Raising up a Prophetic Voice to those who need to hear
Purpose:
To organize as a voice for justice in Appalachia. To engage directly with lawmakers through action on Catholic Social Justice issues and to put pressure on our elected leaders to support or oppose legislation that directly affects the interests of people living in Appalachia.
We believe that our church is being deported! What does that mean? It means that this administration is directly opposing the ideals of our church, the people. It means that NOW is the time to act and influence our law makers to make the right decisions today regardless of the political cost. Our church values, our Catholic social teachings, economic and environmental justice, our rights and freedoms and the people who have immigrated to this country, everything is at risk of deportation by this corrupt Authoritarian government. These justice issues have been communicated by all three of our pastoral letters, championed and supported by CCA members, the Catholic Bishops of Appalachia and by the voices of the people who live here.
Goal:
To move the political needle in this country in order to counteract a corrupt government. To accomplish this goal, CCA has formed a partnership with Network Lobby, the leading voice for Catholic social issues at the federal level. The idea is that, with their connections and training and our network of members, we can make a huge dent, move the needle politically, and deliver a blow to this government that only cares about its billionaire oligarchs. We are at a time when very few people hold a majority of power in this country. With such a slim majority in the House and Senate, if we manage to influence even one representative at a high level, think of the change that CCA and Network can make!
What is a Squad:
Each squad will be a small group of activists led by a squad leader. The squad will be responsible for performing monthly tasks that oppose or support political issues of interest to your community, to Appalachia and as an American citizen. The goals are to put pressure on lawmakers, inform public opinion and move the needle in favor of issues that we fight for. Examples of tasks may include: in-person demonstrations, letter writing, meeting with lawmakers, phone calls, meeting with press, supporting democracy / voting, etc.. This will also include issues that your community faces on a local level such as taking steps to protect our immigrant population. Each squad should be expected to meet at least monthly to discuss tasks and sponsored activities. No experience necessary, only a commitment to justice and working with your squad. If you have questions, please contact Dave Harl.
To get involved with CCA Squads please fill out the following form. Please indicate if you would be willing to lead a squad.
Training opportunities:
We will post upcoming training opportunities here.
Network is sponsoring an online class which will train you on how to be an effective activist. This is called the Organizing Institute. This will start on March 5 and is free for anyone to join, however, the deadline for application is Feb 11 (see link below). This class is not mandatory for CCA squad membership and is available to anyone who is interested.