The day ended at the Lincoln Statue, moving into a time of vigil and prayer. Photo by Fernando Fuentes.

About 40 people of faith from across Illinois traveled to the state Capitol on April 15 to advocate for public policy that aligns with the United Methodist Social Principles. 

The Northern Illinois Conference Commission on Religion and Race organized this event for the third year in a row. United Methodists from Illinois Great Rivers Conference joined the group this year. 

Throughout the day, participants met with their elected officials to discuss current legislation that addresses environmental and food justice, support for immigrants, and youth education and empowerment.    

Carol Jeanne Davis, from First United Methodist Church in Downers Grove, met with Rep. Anne Stava (District 18) to share her support for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Rep. Stava pledged her support for the United Methodist position to support marginalized people.   

When considering why she joined the CCORR Advocacy Day Team, Paula Roderick said that “as a Black woman and an attorney who is passionate about civil rights, working with the CCORR advocacy team is so critical in this challenging time.  

“I went to Springfield because I knew our group would be grounded in UM Social Principles and comfortable with sharing experiences in advocating for our principles with elected officials. And I knew it would be a great opportunity to meet almost 40 people from the NIC and IGRC in small groups so that we could hear what concerns differing churches have.”  

In addition to meeting with legislators, participants gathered with other people of faith to sing and pray in the Capitol rotunda. Some toured the building. The group ended the day with a vigil at the foot of the Lincoln statue on the steps of the Capitol. Led by inspiring words from Pastor Abby Holcombe, we sang, chanted and prayed for justice for all.  

We were blessed to receive breakfast and lunch from the people of Douglas Avenue United Methodist Church in Springfield, led by Pastor Meredith Brown. Over breakfast we heard from Rep. Abdelnasser Rashid (District 21) about why he proposed HB2723 and worked with Sen. Mike Porfirio (District 11) to introduce SB2462, the Illinois Human Rights Advocacy Protection Act. 

Our closing prayer at the end of our vigil was a beautiful conclusion for this trip as well as a call to continue the work:

Today is the day  
God brings good news to the poor,
proclaims release to the captives,
gives sight to the blind,
and sets the oppressed free.  
And so shall we.  
Amen.