Letter from Birmingham Jail</em></a>--Mikulich</li>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/new-hope-immigrants">New Hope for Immigrants: A Way Forward for Immigration Reform</a>--Weishar</li>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/their-stake-medicaid-expansion">Their Stake in Medicaid Expansion: State Medicaid Decisions Impact People of Color</a>--Kammer</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://e2.ma/message/jmw4c/vfr11c">Read the full edition of the March E-newsletter here.</a></p>
<ul>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/troublemakers-beloved-community">Troublemakers of the Beloved Community: The 50th Anniversary of the <em>Letter from Birmingham Jail</em></a>--Mikulich</li>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/new-hope-immigrants">New Hope for Immigrants: A Way Forward for Immigration Reform</a>--Weishar</li>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/their-stake-medicaid-expansion">Their Stake in Medicaid Expansion: State Medicaid Decisions Impact People of Color</a>--Kammer</li>
</ul>
Date
Spring 2013 JustSouth Quarterly posted
News Intro Text
The Spring 2013 edition of the JustSouth Quarterly focuses on lives changed by the Immigration Reform and Control Act (IRCA) of 1986, Catholic Social Thought and Subsidiarity, W.E.B Du Bois' gift of "double-consciousness," and proposed changes to state-local tax systems.
News Item Content
<p>The Spring 2013 edition of the JustSouth Quarterly focuses on lives changed by the Immigration Reform and Control Act (IRCA) of 1986, Catholic Social Thought and Subsidiarity, W.E.B Du Bois gift of "double-consciousness," and proposed changes to state-local tax systems.</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JSQ_Spring_2013.pdf">Click here to read the latest edition of the JustSouth Quarterly.</a></p>
<p>Articles include:</p>
<ul>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/immigration-reform-retrospect">Immigration Reform in Retrospect: Lessons Learned, Lives Changed</a>--Weishar</li>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/catholic-social-thought-cst-and-subsidiarity">Catholic Social Thought (CST) and Subsidiarity</a>--Kammer</li>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/gift-web-du-bois-and-double-consciousness">The Gift of W.E.B. Du Bois and Double-Consciousness</a>--Mikulich</li>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/taxing-poor">Taxing the Poor: The Regressive Nature of State-Local Tax System</a>s--Kammer</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JSQ_Spring_2013.pdf">Click here to read the latest edition of the JustSouth Quarterly.</a></p>
<p>Articles include:</p>
<ul>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/immigration-reform-retrospect">Immigration Reform in Retrospect: Lessons Learned, Lives Changed</a>--Weishar</li>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/catholic-social-thought-cst-and-subsidiarity">Catholic Social Thought (CST) and Subsidiarity</a>--Kammer</li>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/gift-web-du-bois-and-double-consciousness">The Gift of W.E.B. Du Bois and Double-Consciousness</a>--Mikulich</li>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/taxing-poor">Taxing the Poor: The Regressive Nature of State-Local Tax System</a>s--Kammer</li>
</ul>
Date
How "green" was Pope Benedict XVI?
News Intro Text
The March 2013 edition of the JustSouth E-Newsletter highlights Pope Benedict XVI's commitment to environmental justice, looks at new estimates of the number of unauthorized immigrants in the U.S., and explores reasons why now is the time to end the death penalty in the U.S.
News Item Content
<p>The March 2013 edition of the JustSouth E-Newsletter highlights Pope Benedict XVI's commitment to environmental justice, looks at new estimates of the number of unauthorized immigrants in the U.S., and explores reasons why now is the time to end the death penalty in the U.S.</p>
<p><a href="http://e2.ma/message/74qvc/vfr11c">Read the full edition of the March E-newsletter here.</a></p>
<ul>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/covenant-creation?utm_campaign=March%202013%20E-news%20%28staff%29&utm_medium=email&utm_source=newsletter&utm_content=[u%27read%27%2C%20u%27more%27%2C%20u%27%5Cxbb%27]">A Covenant with Creation: Pope Benedict's Teaching on the Environment</a>--Kammer</li>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/refining-numbers?utm_campaign=March%202013%20E-news%20%28staff%29&utm_medium=email&utm_source=newsletter&utm_content=[u%27read%27%2C%20u%27more%27%2C%20u%27%5Cxbb%27]">Refining the Numbers: New Estimates of Unauthorized Immigrants in the U.S.</a>--Weishar</li>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/christopher-sepulvado%E2%80%99s-execution-halted?utm_campaign=March%202013%20E-news%20%28staff%29&utm_medium=email&utm_source=newsletter&utm_content=[u%27read%27%2C%20u%27more%27%2C%20u%27%5Cxbb%27]">Execution Halted: Time to End the Death Penalty</a>--Mikulich</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://e2.ma/message/74qvc/vfr11c">Read the full edition of the March E-newsletter here.</a></p>
<ul>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/covenant-creation?utm_campaign=March%202013%20E-news%20%28staff%29&utm_medium=email&utm_source=newsletter&utm_content=[u%27read%27%2C%20u%27more%27%2C%20u%27%5Cxbb%27]">A Covenant with Creation: Pope Benedict's Teaching on the Environment</a>--Kammer</li>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/refining-numbers?utm_campaign=March%202013%20E-news%20%28staff%29&utm_medium=email&utm_source=newsletter&utm_content=[u%27read%27%2C%20u%27more%27%2C%20u%27%5Cxbb%27]">Refining the Numbers: New Estimates of Unauthorized Immigrants in the U.S.</a>--Weishar</li>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/christopher-sepulvado%E2%80%99s-execution-halted?utm_campaign=March%202013%20E-news%20%28staff%29&utm_medium=email&utm_source=newsletter&utm_content=[u%27read%27%2C%20u%27more%27%2C%20u%27%5Cxbb%27]">Execution Halted: Time to End the Death Penalty</a>--Mikulich</li>
</ul>
Date
An execution on Ash Wednesday?
News Intro Text
The January 2013 edition of the JustSouth E-Newsletter calls for a stop to an execution in Louisiana scheduled for Ash Wednesday, looks at Catholic teaching on immigration reform, and provides an analysis of the tax deal passed by Congress earlier this month.
News Item Content
<p>The January 2013 edition of the JustSouth E-Newsletter calls for a stop to an execution in Louisiana scheduled for Ash Wednesday, looks at Catholic teaching on immigration reform, and provides an analysis of the tax deal passed by Congress earlier this month.</p>
<p><a href="http://e2.ma/message/vjypc/vfr11c">Read the full edition of the January E-newsletter here.</a><a href="http://e2.ma/message/rovjc/r8611c"> </a></p>
<ul>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/executing-life-and-human-dignity">Ash Wednesday Execution: Executing a Life and Human Dignity</a>--Mikulich</li>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/strangers-no-longer">Strangers No Longer: Catholic Teachings on Immigration Refor</a>m--Weishar</li>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/tax-deal">The Tax Deal…and More Coming Horrors</a>--Kammer</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://e2.ma/message/vjypc/vfr11c">Read the full edition of the January E-newsletter here.</a><a href="http://e2.ma/message/rovjc/r8611c"> </a></p>
<ul>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/executing-life-and-human-dignity">Ash Wednesday Execution: Executing a Life and Human Dignity</a>--Mikulich</li>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/strangers-no-longer">Strangers No Longer: Catholic Teachings on Immigration Refor</a>m--Weishar</li>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/tax-deal">The Tax Deal…and More Coming Horrors</a>--Kammer</li>
</ul>
Date
January is Poverty Awareness Month
News Intro Text
Did you know that 1 out of 5 children in the U.S. lives in poverty? All this month the U.S. Catholic Bishops are working to raise awareness about the issue of poverty in America.
News Item Content
<p>Did you know that 1 out of 5 children in the U.S. lives in poverty? All this month the U.S. Catholic Bishops are working to raise awareness about the issue of poverty in America.</p>
<p>Print the USCCB's <a href="http://www.usccb.org/about/catholic-campaign-for-human-development/povertyusa/upload/poverty-awareness-month-calendar.pdf">Poverty Awareness Month calendar </a>to pray, learn about, and address poverty.</p>
<p>Visit the USCCB's website <a href="http://usccb.org/about/catholic-campaign-for-human-development/povertyusa/">Poverty USA</a> (and now in spanish <a href="http://www.povertyusa.org/es/">Pobreza USA</a>).</p>
<p>Take <a href="http://www.povertyusa.org/the-state-of-poverty/poverty-usa-tour/">Poverty Tour USA</a> to learn what life's like at the poverty line.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Print the USCCB's <a href="http://www.usccb.org/about/catholic-campaign-for-human-development/povertyusa/upload/poverty-awareness-month-calendar.pdf">Poverty Awareness Month calendar </a>to pray, learn about, and address poverty.</p>
<p>Visit the USCCB's website <a href="http://usccb.org/about/catholic-campaign-for-human-development/povertyusa/">Poverty USA</a> (and now in spanish <a href="http://www.povertyusa.org/es/">Pobreza USA</a>).</p>
<p>Take <a href="http://www.povertyusa.org/the-state-of-poverty/poverty-usa-tour/">Poverty Tour USA</a> to learn what life's like at the poverty line.</p>
<p> </p>
Date
New Orleans Archbishop Gregory Aymond issues statement on Human Trafficking
News Intro Text
On Dec. 5, Archbishop Aymond, LCWR Region 5, and CMSM issued a statement to be read at masses throughout New Orleans asking Catholics to be aware of the issue of human trafficking, especially in the time leading up to the Super Bowl and Mardi Gras.
News Item Content
<p>On Dec. 5, Archbishop Aymond, the Leadership Council of Women Religious Region 5, and the CMSM issued a statement to be read at masses throughout New Orleans asking Catholics to be aware of the human trafficking in the city especially in the time leading up to the Super Bowl and Mardi Gras.</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Trafficking-Arch Letter-1212-mig.pdf">Read the letter here>></a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Trafficking-Arch Letter-1212-mig.pdf">Read the letter here>></a></p>
Date
CDF calls on policy makers to protect children from budget cuts
News Intro Text
The Children's Defense Fund's "Be Careful What You Cut" campaign seeks to protect children's programs from budget cuts. Click here to contact you legislator and learn more.
News Item Content
<p><font face="Arial" size="3"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Arial"><a href="http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=SSmVesEJxod%2F4qPf9ZWc6qD40IQl%2BAhZ" target="_blank" title="This external link will open in a new window">The Child<font size="3">ren's </font>Defense Fund’s Budget Principles</a> call on policy makers to improve the state of America’s children in any deficit or debt reduction deal by (1) protecting children and low-income families from cuts; (2) investing in children to create jobs and promote economic growth for the nation; and (3) ensuring that the most advantaged Americans and corporations pay their fair shar<font size="3">e.</font></span></font></p>
<p><a href="http://www.childrensdefense.org/be-careful-what-you-cut/"><font face="Arial" size="3"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Arial"><font size="3">Click here to learn more and contact your member of <font size="3">Congress.</font></font></span></font></a></p>
<p><img alt="" src="/jsri/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/images/fb5.jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 185px;" /><img alt="" src="/jsri/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/images/fb9.jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 185px;" /></p>
<p><a href="http://www.childrensdefense.org/be-careful-what-you-cut/"><font face="Arial" size="3"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Arial"><font size="3">Click here to learn more and contact your member of <font size="3">Congress.</font></font></span></font></a></p>
<p><img alt="" src="/jsri/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/images/fb5.jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 185px;" /><img alt="" src="/jsri/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/images/fb9.jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 185px;" /></p>
Date
JSRI's 5th Anniversary Highlighted in LOYNO Magazine
News Intro Text
The Fall 2012 edition of LOYNO Magazine focuses on JSRI's fifth anniversary in "Hard Work for Faith that Does Justice: JSRI Turns Five."
News Item Content
<p>The Fall 2012 edition of LOYNO Magazine focuses on JSRI's fifth anniversary in "<a href="http://magazine.loyno.edu/hard-work-faith-does-justice">Hard Work for Faith that Does Justice: JSRI Turns Five</a>."</p>
Date
Winter 2012 JustSouth Quarterly
News Intro Text
The Winter edition focuses on the fiscal cliff and the common good, Catholic Social Thought and global financial systems, recent reforms to the H2B guestworker program, and Thomas Merton’s “Letters to a White Liberal.”
News Item Content
<p>The Winter 2012 edition of the JustSouth Quarterly focuses on the fiscal cliff and the common good, Catholic Social Thought and global financial systems, recent reforms to the H2B guestworker program, and Thomas Merton’s “Letters to a White Liberal.”</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JustSouth_Quarterly_Winter_2012_JSRI.pdf">Click here to read the latest edition of the JustSouth Quarterly.</a></p>
<p>Articles include:</p>
<ul>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/fiscal-cliff-fiscal-slope-or-common-good">Fiscal Cliff, Fiscal Slope, or the Common Good: The U.S. Debt and Deficit Crisis, Lame Ducks, and a New Responsibility</a>--Kammer</li>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/catholic-social-thought-cst-and-global-financial-systems">Catholic Social Thought and Global Financial Systems</a>--Kammer</li>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/reform-guestworker-program-thwarted">Reform of Guestworker Program Thwarted</a>--Weishar</li>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/thomas-merton%E2%80%99s-%E2%80%9Cletters-white-liberal%E2%80%9D">Thomas Merton’s “Letters to a White Liberal”</a>--Mikulich</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/JustSouth_Quarterly_Winter_2012_JSRI.pdf">Click here to read the latest edition of the JustSouth Quarterly.</a></p>
<p>Articles include:</p>
<ul>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/fiscal-cliff-fiscal-slope-or-common-good">Fiscal Cliff, Fiscal Slope, or the Common Good: The U.S. Debt and Deficit Crisis, Lame Ducks, and a New Responsibility</a>--Kammer</li>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/catholic-social-thought-cst-and-global-financial-systems">Catholic Social Thought and Global Financial Systems</a>--Kammer</li>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/reform-guestworker-program-thwarted">Reform of Guestworker Program Thwarted</a>--Weishar</li>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/thomas-merton%E2%80%99s-%E2%80%9Cletters-white-liberal%E2%80%9D">Thomas Merton’s “Letters to a White Liberal”</a>--Mikulich</li>
</ul>
Date
November 2012 JustSouth E-newsletter Posted
News Intro Text
The November edition of the E-Newsletter provides an analysis of the 2012 Latino vote, looks at efforts to repudiate voter suppression, and highlights the importance of Social Security to prevent poverty.
News Item Content
<p>The November 2012 edition of the JustSouth E-Newsletter provides an analysis of the 2012 Latino vote, looks at efforts to repudiate voter suppression, and highlights the importance of Social Security to prevent poverty.</p>
<p><a href="http://e2.ma/message/rovjc/r8611c">Read the full edition of the November E-newletter here. </a></p>
<p>The articles include:</p>
<ul>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/%E2%80%98latino-giant-awakes-and-chooses-obama">The "Latino Giant” chooses Obama: An analysis of the 2012 Latino vote</a>--Weishar</li>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/victory-democracy">A Victory for Democracy: Americans repudiate voter suppression, racism</a>--Mikulich</li>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/21-million-americans-kept-out-poverty">21 Million Americans Kept Out of Poverty: Social Security critical to income of millions</a>--Kammer</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://e2.ma/message/rovjc/r8611c">Read the full edition of the November E-newletter here. </a></p>
<p>The articles include:</p>
<ul>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/%E2%80%98latino-giant-awakes-and-chooses-obama">The "Latino Giant” chooses Obama: An analysis of the 2012 Latino vote</a>--Weishar</li>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/victory-democracy">A Victory for Democracy: Americans repudiate voter suppression, racism</a>--Mikulich</li>
<li>
<a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/21-million-americans-kept-out-poverty">21 Million Americans Kept Out of Poverty: Social Security critical to income of millions</a>--Kammer</li>
</ul>
Date
Fall 2012 JustSouth Quarterly
News Intro Text
The latest JustSouth Quarterly focuses on race and the 2012 election, Catholic Social Thought and the common good, the Ryan-Romney budget plan and Catholic moral criteria, and new hope for immigrants caught up in a world of impossibility.
News Item Content
<p>The latest JustSouth Quarterly focuses on race and the 2012 election, Catholic Social Thought and the common good, the Ryan-Romney budget plan and Catholic moral criteria, and new hope for immigrants caught up in a world of impossibility.</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/justsouth-quarterly">Click here to view the Quarterly.</a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/justsouth-quarterly">Click here to view the Quarterly.</a></p>
Date
October 2012 JustSouth E-newsletter Posted
News Intro Text
The October 2012 JustSouth E-Newsletter looks at the election and Catholic social thought, highlights the Vatican II document on the Church in the Modern World, and provides an update on President Obama's executive action affecting undocumented youth.
News Item Content
<p>The October 2012 <em>JustSouth E-Newsletter </em>looks at the election and Catholic social thought, highlights the Vatican II document on the Church in the Modern World, and provides an update on President Obama's executive action affecting undocumented youth.</p>
<p><a href="http://e2.ma/message/jq7fc/fnad4b">View the October edition of the JustSouth E-newsletter.</a></p>
<p><a href="http://e2.ma/message/jq7fc/fnad4b">View the October edition of the JustSouth E-newsletter.</a></p>
Date
Dr. Alex Mikulich featured on America Magazine Blog
News Intro Text
On August 20, Dr. Alex Mikulich was featured in an America Magazine blog about the USCCB's Labor Day Statement.
News Item Content
<p>On August 20, Dr. Alex Mikulich was featured in an America Magazine blog about the USCCB's Labor Day Statement. The article by Kerry Weber is entitled "Poverty, Unions, Race, and the Bishops' Labor Day Statement." Click <a href="http://americamagazine.org/blog/entry.cfm?blog_id=2&entry_id=5301">here</a> to read the article on America Magazine's website.</p>
Date
August 2012 JustSouth E-news: What is the real fraud in voter fraud?
News Intro Text
The August 2012 JustSouth E-Newsletter looks at the real fraud in voter fraud, provides an update on the Alabama immigration law, and discusses how governors are playing politics with health care reform.
News Item Content
<p><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
</w:Compatibility>
<w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel>
</w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" LatentStyleCount="156">
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-ansi-language:#0400;
mso-fareast-language:#0400;
mso-bidi-language:#0400;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<p class="MsoNormal">The August 2012 JustSouth E-Newsletter looks at the real fraud in voter fraud, provides an update on the Alabama immigration law, and discusses how governors are playing politics with health care reform.</p>
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
</w:Compatibility>
<w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel>
</w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" LatentStyleCount="156">
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-ansi-language:#0400;
mso-fareast-language:#0400;
mso-bidi-language:#0400;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://e2.ma/message/zuptb/fnad4b">View the August edition of the JustSouth E-newsletter.</a></p>
</p>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
</w:Compatibility>
<w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel>
</w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" LatentStyleCount="156">
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-ansi-language:#0400;
mso-fareast-language:#0400;
mso-bidi-language:#0400;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<p class="MsoNormal">The August 2012 JustSouth E-Newsletter looks at the real fraud in voter fraud, provides an update on the Alabama immigration law, and discusses how governors are playing politics with health care reform.</p>
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
</w:Compatibility>
<w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel>
</w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" LatentStyleCount="156">
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-ansi-language:#0400;
mso-fareast-language:#0400;
mso-bidi-language:#0400;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://e2.ma/message/zuptb/fnad4b">View the August edition of the JustSouth E-newsletter.</a></p>
</p>
Date
The Common Good and Health Care Reform
News Intro Text
The text from Fr. Fred Kammer’s presentation to the Catholic Health Association’s Physician Leader Forum in Washington D.C. on Feb. 12, 2012 was recently featured in the July-August 2012 edition of Health Progress magazine.
News Item Content
<p>The text from Fr. Fred Kammer’s presentation to the Catholic Health Association’s Physician Leader Forum in Washington D.C. on Feb. 12, 2012, was recently featured in the July-August 2012 edition of <em>Health Progress</em> magazine. The article, entitled “The Common Good and Health Care Reform,” includes a consideration of the traditional concepts of the common good and an analysis of the factors in Catholic social thought that contribute to the reality of the common good in society. In addition, it raises key questions that should be considered in the ongoing work of health care reform in the United States.</p>
<p>Read online: <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/common-good-and-health-care-reform">The Common Good and Health Care Reform</a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/the-common-good-and-healthcare-reform-health-progress-0712.pdf">Download the pdf from <em>Health Progress</em>, July-August 2012</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><em><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w worddocument>
<w view>Normal</w>
<w zoom>0</w>
<w punctuationkerning></w>
<w validateagainstschemas></w>
<w saveifxmlinvalid>false</w>
<w ignoremixedcontent>false</w>
<w alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w>
<w compatibility>
<w breakwrappedtables></w>
<w snaptogridincell></w>
<w wraptextwithpunct></w>
<w useasianbreakrules></w>
<w dontgrowautofit></w>
</w>
<w browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w>
</w>
</xml><xml>
<w latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156">
</w>
</xml><object classid="38481807-CA0E-42D2-BF39-B33AF135CC4D" id="ieooui"></object>
<style>
st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) }
</style>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-ansi-language:#0400;
mso-fareast-language:#0400;
mso-bidi-language:#0400;}
</style>
The text from Fr. Fred Kammer’s presentation to the Catholic Health Association’s Physician Leader Forum in Washington D.C. on Feb. 12, 2012 was recently featured in the July-August 2012 edition of <em>Health Progress</em> magazine. The article, entitled “The Common Good and Health Care Reform,” includes a consideration of the traditional concepts of the common good and an analysis of factors in Catholic social thought that contribute to the reality of the common good in society. In addition, it raises key questions that should be considered in the ongoing work of health care reform in the United States.</p>
<p>Read online: The Common Good and Health Care Reform</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/the-common-good-and-healthcare-reform-health-progress-0712.pdf" fcksavedurl="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/the-common-good-and-healthcare-reform-health-progress-0712.pdf">Download the pdf from <em>Health Progress</em>, July-August 2012</a></p>
--></em></p>
<p>Read online: <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/common-good-and-health-care-reform">The Common Good and Health Care Reform</a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/the-common-good-and-healthcare-reform-health-progress-0712.pdf">Download the pdf from <em>Health Progress</em>, July-August 2012</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><em><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w worddocument>
<w view>Normal</w>
<w zoom>0</w>
<w punctuationkerning></w>
<w validateagainstschemas></w>
<w saveifxmlinvalid>false</w>
<w ignoremixedcontent>false</w>
<w alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w>
<w compatibility>
<w breakwrappedtables></w>
<w snaptogridincell></w>
<w wraptextwithpunct></w>
<w useasianbreakrules></w>
<w dontgrowautofit></w>
</w>
<w browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w>
</w>
</xml><xml>
<w latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156">
</w>
</xml><object classid="38481807-CA0E-42D2-BF39-B33AF135CC4D" id="ieooui"></object>
<style>
st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) }
</style>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-ansi-language:#0400;
mso-fareast-language:#0400;
mso-bidi-language:#0400;}
</style>
The text from Fr. Fred Kammer’s presentation to the Catholic Health Association’s Physician Leader Forum in Washington D.C. on Feb. 12, 2012 was recently featured in the July-August 2012 edition of <em>Health Progress</em> magazine. The article, entitled “The Common Good and Health Care Reform,” includes a consideration of the traditional concepts of the common good and an analysis of factors in Catholic social thought that contribute to the reality of the common good in society. In addition, it raises key questions that should be considered in the ongoing work of health care reform in the United States.</p>
<p>Read online: The Common Good and Health Care Reform</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/the-common-good-and-healthcare-reform-health-progress-0712.pdf" fcksavedurl="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/the-common-good-and-healthcare-reform-health-progress-0712.pdf">Download the pdf from <em>Health Progress</em>, July-August 2012</a></p>
--></em></p>
Date
New study highlights the hidden challenges of obtaining voter identification
News Intro Text
Ten states, including Alabama, Mississippi, and Texas, have recently passed laws which require voters to show a government-issued photo identification. However, 11% of eligible voters lack any form of ID.
News Item Content
<p><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w worddocument>
<w view>Normal</w>
<w zoom>0</w>
<w punctuationkerning></w>
<w validateagainstschemas></w>
<w saveifxmlinvalid>false</w>
<w ignoremixedcontent>false</w>
<w alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w>
<w compatibility>
<w breakwrappedtables></w>
<w snaptogridincell></w>
<w wraptextwithpunct></w>
<w useasianbreakrules></w>
<w dontgrowautofit></w>
</w>
<w browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w>
</w>
</xml><xml>
<w latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156">
</w>
</xml><object classid="38481807-CA0E-42D2-BF39-B33AF135CC4D" id="ieooui"></object>
<style>
st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) }
</style>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-ansi-language:#0400;
mso-fareast-language:#0400;
mso-bidi-language:#0400;}
</style>
Ten states, including Alabama, Mississippi, and Texas, have recently passed laws which require voters to show a government-issued photo identification. However, 11% of eligible voters do not have any form of government-issued ID and many lack access to obtain one due to the distance, costs, necessary paperwork, or time needed. <a href="http://www.brennancenter.org/content/resource/the_challenge_of_obtaining_voter_identification" fcksavedurl="http://www.brennancenter.org/content/resource/the_challenge_of_obtaining_voter_identification">A recent comprehensive study by the Brennan Center for Justice</a> at New York University School of Law highlights the hidden challenges of obtaining voter identification and points out that African Americans, Hispanics, and the poor are most negatively affected by the new laws.</p>
</p>
--></p>
<p>Ten states, including Alabama, Mississippi, and Texas, have recently passed laws which require voters to show a government-issued photo identification. However, 11% of eligible voters do not have any form of government-issued ID and many lack access to obtain one due to the distance, costs, necessary paperwork, or time needed. <a href="http://www.brennancenter.org/content/resource/the_challenge_of_obtaining_voter_identification">A recent comprehensive study by the Brennan Center for Justice</a> at New York University School of Law highlights the hidden challenges of obtaining voter identification and points out that African Americans, Hispanics, and the poor are most negatively affected by the new laws.</p>
<w worddocument>
<w view>Normal</w>
<w zoom>0</w>
<w punctuationkerning></w>
<w validateagainstschemas></w>
<w saveifxmlinvalid>false</w>
<w ignoremixedcontent>false</w>
<w alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w>
<w compatibility>
<w breakwrappedtables></w>
<w snaptogridincell></w>
<w wraptextwithpunct></w>
<w useasianbreakrules></w>
<w dontgrowautofit></w>
</w>
<w browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w>
</w>
</xml><xml>
<w latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156">
</w>
</xml><object classid="38481807-CA0E-42D2-BF39-B33AF135CC4D" id="ieooui"></object>
<style>
st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) }
</style>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-ansi-language:#0400;
mso-fareast-language:#0400;
mso-bidi-language:#0400;}
</style>
Ten states, including Alabama, Mississippi, and Texas, have recently passed laws which require voters to show a government-issued photo identification. However, 11% of eligible voters do not have any form of government-issued ID and many lack access to obtain one due to the distance, costs, necessary paperwork, or time needed. <a href="http://www.brennancenter.org/content/resource/the_challenge_of_obtaining_voter_identification" fcksavedurl="http://www.brennancenter.org/content/resource/the_challenge_of_obtaining_voter_identification">A recent comprehensive study by the Brennan Center for Justice</a> at New York University School of Law highlights the hidden challenges of obtaining voter identification and points out that African Americans, Hispanics, and the poor are most negatively affected by the new laws.</p>
</p>
--></p>
<p>Ten states, including Alabama, Mississippi, and Texas, have recently passed laws which require voters to show a government-issued photo identification. However, 11% of eligible voters do not have any form of government-issued ID and many lack access to obtain one due to the distance, costs, necessary paperwork, or time needed. <a href="http://www.brennancenter.org/content/resource/the_challenge_of_obtaining_voter_identification">A recent comprehensive study by the Brennan Center for Justice</a> at New York University School of Law highlights the hidden challenges of obtaining voter identification and points out that African Americans, Hispanics, and the poor are most negatively affected by the new laws.</p>
Date
Bishops respond to Supreme Court's ruling on AZ law
News Intro Text
On June 25, the USCCB issued a response to the Supreme Court's ruling on Arizona’s controversial immigration law SB 1070.
News Item Content
<p><span>On June 25, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops <a href="http://www.usccb.org/news/2012/12-116.cfm">issued a response </a>to the Supreme Court's ruling on <st1 st="on" state=""></st1><st1 st="on" place=""></st1>Arizona’s controversial immigration law SB 1070. According to the response, the Bishops are hopeful about the court's decision but remain <span>cautious </span>about some parts of the ruling. <o p=""></o></span></p>
Date
Soul-searching for racial justice
News Intro Text
In the May 26 issue of the National Catholic Reporter, Dr. Alex Mikulich discusses the Trayvon Martin and the need for deeper soul-searching for racial justice.
News Item Content
<p>In the May 26 issue of the National Catholic Reporter, Dr. Alex Mikulich discusses the Trayvon Martin and the need for deeper soul-searching for racial justice.</p>
<p><a href="http://ncronline.org/news/spirituality/soul-searching-racial-justice">Soul-searching for racial justice</a> - Dr. Alex Mikulich</p>
<p><a href="http://ncronline.org/news/spirituality/soul-searching-racial-justice">Soul-searching for racial justice</a> - Dr. Alex Mikulich</p>
Date
Summer 2012 JustSouth Quarterly Posted
News Intro Text
The Summer 2012 JustSouth Quarterly addresses why anti-immigrant legislation was rejected in Mississippi, Catholic social thought and restorative justice, if relative mobility "cures" inequality, and a starting point to reduce gun violence.
News Item Content
<p>The <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Summer%202012%20JustSouth%20Quarterly_0.pdf">Summer 2012 JustSouth Quarterly</a> addresses <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/mississippi-rejects-immigration-enforcement-bill">why anti-immigrant legislation was rejected in Mississippi</a> [Weishar], <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/catholic-social-thought-and-restorative-justice">Catholic social thought and restorative justice</a> [Mikulich], <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/does-relative-mobility-%E2%80%9Ccure%E2%80%9D-inequality">if relative mobility "cures" inequality</a> [Kammer], and a <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/changing-script-starting-point-reducing-gun-violence">starting point to reduce gun violence</a> [Mikulich].</p>
<p>To read this and past editions of the JustSouth Quarterly please visit our <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/justsouth-quarterly">archive</a>.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>To read this and past editions of the JustSouth Quarterly please visit our <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/justsouth-quarterly">archive</a>.</p>
<p> </p>
Date
Contact Sen. Mary Landrieu and ask her to support a decrease in detention funding
News Intro Text
This year U.S. taxpayers will spend over $2 billion on immigration detention. Please contact Sen. Landrieu and ask her to decrease detention funding by 1,200 beds and increase funds available for alternative to detention programs which cost less and are more effective.
News Item Content
<p><span>Senator Mary Landrieu chairs the Senate sub-committee on Department of Homeland Security Appropriations. In this position she has been able to secure billions of dollars in disaster funding to assist Louisianans to recover from Hurricane Katrina. <b>She also has a major voice on funding levels for immigration detention beds</b>. </span><span><br />
</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span>The number of immigrants detained and deported has skyrocketed 80% since 2002, devastating hundreds of thousands of families. This year, the American taxpayers will spend over $2 billion to detain 34,000 immigrants per day</span><span>—</span><span>many of whom have committed no crime and should not have been detained in the first place. President Obama has sent a budget request to Congress that <b>decreases</b> the amount of beds available for detention, thereby ensuring that fewer immigrants are separated from their families while languishing in detention. Now we must call on Senator Landrieu to <b>support</b> this request and keep families together.</span><span><br />
</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span>Please call Senator Landrieu at one of her four offices:</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span>Shreveport </span><span>–</span><span> 318.676.3085</span></li>
<li><span> Lake Charles </span><span>–</span><span> 337.436.6650 </span></li>
<li><span>Baton Rouge </span><span>–</span><span> 225.389.0395</span></li>
<li><span>New Orleans </span><span>–</span><span> 504.589.2427</span><span><br />
</span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span>1) Thank her for all her hard work helping Louisiana recover from Hurricane Katrina.</span><span><br />
</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span>2) And ask her to please support President Obama’s request to <b>decrease</b> detention funding by 1200 beds a day and <b>increase</b> the amount of funding available for alternatives to detention programs that are effective and far less costly to American taxpayers.</span><span><br />
</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span>Right now the amount of detention beds that must be filled is an arbitrary, congressionally-set figure not based on demonstrated need. Secretary Napolitano testified in March that DHS does not need all of the detention beds that Congress authorized this year. Congress should not be wasting taxpayer dollars on unnecessary, inhumane, and costly detention. By law, some individuals must be detained. But thousands of others do not. A recent report based on a snapshot of immigration detention reveals that 40% of individuals held in detention on October 3, 2011 had NO criminal history. Now is the time to keep families together, and keep people from being detained that don’t need to be in detention.<br />
</span></p>
<p> </p>
</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span>The number of immigrants detained and deported has skyrocketed 80% since 2002, devastating hundreds of thousands of families. This year, the American taxpayers will spend over $2 billion to detain 34,000 immigrants per day</span><span>—</span><span>many of whom have committed no crime and should not have been detained in the first place. President Obama has sent a budget request to Congress that <b>decreases</b> the amount of beds available for detention, thereby ensuring that fewer immigrants are separated from their families while languishing in detention. Now we must call on Senator Landrieu to <b>support</b> this request and keep families together.</span><span><br />
</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span>Please call Senator Landrieu at one of her four offices:</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span>Shreveport </span><span>–</span><span> 318.676.3085</span></li>
<li><span> Lake Charles </span><span>–</span><span> 337.436.6650 </span></li>
<li><span>Baton Rouge </span><span>–</span><span> 225.389.0395</span></li>
<li><span>New Orleans </span><span>–</span><span> 504.589.2427</span><span><br />
</span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span>1) Thank her for all her hard work helping Louisiana recover from Hurricane Katrina.</span><span><br />
</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span>2) And ask her to please support President Obama’s request to <b>decrease</b> detention funding by 1200 beds a day and <b>increase</b> the amount of funding available for alternatives to detention programs that are effective and far less costly to American taxpayers.</span><span><br />
</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span>Right now the amount of detention beds that must be filled is an arbitrary, congressionally-set figure not based on demonstrated need. Secretary Napolitano testified in March that DHS does not need all of the detention beds that Congress authorized this year. Congress should not be wasting taxpayer dollars on unnecessary, inhumane, and costly detention. By law, some individuals must be detained. But thousands of others do not. A recent report based on a snapshot of immigration detention reveals that 40% of individuals held in detention on October 3, 2011 had NO criminal history. Now is the time to keep families together, and keep people from being detained that don’t need to be in detention.<br />
</span></p>
<p> </p>
Date
April 2012 JustSouth E-news: Is there a Payday Shark in Your Bank Account?
News Intro Text
The April 2012 JustSouth E-Newsletter looks at a new method of payday lending, the common good and election 2012, and immigration enforcement legislation that failed to pass in Mississippi.
News Item Content
<p>The April 2012 JustSouth E-Newsletter looks at a new method of payday lending, the common good and election 2012, and immigration enforcement legislation that failed to pass in Mississippi.</p>
<p>View the April edition of the JustSouth E-news <a href="https://app.e2ma.net/app/view:CampaignPublic/id:31385.11803578304/rid:6074cc6eb9eeca9e62ddba2e6ba350f4">here</a>.</p>
<p>View the April edition of the JustSouth E-news <a href="https://app.e2ma.net/app/view:CampaignPublic/id:31385.11803578304/rid:6074cc6eb9eeca9e62ddba2e6ba350f4">here</a>.</p>
Date
JSRI Signs On to Letter Urging the Reduction of Spending on Immigration Detention
News Intro Text
On March 23, JSRI and numerous other national, state, and local organizations signed off on a letter from the Detention Watch Network asking Senator Mary Landrieu and Representative Robert Aderholt of the Subcommittee on Homeland Security Appropriations to reduce spending on immigration detention.
News Item Content
<p>On March 23, JSRI along with numerous other organizations signed off on a letter from the Detention Watch Network asking Senator Mary Landrieu and Representative Robert Aderholt of the Subcommittee on Homeland Security Appropriations to reduce spending on immigration detention.<br />
<br />
Read a copy of the letter <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/NGO FY 2013 ICE Approps Recommendations_0.pdf">here</a>.</p>
<br />
Read a copy of the letter <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/NGO FY 2013 ICE Approps Recommendations_0.pdf">here</a>.</p>
Date
Morality and Payday Lending
News Intro Text
On March 8, 2012, Dr. Alex Mikulich spoke at the Family Impact Seminar in Baton Rouge on the issue of morality and payday loans.
News Item Content
<p>On March 8, 2012, Dr. Alex Mikulich spoke at the Family Impact Seminar in Baton Rouge on the issue of morality and payday loans. His presentation was entitled “From the Peril of Predatory Lending to the Hope of Economic Justice: A Religious Social Ethical Perspective." Professor Nathalie Martinand recently wrote a review of the presentation on the blog <em>Credit Slips</em> entitled <a href="http://www.creditslips.org/creditslips/2012/04/usury-takes-a-bite-out-of-the-poor.html#more">"Usury Takes a Bite Out of the Poor."</a></p>
Date
Spring JustSouth Quarterly in the Mail and Posted
News Intro Text
The Spring 2012 JustSouth Quarterly addresses the life, death, and voting rights in the Texas Colonias, Catholic social thought and distributive justice, the failure of punitive crime policy, and why people of faith should be concerned about growing economic inequality.
News Item Content
<p>The Spring 2012 JustSouth Quarterly addresses the life, death, and voting rights in the Texas <em>Colonias</em> [Seifert], Catholic social thought and distributive justice [Kammer], the failure of punitive crime policy [Mikulich], and why people of faith should be concerned about growing economic inequailty [Kammer]. See the complete text <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Spring%202012-FINAL-jsq.pdf">here</a>.</p>
Date
'Effective love' and 'practical charity' secure the common good
News Intro Text
In the March 21 issue of the National Catholic Reporter, Fr. Fred Kammer, S.J. discusses the call to all Christian voters to strive to secure a common good that responds to the real needs of our neighbors.
News Item Content
<p>In the March 21 issue of the National Catholic Reporter, Fr. Fred Kammer, S.J. discusses the call to all Christian voters to strive to secure a common good that responds to the real needs of our neighbors.</p>
<p> <a href="http://ncronline.org/news/politics/effective-love-and-practical-charity-secure-common-good">'Effective love' and 'practical charity' secure the common good</a> - Fr. Fred Kammer, S.J.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> <a href="http://ncronline.org/news/politics/effective-love-and-practical-charity-secure-common-good">'Effective love' and 'practical charity' secure the common good</a> - Fr. Fred Kammer, S.J.</p>
<p> </p>
Date
Time to Cool Down
News Intro Text
In the latest issue of America Magazine, JSRI board member Tom Massaro, S.J. calls for a cool down to the polarization currently taking place both in Washington and the Church.
News Item Content
<p>In the latest issue of America Magazine, JSRI board member Tom Massaro, S.J. calls for a cool down to the polarization currently taking place both in Washington and the Church.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.americamagazine.org/content/article.cfm?article_id=13328">Time to Cool Down</a> by Fr. Tom Massaro, S.J.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.americamagazine.org/content/article.cfm?article_id=13328">Time to Cool Down</a> by Fr. Tom Massaro, S.J.</p>
Date
Diminishing All of Us: The Death Penalty in Louisiana
News Intro Text
Dr. Alex Mikulich of JSRI and Sophie Cull of the Louisiana Coalition for Alternatives to the Death Penalty recently published an extensive study on the Death Penalty in Louisiana.
News Item Content
<p> </p>
<p>Dr. Alex Mikulich of JSRI and Sophie Cull of the Louisiana Coalition for Alternatives to the Death Penalty recently published an extensive study on the Death Penalty in Louisiana. The full text of the study and a short brief are available through the <a href="http://catholicsmobilizing.org/">Catholic Mobilizing Network</a>.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Read the full text of the study: <a href="http://catholicsmobilizing.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Death-Penalty-in-Louisiana_Full.pdf">Diminishing All of Us: The Death Penalty in Louisana</a></p>
<p><a href="http://catholicsmobilizing.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Death-Penalty-in-Louisiana_Brief.pdf">Read a short summary of the report here.</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Dr. Alex Mikulich of JSRI and Sophie Cull of the Louisiana Coalition for Alternatives to the Death Penalty recently published an extensive study on the Death Penalty in Louisiana. The full text of the study and a short brief are available through the <a href="http://catholicsmobilizing.org/">Catholic Mobilizing Network</a>.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Read the full text of the study: <a href="http://catholicsmobilizing.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Death-Penalty-in-Louisiana_Full.pdf">Diminishing All of Us: The Death Penalty in Louisana</a></p>
<p><a href="http://catholicsmobilizing.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Death-Penalty-in-Louisiana_Brief.pdf">Read a short summary of the report here.</a></p>
<p> </p>
Date
The Impact of Deportation on Families
News Intro Text
On August 27, 2011, Dr. Sue Weisher interviewed Tania Oliva whose husband, German Olivia, was deported to Honduras in 2009 after ten years of living and working in the U.S. Tania's story illustrates the damaging impact that our nation's broken immigration system has on children and families.
News Item Content
<p>After ten years of living and working in the U.S. with Temporary Protected Status (TPS), caring for his wife and four children, paying taxes, and with no criminal issues, the U.S. government deported German Oliva back to his native Honduras in 2009. Dr. Sue Wiesher, JSRI Migration Specialist, spoke with German's wife, Tania Oliva, who is a U.S. citizen, about the impact that Gernando's deportation on their family. Tania's story illustrates how our nation's broken immigration system does great harm to children and families. The grief and pain the Oliva family continues to endure over the loss of their father begs the question, why do we as a nation allow such laws to continue?</p>
<p>The two-part interview was recorded and edited by Rosa Gomez with <a href="http://movingforwardgc.org/advocacy_media_immigration.php">Moving Forward Gulf Coast</a>.</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IO79nmTRBeE&feature=related">The Plight of Families</a> (part 1)</li>
<li><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eGjbre6A_3Q&feature=related">The Plight of Families</a> (part 2)</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
<p>The two-part interview was recorded and edited by Rosa Gomez with <a href="http://movingforwardgc.org/advocacy_media_immigration.php">Moving Forward Gulf Coast</a>.</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IO79nmTRBeE&feature=related">The Plight of Families</a> (part 1)</li>
<li><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eGjbre6A_3Q&feature=related">The Plight of Families</a> (part 2)</li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
Date
February 2012 E-Newsletter: What does Catholicism really say about Capitalism?
News Intro Text
The February JustSouth E-Newsletter focuses on the relationship between Catholicism and capitalism, unemployment rates among African Americans and Latinos in Gulf South states, and a look through the lens of Catholic social teaching at proposed immigration legislation in Mississippi.
News Item Content
<p>The February JustSouth E-Newsletter focuses on the <span><span>relationship between Catholicism and capitalism</span></span>, unemployment rates among African Americans and Latinos in Gulf South states, and a look through the lens of Catholic social teaching at proposed immigration legislation in Mississippi.<br />
<br />
<br />
See articles:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/catholicism-and-capitalism">Catholicism and Capitalism</a> -- Kammer</li>
<li><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/no-relief-sight">No Relief in Sight: Persistent High Unemployment for African Americans and Latinos in Gulf South States</a> -- Mikulich</li>
<li><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/not-good-law-or-good-sense">Not Good Law or Good Sense: Proposed Mississippi Immigration Legislation Through the Lens of Catholic Social Teaching</a> -- Weishar</li>
</ul>
<p><br />
To view the entire E-Newsletter, click <a href="https://app.e2ma.net/app/view:CampaignPublic/id:31385.11699948339/rid:f8962c67710455a89f753f435ce29ee2">here</a>.<br />
<br />
To subscribe to our publications click <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/subscribe-jsri-publications">here</a>.</p>
<br />
<br />
See articles:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/catholicism-and-capitalism">Catholicism and Capitalism</a> -- Kammer</li>
<li><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/no-relief-sight">No Relief in Sight: Persistent High Unemployment for African Americans and Latinos in Gulf South States</a> -- Mikulich</li>
<li><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/not-good-law-or-good-sense">Not Good Law or Good Sense: Proposed Mississippi Immigration Legislation Through the Lens of Catholic Social Teaching</a> -- Weishar</li>
</ul>
<p><br />
To view the entire E-Newsletter, click <a href="https://app.e2ma.net/app/view:CampaignPublic/id:31385.11699948339/rid:f8962c67710455a89f753f435ce29ee2">here</a>.<br />
<br />
To subscribe to our publications click <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/subscribe-jsri-publications">here</a>.</p>
Date
Fr. Fred Kammer, SJ, addresses anti-immigrant issues at "Catholic Day at the Capitol" in Jackson, MS
News Intro Text
On February 29, 2012, Fr. Fred Kammer, SJ, addressed the participants in Catholic Day at the Capitol gathered to oppose anti-immigration bills in the Mississippi legislature.
News Item Content
<p>February 29, 2012, Fr. Fred Kammer, SJ, addressed the 200-plus participants in Catholic Day at the Capitol gathered to oppose anti-immigration bills in the Mississippi legislature. Seven bills are pending in the Mississippi Senate and one bill in the House. The Dioceses of Jackson and Biloxi, sponsors of the event, asked JSRI staff to assist with preparation of the event as well. This included preparation of materials for the packets for participants, an article by Dr. Sue Weishar in the <em>Mississippi Catholic </em>on February 24, 2012, and analysis and strategy sessions about the pending bills. Fr. Kammer's remarks at the Wednesday session are <a href="../../../../../../../../mississippi-proposals-do-not-make-good-law-or-good-sense">here.</a></p>
Date
Fr. Fred Kammer, SJ, addresses Catholic Health Association Physician Leader Forum
News Intro Text
On February 12, 2012, Fr. Fred Kammer, SJ, addressed the Catholic Health Association Physician Leader Forum in Washington on The Common Good and Health Care Reform.
News Item Content
<p>On February 12, 2012, Fr. Fred Kammer, SJ, addressed the Catholic Health Association Physician Leader Forum in Washington on <em>The Common Good and Health Care Reform.</em> His address included consideration of traditional concepts of the common good, an analysis of the factors from Catholic social thought that contribute to the reality of the common good in society, and key questions that should be considered in the ongoing work of health care reform in U.S. society. His address is found <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/common-good-and-health-care-reform">here</a>.<em> <br />
</em></p>
</em></p>
Date
JSRI Co-sponsors Catholic Dialogue on Immigration
News Intro Text
On January 17, 2012 JSRI, along with Catholic Relief Services, Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of New Orleans, and St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, sponsored a Catholic Dialogue on Immigration.
News Item Content
<p>On January 17, 2012 JSRI, along with Catholic Relief Services, Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of New Orleans, and St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, sponsored a Catholic Dialogue on Immigration. See the Clarian Herald's report on the dialogue <a href="http://clarionherald.info/clarion/index.php/news/latest-news/155-breaking-news/891-dialogue-on-immigration-brings-understanding">here</a>.</p>
Date
JSRI Submits Articles to UN Special Rapporteur for Human Rights
News Intro Text
In response to a request for input, on January 30, 2012 JSRI submitted two JustSouth Quarterly articles on detention to the U.N. Special Rapporteur for Human Rights.
News Item Content
<p>In response to a request for input, on January 30, 2012 JSRI submitted two JustSouth Quarterly articles on detention to the U.N. Special Rapporteur for Human Rights. The Special Rapporteur is preparing a report on the detention of migrants in irregular situations. The JustSouth Quarterly articles had to do with <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/MoreHumaneSystem-Spring2011jsq.pdf">best practices in alternatives to detention</a> (Spring 2011) and <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/MyExperienceinImmigrationDetention%20-%20Fall%202011%20jsq.pdf">reasons for detention</a> (Fall 2011).</p>
Date
JSRI Joins Immigrant Justice Organizations in Urging ICE to End Family Detention
News Intro Text
JSRI joined scores of immigrant justice organizations in calling on ICE to end the practice of family detention.
News Item Content
<p>JSRI joined scores of immigrant justice organizations in calling on ICE to end the practice of family detention. In the January 10 <a href="http://www.grassrootsleadership.org/_news/Family%20Detention%20Open%20Letter.pdf">Open Letter in Response to the Closing of the Berks County Family Shelter Care Center and Solicitation of New Family Detention Beds</a>, sigatories urged the Obama administration to, instead of detaining families, assign social workers with proven experience in providing family welfare services to manage families' cases.</p>
Date
Mississippi Bishops Issue Statement on Anti-immigrant Legislation
News Intro Text
On January 21, the Catholic, Episcopal, and Methodist bishops of Mississippi signed off on a statement calling Mississippi State Legislators and Governor Phil Bryant to “refrain from drafting and enacting” anti-immigrant legislation.
News Item Content
<p>On January 21,<a href="http://www.mississippicatholic.com/categories/diocese/2012/012712/immigratiom.html"> the Catholic, Episcopal, and Methodist bishops of Mississippi signed off on a statement</a> calling Mississippi State Legislators and Governor Phil Bryant to “refrain from drafting and enacting” anti-immigrant legislation “that threatens the dignity of the human person and the basic human rights that we accord to the dignity of the family unit.”</p>
<p>The Bishops expressed their concern about growing anti-immigrant sentiment in Mississippi and pointed out that such legislation taken on the local level only serves to further divide a state already marked by “a troublesome past, with biases and discrimination between cultural and ethnic groups.”</p>
<p>In addition, the bishops state that “for our part, in exercising our responsibility as leaders of Christian communities, we call for adherence to basic Gospel mandates of love, care, and concern for our neighbors” and urge Christians to follow Jesus’ example “to show love of God through love of our brothers and sisters.”</p>
<p>The Bishops expressed their concern about growing anti-immigrant sentiment in Mississippi and pointed out that such legislation taken on the local level only serves to further divide a state already marked by “a troublesome past, with biases and discrimination between cultural and ethnic groups.”</p>
<p>In addition, the bishops state that “for our part, in exercising our responsibility as leaders of Christian communities, we call for adherence to basic Gospel mandates of love, care, and concern for our neighbors” and urge Christians to follow Jesus’ example “to show love of God through love of our brothers and sisters.”</p>
Date
Video of Imprisoned, Forgotten, and Deported now available online
News Intro Text
On October 13-14, 2011, JSRI cosponsored a conference focusing on the reality of immigration detention in the United States, especially in the South. Click here to view full video of the conference.
News Item Content
<p>On October 13-14, 2011, the Jesuit Social Research Institute, Center for Latin American Studies at the University of Florida, and five other organizations sponsored a conference entitled <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/imprisoned-forgotten-and-deported">Imprisoned, Forgotten, and Deported: Immigration Detention, Advocacy, and the Faith Community </a>at the Loyola University New Orleans College of Law. The conference focused on immigration detention and presenting an in-depth look at the reality of detention in the United States, particularly in the South.</p>
<p>Video footage of the entire conference is available online through YouTube. Please click on the links below to access the footage of each conference session.<br />
<br />
<strong>Thursday, October 13, 2011</strong><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQ6lJPchVo8">Program Introduction</a></p>
<ul>
<li>Philip J. Williams, Director, Center for Latin American Studies, University of Florida</li>
<li>Dean Maria Pabón López, Dean, Loyola University New Orleans College of Law</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LYxXaWzRJWU">Keynote Address: The Economics of Prison and Immigration Law</a></p>
<ul>
<li>Laura Sullivan, National Public Radio</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=37InDqyjrSo">Panel One: The Realities of Immigrant Detention: Politics and Economics</a></p>
<ul>
<li>Aaron Schneider, Tulane University (moderator)</li>
<li>Dora Schriro, Commissioner of the New York City Department of Corrections (panelist)</li>
<li>Bob Libal, Grassroots Leadership, Texas (panelist)</li>
<li>Alger Kendall, Jr, retired judge, Karnes County, Texas (panelist)</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kKZHnyqo1mc">Interview: Omar Hassan, former detainee</a></p>
<ul>
<li>Interviewed by Sue Weishar, Jesuit Social Research Institute, Loyola University New Orleans</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lzhguIdSWlE">Panel Two: Race, Illegality, and Detention</a></p>
<ul>
<li>Manuel Vásquez, University of Florida (moderator)</li>
<li>Tamara Nopper, Temple University (panelist)</li>
<li>Ted Quant, Twomey Center, Loyola University New Orleans (panelist)</li>
<li>Alex Mikulich, Jesuit Social Research Institute, Loyola University New Orleans (panelist)</li>
<li>Kenneth Nunn, University of Florida Law School (panelist)</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Friday, October 14, 2011</strong><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BbjTVURioZs">Keynote Address: A Liberationist Response to Immigrant Detention</a></p>
<ul>
<li>Miguel De La Torre, Iliff School of Theology, Denver</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PHptnauDazQ">Panel Three: Religious Responses to Detention</a></p>
<ul>
<li>Marie Friedmann Marquardt, Emory University (moderator)</li>
<li>Anton Flores, Alterna, Atlanta (panelist)</li>
<li>Rev. David Fraccaro, Faith Action International House, NC (panelist)</li>
<li>Sister Jo Ann Persch, Sisters of Mercy, Chicago (panelist)</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CIb2zwqugSY">Panel Four: Advocacy Strategies</a></p>
<ul>
<li>Sue Weishar, Jesuit Social Research Institute, Loyola University New Orleans (moderator)</li>
<li>Bill Quigley, Loyola University New Orleans College of Law (panelist)</li>
<li>Jacinta Gonzales, New Orleans Workers’ Center for Racial Justice (panelist)</li>
<li>Hiroko Kusuda, Loyola University New Orleans Immigration Law Clinic (panelist)</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AXP0jfegyfk">Keynote Panel: Changing the Conversation in the Public Square</a></p>
<ul>
<li>Timothy J. Steigenga, Florida Atlantic University (moderator)</li>
<li>Frank Sharry, America’s Voice (panelist)</li>
<li>Donald Kerwin, Center for Migration Studies (panelist)</li>
<li>Andrea Black, Detention Watch Network (panelist)</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qX3Cw9PEL1s">Closing Remarks</a></p>
<ul>
<li>Fr. Fred Kammer, SJ, Director, Jesuit Social Research Institute, Loyola University New Orleans</li>
</ul>
<p>Video footage of the entire conference is available online through YouTube. Please click on the links below to access the footage of each conference session.<br />
<br />
<strong>Thursday, October 13, 2011</strong><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQ6lJPchVo8">Program Introduction</a></p>
<ul>
<li>Philip J. Williams, Director, Center for Latin American Studies, University of Florida</li>
<li>Dean Maria Pabón López, Dean, Loyola University New Orleans College of Law</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LYxXaWzRJWU">Keynote Address: The Economics of Prison and Immigration Law</a></p>
<ul>
<li>Laura Sullivan, National Public Radio</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=37InDqyjrSo">Panel One: The Realities of Immigrant Detention: Politics and Economics</a></p>
<ul>
<li>Aaron Schneider, Tulane University (moderator)</li>
<li>Dora Schriro, Commissioner of the New York City Department of Corrections (panelist)</li>
<li>Bob Libal, Grassroots Leadership, Texas (panelist)</li>
<li>Alger Kendall, Jr, retired judge, Karnes County, Texas (panelist)</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kKZHnyqo1mc">Interview: Omar Hassan, former detainee</a></p>
<ul>
<li>Interviewed by Sue Weishar, Jesuit Social Research Institute, Loyola University New Orleans</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lzhguIdSWlE">Panel Two: Race, Illegality, and Detention</a></p>
<ul>
<li>Manuel Vásquez, University of Florida (moderator)</li>
<li>Tamara Nopper, Temple University (panelist)</li>
<li>Ted Quant, Twomey Center, Loyola University New Orleans (panelist)</li>
<li>Alex Mikulich, Jesuit Social Research Institute, Loyola University New Orleans (panelist)</li>
<li>Kenneth Nunn, University of Florida Law School (panelist)</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Friday, October 14, 2011</strong><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BbjTVURioZs">Keynote Address: A Liberationist Response to Immigrant Detention</a></p>
<ul>
<li>Miguel De La Torre, Iliff School of Theology, Denver</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PHptnauDazQ">Panel Three: Religious Responses to Detention</a></p>
<ul>
<li>Marie Friedmann Marquardt, Emory University (moderator)</li>
<li>Anton Flores, Alterna, Atlanta (panelist)</li>
<li>Rev. David Fraccaro, Faith Action International House, NC (panelist)</li>
<li>Sister Jo Ann Persch, Sisters of Mercy, Chicago (panelist)</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CIb2zwqugSY">Panel Four: Advocacy Strategies</a></p>
<ul>
<li>Sue Weishar, Jesuit Social Research Institute, Loyola University New Orleans (moderator)</li>
<li>Bill Quigley, Loyola University New Orleans College of Law (panelist)</li>
<li>Jacinta Gonzales, New Orleans Workers’ Center for Racial Justice (panelist)</li>
<li>Hiroko Kusuda, Loyola University New Orleans Immigration Law Clinic (panelist)</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AXP0jfegyfk">Keynote Panel: Changing the Conversation in the Public Square</a></p>
<ul>
<li>Timothy J. Steigenga, Florida Atlantic University (moderator)</li>
<li>Frank Sharry, America’s Voice (panelist)</li>
<li>Donald Kerwin, Center for Migration Studies (panelist)</li>
<li>Andrea Black, Detention Watch Network (panelist)</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qX3Cw9PEL1s">Closing Remarks</a></p>
<ul>
<li>Fr. Fred Kammer, SJ, Director, Jesuit Social Research Institute, Loyola University New Orleans</li>
</ul>
Date
Fr. Kammer Speaks on Urban Poverty at the University of Notre Dame
News Intro Text
On December 4, 2011, Fr. Fred Kammer, S.J. presented "Building Justice in the Cities" at the University of Notre Dame as part of their Center for Social Concerns' Building Justice in the World Justice Education Series.
News Item Content
<p>On December 4, 2011, Fr. Fred Kammer, S.J. presented "Building Justice in the Cities" at the University of Notre Dame as part of their Center for Social Concerns' Building Justice in the World Justice Education Series. Fr. Kammer spoke on how poverty affects urban areas and how we begin to break the cycle of poverty to build justice in our cities.</p>
<p>View the video <a href="http://socialconcerns.nd.edu/mission/cst/Fr.FredKammer.shtml">here.</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>View the video <a href="http://socialconcerns.nd.edu/mission/cst/Fr.FredKammer.shtml">here.</a></p>
<p> </p>
Date
Winter JustSouth Quarterly in the Mail
News Intro Text
The Winter 2011 JustSouth Quarterly addresses the faith community's response to Alabama's new anti-immigrant law, Catholic social thought and "the law," the legacy of lynching in light of Eucharistic hope, and our fall conference on immigration detention.
News Item Content
<p>The Winter 2011 JustSouth Quarterly addresses the faith community's response to Alabama's new anti-immigrant law [Arroyo and Weishar], Catholic social thought and "the law" [Kammer], the legacy of lynching in light of Eucharistic hope [Mikulich], and our fall conference on immigration detention [Kammer]. See complete text <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Winter%202011-FINAL-jsq.pdf">here</a>.</p>
Date
Alabama Religious Leaders Urge Governor to Repeal Anti-Immigrant Law
News Intro Text
On December 19, 2011, Catholic Bishops joined Methodist and Episcopal leaders and others in a letter to Governor Bentley urging the repeal of Alabama's anti-immigrant law which became effective this year.
News Item Content
<p>On December 19, 2011, Alabama's two Catholic Bishops, leaders of the Methodist and Episcopal Churches, and the heads of Alabama's two major monasteries called upon Governor Bentley to lead the effort to repeal Alabama's new anti-immigrant law. See full text <a href="http://media.al.com/spotnews/other/Letter%20to%20Gov%20Bentley.pdf">here</a>. The letter also set out key principles for the treatment of immigrants in the state and for any state legislation dealing with immigrant families.</p>
<p>On December 17, 2011, 2,500 people conducted a rally at the Governor's mansion in Montgomery calling for repeal of the statute. The <a href="http://www.montgomeryadvertiser.com/article/20111218/NEWS01/112180318/2-500-protesters-rally-repeal-immigration-law?odyssey=tab|topnews|text|Frontpage">story</a> and <a href="http://www.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/gallery?Avis=DS&Dato=20111217&Kategori=COMMUNITIES010305&Lopenr=112170802&Ref=PH">photographs</a> of the rally are from the <em>Montgomery Advertiser.</em></p>
<p>On December 17, 2011, 2,500 people conducted a rally at the Governor's mansion in Montgomery calling for repeal of the statute. The <a href="http://www.montgomeryadvertiser.com/article/20111218/NEWS01/112180318/2-500-protesters-rally-repeal-immigration-law?odyssey=tab|topnews|text|Frontpage">story</a> and <a href="http://www.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/gallery?Avis=DS&Dato=20111217&Kategori=COMMUNITIES010305&Lopenr=112170802&Ref=PH">photographs</a> of the rally are from the <em>Montgomery Advertiser.</em></p>
Date
What do you know about poverty? Take this quiz.
News Intro Text
Half in Ten Campaign has a new interactive quiz on poverty. Try it. Share it with your friends.
News Item Content
<p>The Half in Ten Campaign has developed a new interactive quiz on poverty available on line <a href="http://halfinten.org/issues/articles/how-much-do-you-really-know-about-poverty-2011/">here.</a> Share it with your friends.</p>
Date
November 2011 E-Newsletter: How do Advent, Occupy Wall Street, and the Vatican connect?
News Intro Text
The November JustSouth E-newsletter focuses on Occupy and a revolution of hope, the shattering of immigrant families, and the Vatican's recent statement on world financial reform.
News Item Content
<p> </p>
<p>The November <em>JustSouth E-Newsletter</em> focuses on Occupy and a revolution of hope, the shattering of immigrant families, and the Vatican's recent statement on world financial reform.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>See articles:</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/revolution-hope-occupy-advent-and-vatican">A Revolution of Hope: Occupy Advent and the Vatican</a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/shattering-immigrant-families-how-immigration-and-child-welfare-policies-interact">Shattering Immigrant Families: Immigration and child welfare policies collide</a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/financial-crisis-and-common-good-vatican-world-financial-reform">Financial Crisis and the Common Good: The Vatican on world financial reform</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>To view the entire E-Newsletter, click <a href="https://app.e2ma.net/app/view:CampaignPublic/id:31385.10848458817/rid:85166e97b3adf6cc307918b1db2db4ce"><u><strong>here.</strong></u></a></p>
<p>To subscribe to our publications click <a href="../../../../../../../../../subscribe-jsri-publications"><u><strong>here</strong></u></a>.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The November <em>JustSouth E-Newsletter</em> focuses on Occupy and a revolution of hope, the shattering of immigrant families, and the Vatican's recent statement on world financial reform.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>See articles:</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/revolution-hope-occupy-advent-and-vatican">A Revolution of Hope: Occupy Advent and the Vatican</a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/shattering-immigrant-families-how-immigration-and-child-welfare-policies-interact">Shattering Immigrant Families: Immigration and child welfare policies collide</a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/financial-crisis-and-common-good-vatican-world-financial-reform">Financial Crisis and the Common Good: The Vatican on world financial reform</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>To view the entire E-Newsletter, click <a href="https://app.e2ma.net/app/view:CampaignPublic/id:31385.10848458817/rid:85166e97b3adf6cc307918b1db2db4ce"><u><strong>here.</strong></u></a></p>
<p>To subscribe to our publications click <a href="../../../../../../../../../subscribe-jsri-publications"><u><strong>here</strong></u></a>.</p>
<p> </p>
Date
USCCB to hold January 11-13, 2012 national conference on state and local immigration initiatives
News Intro Text
USCCB to hold a national conference on state and local immigration initiatives and immigration reform January 11-13, 2012 in Salt Lake City, Utah.
News Item Content
<p>January 11-13, 2012, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops [USCCB] will hold a national conference in Salt Lake City, Utah, to examine state and local immigration initiatives across the country to develop strategies and methods to oppose enforcement initiatives and support comprehensive immigration reform. To register for the conference click <a href="http://www.cvent.com/events/immigration-a-50-state-issue-a-focus-on-state-and-local-immigration-initiatives/event-summary-901b27d0aaa64b5e8c5c4dfd1a56ccf6.aspx">here</a>. For more information on the conference contact Antonio Cube at <a href="mailto:acube@usccb.org">acube@usccb.org</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
Date
Fr. Ted Arroyo, SJ, discusses Alabama's anti-immigrant law with NJN
News Intro Text
On November 15, Fr. Ted Arroyo, SJ, discussed Alabama's recent anti-immigrant law, considered one of the strictest in the U.S., with National Jesuit News. Click here to listen to the podcast.
News Item Content
<p>On November 15, Fr. Ted Arroyo, SJ, discussed Alabama's recent anti-immigrant law, considered one of the strictest in the U.S., with National Jesuit News. Click <a href="http://www.jesuit.org/blog/index.php/2011/11/jesuit-father-arroyo-discusses-alabamas-anti-immigration-law-in-this-months-njn-podcast/">here </a>to listen to the podcast.</p>
Date
October 2011 E-Newsletter focuses on stealth class warfare, Alabama's new anti-immigrant law, and the hidden border of whiteness
News Intro Text
The three core articles of the October JustSouth E-Newsletter focus on stealth class warfare, Alabama's new anti-immigrant law, and the effect of whiteness on immigration policy and more.
News Item Content
<p>The October <em>JustSouth E-Newsletter </em>focuses on the reality of "stealth class warfare" over recent decades, the new Alabama anti-immigrant law and the response of the faith community, and the historical dynamics of whiteness in relation to who is welcomed to be an American.</p>
<p>See articles:</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/king-has-no-clothes-class-warfare-ok-long-no-one-mentions-it">"The King Has No Clothes On": Is class warfare OK as long as no one mentions it?</a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/injustice-unleashed-hb-56-takes-hold-alabama">Injustice Unleashed! HB 56 takes hold in Alabama</a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/hidden-border-whiteness-and-immigration">The Hidden Border of Whiteness: How race, "illegality," and the immigration industrial complex intersect</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>To view the entire E-Newsletter, click <a href="https://app.e2ma.net/app/view:CampaignPublic/id:31385.10848458817/rid:85166e97b3adf6cc307918b1db2db4ce"><u><strong>here.</strong></u></a></p>
<p> To subscribe to our publications click <a href="../../../../../../../subscribe-jsri-publications"><u><strong>here</strong></u></a>.</p>
<p>See articles:</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/king-has-no-clothes-class-warfare-ok-long-no-one-mentions-it">"The King Has No Clothes On": Is class warfare OK as long as no one mentions it?</a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/injustice-unleashed-hb-56-takes-hold-alabama">Injustice Unleashed! HB 56 takes hold in Alabama</a></p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/hidden-border-whiteness-and-immigration">The Hidden Border of Whiteness: How race, "illegality," and the immigration industrial complex intersect</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>To view the entire E-Newsletter, click <a href="https://app.e2ma.net/app/view:CampaignPublic/id:31385.10848458817/rid:85166e97b3adf6cc307918b1db2db4ce"><u><strong>here.</strong></u></a></p>
<p> To subscribe to our publications click <a href="../../../../../../../subscribe-jsri-publications"><u><strong>here</strong></u></a>.</p>
Date
New JustSouth Quarterly for Fall 2011
News Intro Text
The new JustSouth Quarterly features articles on repealing the death penalty in Louisiana, Catholic Social Thought and the death penalty, the debt debate, and an immigrant's experience in detention.
News Item Content
<p>The new <em>JustSouth Quarterly </em>features articles on repealing the death penalty in Louisiana, Catholic Social Thought and the death penalty, the debt debate, and an immigrant's experience in detention. It also includes a photo collage from the 25th annual Social Action Summer Institute held on the Loyola campus in July 2011. <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/Fall 2011-FINAL-jsq_0.pdf">Read</a></p>
Date
Catholic Theologians Call to Abolish the Death Penalty
News Intro Text
Over 150 Catholic theologians have signed a September 26th statement calling for the abolition of the death penalty.
News Item Content
<p>In the wake of the September 21st executions of Troy Anthony Davis in Georgia and Lawrence Brewer in Texas, over 350 Catholic theologians, including JSRI's Alex Mikulich, have called for the abolition of the death penalty in the United States. The statement can be found <a href="http://catholicmoraltheology.com/a-catholic-call-to-abolish-the-death-penalty/"><strong><u>here</u></strong></a>.</p>
<p>The statement has received extensive news and media coverage. For example:</p>
<p><br />
> Links to the Catholic Call to Abolish the Death Penalty<br />
> Christian Century (Print Edition)<br />
> Dating God Blog<br />
> <a target="_blank" href="http://datinggod.org/2011/09/26/a-catholic-call-to-abolish-the-"><span id="lw_1318432192_8" class="yshortcuts">http://datinggod.org/2011/09/26/a-catholic-call-to-abolish-the-</span></a><br />
> death-penalty/<br />
><br />
> U.S. Catholic Online<br />
> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.uscatholic.org/news/2011/09/moral-theologians-issue-call-"><span id="lw_1318432192_9" class="yshortcuts">http://www.uscatholic.org/news/2011/09/moral-theologians-issue-call-</span></a><br />
> abolish-death-penalty<br />
><br />
> Independent Catholic News:<br />
> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.indcatholicnews.com/news.php?viewStory=18972"><span id="lw_1318432192_10" class="yshortcuts">http://www.indcatholicnews.com/news.php?viewStory=18972</span></a><br />
><br />
> Commonweal Online<br />
> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.commonwealmagazine.org/blog/?p=15321"><span id="lw_1318432192_11" class="yshortcuts">http://www.commonwealmagazine.org/blog/?p=15321</span></a><br />
><br />
> America Online<br />
> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.americamagazine.org/blog/entry.cfm?blog_id=2&entry_id=4608"><span id="lw_1318432192_12" class="yshortcuts">http://www.americamagazine.org/blog/entry.cfm?blog_id=2&entry_id=4608</span></a><br />
><br />
> National Catholic Reporter Online<br />
> <a target="_blank" href="http://ncronline.org/news/justice/over-150-theologians-call-"><span id="lw_1318432192_13" class="yshortcuts">http://ncronline.org/news/justice/over-150-theologians-call-</span></a><br />
> abolition-death-penalty<br />
><br />
> Catholic News Service Web Article/Boston Pilot Catholic News:<br />
> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.thebostonpilot.com/article.asp?ID=13805"><span id="lw_1318432192_14" class="yshortcuts">http://www.thebostonpilot.com/article.asp?ID=13805</span></a><br />
><br />
><br />
> Fox 10 News Online: <span id="lw_1318432192_15" class="yshortcuts">Mobile, Alabama</span><br />
> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.fox10tv.com/dpp/news/local_news/mobile_county/spring-"><span id="lw_1318432192_16" class="yshortcuts">http://www.fox10tv.com/dpp/news/local_news/mobile_county/spring-</span></a><br />
> hill-profs-join-death-penalty-protest<br />
><br />
> Huffington Post<br />
> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/tobias-winright/a-catholic-call-to-"><span id="lw_1318432192_17" class="yshortcuts">http://www.huffingtonpost.com/tobias-winright/a-catholic-call-to-</span></a><br />
> abolish-the-death-penalty_b_982248.html<br />
><br />
> University of San Diego “Inside USD” Online<br />
> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.sandiego.edu/insideusd/?p=19705"><span id="lw_1318432192_18" class="yshortcuts">http://www.sandiego.edu/insideusd/?p=19705</span></a><br />
><br />
> <span id="lw_1318432192_19" class="yshortcuts">St. Louis University</span> Communications Link:<br />
> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.slu.edu/x54329.xml"><span id="lw_1318432192_20" class="yshortcuts">http://www.slu.edu/x54329.xml</span></a><br />
><br />
> Death Penalty Info Center<br />
> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.deathpenaltyinfo.org/"><span id="lw_1318432192_21" class="yshortcuts">http://www.deathpenaltyinfo.org/</span></a><br />
><br />
> Time Online:<br />
> <a target="_blank" href="http://swampland.time.com/2011/09/30/articles-of-faith-will-scalia-"><span id="lw_1318432192_22" class="yshortcuts">http://swampland.time.com/2011/09/30/articles-of-faith-will-scalia-</span></a><br />
> step-down-from-the-court/<br />
><br />
> PBS Religion & Ethics Newsweekly:<br />
> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.pbs.org/wnet/religionandethics/category/headlines/"><span id="lw_1318432192_23" class="yshortcuts">http://www.pbs.org/wnet/religionandethics/category/headlines/</span></a></p>
<p>The statement has received extensive news and media coverage. For example:</p>
<p><br />
> Links to the Catholic Call to Abolish the Death Penalty<br />
> Christian Century (Print Edition)<br />
> Dating God Blog<br />
> <a target="_blank" href="http://datinggod.org/2011/09/26/a-catholic-call-to-abolish-the-"><span id="lw_1318432192_8" class="yshortcuts">http://datinggod.org/2011/09/26/a-catholic-call-to-abolish-the-</span></a><br />
> death-penalty/<br />
><br />
> U.S. Catholic Online<br />
> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.uscatholic.org/news/2011/09/moral-theologians-issue-call-"><span id="lw_1318432192_9" class="yshortcuts">http://www.uscatholic.org/news/2011/09/moral-theologians-issue-call-</span></a><br />
> abolish-death-penalty<br />
><br />
> Independent Catholic News:<br />
> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.indcatholicnews.com/news.php?viewStory=18972"><span id="lw_1318432192_10" class="yshortcuts">http://www.indcatholicnews.com/news.php?viewStory=18972</span></a><br />
><br />
> Commonweal Online<br />
> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.commonwealmagazine.org/blog/?p=15321"><span id="lw_1318432192_11" class="yshortcuts">http://www.commonwealmagazine.org/blog/?p=15321</span></a><br />
><br />
> America Online<br />
> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.americamagazine.org/blog/entry.cfm?blog_id=2&entry_id=4608"><span id="lw_1318432192_12" class="yshortcuts">http://www.americamagazine.org/blog/entry.cfm?blog_id=2&entry_id=4608</span></a><br />
><br />
> National Catholic Reporter Online<br />
> <a target="_blank" href="http://ncronline.org/news/justice/over-150-theologians-call-"><span id="lw_1318432192_13" class="yshortcuts">http://ncronline.org/news/justice/over-150-theologians-call-</span></a><br />
> abolition-death-penalty<br />
><br />
> Catholic News Service Web Article/Boston Pilot Catholic News:<br />
> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.thebostonpilot.com/article.asp?ID=13805"><span id="lw_1318432192_14" class="yshortcuts">http://www.thebostonpilot.com/article.asp?ID=13805</span></a><br />
><br />
><br />
> Fox 10 News Online: <span id="lw_1318432192_15" class="yshortcuts">Mobile, Alabama</span><br />
> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.fox10tv.com/dpp/news/local_news/mobile_county/spring-"><span id="lw_1318432192_16" class="yshortcuts">http://www.fox10tv.com/dpp/news/local_news/mobile_county/spring-</span></a><br />
> hill-profs-join-death-penalty-protest<br />
><br />
> Huffington Post<br />
> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/tobias-winright/a-catholic-call-to-"><span id="lw_1318432192_17" class="yshortcuts">http://www.huffingtonpost.com/tobias-winright/a-catholic-call-to-</span></a><br />
> abolish-the-death-penalty_b_982248.html<br />
><br />
> University of San Diego “Inside USD” Online<br />
> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.sandiego.edu/insideusd/?p=19705"><span id="lw_1318432192_18" class="yshortcuts">http://www.sandiego.edu/insideusd/?p=19705</span></a><br />
><br />
> <span id="lw_1318432192_19" class="yshortcuts">St. Louis University</span> Communications Link:<br />
> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.slu.edu/x54329.xml"><span id="lw_1318432192_20" class="yshortcuts">http://www.slu.edu/x54329.xml</span></a><br />
><br />
> Death Penalty Info Center<br />
> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.deathpenaltyinfo.org/"><span id="lw_1318432192_21" class="yshortcuts">http://www.deathpenaltyinfo.org/</span></a><br />
><br />
> Time Online:<br />
> <a target="_blank" href="http://swampland.time.com/2011/09/30/articles-of-faith-will-scalia-"><span id="lw_1318432192_22" class="yshortcuts">http://swampland.time.com/2011/09/30/articles-of-faith-will-scalia-</span></a><br />
> step-down-from-the-court/<br />
><br />
> PBS Religion & Ethics Newsweekly:<br />
> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.pbs.org/wnet/religionandethics/category/headlines/"><span id="lw_1318432192_23" class="yshortcuts">http://www.pbs.org/wnet/religionandethics/category/headlines/</span></a></p>
Date
August E-News on US Debt, Gulf South Kids, and Deportation Policies
News Intro Text
The August 31st JustSouth E-Newsletter discussed who will pay for the debt limit deal of late July, the findings of the 2011 KIDS COUNT report on the Gulf South states, and the Obama Administration's new policies on "prosecutorial discretion" in deportation proceedings.
News Item Content
<p>The August 31st JustSouth E-Newsletter discussed who will pay for the debt limit deal of late July, the findings of the 2011 KIDS COUNT report on the Gulf South states, and the Obama Administration's new policies on "prosecutorial discretion" in deportation proceedings. </p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/debt-deal-heaps-heavier-burdens-most-vulnerable-americans">Who will pay for the debt deal? Debt deal heaps heavier burden on the most vulnerable Americans</a>--Mikulich</li>
<li><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/kids-dont-count-much">Kids don't count much! 2011 KIDS COUNT reports reflect Gulf South's failure to care enough</a>--Kammer</li>
<li><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/caution-advised-new-obama-administration-enforcement-priorities">Immigration caution advised: New Obama Administration enforcement priorities</a>--Weishar</li>
</ul>
<p>To view the entire E-Newsletter, click <a href="https://app.e2ma.net/app/view:CampaignPublic/id:31385.10671232926/rid:79ab8e011de0f1b70eca82ddfd41121a"><u><strong>here.</strong></u></a></p>
<p> To subscribe to our publications click <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/subscribe-jsri-publications"><u><strong>here</strong></u></a>.</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/debt-deal-heaps-heavier-burdens-most-vulnerable-americans">Who will pay for the debt deal? Debt deal heaps heavier burden on the most vulnerable Americans</a>--Mikulich</li>
<li><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/kids-dont-count-much">Kids don't count much! 2011 KIDS COUNT reports reflect Gulf South's failure to care enough</a>--Kammer</li>
<li><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/caution-advised-new-obama-administration-enforcement-priorities">Immigration caution advised: New Obama Administration enforcement priorities</a>--Weishar</li>
</ul>
<p>To view the entire E-Newsletter, click <a href="https://app.e2ma.net/app/view:CampaignPublic/id:31385.10671232926/rid:79ab8e011de0f1b70eca82ddfd41121a"><u><strong>here.</strong></u></a></p>
<p> To subscribe to our publications click <a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/subscribe-jsri-publications"><u><strong>here</strong></u></a>.</p>
Date
A Curious Case of Racial Amnesia
News Intro Text
“Is it a prerequisite for jury service that you do not object to the Confederate flag flying outside the courthouse?”1 This is a real and legal question 150 years after the Civil War.
News Item Content
<p>Dr. Alex Mikulich, Research Fellow</p>
<p>“Is it a prerequisite for jury service that you do not object to the Confederate flag flying outside the courthouse?”<sup>1</sup> This is a real and legal question 150 years after the Civil War. The Louisiana Supreme Court and the Caddo Parish District Attorney seemed to assume that objection to the symbol of slavery constitutes bias on behalf of a potential juror, in the hearing of a death-penalty appeal on May 9, 2011.</p>
<p>As I observed the Supreme Court proceeding, this assumption of the Louisiana Supreme Court justices and of the Caddo Parish district attorney struck me with a sense of the fear that African Americans must have felt during Jim Crow. Yet this is 2011.</p>
<p>The questions of the Supreme Court justices called to my mind Ralph Ellison’s insight that “Americans are notoriously selective in the exercise of historical memory,” and that this selectivity demonstrates “some self-deceptive magic…for in spite of what is left out of our recorded history, our unwritten history looms as its obscure alter ego, and although repressed from our general knowledge of ourselves, it is always active in the shaping of events.”<sup>2</sup></p>
<p>Since the Supreme Court nearly declared the death penalty unconstitutional in Furman v. Georgia (1972), juries in Caddo Parish have voted to impose the death penalty on 16 men and one woman. Thirteen of these cases involved black defendants, and research demonstrates that the combination of a black defendant and a white victim exponentially increases the likelihood of aggressive prosecution.</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/ACuriousCaseofRacialAmnesia-Summer2011jsq.pdf"><u>Read full article></u></a></p>
<!-- .wrapper --><!-- #col-main-content --><!-- .wrap-wide-right --><!-- #xX-col .wrapper -->
<p>“Is it a prerequisite for jury service that you do not object to the Confederate flag flying outside the courthouse?”<sup>1</sup> This is a real and legal question 150 years after the Civil War. The Louisiana Supreme Court and the Caddo Parish District Attorney seemed to assume that objection to the symbol of slavery constitutes bias on behalf of a potential juror, in the hearing of a death-penalty appeal on May 9, 2011.</p>
<p>As I observed the Supreme Court proceeding, this assumption of the Louisiana Supreme Court justices and of the Caddo Parish district attorney struck me with a sense of the fear that African Americans must have felt during Jim Crow. Yet this is 2011.</p>
<p>The questions of the Supreme Court justices called to my mind Ralph Ellison’s insight that “Americans are notoriously selective in the exercise of historical memory,” and that this selectivity demonstrates “some self-deceptive magic…for in spite of what is left out of our recorded history, our unwritten history looms as its obscure alter ego, and although repressed from our general knowledge of ourselves, it is always active in the shaping of events.”<sup>2</sup></p>
<p>Since the Supreme Court nearly declared the death penalty unconstitutional in Furman v. Georgia (1972), juries in Caddo Parish have voted to impose the death penalty on 16 men and one woman. Thirteen of these cases involved black defendants, and research demonstrates that the combination of a black defendant and a white victim exponentially increases the likelihood of aggressive prosecution.</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/ACuriousCaseofRacialAmnesia-Summer2011jsq.pdf"><u>Read full article></u></a></p>
<!-- .wrapper --><!-- #col-main-content --><!-- .wrap-wide-right --><!-- #xX-col .wrapper -->
Date
Employment Slow to Rebound
News Intro Text
Millions of Gulf South workers face still greater challenges
Many commentators assume that, because there are economic indicators that the “great recession” has ended, workers are back to work and our national and regional troubles are at end. Far from it.
Many commentators assume that, because there are economic indicators that the “great recession” has ended, workers are back to work and our national and regional troubles are at end. Far from it.
News Item Content
<h2>Millions of Gulf South workers face still greater challenges</h2>
<p>By Fred Kammer, S.J.</p>
<p>Many commentators assume that, because there are economic indicators that the “great recession” has ended, workers are back to work and our national and regional troubles are at end. Far from it. Nationally, we lost 8.7 million jobs in this recession, and subsequent job growth has reduced that by only a fifth, to 7 million jobs.1 Assuming national growth at the April 2011 level of 244,000 jobs a month, it would take almost two and a half years to erase that remaining job deficit and years more to reach full employment due to continuing population growth.</p>
<p>In the Gulf South, regional unemployment declined from 9.9 percent to 9.5 percent between February 2010 and February 2011, with the number of officially unemployed workers dropping by about 86,000. Three states have seen some unemployment reduction in the past year—Alabama, Florida, and Mississippi. Louisiana and Texas unemployment continues to grow, but both have had relatively low unemployment compared to many other states. Overall, the region still has <em>one and a half million more unemployed workers</em> than four years ago.</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/EmploymentSlowtoRebound-Summer2011jsq.pdf">Read full article></a></p>
<p>By Fred Kammer, S.J.</p>
<p>Many commentators assume that, because there are economic indicators that the “great recession” has ended, workers are back to work and our national and regional troubles are at end. Far from it. Nationally, we lost 8.7 million jobs in this recession, and subsequent job growth has reduced that by only a fifth, to 7 million jobs.1 Assuming national growth at the April 2011 level of 244,000 jobs a month, it would take almost two and a half years to erase that remaining job deficit and years more to reach full employment due to continuing population growth.</p>
<p>In the Gulf South, regional unemployment declined from 9.9 percent to 9.5 percent between February 2010 and February 2011, with the number of officially unemployed workers dropping by about 86,000. Three states have seen some unemployment reduction in the past year—Alabama, Florida, and Mississippi. Louisiana and Texas unemployment continues to grow, but both have had relatively low unemployment compared to many other states. Overall, the region still has <em>one and a half million more unemployed workers</em> than four years ago.</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/EmploymentSlowtoRebound-Summer2011jsq.pdf">Read full article></a></p>
Date
A Welcoming Church
News Intro Text
Mississippi congregation reaches out after devastating immigration raid
On August 25, 2008, the small town of Laurel, Mississippi was the site of the largest single workplace site raid in U.S. history. In the midst of such terror, a small Catholic church became the center of solace and assistance.
On August 25, 2008, the small town of Laurel, Mississippi was the site of the largest single workplace site raid in U.S. history. In the midst of such terror, a small Catholic church became the center of solace and assistance.
News Item Content
<h2>Mississippi congregation reaches out after devastating immigration raid</h2>
<p>By Sue Weishar, Ph.D.</p>
<p>On August 25, 2008, the small town of Laurel, Mississippi was the site of the largest single workplace site raid in U.S. history. Early that morning hundreds of Immigration Control and Enforcement (ICE) agents swooped down on the Howard Industries plant in Laurel, which produces electric transformers, and began rounding up workers. Anyone who appeared to be of Hispanic origin was separated from other workers and escorted outside to a fenced yard. Roads around the sprawling plant were blocked and ICE helicopters hovered overhead. One resident thought there had been a terrorist attack.<sup>1</sup> For the 595 immigrant workers that were arrested that day, there might as well have been. By evening of that long, hot summer day, 488 immigrant workers, many in handcuffs, had been transported on dozens of ICE buses to an immigrant detention center in Jena, Louisiana, four hours away—ripped apart from their families and a community they had come to think of as home. Another 107 persons, mostly women, had been deemed “humanitarian” cases<sup>2 </sup>and were released with electronic monitoring devices attached to their ankles. They were forced to wear these devices day and night for 22 months.</p>
<p>In the midst of such terror, a small Catholic church became the center of solace and assistance. Several Catholic agencies and the Loyola University New Orleans Law Clinic also played key roles in assisting raid victims. This article examines the Church’s response to the raid in Laurel,<sup>3</sup> and how a small Catholic community in the middle of a deeply conservative state was able to mitigate some of the harmful effects of the raid on its immigrant members.</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/AWelcomingChurch-Summer2011jsq.pdf">Read full article></a></p>
<p>By Sue Weishar, Ph.D.</p>
<p>On August 25, 2008, the small town of Laurel, Mississippi was the site of the largest single workplace site raid in U.S. history. Early that morning hundreds of Immigration Control and Enforcement (ICE) agents swooped down on the Howard Industries plant in Laurel, which produces electric transformers, and began rounding up workers. Anyone who appeared to be of Hispanic origin was separated from other workers and escorted outside to a fenced yard. Roads around the sprawling plant were blocked and ICE helicopters hovered overhead. One resident thought there had been a terrorist attack.<sup>1</sup> For the 595 immigrant workers that were arrested that day, there might as well have been. By evening of that long, hot summer day, 488 immigrant workers, many in handcuffs, had been transported on dozens of ICE buses to an immigrant detention center in Jena, Louisiana, four hours away—ripped apart from their families and a community they had come to think of as home. Another 107 persons, mostly women, had been deemed “humanitarian” cases<sup>2 </sup>and were released with electronic monitoring devices attached to their ankles. They were forced to wear these devices day and night for 22 months.</p>
<p>In the midst of such terror, a small Catholic church became the center of solace and assistance. Several Catholic agencies and the Loyola University New Orleans Law Clinic also played key roles in assisting raid victims. This article examines the Church’s response to the raid in Laurel,<sup>3</sup> and how a small Catholic community in the middle of a deeply conservative state was able to mitigate some of the harmful effects of the raid on its immigrant members.</p>
<p><a href="https://jsri.loyno.edu/sites/loyno.edu.jsri/files/AWelcomingChurch-Summer2011jsq.pdf">Read full article></a></p>
Date
JSRI Director Is Moderator for International Caritas Assembly
News Intro Text
Father Fred Kammer, SJ, director of the Jesuit Social Research Institute, was the moderator for the week-long General Assembly of Caritas Internationalis in Rome, Italy working under the assembly theme of One Human Family, Zero Poverty.
News Item Content
<p>Father Fred Kammer, SJ, director of the Jesuit Social Research Institute, was the moderator for the week-long General Assembly of Caritas Internationalis in Rome, Italy working under the assembly theme of One Human Family, Zero Poverty.</p>
<p>130 Caritas member organizations from across the world sent representatives to their 19th General Assembly from May 22nd to 27th to mark the 60th anniversary of the founding of the confederation. During the sessions chaired by Fr. Kammer, over 300 delegates elected their officers and agreed on a four-year “strategic framework” to strengthen their service working alongside and on behalf of the poor.</p>
<p>Caritas Internationalis was founded in 1951 by 13 Catholic charitable organizations, including Catholic Charities USA (then known as the National Conference of Catholic Charities), to better coordinate the Church’s humanitarian work. They received support in their founding from Msgr. Giovanni Battista Montini, who would become Pope Paul VI in 1963.</p>
<p>The Caritas confederation has grown to 165 members comprising the humanitarian and social development arms of national bishops’ conferences worldwide. Caritas members support millions of poor people in improving their own lives with programs ranging from disaster risk reduction, relief and reconstruction, peace-building and reconciliation, climate mitigation and food security, primary health care, and education.</p>
<p>Father Kammer was the president and CEO of Catholic Charities USA from 1992 to 2001. In that capacity he was active in the international confederation and its Vice-President for the North America regional group consisting of Catholic Charities USA, Catholic Relief Services, Development and Peace (Canada), and the Catholic Campaign for Human Development.</p>
<p>Caritas Internationalis President Cardinal Oscar Rodriguez Maradiaga of Honduras said, “Caritas Internationalis is immensely privileged to be at the heart of the Church and her life-giving cycle of love. We are celebrating 60 years of responding through our faith with practical action to human suffering in an unjust world.</p>
<p>“In the second decade of the 21st century, however, we face a series of challenges that threaten to halt or even reverse that progress. Hunger is increasing, the number of humanitarian emergencies is growing, and climate change will cause further harm.</p>
<p>“Caritas has a vision for our world as one human family where no one dies because of poverty and injustice. For this reason, over the coming years we will strive to fulfill that vision.”</p>
<p>During the General Assembly members reelected Cardinal Rodriguez as Caritas President for the next four years, elected Mr. Jürg Krummenacher, former head of Caritas Switzerland, as Treasurer, and Mr. Michel Roy of Secours Catholique of France as Secretary General.</p>
<p>Caritas members at the General Assembly heard from Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, SDB, the Secretary of State to the Holy See, as presider at its opening Eucharist. During the week that followed the General Assembly was addressed by Cardinal Robert Sarah, President of the Pontifical Council Cor Unum, Cardinal Peter Turkson, President of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, outgoing Secretary-General Lesley-Anne Knight, and others. At the conclusion of the Assembly, members were received by Pope Benedict XVI at an audience at the Vatican on Friday, May 27th.</p>
<p>The General Assembly business guided by Fr. Kammer included presentations regarding the ongoing revisions of the confederation’s Statutes and Rules. This has been a multi-year process of various committees of Caritas, and for two years Fr. Kammer has been the moderator the meetings of the thirty-member Executive Committee as they have considered these revisions.</p>
<p>130 Caritas member organizations from across the world sent representatives to their 19th General Assembly from May 22nd to 27th to mark the 60th anniversary of the founding of the confederation. During the sessions chaired by Fr. Kammer, over 300 delegates elected their officers and agreed on a four-year “strategic framework” to strengthen their service working alongside and on behalf of the poor.</p>
<p>Caritas Internationalis was founded in 1951 by 13 Catholic charitable organizations, including Catholic Charities USA (then known as the National Conference of Catholic Charities), to better coordinate the Church’s humanitarian work. They received support in their founding from Msgr. Giovanni Battista Montini, who would become Pope Paul VI in 1963.</p>
<p>The Caritas confederation has grown to 165 members comprising the humanitarian and social development arms of national bishops’ conferences worldwide. Caritas members support millions of poor people in improving their own lives with programs ranging from disaster risk reduction, relief and reconstruction, peace-building and reconciliation, climate mitigation and food security, primary health care, and education.</p>
<p>Father Kammer was the president and CEO of Catholic Charities USA from 1992 to 2001. In that capacity he was active in the international confederation and its Vice-President for the North America regional group consisting of Catholic Charities USA, Catholic Relief Services, Development and Peace (Canada), and the Catholic Campaign for Human Development.</p>
<p>Caritas Internationalis President Cardinal Oscar Rodriguez Maradiaga of Honduras said, “Caritas Internationalis is immensely privileged to be at the heart of the Church and her life-giving cycle of love. We are celebrating 60 years of responding through our faith with practical action to human suffering in an unjust world.</p>
<p>“In the second decade of the 21st century, however, we face a series of challenges that threaten to halt or even reverse that progress. Hunger is increasing, the number of humanitarian emergencies is growing, and climate change will cause further harm.</p>
<p>“Caritas has a vision for our world as one human family where no one dies because of poverty and injustice. For this reason, over the coming years we will strive to fulfill that vision.”</p>
<p>During the General Assembly members reelected Cardinal Rodriguez as Caritas President for the next four years, elected Mr. Jürg Krummenacher, former head of Caritas Switzerland, as Treasurer, and Mr. Michel Roy of Secours Catholique of France as Secretary General.</p>
<p>Caritas members at the General Assembly heard from Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, SDB, the Secretary of State to the Holy See, as presider at its opening Eucharist. During the week that followed the General Assembly was addressed by Cardinal Robert Sarah, President of the Pontifical Council Cor Unum, Cardinal Peter Turkson, President of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, outgoing Secretary-General Lesley-Anne Knight, and others. At the conclusion of the Assembly, members were received by Pope Benedict XVI at an audience at the Vatican on Friday, May 27th.</p>
<p>The General Assembly business guided by Fr. Kammer included presentations regarding the ongoing revisions of the confederation’s Statutes and Rules. This has been a multi-year process of various committees of Caritas, and for two years Fr. Kammer has been the moderator the meetings of the thirty-member Executive Committee as they have considered these revisions.</p>
Date
Japan Relief
News Intro Text
For assistance to Japan relief efforts we recommend contacting Catholic Relief Services.
News Item Content
<p>For assistance to Japan relief efforts we recommend contacting <a href="http://donate.crs.org/site/PageServer?pagename=mg_emergency">Catholic Relief Services</a>.</p>
Date
Proposed WIC Cuts Would End Food Assistance for 325,000-475,000 Women, Infants, & Children
News Intro Text
The Center for Budget and Policy Priorities just published an article revealing how proposed federal budget cuts in the WIC nutrition program would force WIC to turn away 325,000 to 475,000 eligible low-income women and young children next year.
News Item Content
<p> The Center for Budget and Policy Priorities just published an article revelaing how proposed federal budget cuts in the WIC nutrition program would force WIC to turn away 325,000 to 475,000 eligible low-income women and young children next year. This cut — part of the 2012 appropriations bill that Rep. Jack Kingston, chairman of the House agriculture appropriations subcommittee, unveiled on May 23 — would break a 15-year commitment by Administrations and Congresses of both parties to provide enough WIC funding to serve all eligible women, infants, and children who apply.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.cbpp.org/cms/index.cfm?fa=view&id=3499">Read the full report »</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.cbpp.org/cms/index.cfm?fa=view&id=3499">Read the full report »</a></p>
Date
New Jesuit institute to focus on social issues
News Intro Text
Because social issues such as poverty, racism and migration are so divisive, debates concerning the best ways to advance the common good often deteriorate into talk radio sound bites that are nothing more than verbal hand grenades.
News Item Content
<p><strong>By Peter Finney, Jr.</strong></p>
<p>Used with permission from the December 8, 2007 <a href="http://www.clarionherald.org/">Clarion Herald</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p> Because social issues such as poverty, racism and migration are so divisive, debates concerning the best ways to advance the common good often deteriorate into talk radio sound bites that are nothing more than verbal hand grenades. It's almost as if the last person lobbing a loaded phrase or launching an ad hominem attack wins. </p>
<p> That's why it's so refreshing to see Loyola University and the New Orleans Province of the Society of Jesus collaborate on a fresh approach to discussing poverty, racism and migration, issues that have been radioactive in the South. In essence, the newly minted Jesuit Social Research Institute, whose staff includes three Jesuit priests, will try to address those issues by listening, gathering facts and advocating for public policies based on its research and the proud but often overlooked tradition of Catholic social teaching. "One of the things we want to do is grassroots-based research," said Jesuit Father Ted Arroyo, executive director of the new institute and former provincial of the New Orleans province. "We want to work out of people's experiences." </p>
<p> Migration has become a hot-button issue across the country, and even more so in south Louisiana since Hurricane Katrina, when thousands of illegal immigrants poured into the region to do the grunt work of gutting and restoring homes. Congressional attempts to pass comprehensive immigration reform died twice in the U.S. Senate during the summer, leaving the issue muddled. Father Arroyo and his two Jesuit colleagues, Fathers Tom Greene and Michael Bouzigard, spent a week attending an international migration conference in Mexico. One of the presentations discussed the link between Mexico's lack of development and increasing migration to the U.S. "One of the fellows said, `Mexico is addicted to the remesas (the money that is being sent back to Mexican families by the workers), and the U.S. is addicted to Mexican labor,'" Father Arroyo said. Then the priests were taken to a small village, almost eerie in its population mix. "It was all old women and young children and very few males," Father Arroyo said. "This was a `sending' village. These people are completely dependent on the money that is sent back, and there is no development, not even agriculture. Sitting among these cactus bushes, there's a message." </p>
<p> Jesuit Father Fred Kammer, New Orleans provincial and former president of Catholic Charities USA, said he hopes the institute will help Catholics rediscover the social teaching of the church. "The immigrant worker was one of the privileged groups for whom the Jewish community in the Scriptures had a duty of justice to accept and welcome," Father Kammer said. "The bishops have made it clear that while the country has a right to regulate its borders, it also has a duty to welcome the immigrant. The church's human rights tradition says that people have the right to migrate out of their own countries in order to make a living." </p>
<p> Loyola students may help the institute with its research, and there may be a chance for them to help in projects that help New Orleans' recovery. "This city is a laboratory," said Father Kevin Wildes, Loyola's president. "Every social system in this city is broken and needs to be rebuilt. This is a tragedy, in one sense, but on the other hand, it's a great opportunity. If we screw this up, shame on us." </p>
</blockquote>
<p>Peter Finney Jr. can be reached at <a href="../news.html">pfinney@clarionherald.org </a></p>
<p>Used with permission from the December 8, 2007 <a href="http://www.clarionherald.org/">Clarion Herald</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p> Because social issues such as poverty, racism and migration are so divisive, debates concerning the best ways to advance the common good often deteriorate into talk radio sound bites that are nothing more than verbal hand grenades. It's almost as if the last person lobbing a loaded phrase or launching an ad hominem attack wins. </p>
<p> That's why it's so refreshing to see Loyola University and the New Orleans Province of the Society of Jesus collaborate on a fresh approach to discussing poverty, racism and migration, issues that have been radioactive in the South. In essence, the newly minted Jesuit Social Research Institute, whose staff includes three Jesuit priests, will try to address those issues by listening, gathering facts and advocating for public policies based on its research and the proud but often overlooked tradition of Catholic social teaching. "One of the things we want to do is grassroots-based research," said Jesuit Father Ted Arroyo, executive director of the new institute and former provincial of the New Orleans province. "We want to work out of people's experiences." </p>
<p> Migration has become a hot-button issue across the country, and even more so in south Louisiana since Hurricane Katrina, when thousands of illegal immigrants poured into the region to do the grunt work of gutting and restoring homes. Congressional attempts to pass comprehensive immigration reform died twice in the U.S. Senate during the summer, leaving the issue muddled. Father Arroyo and his two Jesuit colleagues, Fathers Tom Greene and Michael Bouzigard, spent a week attending an international migration conference in Mexico. One of the presentations discussed the link between Mexico's lack of development and increasing migration to the U.S. "One of the fellows said, `Mexico is addicted to the remesas (the money that is being sent back to Mexican families by the workers), and the U.S. is addicted to Mexican labor,'" Father Arroyo said. Then the priests were taken to a small village, almost eerie in its population mix. "It was all old women and young children and very few males," Father Arroyo said. "This was a `sending' village. These people are completely dependent on the money that is sent back, and there is no development, not even agriculture. Sitting among these cactus bushes, there's a message." </p>
<p> Jesuit Father Fred Kammer, New Orleans provincial and former president of Catholic Charities USA, said he hopes the institute will help Catholics rediscover the social teaching of the church. "The immigrant worker was one of the privileged groups for whom the Jewish community in the Scriptures had a duty of justice to accept and welcome," Father Kammer said. "The bishops have made it clear that while the country has a right to regulate its borders, it also has a duty to welcome the immigrant. The church's human rights tradition says that people have the right to migrate out of their own countries in order to make a living." </p>
<p> Loyola students may help the institute with its research, and there may be a chance for them to help in projects that help New Orleans' recovery. "This city is a laboratory," said Father Kevin Wildes, Loyola's president. "Every social system in this city is broken and needs to be rebuilt. This is a tragedy, in one sense, but on the other hand, it's a great opportunity. If we screw this up, shame on us." </p>
</blockquote>
<p>Peter Finney Jr. can be reached at <a href="../news.html">pfinney@clarionherald.org </a></p>
Date