We have never seen such daily anxiety and fear in this nation, even during the wars, when at least we had responsible leaders. Donald Trump has cut or threatened to end the SNAP program (nutrition), USAID, Department of Education, Medicaid, medical research, FEMA, federal grants and loans, and the Forest Service (firefighters, too).
Immigrants, legal or not, are harassed and arrested. With orders from Trump, ICE, with their guns, barges into schools doing what, arresting or pressuring children and staff to divulge information? Hospitals and churches are no longer sacred but are also being invaded by ICE.
This is unlawful. Yet Republican legislators stand by selfishly protecting themselves. As an Episcopalian, I was proud to hear Bishop Budde, Episcopal bishop of D.C., speak directly, though respectfully, to Trump, pleading, “Please Mr. President, have mercy on people who are afraid.” She reminded him of Jesus’ words to care for the poor and vulnerable, welcome the stranger, work for unity and to speak truth.
We must follow the bishop’s courage to pray and speak up against injustice and lies, demanding our legislators do the same.
