You may have noticed signage on our lawn at NACC supporting a YES vote on Amendment 3 and Prop A. This decision to publicly express our stance was not made lightly. National Avenue Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), through both our justice collaborative and administrative board, voted to endorse these two upcoming ballot measures in the November 5, 2024 election.
Charitable non-profits, including our church, have an IRS designation as a 501(c)3, which governs tax-exempt status. While picking particular political candidates or parties is always out of bounds, some amount of “lobbying” or advocating for public policies in line with our mission is allowed. It is with this allowance, and a Christian conviction to stand, as Jesus did, with the oppressed and the marginalized, that we stand for a Yes on Amendment 3 and Yes on Proposition A.
Our denomination, the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), is a grassroots church governed by democratic decision-making. Individual congregations and individual members within congregations are expected to use study and personal determination to know what one believes or stands for. As such, the decision to endorse these ballot measures is not binding on any other local congregations, nor on our attendees and members - each person shall vote (or not vote) according to one’s own conscience and research. As we support the separation of church and state, we wrestled with whether it was appropriate for our church to display a political sign. We are mindful that there are extreme divisions in our community on these topics. We know some religious institutions have made their positions clear and we know there are a multitude of perspectives from various faith perspectives on Amendment 3 and Proposition A. We resolved it was important to speak out.
As a community of faith, we are committed to the work of social justice embodied in the life of Jesus. Reproductive justice is central to economic and racial justice. Considering Amendment 3, we understand reproductive decision-making is a sacred right. Our tradition teaches us that all people have dignity and worth and that we have a particular responsibility to care for those who are most vulnerable. We must recognize the very different and sometimes complex issues and situations experienced by women and all people seeking abortion care. Some are the victims of rape or incest. Some face pregnancy complications that could put their health or lives at risk. Some are struggling with other personal tragedies. Some simply know that it is not the right time. People seeking abortion do not deserve our shame or judgment— they deserve our love and support. We support the right of individuals to make reproductive health decisions in consultation with their healthcare providers, their god, and whomever they choose. Reproductive freedom is religious freedom, consistent with the right of each individual to express their religious beliefs without government interference.
We believe it is essential to show solidarity with those fighting for these vital causes. 1 in 3 Missouri working parents get 0 paid sick days! Voting YES on Proposition A this November allows employees to earn up to 7 Paid Sick Days per year so every Missouri parent can be there for their children when they’re sick. Rest and recovery are essential. MO workers deserve the chance to be their best selves, both at work and at home. Continuing to raise the minimum wage gets us closer to providing a living wage for all workers.
We hope no matter how you feel about the issues, please get out and vote! Thank you for engaging with us on these important issues!