Documents

Link to JFCS Resource Page: https://www.jfcspgh.org/resources/

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Recommended Reading: The Kingdom The Power and the Glory by Tim Alberta

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Advice from Jeremy Steele on church-based advocacy groups:

“Know the boundaries (and the freedom) of your nonprofit status

One of the biggest fears churches have about advocacy is losing their 501(c)(3) status. The IRS rules are clear:

• You can’t endorse or oppose candidates for elected office
• You can engage in issue advocacy — including speaking, teaching, and organizing around legislation — as long as it’s not a “substantial” part of your activities
• You can join coalitions, hold educational forums and encourage civic participation without crossing the line into partisan politics

Examples: You can host an information night on affordable housing and invite local experts to speak. You can’t tell attendees to vote for or against a specific candidate.

“Start local and relational

Often the most effective starting place is in your own neighborhood:

• What are the pressing concerns in your city or county?
• What has happened recently in your community that highlights injustice?
• Who is already organizing around those issues?
• Where is there a gap your church could help fill?

Reach out to local coalitions, nonprofits and grassroots groups. Ask how your church can serve. Sometimes that means showing up at meetings, offering your building for gatherings or lending your communication channels to amplify events.”

If you see ICE activity:

What to Document

• Who – What – When – Where – Why
• Cars, license plate #s
• Do not speak to people in the process of being detained
• Do not give legal advice
• Do not talk to the press
• Never sign any document
• Ask open-ended questions and record answers (no suggestions or choices)
• Do not talk politics or politicians
• Welcome the stranger

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The following documents are available to download.

The file for sanctuary churches is a SAMPLE – do not use as it is – edit it for your purposes.
ICE Nearby – for whistle packets
Sample No-ICE Boro Resolution – if a borough or other governing body needs a template for “no ICE cooperation” legislation
My Rights – for homeowners and residents – a sign detailing your rights

Sanctuary churchesDownload

ICE Nearby Whistle SignalsDownload

Sample No-ICE Boro ResolutionDownload

My Rights – residential doorDownload