About
Statement of Purpose
The Faith and Progressive Policy Initiative of the Center for American Progress works to identify and articulate the moral-ethical and spiritual values underpinning policy issues, to shape a progressive stance in which these values are clear, and to increase public awareness and understanding of these values. The Initiative also works to safeguard the healthy separation of church and state that has allowed religion in our country to flourish. In all its efforts, the Initiative works for a society and government that strengthen the common good and respect the basic dignity of all people. The Initiative also informs the wide-ranging efforts of the Center for American Progress to promote a strong, just and free America that ensures opportunity for all.
National Conversations
In cities and towns across America, the Center for American Progress is engaging the public in conversations about religion and policy issues, giving voice to people whose concerns have been lost in highly polarized debates.
Faith and Progressive Policy: A National Conversation began in Denver on March 9, where a panel of religious and policy leaders addressed the question, "Morals and Budgets: What Does it Mean to Love Thy Neighbor?" Members of the panel and the audience discussed the budget as a moral document that reflects our values regarding poverty, health care, education and other vital issues.
In June we went to Kansas City to discuss "The Harmony of Faith and Science." A panel of local experts talked about evolution, intelligent design, stem-cell research and the many ways in which science and religion complement each other and strengthen our lives.
In October we went to San Francisco to talk about "Religion, State and Charity: Working Together to Serve Our Community." Panelists and the audience discussed the effects of shrinking government resources and budget cuts on essential state programs and how these cutbacks are affecting charities and religious organizations who strive to fill the gaps in service.
In early November we went to Grand Rapids, Michigan, where we held a town-hall meeting on economic and job issues. "Renewing the Civic Covenant: Strengthening Our Community" provided a forum for a lively, thoughtful exchange on the challenges facing the community and the obligations of its various members to work together toward economic recovery.
In May 2006, the Center for American Progress Action Fund traveled to Columbus, Ohio where the organization held a town-hall meeting on the morality of the Tax Payer Bill of Rights (TABOR). "Budgets and Beliefs: Governing for the Common Good" provided Ohio clergy and faith leaders, advocates and local electeds with an opportunity to discuss how TABOR in Ohio would impact the state's ability to provide for the protection and overall welfare of its people.
Guidelines for Faith and Public Policy Essay Submissions
The Center for American Progress is seeking essays to publish on its Web site that explore the link between religion and progressive policy in new, insightful ways. The essays will appear on the home page of the Faith and Progressive Policy initiative of the Center, as part of our column series. We're looking for essays that are well-written, thoughtful and original. An essay might raise a rarely-asked question, introduce a new idea, illuminate history or take a strong stand on an important issue. Whatever the topic, the writing should be clear and compelling-buttressed, when necessary, with vivid examples and facts. The length should be 650-750 words. Please include a short bio. Send submissions to: religion@americanprogress.org with "Essay Submission" in the subject field.