A Call To Action…But What Action?!
We’ve heard sermons and read articles about the call to action in light of the flood of executive orders that are disparaging and dehumanizing undocumented people and the trans community, as well as executive decisions that have devastating effects on our climate, which is already wreaking havoc on communities.
But What Action?! I preached a call to action on Sunday. But I ask myself: What tangible action can I do in this moment? I’ve heard from some of you how much you appreciate the words of Right Reverend Budde and Bishop Plambeck, but what’s next? Words and prayers can be galvanizing, but if there isn’t tangible action to do, that galvanizing spirit and energy can quickly fade as we make a Target run or turn on Netflix.
The simple answer is…I don’t know…yet. I wish I had more for you. Hopefully in the near future I will. So in the meantime, here’s what I can tell you we are doing.
I’ve reached out to three nonprofits that focus on supporting and advocating for trans youth and families. I’ve asked them how we can support their work and become a partner with them. I’ve mentioned that we would like to be a safe space for people who live on the North-East side of the Twin Cities, and have space in our building to gather together. One of these nonprofits is holding a gathering of faith partners at the end of February. I will send more information about that event so we can potentially send some people.
I have reached out to the New Brighton city manager to learn about how they respond to immigration concerns at the local level. He assured me that they have a policy in place for their public safety department not to ask about immigration status when engaging anyone in the public. I asked about their involvement with ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement). He said that they are often notified at the last minute when ICE is entering the community and are only utilized for traffic control, never to execute an order from ICE.
I plan to ask pastors in the area who serve populations where undocumented folks are more likely to attend to see how we can support them. (To be honest, I feel like I should apologize for not starting this conversation or this relationship YEARS AGO. It shouldn’t take crisis to extend relationship.)
I hope to learn more in the coming days. If and when I do, I will be sure to pass along ways to support the most vulnerable.
Let’s keep vigilant and ready.