Human dignity is respected and the common good is fostered only if human rights are protected and basic responsibilities are met. Every human being has a right to life, the fundamental right that makes all other rights possible, and a right to access to those things required for human decency—food and shelter, education and employment, health care and housing, freedom of religion and family life. The right to exercise religious freedom publicly and privately by individuals and institutions along with freedom of conscience need to be constantly defended. In a fundamental way, the right to free expression of religious beliefs protects all other rights. Corresponding to these rights are duties and responsibilities—to one another, to our families, and to the larger society. Rights should be understood and exercised in a moral framework rooted in the dignity of the human person. (49)

Major Issues: Racism,  Religious Freedom, Human Trafficking, Homelessness, Health Care

Talk with others about these issues in The Forum

A NEW RESOURCE

Health Care Reform

Go to the websites, videos, podcasts , documents listed here to find out more information

Websites

Catholic Charities USA  - Racism

Catholic Relief Services - Human Trafficking

Catholic Health Association - Health Care

Documents:

USCCB - Background on Religious Liberty

Catholic Charities: Poverty and Racism in America

USCCB: Brothers and Sisters to Us (Pastoral Letter on Racism)

USCCB: Statement on Human Trafficking

Cathloic Relief Services: Slavery in our Midst