SojoAction Alert - Update on the DC Occupation

View this email in your browser On August 11th, the White House invoked a section of the Home Rule Act, federalizing the DC Metro Police and deploying 800 National Guard troops throughout the city, citing public safety concerns. Since 2023, crime rates have consistently decreased, and this year alone marks the second-lowest crime rate since 1966. He then dropped this pretense and stated he occupied the city “preemptively.” The impact of this declaration is already affecting the houseless community, who must decide between relocating outside of the city, staying in shelters, or committing themselves to addiction or mental health services. If they refuse, they will face fines or imprisonment. Advocates fear that the tactics employed in DC bear remarkable resemblance to the immigration sweeps and civil rights abuses being seen across the country as ICE invades and terrorizes immigrant communities. Protestors have taken to the streets demanding an end to the occupation of DC and the attacks on their community members. We are calling on the faith community to act—use our voices and platforms to demand an end to the occupation of DC, protect the vulnerable, sign petitions, and call our representatives. Take action today In Faith and Resistance, Adam Russell Taylor President, Sojourners