Immigration Reform
Helping citizens speak up in support of comprehensive humane immigration reform
The movement for immigration reform continues to grow stronger
Marcia’s ministry in the Latinx communities of Southwest Detroit has been some of the most moving, heart-rending, and joyful work in her life. She experienced the courage that the community members demonstrate every day. They face low wages, language barriers and the constant, palpable fear of Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents who detain loved ones.
Many who are eligible to receive social services are afraid to do so because of immigration status.
Supporting a just and fair path to citizenship
Our immigration system is beyond broken. COVID-19 has revealed the vast and systemic racism against people of color in the US. We must completely overhaul the Immigration Act of 1996 (yes, the bulk of it is that old). We also must demand that the detention centers be closed. There are many options for processing immigrants than what we have been doing. Join our mailing list to find out how you can help.
Why do we need Political Theology?
Progressive Christians remain relatively quiet in the public square, even though the federal constitution protects our speech. Compared to more traditional corners of Christ’s vineyard, we fail to respond and assert our theology. The reasons for this are varied, yet we need to express our theology clearly and proactively whenever and wherever possible.
Christ calls us to work for social justice, just as he did. We interpret the Gospel as inclusive and compassionate. As a result, we must respect others especially when they differ from us or need our help. Our theology of radical hospitality welcomes and respects all people. Therefore, we have a duty, if we call ourselves Christians, to spread the Good News of love, peace, and compassion. Political Theology is essential today, perhaps now more than other. It cuts through the divisiveness with a message of love and hope.
Framing our theological discussions
Unfortunately, we usually react to an opposing theological understanding. Instead, we must frame our theological discussions. For example, Jesus told Peter to “Feed my sheep, feed my lambs, feed my sheep,” after Jesus rose from the grave. What does feeding Christ’s lambs and sheep look like today?
Caging children and infants fails to feed or nourish them. Detaining refugees indefinitely does not constitute caring for them. Consequently, when we engage in political theology, we offer the public another viewpoint to consider. It is not about getting into big arguments with opponents, because the foundation of a democracy is a free exchange of ideas.