Our Shared, Sacred Responsibilities

The “Vote Our Future” town hall in Las Vegas filled the Cambridge Community Center with the care, candor, and conversation that have become, for me, the hallmark of our Nuns on the Bus & Friends pilgrimage.

Bus riders shared about each of the six freedoms animating NETWORK’s advocacy this year, focusing on policies that move us toward a future in which “everyone thrives, no exceptions!” I was invited to speak about the Freedom to be Healthy, which includes things like health care, affordable prescription drug prices, addressing racial health disparities, and ending hunger. I shared the story of Valerie, a single mother who often had to stay late at her nurse’s aid job and would call me at our neighborhood food pantry about the possibility of picking up food after hours. Too many of our neighbors have to ration their food and medicine because housing costs are so high or one unexpected medical or car expense makes it impossible to make ends meet. 

Then we heard from our neighbors about their concerns as we approach election day. Through small group conversations, we learned about the shortage of affordable housing and the need for more healthcare workers in the area.

Through the simple act of being present and listening to one another, the conversations continued, and the heaviness of these concerns transformed into a hopeful, encouraging energy. Folks left determined to “Vote Our Future” and to make sure their friends and families do the same. 

As we wrestle with policies and politics, Jesus reminds us in the Gospels not to lose sight of the common good, “For I was hungry and you gave me food… I was sick and you looked after me.” It is that clear, and it is our sacred responsibility, together. 

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