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Events

The Pursuing the Global Common Good , October 15, 2007

When is war justified? Is the use of torture ever acceptable? Do we have a moral responsibility to intervene against atrocities thousands of miles away? These are some of the pressing issues addressed in a new book by policy experts and faith leaders, published by the Center for American Progress. Pursuing the Global Common Good argues that U.S. foreign policy must go beyond preconceived notions of national self-interest and security by including our ethical obligations to the global community. Whether arguing against unjust wars or for our responsibility to lead against global warming, these essays dispel the faulty view that our national interests conflict with our ethical obligations. To the contrary, they make a strong and persuasive case that we can do better by doing good because our nation's self-interest and its moral responsibilities are entwined.

The Politics of Jesus: A Conversation with Dr. Obery Hendricks, April 5, 2007

Featured Participants:

Dr. Obery M. Hendricks, Jr., Author, The Politics of Jesus and Professor of Biblical Interpretation, New York Theological Seminary

Melody C. Barnes, Executive Vice President for Policy, Center for American Progress

Religion increasingly inhabits the political sphere in our country and is claimed as a motivating source by conservative and liberal leaders alike. Many of these leaders are Christian and profess that their policies follow the teachings of Jesus. And yet their policies are often diametrically opposed, promoting very different views of morality and how one should live.

Please join the Center for American Progress for a provocative conversation that explores these issues with one of our country’s leading public theologians.

Comprehensive Immigration Reform: The Moral Imperative, March 12, 2007

One year after historic marches put a human face on the issue of immigration reform, our country’s immigration system remains fundamentally broken. Faith communities across the country are on the front lines in dealing with the daily consequences of an unjust system that causes undue suffering and hardship to the people they serve. Because of their experience and moral commitment, many faith communities are working for comprehensive immigration reform. As the issue returns to the forefront of the congressional agenda, the Center for American Progress has gathered faith leaders from diverse communities to discuss their work and the moral imperative that fuels their mission. Together, they are committed to a just and comprehensive solution to immigration reform.

The REAL Values Voter: What Voters Valued in the 2006 Election, November 20, 2006

From immigration, stem cells, and corruption to paychecks and war, the issues voters cared about in the midterm election reflect deeply held values far beyond those promoted by right-wing conservatives. On November 7, voters sent a strong message for change in domestic and international policies and for government that is ethical and accountable.

What do the midterm elections tell us about the concerns and hopes of the country? Do we remain a deeply divided, polarized nation? What role did faith communities play? Reverend Timothy C. Ahrens, Senior Minister of First Congregational Church, Columbus, Ohio, and a founding member of We Believe, Ohio; Anna Greenberg, Vice President of Greenberg Quinlan Rosner; David Kuo, former Deputy Director of the Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives and author of Tempting Faith: A Inside Story of Political Seduction; Jonathan Miller, Treasurer of the State of Kentucky and author of The Compassionate Community: Ten Values to Unite America; and Reverend Samuel Rodriguez, President, National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference talked with Melody Barnes about 2006 values voters and what to expect from faith communities in the future.

Working for Justice and the Common Good, November 2, 2006

As the first openly gay bishop in the Episcopal Church, Gene Robinson has faced both hostile opposition and support from both religious and secular communities. His election in 2003 triggered a struggle within the worldwide Anglican church over human rights for gay men and lesbians—a struggle that reflects tensions and rifts within the larger society today.

Securing the Common Good: A Vision for America and the World, October 18, 2006

The common good, as both a philosophical ideal and approach to governing, has a rich history in the civic strands of American thought and in the values and principles of the U.S. Constitution. It is also a powerful theme in the social teachings of many major faith traditions. In both the civic and faith realms, a commitment to the common good means pursuing policies and community actions that benefit all individuals and balance self-interest with the needs of the entire society. It recognizes that government—while not the only tool—is essential for helping people pursue their dreams, and that the business, labor, faith and NGO communities play a critical role as well.

The common good approach to politics represents a clear break with the radical individualism, corruption and greed that define contemporary American life. It marks the end of a politics that leaves people to rise and fall on their own.

A Moral Purpose: How Catholic Progressives View the Role of Faith in Governance, May 10, 2006

In February, 55 Catholic Democratic Members of Congress signed a "Statement of Principles," emphasizing their commitment to their faith and confirming their belief that government has "moral purpose." In this statement, they affirm the Church's role in providing moral leadership but also point to the "primacy of conscience" as a guiding force in making legislative decisions. During this conversation, we will explore the challenges that exist for public servants who are motivated by Catholic social teaching but disagree with Church leaders on controversial political issues. How do they remain true to their religious beliefs and their political conscience? How do they balance their private obligation to their faith and their public duty to preserve the separation of church and state?

Renewing the Civic Covenant, November 3, 2005

In Grand Rapids, our conversation focused on economic and job issues. Given the significant loss of manufacturing jobs in the Grand Rapids area, we talked about the effects of economic stress on individuals, their families and the community--and what needs to be done to help the economy recover. What are the roles and responsibilities of individuals, civic groups, churches, employers, educators and government? What are our obligations to each other?

Religion, State, and Charity, October 27, 2005

In San Francisco, our conversation addressed when states must carry out their responsibilities with shrinking budgets while charities and religious organizations strive to fill the gaps in service created by budget cuts. What are the state's most important obligations, in times of emergency and under normal circumstances? What are the consequences -- especially for children and families -- if the state does not fulfill its duties? How will tax cuts and initiatives like the Live Within Our Means Act impact the institutions that serve our communities and the communities themselves?

The Harmony of Faith and Science, June 22, 2005

In Kansas City, our conversation focused on science and faith. How can these systems of inquiry and belief enhance each other and strengthen our lives? How can we articulate a vision that embraces both? Our panelists discussed evolution and intelligent design, stem cell research, as well as the truths that spring from both science and religion.

Spiritual Progressives Conference, May 9-20, 2005

Hosted by The Rockridge Institute
Religious fundamentalists have become a dominant voice in American politics - so much so that the word "religion" has become synonymous with the conservative political perspective. Because of this perception the progressive movement has been reluctant to embrace religion of any stripe, seeing it as counter to values such as compassion, freedom and trust. Progressivism, in general, has not recognized the millions of Americans who possess a strong and vibrant faith that complements their progressive political views. The voices of these Americans have yet to be heard in significant numbers. The Spiritual Progressives conference is a step toward a remedy.

Budgets and Morals: What Does it Mean to 'Love Thy Neighbor'?, March 9, 2005

Faith and Progressive Policy: A National Conversation was held in Denver, Colorado, 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 issues vital to the community. The conversation addressed national issues; state and local issues important to Coloradans, including the Tax-Payer Bill of Rights; and the faith and values imperatives that affect policy decisions.

Health Care, the Budget and Morality: A Discussion of National Priorities, January 25, 2005

Our nation faces a growing uninsurance crisis and shares in the global struggle against diseases such as AIDS. The federal budget, as the most tangible embodiment of our nation's priorities and values, should reflect our commitment to overcoming these challenges. Yet the president and Congressional leaders have indicated that this year's budget is likely to retreat from that commitment by imposing dramatic cuts that provide a safety net for vulnerable Americans and by inadequately funding vitally necessary global health efforts.

Civil Rights and the Church: Lessons for the Future, June 29, 2004

David Chappell, author of A Stone of Hope, examined the different perspectives northern liberals and southern activists rooted in black churches had toward the civil rights movement.

Faith and Progressive Policy Conference, June 9, 2004

More than 300 clergy, advocates, and scholars from diverse backgrounds came together to celebrate and renew a tradition that predates each of us but unites all of us. The conference demonstrated the historic connection between religion and progressive policy, addressed the role of religion in public life, and examined key policy issues through a religious lens. With a focus on economic policy, foreign policy and environmental policy, this forum launched the Center's multi-year initiative Faith and Progressive Policy.