Catholic labor spring study
This spring, Vision Council member John Noble will facilitate a discussion series on labor and Catholicism. Francis, following in the tradition of Vatican II and social justice Catholicism, is attempting to "revive the worker's church." His efforts are being stymied by the U.S. bishops and the U.S. church, who have chosen allegiance with "corporate managers and owners." As a result of this allegiance, we're seeing Catholic institutions participate in anti-labor/anti-union practices. This discussion group will read and discuss a series of articles on these themes. Participants should prepare assigned articles (all available online) before each meeting. Readings will be shared here and via emails to CTA’s Strategy Working Groups and general membership. This is one of two study tracks offered as part of CTA’s 2021 National Campaign. It will help participants think about strategic change-making in the church and world, especially via lobbying and direct action.
Schedule:
All are welcome to attend any session even if they have missed previous sessions.
February 17, 7 pm ET/6 pm CT/4 pm PT - The Future We Deserve: the renewed movement for a workers' church under Francis. In preparation, read or listen to “Francis Revives the Workers’ Church” (John Gehring, Fall 2017) at the American Prospect.
March 17, 7 pm ET/6 pm CT/4 pm PT - The Threats We Face: how billionaires and bishops are trying to squash organized labor. In preparation, read “How Big Money is Dividing American Catholicism” (Katherine Stewart, March 2021) at the New Republic.
April 26, 8-9:30 pm ET/7-8:30 pm CT/5-6:30 pm PT - Organizing for change in Catholic workplaces: A know-your-rights conversation with Ken Homan, SJ. Learn more and register.
May - TBA
