*NEW* Truth Commission on Conscience and War

November 11-12^th 2010 at National City Christian Church in Washington, DC.   Several public events are scheduled to educate people about the Truth Commission Report and its recommendations.  An interfaith service will be held on the evening of the 11^th and an all-day teach-in is scheduled for the 12^th.  Speakers will feature legal experts, religious leaders, veterans, and chaplains. Special attention will be paid to the reasons for supporting Selective Conscientious Objection. 

• Nov 11^th 7 - 9 pm   
  Interfaith Service for Freedom of Conscience,
  National City Christian Church, 5 Thomas Circle.
  Speakers include:
• Rev. Dr. James A Forbes, Jr., Preaching
• Rev. Mpho Tutu, International Representative
• Nov. 12   9 am - 4 pm
  Protecting Conscience in War: a Teach-in on Selective Conscientious Objection
  National City Christian Church, 5 Thomas Circle

*NEW* Center on Conscience and War

The Center on Conscience and War (formerly the National Interreligious Service Board for Conscientious Objectors) maintains an excellent website that provides procedural information for those interested in conscientious objection.  More Info.

CCW/NISBCO is also leading the effort to update U.S. policy regarding Conscientious Objection.  The current policy fails to protect the religious freedom of many by not allowing for selective conscientious objection.  The current policy mandates that in order for a person to be considered a CO, he/she must object to all wars.  The reality is that someone can also be morally opposed to a specific war out of his/her faith tradition.  Such a shift in policy is needed to reflect both the way in which modern war is waged as well as the broader range of faith perspectives on violence (such as “Just-War” and “Just Peace” traditions).  A policy that allows for selective conscientious objection is supported by the overwhelming majority of faith traditions, including the United Church of Christ through past synod resolutions. 

CCW/NISBCO and other groups have been working with congress to pass the Military Conscientious Objector Act (MCOA), which would direct the military to reflect selective conscientious objection.  To raise your voice on the issue with you member of congress, download the grassroots advocacy packet  here. 

Coming soon.