Today two great forces for the good--the Kairos Center for Religions, Rights and Social Justice (NYC) and Repairers of the Breach (NC)--joined together to launch the 2018 Poor People's Campaign.
In DC, dozens gathered for a press conference and then a solemn procession into the Capitol Rotunda, where the Rev. Dr. Liz Theoharis attempted to hand-deliver letters to both the Speaker of the House and Senate Majority Leader. When neither of these elected officials would see us, we gathered in prayer and commitment, dedicating ourselves to a season of nonviolent resistance, civil disobedience and moral revival--in solidarity with millions and millions of impacted Americans and moral leaders. Poisoned water in poor communities is not acceptable. An economy addicted to war and violence is not acceptable. Tax laws that prioritize insane wealth and penalize working Americans: these are not acceptable.
It was such a privilege to be with this group today, on the plaza in front of the Capitol and then in the Rotunda itself. Similar gatherings came together in Sacramento, Boston and all over the country: 32 states and the District here.
Here for a few days' visit with daughter Claire, I took advantage of the chance to meet these remarkable and courageous national leaders. And I'm determined to do all I can to organize, to support the Rev. Drs. Theoharis and Barber as we build a moral movement for social justice. And the transformation of American culture and economic life!
