Foreword xi
Preface: Preaching to the Choir xv
Acknowledgments xxi
Introduction: How I Became an Advocate xxiii
Part I: How Religion and Policy Mix
1. Why We Hear So Much from One Side and So Little from the Other
3
2. Core Faith Values: Protecting the Widow, the Stranger, and the
Orphan 11
3. Core Faith Values: Moral Agency 25
4. Core Faith Values: Church-State Separation 39
Part II: How to Speak about Religious Values
5. Messaging to the Base 55
6. Media Relations: First Steps 71
7. Raising the Controversial Issues 89
8. Building and Using a Message Triangle 97
9. Building on the Triangle: The Platform of Faith 109
10. Religion and Lobbying 133
Epilogue: More Than Tolerance 145
Notes 149
Suggestions for Further Reading 155
Rabbi Dennis S. Ross serves as a reproductive rights advocate and director of Concerned Clergy for Choice at the Education Fund of Family Planning Advocates of New York State.
"An incomparable guide for embracing faith as a platform for
supporting the social justice issues of our time—from health care
and reproductive rights to marriage
equality and sex
education."
—Cecile Richards, president, Planned Parenthood Federation of
America
"I love this book! Both clergy and lay[people] need it. It's clear,
compelling, instructive and biblically-based."
—Rev. Finley Schaef, United Methodist Church; founding member,
Clergy Consultation Service on Abortion
"Offers refreshing insights into the moral issues of our day and
the role of faith in the political debate. Part homily, part
how-to, [it] encourages the choirs of unrepresented voices to sing
out."
—Liane Hansen, former National Public Radio host
“An encouragement to all who are searching for a richer and more
meaningful way to engage in our democracy, and a much-needed
corrective for these bitterly partisan times.”
—Nancy Northup, president and CEO, Center for Reproductive
Rights
“An unusual book—both wise and practical—for those who want to make
a contribution to resolving issues that divide our country. A wise
resource for those who care deeply about their faith and our
country.”
—Rev. Dr. John G. Wightman, former president, New Jersey Clergy
Consultation Service on Abortion; retired minister, United Church
of Christ
“An impassioned call to action and an eminently practical guide to
strategies and resources for dealing with politicians and the media
... [it] could not be more timely.”
—Mary Zeiss Stange, professor of women's studies and religion,
Skidmore College
“For clergy and religious leaders concerned about the narrow, often
intolerant religious forces that are trying to dominate national
policy, [this] book offers a way forward to a more complete,
compassionate discourse.... I heartedly recommend it.”
—Rev. Dr. Carlton W. Veazey, former president and CEO, Religious
Coalition for Reproductive Choice; pastor, Fellowship Baptist
Church, Washington, D.C.
“The essential guide for religious leaders who want to influence
public policy. It provides essential theological support for
advocating for sexual justice and other progressive issues while
also effectively teaching the tools of lobbying, media appearances
and organizing.”
—The Reverend Debra W. Haffner, executive director, Religious
Institute
“Warm and endearing.... Applies Martin Buber's views of
relationships to a rich tapestry of contemporary experience. Highly
recommended for persons from all religious traditions.”
—Rev. Leo D. Lefebure, editor-at-large, The Christian Century
“[For] all of us who care, from a faith perspective, about politics
as the instrument for peace with justice. [Approaches] religion for
the purpose God intended, to foster understanding and faithful
pursuit of truth, rather than as an excuse to disagree with and
demonize one’s adversaries.”
—Rev. Charles H. Straut, Jr., DMin, Consultant in Ministry,
New York Conference, United Methodist Church
“An acknowledgment of social reality and a clarion call for social
action. Combines a rich religious perspective with practical
suggestions for religious advocates who want to 'repair the
world.’”
—Rev. Dr. Richard Gilbert, president, Interfaith Impact of New York
State; social justice coordinator, St. Lawrence Unitarian
Universalist District; author, The Prophetic Imperative: Social
Gospel in Theory and Practice and How Much Do We Deserve: An
Inquiry in Distributive Justice
“A distinctive, much-needed voice [in] the American debate on
matters of politics and religion. Sharp insights, sanity and
unfailing good humor.”
—Rev. Tom Davis, author, Sacred Work: Planned Parenthood and Its
Clergy Alliances;
chaplain emeritus, Skidmore College
“This excellent, very readable book is a 'must have’ for all people
of faith, especially in this day of polarization.... It’s like
having your own personal media coach. I highly recommend it not
only to spiritual and interfaith leaders, but to anyone involved in
community activism who wants to make a difference.”
—Kay Lindahl, co-founder, Women of Spirit and Faith; co-editor,
Women, Spirituality and Transformative Leadership: Where Grace
Meets Power
“With a wealth of personal stories from his experiences as a faith
advocate, Rabbi Ross powerfully makes the case for an assertive,
proactive yet civil faith advocacy (as opposed to a reactive one
defined by the Religious Right) that is rooted in shared core
values and effective messaging tactics.”
—Rabbi David Saperstein, director, Religious Action Center of
Reform Judaism
“Provides insightful communications advice for anyone looking to
break through the usual media noise and spark social change on some
of the most important issues of our generation.”
—Andrea Hagelgans, vice president, strategic communications and
media relations,
Camino Public Relations
“With wit and passion, Rabbi Ross articulates his belief that all
major political issues can be deconstructed to find a religious
argument at their core. He then demonstrates how it is possible to
move the political pendulum forward while encouraging civil
discourse and steering clear of vilifying those whose views run in
a diametrically opposite direction.... [This] guide book is for
those who want to begin down the path of political activism without
losing their religious conviction.”
—Michael Zimmerman, executive director, The Clergy Letter
Project
“Religious voices are a critical component in the movement for
equality and justice. Rabbi Ross is extremely qualified to provide
insight about how to effectively engage the voices of the spiritual
community in the movement for positive social change.”
—Ross D. Levi, executive director, Empire State Pride Agenda
“Clearly highlights the areas of social concern that often get lost
in the barrage of words and rhetoric.... Give[s] new ways to talk
about these controversial issues with civility and candor. A
must-read for all persons of faith regardless of political
perspective or religious ideology.”
—Rev. Vincent Lachina, Northwest Chaplain, Planned Parenthood
“Offers tangible tools to amplify messages of compassion, unity and
collaboration. [Provides] practical media strategies for restoring
the integrity of moral agency, effectively raising our voices of
inclusion and hope in the cultural conversation.”
—Kathe Schaaf, co-founder, Women of Spirit and Faith; co-editor,
Women, Spirituality and Transformative Leadership: Where Grace
Meets Power
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