Baby Steps

Friday, Mar. 18, 2016

I want a gold star for my political participation during the 2016 Utah legislative session. 

Writing that, I recall Jesus saying something about those who seek public adulation already have their reward, but given that I complained bitterly to myself at every step along the way of my recent political activity, I suspect that any heavenly recompense was miniscule at best, so I’m going to scratch for earthly rewards instead.

You may have noticed my cynicism toward the entire political process, an attitude that stems from many years of covering local government as a newspaper reporter, during which I had a ringside seat at the bad and the worst of the political process.

So until I took this job, I was content to vote more or less consistently, and sign a petition only if I couldn’t get away fast enough. 

Then along came Dee Rowland, who was the Diocese of Salt Lake City government liaison six years ago when I became editor, and Archbishop John C. Wester, both of whom educated, cajoled, pestered and implored state and federal legislators, fellow Catholics and anyone else who would listen to their appeals for better treatment of the poor, the immigrant, the needy, the voiceless.  

Watching them up close, for the first time I saw the noble side of politics. Still, I remained on the sidelines, going to the Capitol for the vigil the night of the state-ordered execution of Ronnie Lee Gardner only to cover it as a reporter. 

Speaking of the death penalty, something Sister Helen Prejean said during her visit to Utah planted a seed in me as well: “You mustn’t be so overwhelmed and say, ‘Oh, I’m one little person; I can’t change anything,’ and let paralysis take over. Things change when citizens wake up and we make a decision to become involved.”   

That seed started to sprout this year, watered by Pope Francis, who repeatedly calls for Catholics to defend the rights of the poor, the oppressed, the helpless and the hopeless. Every time I read his words, I know he’s talking to me, and during this Year of Mercy I decided to do more than nod my head and murmur “Amen.”

Choosing a path of action was easy: This year’s Utah Legislature heard numerous bills dealing with issues directly related to Catholic social justice. (See Jean Hill’s column at right.)

It helped that Jean Hill, the diocese’s current government liaison, maintained a website tracking the pertinent bills, as well as talking points to use when contacting legislators. Jean also sent out timely notices of who to contact and when to do so. All I had to do was make her message my own, then email legislators.

Before you applaud, I must admit that I contacted legislators on only two bills, so it’s not as though I’m fully committed to this advocacy thing. Even the minimal amount I did required a stern talking-to by my better self to my complacent self, but at least I took a first step away from indifference. 

Jean tells me that much of the state legislation of concern to those involved with Catholic social justice met with modest success this year. I am inordinately pleased by this, given the tiny part I played. I suspect my satisfaction is because I feel a part of something larger than myself – at the two legislative committee meetings I attended I saw just how many others are concerned with giving voice to Utah’s poor, downtrodden and distressed. My voice alone is simply a whistle in the wind, but together we made a shout that was heard, at least dimly, by lawmakers.

Next year, I hope that shout is louder.