Legislators Obligated To Pass A Moral Budget
KENT J. SILADI — In the Hartford Courant
I was one of six Connecticut faith leaders arrested June 5 at the Capitol in Hartford while voicing concern over what many perceive as an immoral state budget.
Although the General Assembly was unable to pass a budget in its regular session, the emphasis was on cutting, which would undoubtedly mean reductions in services to those who can least afford it: children, people with disabilities and older citizens on limited income. Rather than slice everything, the legislature should be looking at ways to increase revenue by taxing those who can afford it. While a budget has not yet been passed we wanted to make our voices known loud and clear to our legislators who will make critical decisions in the next several weeks.
My faith tradition, the United Church of Christ, has always supported our leaders and members taking an active role in the public square. We are convicted by a Gospel message that encourages us to speak up and out for “the least of these” among us.