From the Capitol to Congregations: LAMA’s Weekly Advocacy Update

Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA), our synod’s public policy voice, invites you to take action and stay engaged with critical issues impacting our communities.

This week’s Action Alert focuses on health care legislation moving through the Arizona legislature, including concern about HCR2056 (“Right to Refuse” Constitutional Amendment), which is scheduled for a hearing. LAMA encourages advocates to review the bills and make their voices heard.

In addition to legislative advocacy, LAMA highlights several upcoming opportunities to connect, learn, and act:

• Interfaith Day at the Capitol (March 25, Phoenix) – a day of prophetic witness and legislative engagement

• Grand Canyon Synod Hunger Leaders Network (March 31, Zoom) – collaboration and support for hunger ministries across the synod

• AFN Social Justice Commission (April 2, Zoom) – ongoing justice and advocacy work

• Faithful Voter AZ Committee (April 2, Zoom) – protecting voting rights

• Anti-Hunger Advocacy Call (April 3, Zoom) – updates and coordination across hunger networks

The newsletter also shares important updates from the ELCA and advocacy partners, including:

• Calls to support housing legislation

• Advocacy to protect voting rights and oppose restrictive legislation

• Insights into the proposed SAVE Act

• Updates from the Arizona Food Bank Network

• A pastoral message from Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry on gender-based violence

As Lutherans, advocacy is not optional—it is a natural extension of our baptismal identity. Grounded in grace, we are called to seek justice, serve our neighbor, and participate in shaping systems that reflect God’s care for all people.

This week’s LAMA newsletter offers both immediate action steps and broader opportunities to stay engaged in this shared work.

We encourage you to read the full newsletter, take action, and share these opportunities within your congregation and networks.