Over the last several weeks there has been discussion in the media and within Congress surrounding budget proposals which would significantly cut or eliminate funding to critical programs like Medicaid, Medicare and SNAP/food assistance benefits. Social programs such as these provide necessary support to the most marginalized among us; the poor, the hungry, the elderly, the sick. We are aware that many within Community of Christ may wish to contact their representatives regarding the upcoming budget vote and its threat to the worth of all persons. All Community of Christ members and friends are encouraged to engage in the political process by contacting their legislators.
In order to support you in contacting your legislators, we have created the guide, Faith in Action: A Guide to Faithful Political Engagement. This PDF walks you through the steps of contacting your legislators, what to say, and what to expect. It also serves to remind us of our calling to create communities of justice within the realities of our shared lives. You will find a phone script which can be adapted to fit many issues which might concern a person of faith. Additionally, we are including a script to use for calling representatives regarding the upcoming budget resolution.
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Sample Call Script: Opposing Cutting Social Supports (Medicaid/Medicare/Food Assistance)
“Hello, my name is _____________ and I’m a constituent from [CITY/TOWN].
I’m calling to express my strong opposition to the budget resolution cutting or reducing funding to critical social supports for children, the elderly, and the poor. Medicaid, Medicare and SNAP benefits are critical to the health and welfare of our communities.
As a person of faith, I believe deeply in the worth and dignity of all people. My faith community, Community of Christ, has affirmed that we are called to recognize and honor the sacred worth of all individuals as well the hope for all to flourish.
This legislation threatens families in our state and contradicts core values of care, dignity, and respect that should guide our public policy decisions.
I’m asking Representative/Senator _____________ to publicly oppose this legislation and any similar efforts to eliminate critical supports like Medicaid, Medicare and SNAP.
Can you please tell me what position the Representative/Senator has taken on this issue?
[If they haven’t taken a position yet]: I’d appreciate it if you would let them know how important this issue is to their constituents. I believe we should be working to protect all families in Michigan, not trying to eliminate rights that have been established for years.
Thank you for your time and for passing along my concerns.”
Your calls matter. Your voice matters. Your action matters.
Download the Faith in Action Guide: Faith in Action Guide
