SSND Sisters, Associates, friends and colleagues gathered with Sisters from 60 congregations from across the United States on June 24 to urge lawmakers not to cut critical government programs. The Sisters Speak Out Prayer and Public Witness Gathering was held at the U.S. Capitol, and approximately 40 "echo events" were held across the country. (Catholic News Agency)
The group urged the Senate to reject steep budget cuts that will gut healthcare and food assistance for families, children, the elderly and disabled. Sisters also urged opposition to the massive increase in spending for inhumane roundup of immigrants, deportation without due process, and cruel family separation.
Mercy Sister Mary Haddad, president and CEO of the Catholic Health Association of the United States, told attendees at the rally that "as Congress debates the future of Medicaid, we urge lawmakers to remember that health is not just about treatment. It's about prevention. It's about dignity. It's about ensuring everyone has the foundation they need to thrive." (OSV News)
SSND representation included Shalom International Coordinator Tim Dewane, Associate Mary Gunning, Justice for Immigrants Committee Chair Patty Silver, CP JPIC Director Lisa Demler, and Sisters Mary Kay Brooks and Joan Pikiell.
Photos submitted by Time DeWane please click on photo below to view.
