Postcard from the Edge
I wrote last week about the community and civil engagement of the United Church of Christ. Just a few days ago, we saw the results of our denomination’s determination to advocate for the marginalized and voiceless: in the face of pressure brought by the UCC and other organizations, Citizen’s Bank withdrew financial support from two corporations, CoreCivic and the GEO Group, which build and operate detention centers for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Led by the Greater Boston Interfaith Organization (GBIO) and leadership at Boston’s Old South Church, principally Senior Minister The Rev. John Edgerton, the effort to persuade Citizen’s to disinvest included Greater Cleveland (OH) Congregations, and a group called De-ICE Citizen’s Bank Coalition.
As the UCC reported three days ago, “Leaders in the ‘Not With Our Money’ campaign began requesting to meet with Citizens Bank back in April 2024, and after receiving no response, withdrew the first $1 million on May 4. As more groups joined – including two New Jersey cities that pulled over $350 million from Citizens, – national pressure grew.” GBIO followed earlier this year, withdrawing $2 million, and Old South Church $1 million. “This is what organizing looks like,” said Keisha Krumm, executive director of Greater Cleveland Congregations. “Aimed, focused strategy grounded in principles of We the People, moving corporate interests to change course.” Rev. Edgerton added, “We ought to use the tools that we have to further God’s realm, to further God’s kingdom, right? And to build up the beloved community. Money is a tool that we can steward and deploy to make a difference in the world.”
Never underestimate the power of the local church to witness for justice.
Links to Sunday’s bulletin and service are here: