Bernadette Passade Cisse LIRS and Joan Maruskin CWS IRP with other participants in June 27 2005 Haiti Migration Crisis Conference in Washington DC. Carol Fouke-Mpoyo

Washington Office

The Program’s Public Policy Office in Washington, DC has many opportunities to address members of Congress and the Administration -- as well as other Washington-based officials -- on U.S. policies affecting global peace, justice and human rights. These contacts include face-to-face meetings, position statements, Speak Out action alerts and group “sign-on” letters.

The Education and Advocacy (E&A) Program’s positions on public policy issues are grounded in biblical witness and build on previous CWS policy statements or resolutions. E&A listens to a variety of voices in developing its advocacy messages. These include CWS denominations and member communions, international field staff, partners, church leaders, civil society organizations, and U.S.-based partners in advocacy. (Read more about E&A Program partners and coalitions).

In developing its positions, E&A also considers the U.S. policy context to prophetically expand the imaginations of policy makers regarding what is possible. The Program takes into account proposed legislation, achievable goals and the issues that other faith-based and public interest offices are addressing.

The Public Policy Office also facilitates visits to U.S. policy makers in Washington, D.C. by CWS field staff, partners and constituent delegations.