Dear Concerned Friends:
November 7--Election Day--is an important day for hungry and poor people. The candidates we send to Congress will make important decisions affecting millions of people the ONE Campaign represents.
Don't let them down. As we all have seen, your single vote can make all the difference. Go to the polls and vote.
Until then, use the next few weeks to raise the issues of global poverty, hunger and disease with the candidates whenever possible--during candidate forums, radio call-in shows, and any time informal opportunities arise to meet candidates. This is an excellent chance to both find out where they stand, as well as educate them about the things you believe are important.
Ask:
Most Americans believe we are spending about 20% of our nation's budget on foreign assistance. In reality, we only spend about 1%. And less than half of that is spent on programs that support development and fight poverty. Would you support an additional 1% of the federal budget to fight global poverty?
Or make your question as simple as:
If elected, what would be your priority in fighting extreme hunger and poverty in the world's poorest countries?
The more candidates are asked the questions, the more aware they'll be that their constituents care about hunger and poverty. You have an important role to play in the election process.
As ONE,
Derrick Boykin
Northeast Regional Organizer
dboynkin@bread.org
(866) 238-0507
W. Gyude Moore
Faith Outreach Organizer
wgmoore@bread.org
P.S. Don't forget that October 15 is your chance to STAND UP with people around the world in the fight against hunger and poverty. And continue your efforts by joining with thousands of churches and worshipping communities across the country to celebrate Bread for the World Sunday this fall.