Grand Canyon Synod of the ELCA

View Original

Lutherans Across the Country Mobilize for Policy Change and Community Care

Across the nation, ELCA state public policy offices have been active in legislative advocacy, bringing Lutheran theological commitments of justice, equity, and care for creation directly into public dialogue and policymaking.

In Arizona, more than 200 Lutherans recently attended Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona’s annual Lutheran Day at the Legislature, advocating for voting rights, school meal programs, and affordable housing through innovative "Yes in God's Backyard (YIGBY)" legislation. Similarly, Lutherans in Minnesota are advancing electronic waste recycling and housing justice initiatives, along with their annual Lutheran Letter Campaign during Lent to amplify legislative advocacy.

In New Mexico, Lutheran advocates are addressing issues such as affordable housing, family-sustaining incomes, healthcare, hunger relief, and environmental protection. Pennsylvania's Lutheran Advocacy Ministry is responding boldly to threats against marginalized communities by organizing rapid-response networks and supporting congregations advocating for just immigration and social policies.

Texas Impact continues its 50-year tradition of legislative advocacy, notably engaging Lutherans in advocacy teams on education, climate, immigration, and gun violence prevention. Meanwhile, Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy is actively promoting Medicaid expansion, criminal justice reform, and educational programs in prisons.

These collective actions highlight how Lutherans nationwide embody their faith through active civic engagement. From state capitols to community vigils, ELCA advocates consistently promote legislation reflecting core Lutheran values of compassion, justice, and inclusion.

Read the full update from ELCA Advocacy here.