Call to Action!
Support Senate Bill 2495

I am speaking on behalf of children in foster care with Catholic Charities and Catholic Social Services. I would like to respectfully urge Illinois legislators to find a fair resolution to the dispute over the interpretation of the Illinois Religious Freedom Protection and Civil Union Act. Catholic Social Services (CSS) is a valuable resource for families in need.

Illinois Senator Kyle McCarter has introduced new legislation, SB 2495, which would allow faith based agencies to refer civil union couples to other child welfare agencies for services. This legislation would;
• Protect religious liberties afforded under the Illinois Constitution and the U.S. Constitution (note that civil union couples will continue to be able to adopt and be in the foster care system even if our religious liberties are protected).
• Allow faith-based agencies to continue to provide efficient and quality care to the most vulnerable children in our state.
• Respect the long-standing and effective public/private partnership between DCFS and faith-based organizations.
• Continue to preserves the separation of church and state by ensuring that religious denominations are not forced to act in discordance with their religious doctrines.

CSS helps foster children heal from the trauma of abuse and neglect, helps families resolve problems that led to placement, and encourages lasting family relationships for all children. Without your help and support, 2,000 children and families will face unnecessary disruption of their services and relationships with helping professionals. These types of disruptions can delay permanency, set a child back clinically, and threaten placement stability. There is no reason to risk such a disruption. A solution can and should be found that protects the rights of all Illinois citizens.

Supporting this legislation will ensure the stability, well-being, and best interest of the children as well as respecting the rights of all parties involved.

By signing this petition you are in support of Religious Freedom in the State of Illinois.

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