EPA- Environmental Justice Public Comments

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By Katie Rickman- WA Voices for Justice Intern

The Federal Environmental Protection Agency’s

Environmental Justice has created: 

“Action Development Process

Interim Guidance on Considering Environmental 

Justice During the Development of an Action”

epa2

 

This document is a guide to environmental justice policy making at the Federal level but could be a helpful tool for forming policy in Washington State.

The goal is, “to more effectively protect human health and the environment for overburdened populations by developing and implementing guidance to incorporate environmental justice into EPA’s rulemaking process.” 

Found Here:


http://www.epa.gov/environmentaljustice/resources/policy/considering-ej-in-rulemaking-guide-07-2010.pdf

This document is accepting Public Comments for 60 days,a great way to participate in democracy beginning May 2013. Comments end July, 8th 2013.

The EPA will conduct a Science Advisory Board review of the guidance in June 2013.

Comments Received:

http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=EPA-HQ-OA-2013-0320.

Dalai Lama’s Environmental Guidelines

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 By Katie Rickman- WA Voices for Justice Intern

 

dali

“[. . .] In the early part of this century, everyone foolishly thought that nature’s resources were limitless and at the disposal of humanity. Today ecological ideology even influences political parties. All these changes stem from the experience we have acquired as human beings.

In the same way; the concept of human rights, whether individual or general, such as the right to self-determination for a given group, has evolved. These ideas are now universally recognized. Such progress gives me hope for the future.“

-HH Dalai Lama
Imagine All The People

 

May 9th-11th 2013  HH Dalai Lama visited the Pacific North West for the purpose of environmental education. On Saturday May 11th, he held an “Environmental Summit” in Portland OR discussing environmental ethics and policy with an excellent pannel including:

  • Oregon Governor John Kitzhaber

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  • Dr. David Suzuki- Scientist, Broadcaster, Author

David-Suzuki

 

 

  • Andrea Durbin- Executive Director, Oregon Environmental Council

AndreaDurbiN_fitbox_350x350

 

The pannel discussed a carbon tax, ways to improve the economy to include environmental protection and the “inner environment” of the mind. The Dalai Lama spoke about “inner wealth” and “external wealth”. The importance of respecting the Earth as our home for our “inner wealth” is healthy for our minds and leads to better environmental practices.

 

2013 Dalai Lama Environmental Summit Environmental Guidelines

External Environmental Guidelines:

-reduce negative environmental impacts

-Support the local economy

-Promote green actions in everyday practice

 dalailama2

Inner Environmental Guidelines:

-Inner peace and harmony throughout the planning of an event

-Foster a the spirit of the community

-Maintain vigilant awareness of larger goals

-Create clear, respectful, open communication

-Generate a sense of joy to overcome challenges

 

Additional Resources for the Dalai Lama’s Environmental Ethics can be found:

http://www.dalailama.com/messages/environment

 

 

Renewable Energy News- League of Women Voters

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By Katie Rickman
WA Voices for Justice Intern

A new in depth report has been completed by the Washington League of Women Voters accessing renewable resources. The report stresses the importance of taking on the threat of Global Warming.

The Study, led by Mary Moore, analyzes each resource and concludes with the alternative resources in context with the smart grid. This is excellent news for the future of environmental policy in Washington State.

league

The Report can be found here:

http://www.lwvwa.org/pdfs/studies/LWVWA_RenewableEnergy_Report_2012.pdf

wind

The WA League of Women Voters has adapted their Energy Position:

“The use of alternate energy systems such as on site solar heating and recovery of energy from wastes should be actively encouraged.”

Additionally:

“When an energy source is chosen, the efficiency of the source selected should be an important consideration. The League favors research and development of such alternate power sources as solar, wind and tidal…”

Action Alert – Medicaid Adult Dental Program

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Washington Dental Service Foundation – Final Action Alert on the Medicaid Adult Dental Program

Thank you to all who have already contacted legislators about restoring dental coverage for low-income adults.  Budget negotiations are still going on.  We are engaging in a FINAL ADVOCACY PUSH to ensure that legislators involved in the budget negotiations understand the importance of fully restoring dental coverage and hear from constituents who care about this issue.

Please take 1 minute to send a message to your legislators.  We particularly need help from people who live in Legislative districts 9, 24, 45, 47, and 48.  Not sure if that’s you?  You can easily look up your district through  OralHealthWatch.org. Encourage your colleagues, neighbors, friends, and family to participate. Together we can make this happen – and help over 700,000 people gain needed coverage!

Thank you again – your advocacy has been instrumental in this effort.  If you have any questions, please contact Kelly Richburg, contact information following.

Kelly A. Richburg

Policy Advocate/Analyst| Washington Dental Service Foundation

9706 Fourth Avenue NE, Seattle, WA 98115

p. (206) 528-7327

c. (206) 418-8525

Focus on Immigration

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Focus on Immigration Reform

Submitted by Roberta Ray, University Unitarian Church, Seattle
May 11th – Mother’s Day Vigil at the Northwest Detention Center in Tacoma

On Saturday, May 11th, people of faith and conscience will gather at the Northwest Detention Center (1623 East “J” St., in Tacoma, WA) for the 5th Mothers Day Vigil in support of immigrant mothers and families, and to witness for compassionate immigration reform.  The program will begin at noon and will feature testimonials, prayers, and songs from community members and immigrant rights supporters.
Rev Marian Stewart

Rev. Marian Stewart of the Northlake Unitarian Universalist Church in Kirkland, WA and a board member of WA State UU Voices for Justice, will be one of the featured speakers.

The Northwest Detention Center is owned and run by The Geo Group, Inc., a privately-run prison business. At a capacity of 1,575, the Northwest Detention Center in Tacoma is the fourth-largest immigration detention facility in the country. It houses immigrants detained in Washington, Oregon, Montana and Idaho.

The event is co-sponsored by the Washington New Sanctuary Movement and the Oregon Interfaith Movement for Immigrant Justice.  For more information contact: washingtonsanctuary@gmail.com.

Join us in envisioning comprehensive immigration reform that incorporates compassion for everyone who will be impacted by upcoming immigration reform legislation.

What is meant by “Compassionate Immigration Reform”?

  • A generous and practical pathway to citizenship for undocumented individuals residing in our country.
  • A reaffirmation and strengthening of the family immigration process by eliminating the backlog of visa applications that has separated families for years and reunification of previously deported individuals with their U.S. citizen families.
  • A policy that respects all families equally.
  • Promotion of fair and humane treatment of all workers, permitting safe and legal means of immigrating for employment, with reasonable employment eligibility verifications systems.
  • Border enforcement that is humane and consistent with civil and human rights, along with compassionate interior immigration enforcement by dismantling the current immigration detention system, banning racial profiling, and ending state and local intrusions into immigration policy and enforcement.
  • Preserving and restoring fairness, due process, and equal protection in the immigration system, repealing arbitrary bars to re-entry, and restoring judicial discretion in immigration matters.
  • Protection for vulnerable communities, children, asylum seekers, refuges, survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking, and other crimes.
  • Promotion and enhancement of programs and policies that foster full integration into the social, economic, and civic fabric of society.
  • Policies and actions that address the root causes of migration.

These principles are shared by a broad spectrum of faith groups, labor unions, organizations, and businesses representing and serving diverse communities, including Washington UU Voices for Justice.

#Not1More
Numerous organizations are calling on the Obama Administration to halt deportations while immigration reform legislation is being worked out.  #Not1More is a project to confront unjust immigration enforcement policies launched by UUA partners at the National Day Laborer Organizing Network (NDLON).

Northwest Detention Center Visitation Program
A new Volunteer Visitation Program at the Northwest Detention Center has begun! Pat Gunn and Barbara Peterman, both of University Unitarian Church in Seattle, have contributed leadership and numerous hours to the development of this effort, which is a program of the Northwest Detention Center Roundtable. The program works directly with attorneys and social workers to link volunteers with people who are detained who wish to have visitors.  Volunteer visitors brighten days, bring hope, and break isolation.  To learn more, contact nwdcr.visitation@gmail.com or visit www.nwdcroundtable.org.

Rep. Luis Moscoso Receives Golden Door Award
The Northwest Immigrant Rights Project (NWIRP) presented Rep. Luis Moscoso with its Golden Door Award for his commitment to the rights of immigrants and refugees in our state.  This session, Rep. Moscoso sponsored two legislative efforts of importance to immigrants and refugees, both of which were supported by Washington UU Voices for Justice. He is a first generation Peruvian-American and the first person of color to represent the First Legislative District, which includes parts of King and Snohomish counties.

Faith Community Sign-On Letter for Comprehensive Immigration Reform
We have before us a historic moment with the potential for the passage of Comprehensive Immigration Reform. One bill has been put forth, S. 744, which is comprehensive in nature and will provide for a pathway – though very long – to permanent residency and citizenship. Faith leaders and congregations are invited to sign onto a letter specifically from the faith community in Washington State to our Washington Congressional delegation.  The letter is an opportunity to address improvements needed in the bill from a principled basis.

To add your name and listing to the letter, or if you have responses, comments or questions, contact Michael Ramos at the Church Council of Greater Seattle, mramos@thechurchcouncil.org. The goal is to send the final letter with signatories to our congressional delegation on May 15.

Learn More about Compassionate Immigration Reform
The State Advocacy Networks gathering before last week’s Pacific Western Regional Assembly in San Jose featured two speakers who provided excellent information on the pending federal immigration reform bill.

Resources

Richard Hobbs, immigration attorney and member of the Unitarian Universalist Legislative Ministry of California (UULMCA) Immigrant Justice Steering Committee, offered an excellent presentation that highlights the features of the bill:

Sandy Weir, Arizona Immigration Ministry Organizer, provided handouts about options for engagement in comprehensive immigration reform: Final Some Options for Engagement in Comprehensive Immigration Reform-1.docx

Many thanks to Richard, Sandy, and Reverend Lindi Ramsden, Executive Director of UULMCA, for providing the more than 80 attendees with this opportunity to learn more about how Unitarian Universalists can join with others to do the work that needs to be done.

Criminal Justice Reform

The Olympia Unitarian Universalist Congregation is hosting showings and discussions of two powerful films about the effects of America’s War on Drugs and the new Jim Crow system that has resulted in the incarceration of millions of African Americans.

 

Let’s Give a Shout Out to Rhode Island!

A jubilant crowd celebrated last Thursday as Rhode Island Governor Lincoln Chafee signed into law the state’s marriage equality bill.  Rhode Island legislators made their state the 10th in the nation to approve same-sex marriage.

“I know that you have been waiting for this day to come,” said Governor Chafee to the celebrants.  “I know you have loved ones who have dreamed this would happen and did not live to see it.  But I am proud to say that now, at long last, you are free to marry the person you love.”

Same-sex marriages will be legal in Rhode Island beginning August 1.  Congratulations, Rhode Islanders!

Delaware will probably be next state to act on marriage equality, possibly as early as next week, followed by Minnesota and Illinois, which are moving toward passage of laws in their states.

2013 Session – Week 14

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2013-14 Legislative Priorities

  • Revenue and taxation reform
  • Immigration reform
  • Death penalty repeal and criminal justice reform
  • Coal train prohibition and environmental protection

Budget

From now on, legislative action in Olympia will focus on spending and revenue in the operating, capital, and transportation budgets.

The Senate Operating Budget introduced and advanced this week balances spending with cuts to social programs without additional taxes.

The Senate plan projects $1.2 billion in savings from cuts in human services, but avoids raising any taxes or eliminating any tax breaks.  Senators opposing the plan cited the cuts and lack of revenue as their reasons for voting against the proposed budget.

Among the cuts is the elimination of the Disability Lifeline, a cash grant to those who suffer from severe injuries, chronic medical and mental illness, and substance abuse.  Many recipients are homeless, and the small cash grants are true lifelines to them.

The Housing Trust Fund, which has been severely impacted by cuts in past years, is in the Capital Budget, which has not yet been released.

Speak Out for a Moral Budget!

Washington State UU Voices for Justice supports a budget which protects the safety net for our state’s most vulnerable citizens, and provides the revenue needed to support the budget.
The elimination of tax loopholes would be a major step in raising revenue.  Department of Revenue figures indicate the 575 tax breaks allowed in Washington total more than $10 billion.  Governor Inslee has proposed the repeal of eleven tax exemptions totaling $565 million, but more can be done.

WA UU Voices for Justice and our advocacy allies support a balanced budget that eliminates some tax exemptions and includes these revenue-raising proposals:

  • Extension of a 50-cent per gallon beer tax, bringing in more than $100 million in the next biennium
  • Extension of a business and occupation tax to financial services to raise more than $530 million in the next two years
  • Passage of SB 5738 to impose a capital gains tax of 5%, to raise more than $500 million per year.

As Reverend Paul Benz, co-director of Faith Action Network said this week, “Without comprehensive change to our revenue system, we’re pitting one part of the safety net against critical public services. Stop the insanity and reasonably and compassionately do what must be done. Raise revenue.”

Immigration Reform

The Washington State DREAM Act, HB 1817, was heard last week in the Senate Higher Education committee to a standing-room only crowd.  The bill would allow young aspiring students access to state financial aid for higher education; it was passed last month in the House by a bi-partisan vote.

In the Senate hearing one DREAMer testified, “The Washington State DREAM Act is a promise that we will fulfill our full and utmost potential if we are allowed to do so.”

Despite strong support for the measure, the bill failed to move out of the Senate Higher Education committee by the cutoff on Wednesday, April 3rd.  The chair of the committee, Sen. Barbara Bailey (LD 10–Oak Harbor), had stated she did not intend to bring the bill up for a vote.

Environment
Governor Inslee signed into law E2SB 5802, his request legislation that creates a work group to do a comprehensive review and evaluation of programs in others states that are designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This is a first step to developing proposals on ways the state can move forward to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

ESHB 1294, the Toxic-Free Kids and Family Act, was moved from the Senate Energy, Environment and Telecommunications Committee to Senate Rules for further action.  The original bill aimed to promote fire safety while removing unnecessary and toxic flame retardants from children’s products and furniture.  The amended bill bans TRIS chemicals from some products but exempts residential upholstered furniture, which is a major source for exposure.

Contacting Your Legislators

Let your Representatives know you support a just budget and legislation that ensures the well-being of Washington’s residents and environment!

Not sure who your Senator and Legislators are?  You can find them at: http://app.leg.wa.gov/DistrictFinder/

You can also send a message to your Legislators and the Governor by calling the

Legislative Hotline: 1.800.562.6000

Going to Regional Assembly in San Jose?

Join us for –

UU State Advocacy Networks Gathering

·      UUs Organizing for Immigrant Justice
·      Strengthening Our State Networks
·      UU “States of Justice” Dinner

Friday, April 26, 2013, 2:00 PM – 6:15 PM
(before Regional Assembly)

More information and Registration at the UU Legislative Ministry of California website: www.uulmca.org

Washington UU Voices is on Facebook

“Like” our Facebook Page to stay informed about recent news and upcoming events between e-mail alerts.

2013 Session – Week 13

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Pacific Western Regional Assembly 2013

UU State Advocacy Networks Gathering in San Jose

  • UUs Organizing for Immigrant Justice
  • Strengthening Our State Networks
  • UU “States of Justice” Dinner

When:

Friday, April 26, 2013, 2:00 PM – 6:15 PM (before Regional Assembly)

What:

In this historic moment on the path of immigration reform, UU State Advocacy Networks will gather for training, coaching networking and celebrating. Let’s organize to bring our UU values more powerfully to the public square.

Where:

The beautiful, historic First Unitarian Church of San Jose
160 N. Third St., San Jose, CA, 95112

8 minutes from the airport and Doubletree Hotel.  We can share rides back to the Doubletree in time for opening ceremonies, and we will create a secure space for luggage for those arriving directly from the airport.

Who:

All UUs interested in immigration and/or strengthening their UU State Advocacy Network are welcome. This event has been organized by the UU Legislative Ministry, CA, UU Voices for Justice (Washington) and the Arizona UU Immigration Ministry. We welcome UUs from all states in the Western Pacific Region.

UU clergy and others attending UU meetings prior to Regional Assembly are most welcome to join at 5:00 PM for the UU States of Justice Dinner. More information, and reservations for the gathering and dinner may be found on the Unitarian Universalist Legislative Ministry California webpage at http://www.uulmca.org/main.html

Schedule

1:45 – 2:10 Refreshments, registration

2:10 – 2:30 Ingathering
2:30- 3:30 “Engaging this Moment for Immigrant Justice”
Richard Hobbs, Immigration Attorney & UULM-CA Immigrant Justice Steering Committee
Sandy Weir, Arizona Immigration Ministry Organizer
3:45 – 5:00 Breakout Sessions
UUs and Immigrant Detention – Christina Mansfield, Co-Director of CIVIC
Strengthening Our UU State Advocacy Networks
Rev. Lindi Ramsden, UULM California
Rev. Carole Czujko, Fund Raising Consultant (and minister in Las Cruces, NM)

UU States of Justice Dinner

5:00 – 6:15  Celebrate our State Networks and enjoy a Mexican Dinner,
catered by Casa Vicky, one of San Jose’s most beloved Mexican Restaurants
6:15   Carpool back to Doubletree (8 minutes away) for those attending Regional Assembly
Cost: $20 includes training and dinner; $12 discount rate for youth and young adults training and dinner; $12 discount rate for youth and young adults

Register at the UULM-CA website: www.uulmca.org

Housing and Homeless

Fund Programs That Work

What:  Press conference on budget implications for affordable housing and homelessness programs. This event for Legislators on the State Budget is sponsored by two of WA UU Voices’ allied groups, Statewide Poverty Action Network and Washington Low-Income Housing Alliance.
When:  Tuesday, April 2, 2013, 12:30 PM – 1:15 PM
Where:   J.A. Cherberg Building, Conference Rooms B and C, Capitol Campus
Date:      Tuesday, April 2, 2013
Time:     12:30-1:00pm – Presentation with Speakers
1:00-1:15pm – Questions
          Note:  A light lunch will be provided for guests. Please RSVP to joaquin@wliha.org
so the appropriate food order can be determined.

With the Washington Senate set to release their proposed budget soon, legislators have warned the affordable housing and homelessness community to expect the worst. The state already has a number of innovative programs that are effectively keeping our most vulnerable residents off the streets and successfully helping those already on the streets into stable housing. But without the necessary funding, these productive programs could end, which would be disastrous for Washington’s most vulnerable.  Programs to be discussed are:  Disability Lifeline (DL), Housing and Essential Needs (HEN), and Aged, Blind and Disabled (ABD)

This is an opportunity to learn about the state’s safety net programs that work to create more affordable homes and to transition families, schoolchildren, veterans, seniors, and people with disabilities into housing and help ensure these programs can continue their positive outcomes.

Environment

E2SB 5802, Governor Inslee’s request legislation, creates a work group to do a comprehensive review and evaluation of programs in others states that are designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This is a first step to developing proposals on ways the state can move forward to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The bill has passed the Senate and is expected to pass the House.

SB 5805 amended the definition of “projects of statewide significance to support expedited review of projects like coal export facilities and the proposed pit-to-pier gravel pit on Hood Canal.  While promoted as a jobs-producing bill, it would have weakened environmental protections that would have undermined any economic benefits that might result from the bill.  SB 5805 did not make it past the cutoff date for further consideration this session.

 

Contacting Your Legislators

Let your Representatives know you support important justice legislation!

Not sure who your Senator and Legislators are?  You can find them at: http://app.leg.wa.gov/DistrictFinder/
You can also send a message to your Legislators and the Governor by calling the

Legislative Hotline: 1.800.562.6000
WA UU Voices is on Facebook

“Like” our Facebook Page to stay informed about recent news and upcoming events between e-mail alerts.

2013 Session – Week 12

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Economic Justice
Once again, payday lenders are working to undermine Washington’s regulation of the payday lending industry by creating a new loan product outside the scope of current regulation.  This would authorize installment loans with outrageous fees and an interest rate around 218% APR!   This new loan product could trap thousands in a cycle of unending debt.

SB 5312 passed the Senate, and has moved to the House, where it is scheduled for a hearing next week.   WA UU Voices members need to let the House committee know that this bill allows greater exploitation of marginal-income persons already living on a financial edge, and that we support strong regulation of the payday lending industry.

Wednesday, March 27, 1:30 PM
Hearing in the House Business and Financial Services Committee
John L. O’Brien Building, Hearing Room B
Capital Campus, Olympia

Act Today!

If you cannot attend the hearing, please contact your Representatives and ask them to Oppose SB 5312.
You can leave a message with the Legislative Hotline at 1-800-562-6000
To find the names of your legislators go to www.leg.wa.gov, select Find Your Legislator, and enter your street address.

Immigration Reform

HB 1817:  State DREAM Act, grants all college-bound Washington state high school students access to financial aid through the State Need Grant program.  WA UU Voices supports equal opportunity for all students to quality for state higher education financial aid.  Let’s get this bill passed!

Action Needed

Thursday, March 28, 1:30 PM
Hearing in the Senate Committee on Higher Education
John L. Cherberg Building
Capital Campus, Olympia

If you cannot be at the hearing, please contact your Senator and ask her/him to Support HB 1817.
You can leave a message with the Legislative Hotline at 1-800-562-6000

Northwest Detention Center

Wednesday, March 27, 7 PM:  Saltwater UU Church in Des Moines WA will be having a briefing about conditions at the Northwest Detention Center in Tacoma.  More information is available at http://www.saltwaterchurch.org/detentioncenterbriefing .

Federal Immigration Reform

Efforts are underway to collect signatures to a letter to Washington’s congressional delegation to show support for immigration reform at the national level.  Organizational sign-on are particularly needed now; an action alert for use by individuals is being prepared.
WA UU Voices is advocating for the immigration reform issues addressed in this letter; please ask your congregation and organizations to which you belong to consider signing the letter  It reads:

Dear Senators and Representatives,
We are writing on behalf of a broad spectrum of organizations, faith groups, labor unions and
businesses representing and serving diverse communities across Washington State to urge each of you to use the power of your office to ensure the passage of a just and humane reform of our immigration laws.
Throughout our history, Washington State and the United States have benefited greatly from the contributions of immigrants and refugees. However, our current immigration policy both fails to promote the best interests of the state and the country and is causing untold suffering to countless families and communities. Comprehensive immigration reform is needed to strengthen our economy and vital if we are to meet the challenges of an aging population. The time to reform our immigration policy is long overdue.
We believe that if you and your colleagues in Congress commit to engaging in a sensible debate
regarding common sense immigration policies that help to rebuild America’s economy, recognize the contributions of immigrants, keep families together and address our nation’s security, we can attain a just and humane reform of our immigration laws that further those goals. As each of you considers the future of our immigration policy, we urge you to support legislation that is consistent with the following principles:

Path to Citizenship for Undocumented Individuals: Immigration reform must include a
generous and practical pathway for all undocumented individuals residing in our country to obtain U.S. citizenship. This pathway must be affordable and should not be conditioned on the
implementation of additional enforcement measures. The pathway must also be inclusive and not prioritize members of certain communities while forcing others to endure long or indefinite delays.  Immigration reform should recognize that many undocumented residents never had a legal channel to pursue when migrating to the U.S. and that a pathway to citizenship for these residents should therefore not be delayed until the clearing of the current visa backlogs. The path to citizenship should build on the positive aspects of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program by giving undocumented residents immediate work authorization and protection from deportation, followed promptly by an opportunity to pursue lawful permanent residence.

Family Reunification: Immigration reform should reaffirm and strengthen the family
immigration process by eliminating current visa backlogs that have kept family members separated for many years and ensuring that families will not face such barriers in the future. Reform should also ensure that family members of U.S. citizens and residents who have been deported as a result of scaled-up enforcement in recent years will have an opportunity to be reunited with their families.

Respecting All Families: Immigration reform should ensure that our immigration laws treat all families equally, including LGBT families.

Strengthening our Economy and Protecting All Workers: Immigration reform is good for our country’s economy, our businesses, and workers. Reform should address the needs of employers and employees through the creation of a system that will allow future new American immigrant workers to come to the United States through safe and legal channels. Immigration reform should promote the fair and humane treatment of all workers but should not mandate burdensome employment eligibility verification systems.

Reform Border and Interior Immigration Enforcement: Immigration reform should include the reform of the current immigration enforcement system to ensure that future enforcement is humane and consistent with civil and human rights. It should also include the dismantling of the current immigration detention system, the banning of racial profiling at all levels of government, and the end of state and local intrusions into immigration policy and enforcement.

Fairness: Immigration reform must preserve and restore the fundamental principles of fairness, due process and equal protection in our immigration system, repeal arbitrary bars to reentry, and restore judicial discretion in immigration matters.

Protect Vulnerable Communities: Immigration reform should reaffirm and enhance protections in our immigration laws for children, refugees, asylum-seekers, and survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking and other crimes.

Promote Integration: Immigration reform should promote and enhance programs and policies that help immigrants achieve their full potential as active contributors to our country’s social, economic and civic fabric. Immigration reform must ensure that everyone residing in our country has access to affordable health care and needed nutrition assistance.

Address Roots of Migration: Immigration reform should address the factors that lead to
migration into the U.S.

As your constituents, we look forward to engaging and working with you to help ensure the passage
of legislation that is consistent with the principles we have outlined. We believe these principles are a reflection of this nation’s values and of the contributions our immigrant communities have made and will continue to make to build our economy and our society. We urge you to engage in active leadership on this important issue.

If you have any questions about this letter, please do not hesitate to contact us via Maru Mora Villalpando, 206-251-6658 or maru@latinoadvocacy.org), Ada Williams-Prince,206-452-8406, ada@weareoneamerica.org) or Jorge L. Barón, 206-957-8609, jorge@nwirp.org

**************************

Organizations wanting to sign on to the letter can copy this link into their browser: http://tinyurl.com/a4v4dcd

Death Penalty Repeal

Questioning Capital Punishment
with Sister Helen Prejean

A two-part DVD study, featuring one of the world’s leading authorities and outspoken critics of state-sponsored execution, will be shown in 2 sessions.

When:  Monday, April 8 and Monday, May 13, 2013, 7 PM
Where:  Traditions Café, 300 5th Avenue, Olympia
Sponsored by:  Call to Action Western Washington

April 8:  Crossing the Breach includes “conflicts in the human heart” that the death penalty causes us to struggle with.   What in God’s Name? considers the theological ideas and behaviors that need to be overcome by those who live a life of privilege.
May 13:   A Change of Heart and Radical Forgiveness consider some of the practical expressions of living a life of reconciliation.

Sister Helen Prejean is a leading American advocate for the abolition of the death penalty. Sr. Helen has ministered to numerous inmates on death row, and has authored two books based on those experiences, Dead Man Walking and The Death of Innocents. She is the founder of the Death Penalty Discourse Center in New Orleans.

2013 Session – Week 11

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Pacific Western Regional Assembly 2013
April 26-28, 2013
San Jose, CA
Our four western UUA Districts are making history this spring by coming together in a Regional Assembly to explore and celebrate BIG FAITH * NO BORDERS!
Opening Celebration Keynote Speaker:
The Rev. Christine Robinson,
Senior Minister of First Unitarian Church of Albuquerque
*****************************************
Join Us in San Jose!
Washington State UU Voices for Justice will be there,
working with the UU Legislative Ministry of California (UULMCA)
to plan the

State Advocacy Networks Gathering
Friday, April 26, 3 PM – 5 PM,
Followed by dinner together before the Opening Celebration

The State Advocacy Networks gathering will feature speakers on immigration justice, opportunities for  start-up SANs to learn more about organizing in their states, and for others to share information and strategies on important justice work being done in Pacific Western Region states.

In the Exhibit Hall.  WA State UU Voices for Justice will have an exhibit at PWR Assembly, as will Oregon UU Voices for Justice and UU Legislative Ministry of California.  You can learn about the work being done in our Pacific Western Region neighboring states to develop our Unitarian Universalist faith through justice-making.
More information about the State Advocacy Networks’ gathering will be in upcoming newsletters.

Find the PWR Assembly schedule and registration is at:   http://pwruua.org

Environment
Action Needed

Toxic-Free Kids and Families Act (House Bill 1294 and Senate Bill 5181) hearing in the Senate on Tuesday, March 19, 1:30 PM, Senate Hearing Room 4, Cherberg Building, Olympia.

This bill, which bans two forms of tris flame retardants (TDCPP and TCEP) in children’s products and home furniture beginning July 1, 2014, is a priority for WA UU Voices.  Please join us at the hearing to show our support for environmental legislation protecting kids and families..

If you cannot be in Olympia next Tuesday, contact your senator by calling the Toll-Free Legislative Hotline, 1.800.562.6000.

Death Penalty Repeal
Washington’s House Bill 1504, which would eliminate the death penalty and replace it with lifetime incarceration without parole, did not have a hearing this year.  However, we can celebrate with our UU Legislative Ministry of Maryland colleagues, who, like Washington State UU Voices, named death penalty repeal as a legislative priority this year.

On Friday, Maryland’s General Assembly repealed that state’s death penalty, nearly 40 years after the U. S. Supreme Court restored capital punishment.  Maryland’s Governor Martin O’Malley, who proposed the repeal, will sign the bill into law next month.  That will make Maryland the 18th state to overturn capital punishment.

WA UU Voices will continue to work with our partners in the Safe and Just Alternatives Coalition to advocate for repeal in this state in the 2014 session.

Background Checks for Gun Sales

“Lawmakers favor gun lobby over voters on background-check bill” read a Seattle Times editorial headline this week.

The editorial observed, “AFTER the 1999 massacre at Columbine High School, Colorado closed the “gun show loophole.” This week, eight months after the massacre at Century Aurora 16 cinemas, the Colorado Senate passed limits on ammunition magazines, banned gun ownership for alleged domestic abusers and expanded background checks to private gun sales.

“That legislative action — in a state with similar politics — is a stark contrast to the failure of the state House of Representatives Tuesday to vote on a well-crafted proposal for universal background checks.”

HB 1588, sponsored by Rep. Jamie Pedersen, D-Seattle, was supported by WA UU Voices and many people across the state.  The Times notes that a national poll finds a 91 percent support for mandatory background checks at gun shows.

“Instead,” says the Seattle Times editorial, “lawmakers heeded gun-industry lobbyists, not the people.”

Rep. Mike Hope, R-Lake Stevens, a Seattle police officer, co-sponsored HB 1588, and was deluged with hate mail, orchestrated by the gun lobby.
Action Needed
It is possible HB 1588 could be revived during the budget process, so please continue to contact your legislators in upcoming weeks.
Let them know you support HB 1588, is a common-sense bill that can help keep guns out of the hands of convicted felons and others prohibited from possessing firearms.

Contacting Your Legislators

Let your Representatives know you support important justice legislation! 

Not sure who your Senator and Legislators are?  You can find them at:
http://app.leg.wa.gov/DistrictFinder/

You can also send a message to your Legislators and the Governor by calling the

Legislative Hotline: 1.800.562.6000
WA UU Voices is on Facebook

“Like” our Facebook Page to stay informed about recent news and upcoming events between e-mail alerts.

2013 Session – Week 9

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Your Voice (And Those of Your Neighbors)
Needed by Wednesday, March 13!

March 13 is the House of Origin cut off; this means that all bills must be voted out of their House of Origin by the end of the day.  Both the Senate and House are on the floor, voting on bills coming from their Rules Committees.
Please Act Today!
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Firearms  and Corrections Reform
One firearms regulation bill is still alive, and is in the House Rules Committee.
HB 1588 requires background checks for all gun sales in the state.  This bill strengthens Washington’s background check system by closing one loophole that allows felons and others already prohibited from owning firearms from purchasing guns through gun shows and private sales.
The bill should come up for a vote before Wednesday, but it is not clear if it has a “yes” majority.  Recent polling data this week shows 79%t of the electorate supports a background check on all gun sales, yet some legislators report phone calls and emails that oppose HB 1588 by a 20:1 ratio.
Although your legislators may support this bill, lawmakers from districts where there are few Unitarian Universalists need to hear from constituents who support HB 1588. Please contact friends and family in other legislative districts and encourage them to ask their legislators to support HB 1588.
Talking points:

  1. More Americans are killed within the US borders by gun violence than are killed in wars each year. 12,000 people were killed last year by gun violence in the US, 694 died in Washington.
  2. While background checks prevent felons and individuals found to be a danger to themselves or others from purchasing guns through retail establishments, these same individuals can currently buy guns at gun shows and through private sales. This is because current law allows people to sell guns at gun shows and through private sales without doing a background check.
  3. HB 1588 closes one dangerous loophole by mandating a background check before purchasing any firearm in our state.

HB 1429:  WA UU Voices supports this bill, which removes the lid on state-sponsored higher education programming in state prisons.  Education is a proven factor in the reduction of recidivism.

Please make those calls or send those emails today!
A feature on the www.leg.wa.gov website is available to send comments about a particular bill to your legislators. On the leg.wa.gov site, choose Bill Information and then enter the bill number and Search. When the window for that bill appears, choose Comment on this Bill. You will need to register with a password the first time you use this feature.
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Immigration Reform
Two reform bills need your support; please ask your Representatives to vote for them when they come to the House floor this week:
HB 1413: Voting Rights Act, allows voting by district rather than only at-large voting in local municipalities, creating more opportunities for people from local neighborhoods and communities of color to be elected.
HB 1817:  State DREAM Act, grants all college-bound Washington state high school students access to financial aid through the State Need Grant program
Leave a message for your Representatives by calling the Legislative Hotline: 1-800-562-6000
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Campaign Finance Reform
HJM 4001 calls on Congress to pass a constitutional amendment to the states to overturn the effects of the U.S. Supreme Court’s disastrous decision in Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission.  HJM 4001 has been placed on 2nd reading by the House Rules Committee, and needs to be voted out of the House by March 13.
Contact your legislator now and urge him/her to vote for HJM 4001
Environment
Support SB 5802 and HB 1915 for next steps forward in reducing greenhouse gas emissions
SB 5802 and HB 1915 provide that an independent consultant be contracted to prepare an evaluation of approaches to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.  The evaluation will be used to form a recommendation for a state program to reduce greenhouse gas emissions
Action Needed
Please contact a committee member, especially if one represents your district, to ask that they give HB 1915 and SB 5802 a “do pass” recommendation when it comes up for Executive Action.   House Appropriations Committee members’ names, phone numbers, and email addresses can be accessed through Appropriations Committee.

SB 5802 is currently in the Senate Rules Committee and needs to be pulled to the Senate Floor for a vote. You are encouraged to contact your senator to support SB 5802 when it comes to the floor.   If your senator is a member of the Senate Rules Committee, you can also contact her or him and request he or she pull the bill from Rules.
Oppose SB 5805: SB 5805 will expedite projects like coal export facilities by changing the definition of projects of statewide significance.  It could:

  • Permit expedited treatment for the proposed “pit to pier” gravel pit on Hood Canal.
  • Allow fast-track permitting for mega-projects like coal export facilities in Bellingham and Longview, circumventing the public hearing process otherwise required.

If passed, SB 5805 could increase coal trains going through our state and their attendant pollution.  SB 5805 weakens existing law that requires net environmental benefit and support from local legislative authorities to be eligible for expedited review. This legislation deserves careful consideration of potential environmental impacts.  The existing environmental review requirement must be retained.
Action Needed

  • Please contact your Senator and ask him/her to Support SB 5802 and Oppose SB 5805.
  • Contact your Representatives to ask them to Support HB 1915

Leave a message with the Legislative Hotline at 1-800-562-6000
To find the names of your current legislators go to www.leg.wa.gov, select Find Your Legislator, and enter your street address.