January 8, 2010
ICC makes political action easier than ever in 2010
Looking for a New Year’s resolution? Glenn Tebbe, the Indiana Catholic Conference’s executive director has one for all Catholics to consider this year — political engagement. “It’s quick, easy and believe it or not, it’s actually part of our baptismal call and duty as Catholics to be engaged in the process,” says Tebbe.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) reminds us “It is necessary that all participate, each according to his position and role, in promoting the common good. This obligation is inherent to the dignity of the human person . . . As far as possible citizens should take an active part in public life.” (nos.1913-1915)
Getting involved in the public policy making process has never been easier than it is now. The Indiana Catholic Conference (ICC), the Church’s official representative in public policy matters, launched an electronic Legislative Action Center available on its Web page which allows visitors to identify and contact state and national public officials, quickly and easily using a few keystrokes.
Visitors to the center also have the option to join the ICC’s legislative action network. By joining the network, members will begin receiving a weekly electronic newsletter called I-CAN Update when the Indiana General Assembly is in session during the months of January through March 2010. Network members also receive periodic electronic “Action Alerts” to assist the church’s legislative efforts at the statehouse by contacting lawmakers.
“When the Indiana General Assembly is in session, getting input from constituents is vital to the process,” said Tebbe. “The Church can be more effective in shaping morally sound public policy when Catholics work together with one voice.”
To explore the ICC’s new, online, public policy tool, go to the ICC Web page at www.indianacc.org. Click “Action Alerts” which takes visitors to the Legislative Action Center.