Our goal is to offer, from the faith community, an alternative vision to the one President Bush will present in his address. A vision consistent with Martin Luther King, Jr.’s vision of the Beloved Community. A vision that is pro-economic justice, favors a real and consistent ethic of life, and understands the use of military force as a last and repugnant option in foreign policy.
The day after the SOTU, the House of Representatives will vote on a proposed budget bill that cuts billions in funding for life-giving social programs. We must highlight the stark moral contrast between the words of hope and promise that the president will no doubt offer and the utter lack of hope and compassion this bill shows to America’s most vulnerable.
Just yesterday afternoon, Rep. Rob Simmons (R-CT) announced that he will oppose the budget bill, stating: "I opposed the original House budget in November because I knew it could be, and should be, improved. The budget that was drafted in the House-Senate Conference was a better budget and I voted for it in December. Since then I have met with and listened to a wide range of constituents… The consensus is that the bill, despite the improvements, remains unsatisfactory. Consequently, I have decided to vote against the budget on February 1. Representation is only effective if the elected official listens to the people. In a democracy the government must serve the people, not reign over them. I have listened and concluded that the budget, as it stands, falls short."
Our SOOV Watch is an opportunity for your progressive, prophetic vision of our nation’s values and priorities to be heard in your community.
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