SATURDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2021
Weekend Reading

Dear John,

Thank you to everyone who took action to extend the Child Tax Credit! The Senate must pass the Build Back Better bill to make the expanded tax credit permanent. Without congressional action, millions of children will lose this vital benefit—and be pushed back into poverty. If you haven’t already, contact your senators today. [link removed]

Here are this week's picks to inform and support your activism:

In West Virginia, community members and advocates urge Sen. Manchin to keep Child Tax Credit: As part of advocacy efforts, AFSC has helped collect and share the stories of some of the 300,000 West Virginia families helped by the program. The Child Tax Credit is “a life-changer,” says AFSC’s Rick Wilson. “People are saying they paid off debt, kept the lights on, or bought or repaired their car so they could go to work.” (Associated Press) [link removed]

The evidence is in: Dialogue with China works: New research shows diplomatic efforts between Washington and Beijing were having an effect. So what happened? Read more in this op-ed by AFSC’s Daniel Jasper, former U.S. diplomat Susan A. Thornton of the National Committee on American Foreign Policy, and Rorry Daniels of the Forum on Asia-Pacific Security. (Responsible Statecraft) [link removed]

Expanding maternal and post-partum health care in prisons: Michigan recently announced policy changes affecting pregnant people in prisons. These include limiting the use of restraints on pregnant people and allowing parents more time with newborns. The changes came after people in prison shared their stories and advocated for more human treatment, writes AFSC’s Natalie Holbrook. [link removed]

Did you know?: On. Dec. 19, 1940, the U.S. established the Civilian Public Service (CPS). This gave conscientious objectors the opportunity to perform alternative service during wartime. The three historic peace churches (Quaker, Brethren, and Mennonite) helped administer CPS camps. Assignments included teaching in rural schools, firefighting, and farming projects. [link removed]

Have you made your year-end gift?: Thanks to all who have donated this year! Haven’t yet given? Make your tax-deductible gift today! [link removed]

Be well and take care

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