I had open expectations for EAD – Ecumenical Advocacy Days 2016 but
wanted to meet and network with a diverse group of people who believe in the
power of God and who want to make a difference in the world.
Friday morning began with a Amtrak ride from the Trenton Transit Center to Washington
DC. The Trenton Station and the train
were in very good condition and I encourage people to experience them
both. I especially like the free WIFI
access on the Amtrak train, a few hiccups but all in all no major issues.
Upon arrival we walked to our home for the next several
days, the Double Tree by Hilton Hotel
Washington DC – Crystal City. The
hotel amenities include, a indoor pool, fitness facility with “free weights,”
rotating roof top restaurant/bar “The Sky Dome,” multiple rooms that were used
as break out/conference spaces and a lobby bar with local and regional craft
beer selections. The food was just OK in
my opinion however I didn’t here anyone complain.
The staff gets an A+ in my book! Easily the most polite, friendly group of
people I have experienced in a hotel of this size. Later at our closing dinner event we met one
of the “Key Leaders” of the hotel and heard a bit about the functionality of
the hotel. This Hilton is part of a
growing number of national brands who are implementing policies to bring about
social change. The employees of this
Hilton belong to a Union. The food
prepared “in house” is locally sourced and every employee is trained in “Sex
Traffic” Awareness. The commitment to
this training is evident by the need for a key/card to access any of the floors
with guest rooms.
Friday nights opening ceremony included music and messages
from:
I was especially moved by the “sermon” or keynote address by
Rev. Dr. William Barber. His message based upon Ezekiel 37 – The
Valley of Dry Bones was filled with real life examples, humor and a challenge
to the church to do God’s work.
Plenty of time was given throughout the conference to visit
the numerous Vendors/Exhibitors sharing information about products, services
and programs.
Saturday began bright and early with the Opening Policy
Plenary: Racism, Class & Power” led by:
·
Sandy Sorenson,
director of the Washington Office, Justice and Witness Ministries, The United
Church of Christ
We also spent time in State Breakout Sessions where we
received instructions and trainings for the Lobby Day
The Lunch Plenary: “The Cradle to Prison Pipeline” given by:
Marian
Wright Edelman, Founder & President, Children’s Defense Fund was
enlightening and motivating.
Later in the evening PC(USA)
held an Open House for members to connect where I chatted with some Key Leaders
from our denomination.
Sunday morning began with a Worship Service given by Rev. Amy Gopp, Vice President
of External Relations, IMF World Health.
Her message dealing with Women’s issues nationally and globally
particularly moved me as I thought about my pre-teen daughter and the world she
and her generation will lead.
The International Plenary: “People Power and the World”
followed with:
Panelists
·
Frances Bagotlo Laminero, Executive Director,
InPeace, Philippines
Monday morning we were off to DC for the Lobby Day “Asks”
Have a listen to some conversations with my travelling
group.
Sam Bezilla, Anna Hill, Will Parker, Theodore Tel, Emily
Yeh, John
Parker, Joyce MacKichan Walker.
Several images from the presentation of my traveling group to the congregation of Westminster Presbyterian Church in Trenton NJ.
