As people of faith, we believe in honoring the dignity of our neighbor and investing in every family and community so we all may flourish. We have a generational opportunity through the budget reconciliation recovery legislation to address some of the longstanding racial and gender inequities that have only been exacerbated by the pandemic; and to take meaningful steps to recognize and address our role in the climate crisis. We can build back an economy that recognizes the dignity of all, that honors our interconnectivity with nature, and that offers a better future for our children.

One of the key challenges facing passage of the legislation is paying for it. Some lawmakers say it is too expensive and so crucial programs need to be curtailed or even not included. As it often is the case when doing the math on legislation it is the programs that help the poor and the vulnerable that get cut; with the wellbeing of these folks used like political trading cards. This doesn’t have to be the case; Congress instead needs to take a serious look at the tax code, making changes so our tax system is fairer and more equitable. So that the very wealthy and corporations are paying their fair share to the good of our society. The United Church of Christ Synod has been clear on the need to reorient our tax system to be more progressive, adequate, and equitable.

Join with us in asking your members of Congress to support these historic investments by passing the reconciliation bill to fulfill their moral responsibility to the nation. Now is the time to address the roots of our country's injustices, and to honor the sacred call to recognize the dignity and worth of our neighbor and creation.