From the Baltimore-Washington Conference Advocacy and Action Ministry
As United Methodists, we “hold governments responsible for the protection of the rights of the people to free and fair elections” believing that “the form and the leaders of all governments should be determined by exercise of the right to vote guaranteed to all adult citizens.” (2016 Book of Discipline, ¶164A).
United Methodist Resolution 3378 “Racism and Economic Justice Against People of Color” emboldens us to live out the Beloved Community founded on strengthening voting rights, and free and fair voting protections and elections for all citizens, especially as a response to systemic racism. United Methodist have an opportunity to lift their voices as the Senate debates taking up legislation by January 17, 2022.
The Freedom to Vote Act (S.2747) and The John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act (S.4) are important steps to protect and promote the sacred right to vote. This legislation eliminates many anti-voter restrictions by improving ballot access and curbing partisan gerrymandering. It will set basic federal guidelines to ensure voters are given ample time and means to exercise their right to vote, encourage greater civic participation and promote transparency in our electoral, process ensuring that our democracy is responsive and accountable to voters.
You're Invited to Join Three Faithful Calls to Action
Call Your senators at 1-888-885-1748.
You will be trained and connected to invite others to support the Freedom to Vote Act (S.2747) and The John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act (S.4).
Pray for our legislators that they will uphold the voice and vote of all citizens.
Together, we pray:
“Almighty God, you rule all the peoples of the earth. Inspire the minds of all women and men to whom you have committed the responsibility of government and leadership in the nations of the world. Give to them the vision of truth and justice, that by their counsel all nations and peoples may work together. Give to the people of our country zeal for justice and strength of forbearance, that we may use our liberty in accordance with your gracious will. Forgive our shortcomings as a nation; purify our hearts to see and love the truth. We pray all these things through Jesus Christ. Amen.”
— United Methodist Book of Worship #442
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., whose legacy we honor on Monday, along with many women and men of different ages and diverse faith traditions sacrificed to ensure that every person had the right to vote. Counting every vote is a moral issue, honors the God-given dignity and sacred worth of each person, and promotes a common good shaped by love, justice and equitable policies alongside our neighbors.
