The plight of refugees and immigrants is at the heart of our sisters’ concern everywhere in the world. In particular, in the US, our sisters are participating in efforts to raise awareness over the dignity of immigrants and use their voices to advocate for human rights and due process. In California, our members have witnessed immigration arrests and raids firsthand. Farm workers live in constant fear and uncertainty, and many are afraid to return to work, concerned about potential raids and detentions. Public spaces, including stores, parks, and even sports venues have been the scenes of immigration raids, deepening fear in affected communities. On June 14th, as a national military parade took place in Washington D.C, millions of Americans took to the streets to raise their concerns in a “No Kings” protest. Sr. Kathleen Bryant, along with other women religious, joined the protest in Culver City. It was a peaceful, joyful event with thousands of young and old, different races and beliefs but one common concern for the future of democracy and respect for the rights of ALL people.
Age didn’t matter! Sr. Diane Smith wrote, “St. John of God Care and Retirement Center, in solidarity with those who were protesting and marching for “No Kings Day” had nineteen residents gathered from three buildings in the courtyard. After the introduction, we recited the preamble of the constitution followed by a prayer beginning with the reading of “The New Colossus” by Emma Lazarus (“give us your tired and your poor”) followed by a litany of ethnic groups who make up the fabric of America. Sisters then processed to the flagpole, recited the Pledge of Allegiance, and processed into the chapel for Mass.”
On June 24th many Congregations of Catholic Sisters gathered with their associates, allies and colleagues in a public witness in Washington, D.C. Their theme was, “We speak up so no one stands alone.” There is a proliferation of these Sisters Speak Out events across the nation.
Sr. Margaret Farrell RSC, Kathleen and many other religious attended an online training sponsored by the Archdiocese of Los Angeles on July 2nd along with clergy to learn how to accompany migrants to Immigration Court as witnesses and observers. Across the country, sisters are organising Sisters Speak Out Public Witness events to be in solidarity with families affected by so many deportations, fears and anxieties.
In the US Catholic sisters have social capital and are respected as advocates and known for their service of those made poor. They have wide influence which is powerful at critical times like these. Through prayer, public witness, and accompaniment, they continue to advocate for justice and uphold the dignity of every human being.
Kathleen Bryant RSC
Image Credit: Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace
