Ecological Justice Dear Members Ecological Concern Has Now Heightened Our Awareness Davi D Joyner Like Many of You, We Here of Just How Interdependent Our World Is

PEOPLE LOBBYING FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE • MARCH/APRIL 2009

Ecological Justice dear members Ecological concern has now heightened our awareness Davi d Joyner Like many of you, we here of just how interdependent our world is. Some of the at NETWORK are seriously gravest environmental problems are clearly global. In NETW RK challenged by the economic A National Catholic Social Justice Lobby crisis in our country and this shrinking world, everyone is affected and everyone world. But I have discovered is responsible… The universal common good can serve the benefit of money NETWORK—a Catholic leader as a foundation for a global environmental ethic. in the global movement worries is that we come for justice and peace— together in some new ways —Renewing the Earth, educates, organizes and lobbies as a community to enhance U.S. Catholic Bishops (1992) for economic our commitment to justice. and social transformation. I can’t tell you how touched NETWORK Board of Directors I am by the way our Board Mary Ann Brenden Marie Lucey, OSF and staff have pulled Marie Clarke Brill Rhonda Meister Simone Campbell, SSS Kateri Mitchell, SSA together to do even more Joan Carey, SSJ Mary Ann Nestel, CSJ with the little we have! Cathleen Crayton Judith Braitmayer Sharpe Contents Mary Ann Gaido Sandra Thibodeux, MMB Staff volunteered to Linda Howell-Perrin, LSW Mary T. Yelenick forego the salary raise that envisioning Barbara Lange Peter J. Zografos we needed in this very To Bring Us Together NETWORK Education Program expensive city. We are 3 in New Ways Board of Directors Elizabeth Dahlman Kit Hinga, SSJ doubling up in offices, Simone Campbell, SSS, sees opportunities Katherine Feely, SND Dorothy Jackson, SCN cutting corners wherever we rising from NETWORK’s and our nation’s Jennifer Haut Kathleen Phelan, OP can. And we are working current financial hard times. to expand our revenue NETWORK Staff cover story Communications Coordinator/Editor— in new ways. Everyone is Faith, Ecology and Economy Stephanie Niedringhaus pitching in and making a 4 Coordinator of Annual Giving—Hanna Rutz Marie Dennis shows the close links between big difference. our current socio-economic and ecological Executive Director—Simone Campbell, SSS problems—and how faith communities like Field Coordinator—Jean Sammon This has led us to IT Coordinator—Joy Wigwe develop the NETWORK Maryknoll work with other groups to address them. Lobbyists—Marge Clark, BVM; Capitol Campaign 2009. Catherine Pinkerton, CSJ focus on the hill Major GIfts Coordinator— Now for those of you who John R. Price, D.Min. are your own spell-checkers, The 111th Congress Convenes NETWORK Associates—Katrine Herrick, you might notice that 8 Under an Economic Cloud Kelly Trout usually a capital campaign But the overdue passage of children’s Office/Membership Coordinator—Ann Dunn is spelled with an “a” and is healthcare legislation provides some good Articles in NETWORK Connection may news. be reprinted. Please include the fol- for a building project. But lowing on the reprints: “Reprinted with our campaign is different! toward a global community permission from NETWORK, a National Our “Capitol Campaign” Catholic Social Justice Lobby, 25 E 10 Eco-spirituality in the Street NW, Suite 200, Washington, is a concerted effort to Philippines; From Earthquake DC 20001, www.networklobby.org.” raise money to realize Please send us a copy of the reprinted to Mind Quake article. our mission working in Teresa R. Dagdag, MM, recounts the story of how a devastating earthquake in the March/April 2009—Vol. 37, No. 2 the Capitol itself and on NETWORK Connection Capitol Hill. Therefore, Philippines redirected her community toward ISSN 0199-5723 a ministry of ecological justice. the building we refer to is Published bimonthly by NETWORK the domed structure here highlighting people ph o n e 202-347-9797 fa x 202-347-9864 in Washington, where we Catholics Respond to e-m a i l : [email protected] build our efforts to maintain 12 Global Warming we b s i t e : www.networklobby.org and increase our capacity Dan Misleh unveils a new campaign on Postmaster: Send address changes to to influence federal policy. global warming that reflects the Catholic NETWORK • 25 E Street NW, Suite 200 We are inviting everyone to community’s commitment to foster Washington, DC 20001 ecological justice. make significant financial Annual dues: $50/$60 international. Copyright © 2009 NETWORK. commitments for the two spread the word years of the 111th Congress Raise the Clamor for so that we can continue our 13 Climate Justice! Cover photo: Joao Virissimo important work. Copy and distribute these tips on how each Won’t you partner with of us can strengthen our common Catholic duty to address global warming. Comments on this issue? Ideas us to keep our work going for future issues in the U.S. Capitol? That’s a making a differencee of Connection? campaign worth supporting, Yes, Virginia, 727 Votes Let us hear from you! don’t you think? 15 Can Make a Difference connection@ New Congressman Tom Perriello comes to networklobby.org Washington determined to serve the people.

2 Connection March/April 2009 www.networklobby.org envisioning To Bring Us Together in New Ways By Si m o n e Ca m p b e l l , SSS

I suppose terror might be too strong a mindful of the cost of everything and to see how we can be more collaborative Iword to express the heartbreaking reality have even quit buying “designer lettuce” and supportive of each others’ core mis- of this economic crisis. I see unemploy- in the grocery store—which I must say is sions in these challenging times. ment numbers in the news and feel the hard for a Californian. This leads me to think that the oppor- vibration of stories of individuals who At NETWORK, it is evident that many tunity that is wrapped in this crisis might have lost jobs, cannot find jobs, or fear of you, our members, are having similar be a new development of interdependent not being able to make ends meet with struggles. Retirement funds and invest- relationships. Necessity might be calling cutbacks in hours and salaries. I experi- ment portfolios have shrunk dramatical- us to put down some of our misguided ence every day at NETWORK the gen- ly. Much of the wealth that we thought thought that we have THE way for social erosity of staff willing to pull together we had is gone, and here at NETWORK change (or God likes NETWORK best!). when times are tough and money scarce. donations are dramatically down. Maybe we are learning that each of us And I wonder in the dark how we are It seems that we are poised in puz- has a place in the scheme of things and going to get out of this mess that we zlement for what comes next. Where is we need to be smarter in our coordina- have made. the new equilibrium? Where is the new tion of core missions. It could create a I have often thought about the com- growth? Candidly, I’m not sure. But in new chapter in collaborative work. ment that Michael Strautmanis, co-chair the obscure future, I have begun to think I think this might be true personally of the Obama transition team, made to that the essential element for each of us as well. If I am secure in what I have to our Catholic faith group when we met is doing whatever our core mission is. As offer and what I need, then I can let in with him in December. He said that an organization we are focusing on our the gifts and needs of those around me. the new administration does not want core mission to impact federal legislation It is these gifts and needs that will break to waste significant opportunities for for the benefit of vulnerable people and our hearts and create something new. change that are hidden in the crises we Creation. But this very effort to focus has This is the basis for real community. face. I think this is smart and right, but made it clear that we cannot do this work So I have a hunch that the opportu- as I peer into the dark of this crisis it alone. We educate, organize and lobby nity lurking in the dark of the economic is difficult sometimes to make out the around federal policy; but we need to crisis is to bring us together in new ways, shape of the new opportunity. be in relationship with others in order knowing that we can neither live nor do What I do see is that we are learn- to meet the broader needs of society. this work alone. It is as Mary Oliver says ing again as a nation that what happens We are convening a meeting of several in her poem Lead: to one sector of our economy affects us national Catholic social justice groups I tell you this all. The “housing bubble” caused by the to break your heart, sub-prime mortgage debacle was really by which I mean only caused not by the borrowers trying to that it break open and never buy homes, but by the greed of lenders close again seeking more and more commissions to the rest of the world. for making loans. This greed created a domino effect. It has caused me to quit Simone Campbell, SSS, is NETWORK buying much of anything. I am more Executive Director. Martina E bel

www.networklobby.org March/April 2009 Connection 3 Faith, Ecology and Economy

By Ma r i e De n n i s “Clearly the time is at hand—indeed, it is overdue—for a grand reconciliation between humans, human systems, and the environment.” —Thomas Lovejoy, foreword to Right Relationships: Building a Whole Earth Economy by Peter Brown and Geoffrey Garver

Despite their enthusiasm, depth and Today’s Ecological and scarce. Food insecurity, rising sea levels, authenticity, worldwide celebrations at Socio-economic Crises warming temperatures, the frequency Dthe election and inauguration of Barack And as we try to absorb the scale of of terrifying storms, and the accelerated Obama as 44th president of the United the global social and economic crisis, a extinction of species are harbingers of States could not dispel the ominous massive ecological crisis is also coming natural systems and patterns spinning indicators of economic, social and eco- into focus. out of control, with potentially dire con- logical failure that served as a backdrop In Kisii, Kenya, people living at high sequences for humans and for all species to the euphoria. altitudes are dying from malaria. Mos- in the earth community. A meltdown that began in major quitoes are surviving at higher eleva- Intrinsic connections between the financial institutions and on Wall Street tions than ever before and infecting socio-economic crisis and the ecologi- has exposed the level of our national communities with little or no resistance cal crisis, including global warming, gullibility to purveyors of phantom to the disease. are increasingly evident. A now-global wealth. And globally, we are just begin- In the Peten of Guatemala, the Mayan economic system that has marginalized ning to understand the extent of uni- people, like so many others around the billions of people and brought empty versal vulnerability to the unmitigated world, are no longer able to depend on prosperity to a few has driven the wan- greed of some and to the ideology of the rains coming when they should for ton exploitation and destruction of an unregulated, unaccountable right the planting of crops. And when the natural systems, species and the earth’s to accumulate wealth. The economic rains do arrive, they often don’t stop on limited resources. failure we are facing is exacerbated by time, and the crops are ruined. The International Forum on Global- a social failure of monumental propor- In Nepal, Peru and Bolivia, excessive ization (IFG) says, “The planet’s eco- tions, whereby macroeconomic policies melting of glaciers on some of the world’s logical, social and economic systems and statistics have masked the depth of tallest mountains is resulting in flooding, are on the verge of catastrophic change endemic poverty in almost every coun- erosion and the loss of a reliable water for which few societies are adequately try and the enormous and growing gap supply for millions of people. prepared.” They describe this change as between those who are very rich and the Around the world, life’s most basic emerging from the convergence of several majority who are poor. resources are every day rendered more advancing conditions, including acceler- Florea Marius Catalin

4 Connection March/April 2009 www.networklobby.org ating climate change, the imminent end of cheap energy supplies (“peak oil”), the depletion of most resources basic to the industrial system, the spread of societies dependent on over-consumption of com- modities made from the above resources, and the destruction of societies that offer traditional alternative models. Addressing the Ethical Implications At the same time, breathtaking scientific discoveries are unveiling the 13.7 billion-year-old and yet-unfolding universe story. Nourished by the likes of Teilhard de Chardin, SJ, Thomas Berry, CP, and Don N i c hols Miriam Therese MacGillis, OP, religious and ethical reflection on this new cosmology has led many people of faith to embrace a wholly new sense of our own (FEE) Working Group, we are “sitting the world by the international financial location as part of a larger earth commu- at the feet of” ecological economists and institutions; reinvigorated by the end of nity and a cosmic reality with which our attempting to bring the current debates the Cold War; and institutionalized by own future is inextricably linked. about economic recovery and ecologi- free trade agreements. A neoliberal model The ethical implications of this cal survival more closely together. We of globalization saw the rapid spread of insight are extremely important in an era are working with many others who are what Herman Daly calls “uneconomic of economic, social and ecological crisis, leading the world, especially the global growth.” The pursuit of markets encour- highlighting the need to design a way North, away from excessive fossil-fuel aged wasteful consumption, and finan- forward that ends the false dichotomy dependence and unwarranted con- cial innovation took the place of a real between human wellbeing and ecologi- sumption, as well as with organizations economy. Growth, used universally as cal integrity. The pursuit of quantita- working for economic justice through, the measure of a “healthy” economy, had tive economic growth that depends on for example, fair trade, debt cancellation little to do with real “development” or an the expanded exploitation of natural and corporate accountability. We believe improving quality of life. Meanwhile, a resources and results in the continued they are natural allies. commitment to the common good and destruction of eco-systems will have For over 35 years, theologians, scien- social justice was lost in the quest for to end. The economic system that has tists, economists and others have point- maximum personal wealth. been dominant globally will have to be ed to this inevitable collision between Now, however, the neoliberal consen- replaced by economies that produce an economy focused on the unbounded sus is falling apart, and with it, the idea measurable improvements in the real creation and accumulation of wealth and that global economic integration will lead quality of life for all, but especially for the limited resources and carrying capac- to steadily rising prosperity everywhere. marginalized and impoverished people. ity of our planet. The controversial 1972 Furthermore, even as contemporary sci- Rooted in this conviction, the Mary- Club of Rome report, Limits to Growth, entific exploration reveals the urgency of knoll Office for Global Concerns has made headlines as oil prices soared. But consciously structuring human endeav- initiated a program on “Faith, Economy a deep belief that new discoveries and ors within the larger community of life, and Ecology” to help bring the wisdom inventions would keep opening up new too many proposed solutions to the cur- and insights of faith communities enliv- possibilities for growth enabled politi- rent economic quagmire are rooted in an ened by the new cosmology to already cians to postpone unpopular decisions. understanding of the nature of the uni- well-underway efforts to transform our Soon, the sweeping emphasis on unfet- verse that is unaware of resource limits growth-focused economic system and tered, open free-market economies was or natural processes for the regeneration fossil fuel-based way of life. With a ushered in by Ronald Reagan, Margaret of life on Earth. While positive steps in growing Faith, Economy and Ecology Thatcher and others; promoted around response to the climate crisis seem inevitable, unless the economic system itself ≥ is drastically changed the human com- Religious and ethical reflection on this new cosmology has led munity will still overwhelm the Earth’s carrying capacity. many people of faith to embrace a wholly new sense of our own The April 2008 Conference on Eco- nomic Degrowth for Ecological Sus- location as part of a larger earth community and a cosmic reality tainability and Social Equity called for with which our own future is inextricably linked. “a paradigm shift from the general and www.networklobby.org March/April 2009 Connection 5 unlimited pursuit of economic analysts, academics, thinkers growth to a concept of ‘right- and theologians in this area. sizing’ the global and national We have been in conversa- economies by reducing the tion with groups like the global ecological footprint Center for the Advancement (including the carbon foot- of a Steady State Economy print) to a sustainable level. In (CASSE), the National Cen- countries where the per capita ter for Economic & Security footprint is greater than the Alternatives (NCESA), those sustainable global level, right- participating in the Strategic sizing implies a reduction Corporate Initiative (SCI), to this level within a reason- and many others. able timeframe. In countries We are articulating key where severe poverty remains, ethical questions about the right-sizing implies increas- growth and consumption- ing consumption by those in driven global economy and poverty as quickly as possible, its relationship to environ- in a sustainable way, to a level mental failure. We are also adequate for a decent life...” attempting to bring these questions and some of the Looking to the Future isto c kphoto policy proposals developed This urgent agenda should in response to the Obama engage the Obama administra- administration and Con- tion, Congress and every U.S. gress, as well as to United American in the coming years. Ongo- framework of a new cosmology based on Nations debates on climate change, sus- ing food and water crises, the impact contemporary scientific exploration and tainable development and the future of of extractive industries, climate change, study of the universe. Such a reframing, the global economy. and the end of cheap oil demand a radi- interpreted and given meaning through To do this, we are studying carefully cal transformation of existing systems faith, would provide the context for a and attempting to generate debate about and patterns of life related to transpor- value system and worldview capable of some important policy recommendations tation, food production and marketing, inspiring human communities that are from ecological economists, including water use, manufacturing, consumption consciously rooted in right relationships cap-and-trade systems for basic resourc- and energy use. The impact of volatile with each other and within the larger es; ecological tax reform; limiting the oil prices is already being felt in the U.S. community of life. range of inequality in income distribu- and around the world, most painfully by Renewed, more just relationships tion by setting minimum and maximum poor people and low-income communi- between human beings and the rest of incomes; freeing up the length of the ties. In many cases, food and water cri- Creation are essential, as are new per- work day, week and year to allow greater ses threaten their very survival. sonal, family and community lifestyles options for leisure or personal work; But the future is not without hope. We that are encouraged and supported by and re-regulation of international com- are at a moment when some important state, national and global policies, struc- merce, moving away from free trade, shifts in economic structures and “busi- tures and systems. Our moral obligation free capital mobility and globalization. ness as usual” could radically improve to the near and the distant future is clear. For additional public policy suggestions the outcome for the earth community Neither the U.S. economy nor the global from Herman Daly, Gus Speth, CASSE, and for the entire planet. We believe we economy can be based on the unsus- NCEAS, SCI and others, see www.mary- can muster the creative imagination and tainable use of resources or the assump- knollogc.org. political will to transform our way of tion that constant growth is an ultimate Many faith communities actively help life and the economic system that sup- good. Rather, we should move toward a their members live more simply, share ports it to one that honors the dignity steady-state economy that limits the use their abundance, and develop a sense of of all life; respects the carrying capac- of all natural resources to the planet’s respect for the Earth and responsibility ity of earth, resource limits and natural capacity to regenerate and encourage for the use of natural resources. Some processes; ensures right relationships local and regional economies based on religious communities and traditional among human beings and with the rest sustainable energy and equity for all. societies have a long history of shar- of Creation; and is in harmony with the ing property and wealth and of mutual rhythms of the universe. Working on a Way Forward accountability. They are developing con- Slowly, humanity is recognizing the The Faith, Economy and Ecology temporary models for living in right rela- need to reorganize its economic and Working Group meets monthly for a series tionship with each other and the whole socio-political endeavors within the of discussions based on the work of key Earth community.

6 Connection March/April 2009 www.networklobby.org ≥ for equality and justice for indigenous peoples, for peoples of the Neither the U.S. economy nor the global economy can global South, for the redistribution be based on the unsustainable use of resources or the of wealth and for the recognition of the historical ecological debt owed assumption that constant growth is an ultimate good. by the North.” For deep transformation to become Many contemporary secular commu- and believe deeply in their vision of a possible, however, the excessive influ- nities have also built examples of more future that is ecologically sustainable ence of individual or corporate wealth just, sustainable and viable models of and a practiced alternative to the pres- and concentrated power in major politi- business and community organization, ent model. We clearly heard voices from cal arenas must be brought to account. including producer and worker coop- the 2009 World Social Forum in Belem, SCI recommendations, available at http:// eratives, land trusts, community-owned Brazil: corpethics.org, give interesting food for utilities, worker-owned firms, commu- “Real solutions to the climate cri- thought in terms of policy directions to nity development financial institutions, sis are being built by those who have accomplish this. The impetus to enact community-supported agriculture, local always protected the Earth and by serious accountability and transpar- currency, and barter systems. Some of those who fight every day to defend ency measures is strong in the wake of these are beginning to assume a scale their environment and living con- the scandals and bailouts now in the that could have a significant positive ditions. We need to globalize these headlines, but accomplishing the kind impact on our common future. solutions. of change needed in this area will not These and other yet-to-be-discovered “For us, the struggles for climate be easy. forms of sustainable economic organiza- justice and social justice are one We recognize how challenging it is tion can make an important contribution and the same. It is the struggle for to raise awareness about the need for a to a future that is freed from dependence territories, land, forests and water, global economy that is at the same time on fossil fuels, encourages socially and for agrarian and urban reform, food environmentally sustainable and socially environmentally responsible lifestyles, and energy sovereignty, for women’s just. A long-term commitment to popu- and nurtures human security for all. and worker’s rights. It is the fight lar education, formation and commu- Concrete examples like nity building will be needed these can provide a solid to generate popular will in base of experience from support of almost unthinkable which to develop effective ideas like limits to growth and national and international maximum income or wealth. policies. Communities of faith, work- Maryknoll and other ing in alliance with others who FEE Working Group mem- have deep commitment and bers bring to the table deep expertise in these areas, can experiences with impover- play a major role in educating, ished people worldwide. motivating and advocating for We live in communities systems and structures that where too many people respond to this challenge. already are hungry or lack access to potable water; Marie where their lives are dis- Dennis rupted or destroyed by the serves as global growth of extrac- Director tive industries; where the of the impact of global warming is Maryknoll painfully felt. Office for We see people on the Global move around the world, Concerns driven by economic or and as Co-president of Pax K ristian S epti m ius K rogh ecological disasters, try- Christi International. For more ing to survive or to find a information about the Faith, decent quality of life. We Economy and Ecology (FEE) also have had extensive Working Group, contact the interaction with more local- Maryknoll Office for Global ized, indigenous economies Concerns at [email protected]. www.networklobby.org March/April 2009 Connection 7 focus on the hill

The 111th Congress Convenes Under an Economic Cloud

By Ma r g e Cl a r k , BVM, Ca t h e r i n e Pi n k e r t o n , CSJ, Si m o n e Ca m p b e l l , SSS, Ke l l y Tr o u t a n d Ka t r i n e He r r i c k

The inauguration of President Obama adopted the conference report on the While we are pleased that our mem- Ton January 20 filled many of us with $787 billion economic stimulus package bers’ advocacy helped move Congress renewed hope for progress on many on February 13. Overall, about $575 to support these important programs, social and economic justice priorities. billion will go into spending and $212 we are also concerned about the par- However, the economic distress in our billion into tax cuts. tisan process used to craft and pass the nation tempers that anticipation. The NETWORK advocated strongly for legislation. The House vote was 246 to money committed by the federal govern- provisions that would most effectively 183, with no Republicans in favor and ment to stem the downward economic respond to the needs of people who seven Democratic votes against it. The spiral will cast a long shadow over this are unemployed or struggling with eco- Senate vote, 60 to 38, was similarly par- session of Congress. nomic hardship. We are pleased that tisan. Only three Republican senators We hope that the current economic many of those provisions made it into joined 55 Democrats and two indepen- crisis will inspire serious efforts on Capitol the final bill (although not necessarily at dents in favor. Hill to address structural problems in our the funding levels we had hoped). This Our government will face many dif- economy. We also recognize that many includes additional funding for Medic- ficult decisions in the months ahead as such efforts, including healthcare reform, aid, unemployment benefits, COBRA we address the current economic crisis. will require additional large investments premiums for unemployed workers, the We hope that future deliberations and of money. The focus on economic recov- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Pro- decisions will be rooted less in partisan ery may also require us to push harder to gram (food stamps), the Child Tax Cred- interests and more in a concern for the ensure that priorities like comprehensive it, housing and neighborhood assistance common good. immigration reform are not overshad- programs, education programs for poor owed. While maintaining our vision for and special needs children, and energy Budget changes in our social and economic sys- efficiency in public housing. Before tackling the budget for fis- tems, NETWORK recognizes the need to cal year 2010, Congress must complete think strategically and creatively about appropriations for fiscal year 2009. how we can achieve them. Congress needs to pass an Omnibus bill for FY 2009 by March 6, when fund- Economic Recovery ing through the Continuing Resolution President Obama signed the Ameri- approved in September will end. can Recovery and Reinvestment Act on Because of the transfer to a new February 17. The House and Senate had administration and focus on economic recovery legislation, the budget process Need up-to-date information about for FY 2010 will begin somewhat later legislation in Congress? Check out this year. While we have a broad vision NETWORK’s Legislative Action Center at of the president’s budget priorities, we do http://capwiz.com/networklobby/ not expect his detailed requests for the issues/bills/ ★ To learn what happened to legislation you followed in the past, go to http://capwiz.com/networklobby/ issues/votes/ and enter your zip code in the “Key Votes” field.

8 Connection March/April 2009 www.networklobby.org FY 2010 budget until late March or early to use to address the needs of ordinary Addressing workers in Michigan in June April. As a result, look for NETWORK Iraqis. The Obama administration has 2008, candidate Obama critiqued U.S. to mobilize constituent action regarding indicated that it is very interested in trade policy, noting “that our economic the budget a bit later than usual. responding to the needs of refugees and policies must be supported by strong NETWORK anticipates that the bud- internally displaced Iraqis. and smart trade policies and that trade get process for FY 2010 will present The administration has also indicat- agreements without labor or environ- the president, members of Congress, ed that its military advisers are recom- mental agreements are not in our long and our advocacy community with dif- mending the separation of development term interests. If we continue to let our ficult choices. We will have to reconcile from the military. NETWORK has advo- trade policy be dictated by spe- the pent-up demand to increase spend- cated for this separation over the last few cial interests, then American ing for domestic programs neglected in years. workers will continue to be recent years with the need for long-term We are now trying to see how undermined and public sup- fiscal responsibility in the face of mount- much policy we can create port for robust trade will con- ing national debt. through our relationships with tinue to erode.” the Obama administration and In that same month, Sena- Children’s Healthcare where new legislation is required. tor Sherrod Brown (D-OH) NETWORK celebrated the long over- This will take a little time to dis- and Representative Michael due passage and signing by President cern. We expect Congress will Michaud (D-ME) introduced the Obama of H.R. 2, legislation to reau- take up a supplemental funding Trade Reform, Accountability, Develop- thorize and expand the State Children’s request for the military in late ment and Employment (TRADE) Act, a Health Insurance Program. SCHIP March or early April. Then bill to require a review of existing trade provides healthcare to low-income we will know if our efforts to agreements, set new terms for future children whose parents can- make development part of the agreements, and strengthen the role of not afford private insurance regular budget process have been Congress in trade policymaking. The but who earn too much to successful. Stay tuned! sponsors noted that some of the great- qualify for Medicaid. NET- est challenges ahead are to create rules WORK strongly advocated Immigration for globalization that ensure economic for this important legislation. The Interfaith Immigration Coali- security and the creation of quality jobs Because of this victory, health- tion and other groups have been here while offering opportunities for care coverage will be extended to about working to raise the profile of compre- sustainable development in poor coun- 4 million previously uninsured children hensive immigration reform. It needs tries. Meeting this challenge is neces- over the next 4½ years—which means to happen and we are working to make sary in order to counter rising income that 11 million children will be covered it a reality. The economic cri- inequality and threats to our national overall. Among other important provi- sis makes it more difficult to security, global environment and pub- sions, H.R. 2 allows pregnant immigrants convince some people that lic health. and the children of immigrants who are the U.S. needs the labor of NETWORK, in conjunction with in the U.S. legally to obtain health ben- undocumented immigrants— the Interfaith Working Group on efits through theSCHIP program. Before even though some work in International Trade and Investment, the bill was signed, they had to wait five areas where there is still a met with the staff of Senator Brown years before they were eligible. labor shortage. We hope that and Representative Michaud over the NETWORK regards the enactment there will be an opportunity to move past few months to offer support and of SCHIP legislation as a critical step the issue legislatively later this year or in critique of the TRADE Act. We voiced toward providing healthcare for the early 2010. Until then, we need to keep our strong conviction that trade policies most vulnerable members of our society. the issue of fair and humane immigra- should be instruments of development It puts us one step closer to the goal of tion laws alive in our communities. for all parties to the agreement. universal access to healthcare, a funda- mental right. Revisiting U.S. Trade Agreements Marge Clark, BVM, and Catherine With the focus on economic recov- Pinkerton, CSJ, are NETWORK Lobbyists. Iraq ery legislation, the campaign promise of Simone Campbell, SSS, is NETWORK At NETWORK, we are still absorbing President Obama to take action to revisit Executive Director. Kelly Trout and Katrine the fact that we now have new strategies U.S. trade policies has been delayed. Herrick are NETWORK Associates.

Want timely information about key issues in Congress? NETWORK members can sign up for our weekly email legislative hotline. Send your name, zip code and email address to [email protected]. www.networklobby.org March/April 2009 Connection 9 toward a global community Eco-spirituality in the Philippines From Earthquake to Mind Quake By Te r e s a Da g d a g , MM Maryknoll Ecological Sanctuary, where time, I was part of the local Maryknoll ares). The arrival of the Americans intro- I work, is in the Cordillera Region, the Sisters community of four. Two of us duced logging for export since demand Mhome of indigenous peoples belong- were attending a meeting in Mindanao for tropical woods made it profitable. ing to several ethno-linguistic groups and were shocked upon our return to Due to persistent logging, mining licens- in Northern Luzon, Philippines. This is see a ghost town that exuded the stench es and claims, Environmental Science a mountainous bioregion with natural of dead bodies in Burnham Park await- for Social Change predicted in 1999 that resources of gold, silver and copper as ing more coffins. our remaining forests will dwindle down well as rivers and forests. With the earthquake came the mind to 320,000 hectares by 2010. For centuries, local people provided quake. The Sisters in the Philippine Government policy incentives con- communal sanctions to care for these Region realized the urgency of respond- tribute to forest loss and degradation. natural resources through indigenous ing to the ecological devastation caused Market forces fuel the government’s practices such as the muyong in Ifugao, by the earthquake and decided to shift aggressive development strategy, mak- where families tended the watersheds our ministry focus from elementary edu- ing large-scale extraction of precious for the rice terraces. Today, since most of cation to Earth education. Phasing out metals from inside our Earth’s surface the Philippine forest is considered to be the school, we established the Mary- a priority even though chemicals used on public land, it is the government that knoll Sisters’ Center for Justice, Peace, in mining pose grave danger to our riv- mainly decides on its use. ers and humans. Develop- A more aggressive government aggression is the term ment development strat- used by those who disagree egy opened up mines and with this strategy, which only carved dams for hydro- benefits the country’s elite. electric power. Local resi- Unfortunately, the govern- dents cut forests to make ment has now opened forests way for kaingin (swidden to mining operations through farms) and to avail of tim- the Philippine Mining Act of ber products. Tree cutting 1995. About 23 priority min- has caused deadly land- ing projects have already been slides, claiming lives and identified, and these include property. areas in the Cordillera Region A tropical typhoon in in Luzon and Surigao, Davao 2006 caused more than 60 and Zamboanga in Mindan- landslides in Baguio City Vegetable plots carved out of mountains, an example of swidden farms or kaingin. ao, Leyte and Palawan. Some and claimed the lives of two children. and Integrity of Creation (MSCJPIC)— of these are in protected areas and ances- In urban areas, fast increases in popu- or Maryknoll Ecological Sanctuary, its tral domains. (Haribon Papers, 2005) lation prompt developers to gouge more popular name. Agricultural crops carry toxic chemi- hillsides and build upscale residential vil- Replacing the demolished convent, cals from inorganic fertilizers that invade lages. Cutting trees and scraping slopes the Sisters built a bio-shelter as home for the human body, poisoning body parts create soil instability. More residents also the humans on the eco-trek called “Cos- and causing life-threatening illnesses. add to the litter in the city and contrib- mic Journey,” a creative 14-station walk Women who engage in vegetable farming ute to heavier ecological footprints. that shows the gradual unfolding of the in Buguias, Benguet are very vulnerable universe. In this way, the Sisters showed to such illnesses. The effects of damaging Maryknoll Presence in the Region a significant shift in consciousness from ecological systems demonstrate them- In 1928, Maryknoll Sisters arrived in anthropocentric to cosmic, from human- selves in the illnesses caused by toxic Baguio City and set up a residence for centered to earth- or universe-centered chemicals not only in humans but also in missioners who needed respite from the perspectives. plants, other animals and the soil itself. heat in the lowlands. Upon request, they The latter, when saturated with toxic also taught children in their convent Ecological Dangers materials, becomes useless for agriculture, until a new school building was con- The Philippines is losing its forest a leading livelihood in the Cordillera. structed in 1961. cover at an extremely fast rate. In the Eco-feminists show close relation- In 1990, a killer earthquake claimed 1900s, many areas were already dam- ships between women and ecology. hundreds of lives and countless homes aged in the Central Cordilleras when the Women are most affected by the worsen- and businesses. The convent was irre- forest cover in the country was still 70% ing condition of the ecosystem because trievably damaged by a landslide. At the of the total land area (21 million hect- they must ensure that there is potable

10 Connection March/April 2009 www.networklobby.org Another TV program in Tagalog on climate change anchored by woman Sena- tor Loren Legarda was recently aired and is now available to the public.

Ecology and Spirituality If faith is “the search for deeper meaning, the journey of opening our hearts to understanding the mystery within which all life is held” (O’Murchu, public lecture, 2009), then it has much to do with the care of ecological systems. These systems make up God’s creation, the universe which is the primary revela- tion of God among us. Earth Day 2008 parade with staff of Maryknoll Ecological Sanctuary showing their placards. As human, I am part of these ecological systems and a manifestation of water to drink and clean water with Baguio City is also plagued by poor the unfolding of the universe. In fact, I which to cook and wash. Women walk solid waste management. Maryknoll am the universe that has become aware to sources of safe water that are kilo- Ecological Sanctuary participates in of itself. Because of this, it behooves us meters away from their homes in the meetings of Alay sa Kalinisan (Offer to humans to care for this locus of revela- mountainous areas. Of course, children Cleanliness) in the city. Green Initiative tion for us. I feel and experience God’s are also obliged to haul water. sponsored a workshop on solid waste grandeur in the beauty of creation and In this bioregion, although decisions management in August 2008. Recently, terror wrought by environmental dev- are made communally, decision mak- there was a call for the city mayor to astation and extinction. Caring for the ers, often the community elders, are conduct a study about the feasibility of Earth’s ecological systems is an impera- mostly male. Sustainable development converting the open mine pit in Itogon, tive for us who believe that it is a Chris- requires free, prior and informed con- Benguet into a site for the city’s engi- tian responsibility. Caring for God’s sent (FPIC) on the part of the commu- neered sanitary landfill (ESL) project. It creation is a way of giving praise to the nity. This implies the full cooperation will be another disaster if this project is Creator who has gifted us with them. An of its members. So-called development implemented. eco-spirituality calls us to develop right projects that potentially benefit commu- Each of Baguio’s 128 barangays [local and just relationships with these ecolog- nities should be subject to the scrutiny districts] aims to establish a material ical systems. of those who will benefit as well as those recovery facility (MRF) that stores non- Global warming, climate change and who may suffer. biodegradable waste materials for recy- environmental devastation are upon us. cling. At the World Environment Day It is in light of these innumerable prob- Taking Action Forum held in Baguio in 2008, only lems on a global scale particularized in In April 2007, Maryknoll Sisters led four were reported to be fully function- different specific bioregions that our the formation of the Green Initiative Net- al; it is taking other barangays longer to work for integral Earth education was work of some 20 organizations to assess organize their members for proper solid conceived. The 1990 earthquake was a the commitment of political candidates waste management. wake-up call to address massive environ- to environmental concerns. We invited Earth Day 2008 was a call to people to mental destruction that ripped moun- mayoral and congressional candidates to heed warnings about the dangers of envi- tains, brought down our buildings, and present their platforms for the environ- ronmental neglect and the importance of claimed more than a thousand human ment. The network covers Baguio City ecological vigilance. As lead convener of lives in this country. The environmental and neighboring towns in Benguet Prov- the Green Initiative Network, Maryknoll clock is ticking. We must respond with ince: La Trinidad, Itogon, Sablan, and Ecological Sanctuary had a major role in serious purpose so that we can bequeath Tuba, known as the BLIST area. planning a parade that used slogans for a healthy planet to our children and the Clean-up of the Balili River in La Trini- a healthy planet based on UN ecological next generations. dad is a project of the Baguio Regreening priorities: Climate Change, Biodiversity, Movement (BRM). Cordillera Green Net- Food Security, Solid Waste Manage- Teresa Dagdag, MM, work (CGN) implements a forestry-and- ment, Population/Human Settlements is the Directress of the organic agriculture project in Kabayan, and Renewable Energy. Maryknoll Sisters Center Benguet. Particular groups are respon- There is growing consciousness in the for Justice, Peace and sible for specific watersheds. If taken Philippines of the need to focus on pro- Integrity of Creation, the seriously, a better scenario is predicted tecting the environment. “Signos” (“Fatal Maryknoll Ecological to increase forest cover up to 19% based Signs”) is a DVD on the threats of climate Sanctuary in Baguio City. She has a PhD on the key role of the community in for- change narrated by Richard Gutierrez, a in Anthropology from the University of the est management. young actor and Greenpeace advocate. Philippines. Photos courtesy of the author. www.networklobby.org March/April 2009 Connection 11 highlighting people

Catholics Respond to Global Warming

By Da n Mi s l e h From John Paul II’s 1990 World Day works to ensure that Catholics At the heart of the effort is the St. Fof Peace message to the U.S. bishops’ embrace Church teaching on envi- Francis Pledge. Catholic individuals, 2001 statement, Global Climate Change: ronmental justice. The work places a parishes, dioceses and organizations A Plea for Dialogue, Prudence and the priority on prudent action in the face are encouraged to do five things: Common Good, Catholic leaders have of uncertainty, promotion of the com- • TO PRAY and reflect on the duty to urged us to recover the ancient tradi- mon good, and protection of people in care for God’s creation and protect tion of reverence for Creation. Just this poverty. people who are poor and vulnerable August while visiting an Italian dio- In dioceses, parishes, schools and • TO LEARN about and educate others cese, Pope Benedict addressed a priest’s especially religious communities, the on the moral dimensions of climate question about climate change: Catholic faithful are responding to change Creation is groaning—we perceive the climate crisis and environmen- • TO ASSESS our participation—as it, we almost hear it—and awaits tal justice in inspirational ways. In individuals and organizations—in human beings who will preserve it the Diocese of Stockton, California, contributing to climate change in accordance with God. The bru- Bishop Blaire dedicates one Sunday in • TO ACT to change our choices and tal consumption of Creation begins October, Pro-Life Month, to the care of behaviors contributing to climate where God is not… [W]e [must] Creation because “the environment is change find a new way of living, a disci- the envelope that holds all life.” Texas • TO ADVOCATE Catholic principles pline of making sacrifices, a disci- bishops also recently voiced concerns and priorities in climate change dis- pline of the recognition of others about plans for several new coal power cussions and decisions, especially as to whom creation belongs as much plants because of toxins from the they impact people who are poor and as it belongs to us…a discipline of smokestacks. They urged state offi- vulnerable. responsibility with regard to the cials to harness other energy sources In this way, the Catholic community future of others and to our own like wind and solar. will respond to the call of Pope Bene- future, because it is a responsibil- And I write this article from Pre- dict: ity in the eyes of the One who is sentation Retreat Center in the hills Before it is too late, [we must] our Judge and…Redeemer… above Los Gatos, California, where the make courageous decisions that U.S. bishops and other faith leaders sisters have constructed an impressive reflect knowing how to re-create a have been at the forefront of efforts to welcome center and dining hall with a strong alliance between [human- ensure that public policies addressing gold certification from the Leadership ity] and the earth. climate change take into consideration in Energy and Environmental Design the requirements of all of Creation. This (LEED) green building rating system. Dan Misleh is the is especially true for the most vulner- Building on these efforts, the Cath- Executive Director of the able people among us since they will olic Coalition on Climate Change is Catholic Coalition on suffer the harshest impacts of climate launching Catholics for Climate Justice: Climate Change (www. change and they possess few resources The St. Francis Pledge to Protect Creation catholicsandclimatechange. to adapt or get out of harm’s way. and Poor People. This is an unprec- org). See page13 for more In tandem with the U.S. Conference edented outreach effort to every U.S. information about the St. of Catholic Bishops’ work at the pub- parish, highlighting the impressive Francis Pledge. To learn about U.S. lic policy level, the Catholic Coalition array of activities already happening in bishops’ actions on ecological justice, on Climate Change—which enjoys the our faith community and encouraging see www.usccb.org/sdwp/ejp/climate/ bishops’ support and whose members Catholics to renew our Covenant with backgrounders.shtml and www.usccb. include a dozen other national Catho- God to be caretakers of God’s wonder- org/sdwp/international/globalclimate. lic partners, including NETWORK— ful gift of life. shtml.

12 Connection March/April 2009 www.networklobby.org spread the word

“Once we start living in a way that is people-friendly to all of God’s family, we will also be environment-friendly.” —Archbishop Desmond Tutu Raise the Clamor for Climate Justice!

Climate change is now widely recognized as a looming about our role in climate change and to galvanize environmental danger that affects the entire global a common Catholic commitment to address its community. It is less widely recognized as a matter of impacts. To guide Catholics in responding to this global justice. call to care for Creation and stand with poor and In the U.S., many people are waking up to the reality vulnerable people affected by our changing climate, of our warming climate by taking small steps toward the Coalition has developed the St. Francis Pledge. lessening their own adverse climate impact—for Read the pledge below. Then see the next page for instance, by switching to energy-efficient light resources that can prepare and guide you in your bulbs, weatherizing their homes, and efforts to promote climate justice. buying more fuel-efficient vehicles. The St. Francis Pledge But are our individual measures PRAY and reflect on the duty enough? What is our collective • to care for God’s creation responsibility, as citizens of and protect poor and a nation responsible for a vulnerable people; disproportionate amount of climate-warming • LEARN about and emissions? educate others on the How can we act in moral dimensions of solidarity with people climate change; in the developing ASSESS our world who already feel • participation—as the impact of climate individuals and change—through organizations—in worsening droughts, contributing to more frequent climate change (i.e., natural disasters, consumption and water scarcity, and conservation); increasing malnutrition and disease? • ACT to change our How can we respond choices and behaviors as people of faith who contributing to climate believe in the principle change and; of responsible care for ADVOCATE Catholic Creation? • principles and priorities in The Catholic Coalition on Climate climate change discussions and Change is launching an important

Dan T ero decisions, especially as they impact new initiative to promote reflection poor and vulnerable people.

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NETWORK—a Catholic leader in the global movement for justice and peace 25 E Street NW, Suite 200 • Washington DC 20001 202-347-9797 • www.networklobby.org spread the word

“Securing the blessings of liberty for ourselves and future generations requires that we shape our economic and regulatory systems so they are balanced and sustainable. We cannot have healthy human organisms on a sick planet because all life relies on interdependent, healthy ecosystems.” —Platform for the Common Good

Pray Assess v v Begin each meeting with prayer, such as the prayer How do I and the organizations to which I belong of St. Francis: contribute to the sources of climate change? Dear mother earth, who day by day unfolds How can I be a part of the solution? rich blessing on our way, h www.coolcongregations.org O praise God! Alleluia! www.energystar.gov The fruits and flowers that verdant grow, let h them [her] praise abundant show. h www.carbonfootprint.com/calculator.aspx O praise God, O praise God, Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia. This and additional prayer resources can be found Act at: www.catholicsandclimatechange.org/resources/ prayer.html v Commit to change personal behaviors harmful to our climate and to work with congregations and businesses to reduce their contributions to adverse Learn climate change. v h www.greenpeace.org/usa/getinvolved/ How is climate change impacting different parts of green-guide the world, and especially people in poverty? h www.epa.gov/climatechange/wycd/ What are possible policy responses? h www.theregenerationproject.org/takeaction.htm h www.catholicsandclimatechange.org/resources/ education.html h www.maryknollogc.org/ecology/climate-change. htm Advocate www.pewclimate.org v h For policies to reduce our individual and collective energy use, move our economy toward reliance on clean energy, and fund climate adaptation programs “Ecological responsibility requires that for vulnerable populations already losing their land and crops. we manage and distribute h www.catholicsandclimatechange.org material resources across all humanity www.usccb.org/sdwp/ejp/ and into future generations.” h www.nrdc.org/legislation/default.asp —Platform for the Common Good h

Written by NETWORK Associates Katrine Herrick and Kelly Trout We encourage the reproduction and distribution of this back-to-back fact sheet.

NETWORK—a Catholic leader in the global movement for justice and peace 25 E Street NW, Suite 200 • Washington DC 20001 202-347-9797 • www.networklobby.org making a difference

Yes, Virginia, 727 Votes Can Make a Difference By Je a n Sa m m o n

Tom Perriello, known to many in the mind but people in the dis- in the district. It’s interfaith community for his interna- trict appreciated that I had something people T understood that I tional justice and peace work, is now principles that I was willing to the new representative from Virginia’s stick my neck out for. Some- had a passion for, fifth district. He defeated the incumbent times it’s more important that and came to Con- last November by less than 0.25% of the you have strong convictions gress with a differ- total vote—727 votes. than it is for people to agree ent perspective than I spoke with Representative Perriello with you on them. either political party. and his press secretary Jessica Barba (a On matters of NETWORK member) on the day the What have your first few principle you don’t House voted on the economic recovery weeks in Congress been compromise—but bill. Here are excerpts: like? Congressman Tom Perriello. on matters of priori- I assumed it was going to ties, I belong to the What made you decide to run be difficult as a freshman to be part of people of the district. My district has for Congress? the conversation, but in the caucus room a little bit of everything—a university I’ve always felt called by my faith to there’s very real debate. On the recovery town, old rustbelt factory towns, and social justice work. I felt the best way package, I think Congress managed to rural agricultural areas. So I can’t repre- to create change was through the non- make the White House proposal much sent my district without taking a pretty profit sector. After a decade or c ongress. o m www stronger because we sat broad view. so of working there we found .perriello f or there and deliberated ourselves continually bump- with each other on it. What can Congress do to create green ing up against decisions being We’ve had Republi- jobs?

made in politics and asking cans and Democrats at The greatest source of job creation the question: If faith calls me new member retreats in the next twenty years will probably to community service, why and I’ve found that a be in the new energy economy—green not public service? Campaigning at the lot of the new Republi- jobs. The question is whether they will My hope is that others will University of Virginia. cans share a desire for be created here or overseas. I would like look at this race and say: Maybe the energy independence and smart invest- us to create incentives or at least get rid same way I am passionate about serv- ments like infrastructure. My sense is of reverse incentives that stand in the ing people in the community, I can serve that new members want c ongress. o m www way of that kind of economy people through policy as well. to be creative and put .perriello f or happening here. problem-solving ahead The federal government What made people choose to vote of partisanship. doesn’t have to decide if it’s

for you? going to be wind or solar, We made an investment in grassroots How do you balance but it has to put the infra- organizing and direct voter contact. That your responsibility to structure in place. We can In Sierra Leone. meant that by the time people saw me people in your district build a modern electric on television, they had already met me with responsibility for our country grid, which we need for security and or a member of my team. If you’re trying and our world? efficiency reasons anyway, and in doing to change the terms of the debate you Part of what I wanted to do in the so, unleash market investments that will can only do that through conversation. campaign was give people an authen- ripple across the economy. The second thing was conviction pol- tic sense of who I am. Then people itics. We talked about right and wrong, can understand that, for example, I’m Jean Sammon is NETWORK’s Field not right and left. For example, we had already spending serious time on new Coordinator. For more information about a very strong position on torture, which approaches in Afghanistan—but that’s Representative Perriello, see http:// might not normally be on everyone’s not in place of focusing on job creation perriello.house.gov/

www.networklobby.org March/April 2009 Connection 15 NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 6962 25 E Street NW, Suite 200 WASHINGTON, DC Washington, DC, 20001 p h o n e 202-347-9797 f a x 202-347-9864 “The bottom line is www.networklobby.org always the same for me: NETWORK is the Catholic heart in the public arena…” —Sister Joan Chittister, OSB

Why do I support the NETWORK Capitol Campaign 2009? Join with the Board of NETWORK as we secure our Because for nearly four decades, NETWORK has worked tirelessly future as a Catholic leader in to ensure that the voices and interests of people in poverty are the global movement for justice included in our national decision-making. and peace. Our work for social Ironically, NETWORK is embarking on its “Capitol Campaign” and economic transformation is just as its members are ourselves confronting economic threatened by financial challenges challenges. But perhaps that is no accident. For that is when giving confronting most nonprofit really counts. groups. In response, we urge all We must trust that what our faith tradition tells us—that God who share NETWORK’s Gospel loves a cheerful giver, and that our gifts will be returned a commitment to justice to invest hundredfold—remains doubly true in this time of uncertainty generously in the NETWORK Now—as we experience the vulnerability with which people in Capitol Campaign 2009. poverty have always been saddled—is the very time when we must Please watch your mail for trust in God and share what we have abundantly. information on campaign goals I ask and challenge you, especially now, when it may not be easy, to and ways you can personally support the NETWORK Capitol Campaign 2009. support our mission. Mary T. Yelenick Mary Ann Gaido NETWORK Board Member NETWORK Board Chair Chair, NETWORK Capitol Campaign 2009 March 2009