FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 29, 2023
Sojourners Stands Firmly Against Government Shutdown
[WASHINGTON, D.C.] - Sojourners strongly opposes the now likely government shutdown. Government shutdowns inflict unnecessary harm on our economy, disrupt vital public services, and burden the lives of countless Americans, particularly the most vulnerable. The consequences of a shutdown ripple throughout our society, impacting everything from federal employees and contractors to businesses, communities, and individuals who rely on government programs and services. Sojourners calls on Congress and the President to prioritize the needs and interests of the American people above all else and to avoid the devastating consequences of a government shutdown.
Sojourners believes in the importance of dialogue and cooperation across the political spectrum. Government shutdowns only deepen divisions and hinder progress on pressing issues facing our nation. The shutdown of government operations should never be used as a bargaining chip in political negotiations over the budget.
“The moral test of any funding bill is whether it ends up helping or hurting the most vulnerable and marginalized people in our communities and nation. It is imperative that Congress supports the war against poverty, not start a war on people living in poverty disguised as an attempt to reduce our growing deficit. Scripture makes it clear that lawmakers should ‘not withhold good from those who deserve it, when it is in your power to act’ (Proverbs 3:27). A government shutdown would do just that, withhold the good from those who need it the most. We need families to thrive and not simply survive,” said Rev. Adam Russell Taylor, President of Sojourners.
We urge our elected officials to put aside partisan differences and work together to find common ground to pass a continuing resolution to keep the government open and appropriations bills that advance the common good. A functioning government is essential for the well-being and prosperity of our nation. It is our sincere hope that our leaders will act responsibly and in the best interest of our nation, avoiding the unnecessary suffering and economic damage that a government shutdown would inflict.
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