Arise Chicago draws vigorous participation from Chicago's religious community and enjoys a close working relationship with hundreds of clergy from all faith traditions. Clergy have joined workers on picket lines, met with corporate executives and government officials, mobilized their congregants and ministerial associations into action, signed letters and petitions to appeal to stock holders, lobbied for public policy changes, and engaged in non-violent civil disobedience with workers in struggle.
As Dr. King eloquently stated, when speaking of workers' rights and civil rights, "We are both confronted by powerful forces telling us to rely on the good will and understanding of those who profit by exploiting us." Dr. King's also dreamed of "a land where men will not take the necessities from the many to give luxuries to the few."
In accordance with our sacred Scriptures and as the religious community of greater Chicagoland, we call upon all decision-makers to strive towards a state in which all low-wage workers, whether they are direct employees or contracted out, should be:
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