{"id":55428,"date":"2025-11-12T17:59:38","date_gmt":"2025-11-12T17:59:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/?page_id=55428"},"modified":"2026-03-24T17:47:25","modified_gmt":"2026-03-24T17:47:25","slug":"institutional-racism","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/es\/racism-in-the-united-states\/institutional-racism\/","title":{"rendered":"Institutional Racism"},"content":{"rendered":"

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Institutional Racism<\/h1>\n

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Embedded in Systems<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Unequal Access to Opportunity<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Must and Can be Corrected<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” animation_style=”fade” animation_duration=”750ms” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” animation_style=”fade” animation_delay=”200ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ text_font=”||||||||” text_text_color=”#054368″ header_font=”||||||||” header_5_font=”||||||||” header_5_text_align=”center” width=”60%” width_tablet=”100%” width_phone=”” width_last_edited=”on|desktop” module_alignment=”center” custom_padding=”||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

\u201cRacism is a sin that constitutes a serious offence against God.\u201d<\/span><\/h2>\n
Pope St. John Paul II, 2<\/a><\/h5>\n

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All types of racism are \u201ccontrary to Christian faith and love\u201d.<\/h5>\n
The Church and Racism, 33<\/a><\/h5>\n

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What is Institutional Racism?<\/span><\/h2>\n

A Catholic Guide to Ending Systemic Injustice<\/span><\/h2>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_color=”#F2F2F2″ custom_padding=”20px||20px||true|false” custom_padding_tablet=”|20px||20px” custom_padding_phone=”” animation_style=”fade” animation_delay=”200ms” box_shadow_style=”preset3″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text module_class=”bullets-module” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ text_text_color=”#054368″ custom_margin=”|20px||20px|false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”|20px||20px|false|false” custom_margin_phone=”|10px||10px|false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Institutional racism is the<\/strong> embedding of racial inequity<\/strong> into the policies, practices, and norms of institutions\u2014whether by design, neglect, or inertia\u2014resulting in systemic disadvantage for racial minorities, even absent individual prejudice.<\/p>\n

Institutional, or structural, racism is not necessarily intentional<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

In essence, institutional racism is about power imbalances baked into societal frameworks, producing unequal results.<\/p>\n

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\u201cRacism is a virus that quickly mutates and, instead of disappearing, goes into hiding, and lurks in waiting.\u201d<\/h5>\n
Pope Francis, 20<\/a><\/h5>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”0px||0px|||” animation_style=”fade” animation_duration=”750ms” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_5,2_5″ make_equal=”on” disabled_on=”on|on|off” module_class=” et_pb_row_fullwidth” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” width=”100%” width_tablet=”100%” width_phone=”” width_last_edited=”on|desktop” max_width=”100%” max_width_tablet=”100%” max_width_phone=”” max_width_last_edited=”on|desktop” custom_padding=”50px||50px|” animation_style=”fade” animation_delay=”200ms” make_fullwidth=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ module_class=”ds-vertical-align” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ header_font=”||||||||” header_text_color=”#054368″ header_4_font=”||||||||” header_4_text_color=”#084369″ custom_padding=”|40px|10px|||” custom_padding_tablet=”|0px||” custom_padding_phone=”” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Key Characteristics<\/h4>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ text_font=”||||||||” text_text_color=”#084369″ header_text_color=”#054368″ custom_padding=”|40px|30px|||” custom_padding_tablet=”|0px||” custom_padding_phone=”” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Embedded in Systems:<\/strong> It is rooted in the way organizations (like governments, schools, businesses, courts, etc.) and social structures operate, rather than just the explicit malice of individuals.<\/p>\n

Unintentional (But Requires Intentional Correction):<\/strong> The discriminatory policies or practices may not be intended to be racist, but when institutions fail to correct practices known to result in disadvantages for minority groups, the consequences become systemic.<\/p>\n

Differential Access:<\/strong> It leads to unequal access to opportunities and resources, such as housing, employment, education, healthcare, and justice, based on race.<\/p>\n

Cumulative and Interconnected:<\/strong> Disadvantages in one area\u2014such as housing\u2014often reinforce inequities in others, like education, health, and wealth.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_5″ module_class=”ds-vertical-align” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/A-fancy-boardroom-where-leaders-gather-and-make-decisions.jpg” alt=”Institutional racism is defined by its unintentional or intentional entanglement in structures of society.” title_text=”A fancy boardroom where leaders gather and make decisions” align_tablet=”center” align_phone=”” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”20px||” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” global_colors_info=”{}”]
\n[\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_5,3_5″ make_equal=”on” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” disabled_on=”off|off|on” module_class=” et_pb_row_fullwidth” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” width=”100%” width_tablet=”100%” width_phone=”” width_last_edited=”on|desktop” max_width=”100%” max_width_tablet=”100%” max_width_phone=”” max_width_last_edited=”on|desktop” custom_padding=”50px||50px|” custom_padding_tablet=”50px||50px|” custom_padding_phone=”20px||20px||true|false” animation_style=”fade” animation_delay=”200ms” make_fullwidth=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_5″ module_class=”ds-vertical-align” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/A-fancy-boardroom-where-leaders-gather-and-make-decisions.jpg” alt=”Institutional racism is defined by its unintentional or intentional entanglement in structures of society.” title_text=”A fancy boardroom where leaders gather and make decisions” align_tablet=”center” align_phone=”” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”20px||” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” global_colors_info=”{}”]
\n[\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ module_class=”ds-vertical-align” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ header_font=”||||||||” header_text_color=”#054368″ header_4_font=”||||||||” header_4_text_color=”#084369″ custom_padding=”|40px|10px|||” custom_padding_tablet=”|0px||” custom_padding_phone=”20px||||false|false” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Key Characteristics<\/h4>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ text_font=”||||||||” text_text_color=”#084369″ header_text_color=”#054368″ custom_padding=”|40px|30px|||” custom_padding_tablet=”|0px||” custom_padding_phone=”” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Embedded in Systems:<\/strong> It is rooted in the way organizations (like governments, schools, businesses, courts, etc.) and social structures operate, rather than just the explicit malice of individuals.<\/p>\n

Unintentional (But Requires Intentional Correction):<\/strong> The discriminatory policies or practices may not be intended to be racist, but when institutions fail to correct practices known to result in disadvantages for minority groups, the consequences become systemic.<\/p>\n

Differential Access:<\/strong> It leads to unequal access to opportunities and resources, such as housing, employment, education, healthcare, and justice, based on race.<\/p>\n

Cumulative and Interconnected:<\/strong> Disadvantages in one area\u2014such as housing\u2014often reinforce inequities in others, like education, health, and wealth.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Not An End ” module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_color=”#054368″ custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” animation_style=”fade” animation_duration=”750ms” animation_delay=”200ms” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_5,3_5″ make_equal=”on” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”50px|0px|50px|0px” animation_style=”fade” animation_delay=”200ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/A-young-hispanic-man-considers-his-future-during-hard-times.jpg” alt=”Institutional racism is embedded in our culture and laws and makes it harder to achieve the common good.” title_text=”A young hispanic man considers his future during hard times” align_tablet=”center” align_phone=”” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ custom_margin=”|||||” custom_padding=”|||||” custom_padding_tablet=”0px||” custom_padding_phone=”” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” global_colors_info=”{}”]
\n[\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ module_class=”ds-vertical-align” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ text_text_color=”#ffffff” header_font=”||||||||” header_text_color=”#ffffff” header_4_font=”||||||||” header_4_text_color=”#ffffff” custom_padding=”||10px|40px” custom_padding_tablet=”|||0px” custom_padding_phone=”29px||” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

A Structure of Sin<\/h4>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ text_text_color=”#ffffff” header_font=”||||||||” header_text_color=”#ffffff” custom_padding=”|||40px” custom_padding_tablet=”|||0px” custom_padding_phone=”||||false|false” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

For Christians, institutional racism is a structure of sin<\/strong> that distorts the social order.<\/p>\n

A structure of sin is a social pattern\u2014embedded in laws, customs, or institutions\u2014that facilitates wrongdoing and makes it harder to do good, even for well-intentioned individuals.<\/p>\n

As the Church teaches, \u201cNo human institution can reduce a person, or a group of persons, to the status of an object\u201d. (The Church and Racism, 19)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

When racial discrimination becomes systemic\u2014embedded in laws, policies, or norms\u2014it denies the equal dignity of persons and wounds both justice and the common good, undermining the very foundation of a just society<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”25px||0px||false|false” animation_style=”fade” animation_duration=”750ms” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” animation_style=”fade” animation_delay=”200ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text module_class=”bullets-module” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ text_text_color=”#054368″ max_width=”80%” module_alignment=”center” custom_padding=”10px||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

These \u201cstructures of sin\u2026 grow stronger, spread, and become the source of other sins\u201d.<\/h5>\n
Pope St. John Paul II, 36<\/a><\/h5>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_margin=”||” custom_padding=”40px||30px||false|false” animation_style=”fade” animation_delay=”200ms” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ text_font=”||||||||” text_text_color=”#054368″ text_orientation=”center” width=”70%” width_tablet=”100%” width_phone=”” width_last_edited=”on|tablet” module_alignment=”center” custom_padding=”|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Examples of Institutional Racism<\/span><\/h4>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_enable_color=”off” custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”20px||25px||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”20px||25px||false|false” custom_padding_phone=”20px||25px||false|false” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_enable_color=”off” custom_padding=”0px||0px||true|false” custom_padding_tablet=”|20px||20px” custom_padding_phone=”” animation_style=”fade” animation_delay=”200ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text module_class=”bullets-module” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ text_text_color=”#054368″ custom_margin=”|20px||20px|false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”|20px||20px|false|false” custom_margin_phone=”|10px||10px|false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Some examples of institutional racism include:<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,1_4,1_4,1_4″ use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”2″ module_class=” et_pb_row_fullwidth” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” width=”100%” width_tablet=”100%” width_phone=”” width_last_edited=”on|desktop” max_width=”100%” max_width_tablet=”100%” max_width_phone=”” max_width_last_edited=”on|desktop” custom_padding=”0px|0px|20px|0px|false|false” make_fullwidth=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ module_class=”ds-vertical-align” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/A-view-of-a-Chicago-neighborhood-with-the-city-skyline-in-the-background.jpg” alt=”Historical racism in the United States is shown by a black and white photograph of a black worker polishing a window with a %22Whites Only%22 sign” title_text=”A view of a Chicago neighborhood, with the city skyline in the background” align_tablet=”center” align_phone=”” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”20px||” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text module_class=”bullets-module” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ header_text_color=”#054368″ custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”” custom_margin_phone=”|0px|||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_padding=”||0px||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”20px|0px|||false|false” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Housing<\/span><\/h2>\n

After adjusting for income and other factors, Black applicants are 2.1 times more likely to be denied a mortgage than white applicants with similar profiles. <\/span>(National Mortgage Professional)<\/a><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ module_class=”ds-vertical-align” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Two-girls-look-through-a-chain-linked-fence-into-a-school-playground.jpg” alt=”Institutional racism denies adequate housing based on race.” title_text=”Two girls look through a chain-linked fence into a school playground” align_tablet=”center” align_phone=”” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”20px||” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text module_class=”bullets-module” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ header_text_color=”#054368″ custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”” custom_margin_phone=”|0px|||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_padding=”||||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”20px||||false|false” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Education<\/span><\/h2>\n

Schools in predominantly minority neighborhoods often receive less funding, resulting in lower-quality facilities and resources.<\/span><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ module_class=”ds-vertical-align” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/A-prisoner-with-tatooed-arms-in-a-prison-cell.jpg” alt=”The criminal justice system is still plagued by the injustices of institutional racism.” title_text=”A prisoner with tatooed arms in a prison cell” align_tablet=”center” align_phone=”” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”20px||” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text module_class=”bullets-module” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ header_text_color=”#054368″ custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”” custom_margin_phone=”|0px|||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_padding=”||||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”20px||||false|false” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Criminal Justice<\/h2>\n

Race-based sentencing differences persist across demographic groups. (United States Sentencing Commission)<\/a><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ module_class=”ds-vertical-align” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/A-photo-of-an-entrance-to-an-emergency-room-at-a-hospital.jpg” alt=”Institutional racism affects the equality of healthcare.” title_text=”A photo of an entrance to an emergency room at a hospital” align_tablet=”center” align_phone=”” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ custom_padding_tablet=”||30px” custom_padding_phone=”20px||0px||false|false” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text module_class=”bullets-module” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ text_text_color=”#ffffff” header_font=”||||||||” header_text_color=”#ffffff” header_4_font=”||||||||” header_4_text_color=”#ffffff” custom_padding=”||||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”|||0px” custom_padding_phone=”20px||||false|false” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|tablet” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Healthcare<\/span><\/h2>\n

In 2023, Black maternal mortality was 3.5 times higher than that of White women.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>(National Center for Health Statistics)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_enable_color=”off” custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”20px||25px||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”20px||25px||false|false” custom_padding_phone=”20px||25px||false|false” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_enable_color=”off” custom_padding=”0px||0px||true|false” custom_padding_tablet=”|20px||20px” custom_padding_phone=”” animation_style=”fade” animation_delay=”200ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text module_class=”bullets-module” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ text_text_color=”#054368″ custom_margin=”|20px||20px|false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”|20px||20px|false|false” custom_margin_phone=”|10px||10px|false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

These disparities are not accidents\u2014they reflect systems that, whether by design or neglect, perpetuate inequality. Catholic Social Teaching offers both a moral framework for understanding why this matters and a path toward justice.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider divider_position=”bottom” divider_weight=”2px” _builder_version=”4.16″ max_width=”50px” module_alignment=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”0px||0px|||” animation_style=”fade” animation_duration=”750ms” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_5,2_5″ make_equal=”on” disabled_on=”on|on|off” module_class=” et_pb_row_fullwidth” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” width=”100%” width_tablet=”100%” width_phone=”” width_last_edited=”on|desktop” max_width=”100%” max_width_tablet=”100%” max_width_phone=”” max_width_last_edited=”on|desktop” custom_padding=”50px||25px||false|false” animation_style=”fade” animation_delay=”200ms” make_fullwidth=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ module_class=”ds-vertical-align” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ header_font=”||||||||” header_text_color=”#054368″ header_4_font=”||||||||” header_4_text_color=”#084369″ custom_padding=”|40px|10px|||” custom_padding_tablet=”|0px||” custom_padding_phone=”” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Institutional Racism and CST<\/h4>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ text_font=”||||||||” text_text_color=”#084369″ header_text_color=”#054368″ custom_padding=”|40px|30px|||” custom_padding_tablet=”|0px||” custom_padding_phone=”” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Catholic Social Teaching calls us to more than awareness; it calls us to build institutions rooted in the principles of CST. As the Church teaches, all \u201cforms of discrimination must be firmly opposed.\u201d (The Church and Racism, 33)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Human Dignity: <\/strong>Every person is created in the image of God. (Gen 1:27) Any system that advantages or disadvantages people based on race denies this truth.<\/p>\n

Solidarity:<\/strong> We are one human family. CST calls for active participation in dismantling unjust structures and building communities of belonging and inclusion.<\/p>\n

Subsidiarity:<\/strong>\u00a0Every level of society shares responsibility for ensuring that institutions serve the integral good of the whole human family.<\/p>\n

Implementing these principles advances the Common Good<\/strong>, which institutional racism gravely undermines by fracturing social unity and distorting justice.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_toggle title=”Read More” icon_color=”#054368″ open_icon_color=”#054368″ module_class=”hover-btn-border read-more bullets-module” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ title_text_color=”#054368″ title_level=”h3″ title_font=”|600||on|||||” title_text_align=”left” title_font_size=”14px” title_line_height=”1.7em” body_font=”||||||||” body_text_color=”#054368″ background_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0)” custom_margin=”|40px|10px||false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”” custom_margin_phone=”|0px|||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_padding=”||||false|false” link_option_url_new_window=”on” border_width_all=”0px” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Our response, therefore, must be both moral and practical: renewing hearts while reforming structures.<\/span><\/p>\n

Yet, as the Church reminds us, this renewal does not mean erasing difference:<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201c[T]his does not mean erasing cultural differences. Instead, it is important to educate to a positive appreciation of the complementary diversity of peoples.\u201d\u00a0(The Church and Racism, 33)<\/a><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_toggle][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_5″ module_class=”ds-vertical-align” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/3-Key-principle-icons-resized.png” alt=”a diagram of the three principles of catholic social teaching” title_text=”3 Key principle icons-resized” align_tablet=”center” align_phone=”” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”20px||” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” global_colors_info=”{}”]
\n[\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_5,3_5″ make_equal=”on” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” disabled_on=”off|off|on” module_class=” et_pb_row_fullwidth” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” width=”100%” width_tablet=”100%” width_phone=”” width_last_edited=”on|desktop” max_width=”100%” max_width_tablet=”100%” max_width_phone=”” max_width_last_edited=”on|desktop” custom_padding=”50px||25px||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”50px||50px|” custom_padding_phone=”20px||20px||true|false” animation_style=”fade” animation_delay=”200ms” make_fullwidth=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_5″ module_class=”ds-vertical-align” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/3-Key-principle-icons-resized.png” alt=”a diagram of the three principles of catholic social teaching” title_text=”3 Key principle icons-resized” align_tablet=”center” align_phone=”” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”20px||” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” global_colors_info=”{}”]
\n[\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ module_class=”ds-vertical-align” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ header_font=”||||||||” header_text_color=”#054368″ header_4_font=”||||||||” header_4_text_color=”#084369″ custom_padding=”|40px|10px|||” custom_padding_tablet=”|0px||” custom_padding_phone=”20px||||false|false” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Institutional Racism and CST<\/h4>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ text_font=”||||||||” text_text_color=”#084369″ header_text_color=”#054368″ custom_padding=”|40px|30px|||” custom_padding_tablet=”|0px||” custom_padding_phone=”” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Catholic Social Teaching calls us to more than awareness; it calls us to build institutions rooted in the principles of CST. As the Church teaches, all \u201cforms of discrimination must be firmly opposed.\u201d (The Church and Racism, 33)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Human Dignity: <\/strong>Every person is created in the image of God. (Gen 1:27) Any system that advantages or disadvantages people based on race denies this truth.<\/p>\n

Solidarity:<\/strong> We are one human family. CST calls for active participation in dismantling unjust structures and building communities of belonging and inclusion.<\/p>\n

Subsidiarity:<\/strong>\u00a0Every level of society shares responsibility for ensuring that institutions serve the integral good of the whole human family.<\/p>\n

Implementing these principles advances the Common Good<\/strong>, which institutional racism gravely undermines by fracturing social unity and distorting justice.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_toggle title=”Read More” icon_color=”#054368″ open_icon_color=”#054368″ module_class=”hover-btn-border read-more bullets-module” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ title_text_color=”#054368″ title_level=”h3″ title_font=”|600||on|||||” title_text_align=”left” title_font_size=”14px” title_line_height=”1.7em” body_font=”||||||||” body_text_color=”#054368″ background_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0)” custom_margin=”||10px||false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”” custom_margin_phone=”|0px|||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_padding=”||||false|false” link_option_url_new_window=”on” border_width_all=”0px” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Our response, therefore, must be both moral and practical: renewing hearts while reforming structures.<\/span><\/p>\n

Yet, as the Church reminds us, this renewal does not mean erasing difference:<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201c[T]his does not mean erasing cultural differences. Instead, it is important to educate to a positive appreciation of the complementary diversity of peoples.\u201d\u00a0(The Church and Racism, 33)<\/a><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_toggle][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_enable_color=”off” custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”20px||25px||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”20px||25px||false|false” custom_padding_phone=”20px||25px||false|false” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_enable_color=”off” custom_padding=”0px||0px||true|false” custom_padding_tablet=”|20px||20px” custom_padding_phone=”” animation_style=”fade” animation_delay=”200ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_divider divider_position=”center” divider_weight=”2px” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ max_width=”50px” module_alignment=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” collapsed=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_margin=”||” custom_padding=”30px||30px||false|false” animation_style=”fade” animation_delay=”200ms” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ text_font=”||||||||” text_text_color=”#054368″ text_orientation=”center” width=”70%” width_tablet=”100%” width_phone=”” width_last_edited=”on|tablet” module_alignment=”center” custom_padding=”|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

How We Can End Institutional Racism<\/span><\/h4>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_enable_color=”off” custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_enable_color=”off” custom_padding=”20px||20px||true|false” custom_padding_tablet=”|20px||20px” custom_padding_phone=”” animation_style=”fade” animation_delay=”200ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text module_class=”bullets-module” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ text_text_color=”#054368″ custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Ending institutional racism is a complex and long-term challenge<\/strong> requiring both personal conversion and structural reform. It demands sustained, coordinated effort to dismantle biased systems while building equitable alternatives rooted in human dignity and solidarity.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”2″ module_class=” et_pb_row_fullwidth” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” width=”100%” width_tablet=”100%” width_phone=”” width_last_edited=”on|desktop” max_width=”100%” max_width_tablet=”100%” max_width_phone=”” max_width_last_edited=”on|desktop” custom_padding=”0px|0px|20px|0px|false|false” make_fullwidth=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ module_class=”ds-vertical-align” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/A-successful-job-interview-and-a-handshake.jpg” alt=”Overcoming institutional racism requires structural changes.” title_text=”A successful job interview and a handshake” align_tablet=”center” align_phone=”” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”0px||||false|false” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text module_class=”bullets-module” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ header_text_color=”#054368″ custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”” custom_margin_phone=”|0px|||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_padding=”20px||0px||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”20px|0px|||false|false” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Structural Reform: Converting Systems<\/span><\/h2>\n

<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cA change of structures is linked to a change of hearts.\u201d\u00a0(Pope St. John Paul II, 2)<\/a><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Structural conversion begins by replacing policies and practices that produce unequal outcomes with those that promote justice and inclusion. This process must be data-informed, guided by those most affected, and grounded in accountability.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Some examples would include equitable school funding formulas, enforcement of fair lending laws, diversifying hiring practices with accountability metrics, and implementing sentencing reform that addresses disparate outcomes.<\/span><\/p>\n

No single reform will suffice.<\/strong> Yet evidence-based strategies\u2014drawn from successful policy experiments and long-term studies\u2014offer a roadmap toward equity. What matters most is sustained commitment: continually reviewing laws, institutions, and habits to ensure they serve the common good rather than perpetuate disparity.<\/span><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ module_class=”ds-vertical-align” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Two-young-women-raising-their-hands-to-make-the-sign-of-peace.jpg” alt=”Eliminating institutional racism requires the conversion of hearts.” title_text=”Two young women raising their hands to make the sign of peace” align_tablet=”center” align_phone=”” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ custom_padding_tablet=”||30px” custom_padding_phone=”10px||0px||false|false” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text module_class=”bullets-module” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ text_text_color=”#ffffff” header_font=”||||||||” header_text_color=”#ffffff” header_4_font=”||||||||” header_4_text_color=”#ffffff” custom_padding=”20px||||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”|||0px” custom_padding_phone=”20px||||false|false” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|tablet” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Personal Conversion: Converting Hearts<\/span><\/h2>\n

<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/span>Personal conversion must accompany structural change. Transformation of systems is hollow without the renewal of hearts<\/strong> that sustain them.<\/span><\/p>\n

Each of us is called to bring the principles of Catholic Social Teaching to life<\/strong> in our own spheres of influence\u2014our parishes, schools, workplaces, and communities. This means examining our assumptions, challenging complacency, and committing to implement and uphold just policies.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

As The Church teaches, \u201cpersuasion and education must be coupled with the will to translate respect for other ethnic groups into legislation and into the structures and functioning of regional or national institutions\u201d.\u00a0(The Church and Racism, 33)<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Some examples would include advocating for affordable housing, supporting local organizations led by affected communities, and voting for candidates committed to true reform.<\/span><\/p>\n

The Church \u201cpreaches love. She patiently prepares a change in mentality without which structural changes would be in vain\u201d. (The Church and Racism, 27)<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_toggle title=”Read More” icon_color=”#054368″ open_icon_color=”#054368″ module_class=”hover-btn-border read-more bullets-module” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ title_text_color=”#054368″ title_level=”h3″ title_font=”|600||on|||||” title_text_align=”left” title_font_size=”14px” title_line_height=”1.7em” body_font=”||||||||” body_text_color=”#054368″ background_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0)” custom_margin=”||10px||false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”” custom_margin_phone=”|0px|||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_padding=”||||false|false” link_option_url_new_window=”on” border_width_all=”0px” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

\u201cSince reconciliation is at the heart of the Gospel, Christians cannot accept structures of racial discrimination which violate human rights.\u201d (Pope St. John Paul II, 2)<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Profound spiritual preparation must be translated into courageous personal accountability<\/strong>. <\/span><\/p>\n

This work is hard<\/strong>. It requires examining institutions we benefit from, admitting complicity in systems we didn’t create, and sustaining effort beyond initial enthusiasm. Yet as Christians, we are called to work toward justice even when the path is long and difficult.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_toggle][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_enable_color=”off” custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|20px||false|false” animation_style=”fade” animation_delay=”200ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Violates the Principle of X (1-2)t” module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ text_font=”||||||||” text_text_color=”#054368″ header_font=”||||||||” header_text_color=”#eb7525″ header_4_font=”||||||||” header_4_text_align=”center” header_4_text_color=”#eb7425″ custom_margin_last_edited=”off|phone” custom_padding=”||10px|” inline_fonts=”Playfair Display,Open Sans” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Reconciliation \u2013 The Gospel Path<\/span><\/h4>\n

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\u201cCharity cannot take the place of justice that has been denied; nor can justice\u2026replace charity that has been refused\u201d.<\/h5>\n
Pope Benedict XVI<\/a><\/h5>\n

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True peace requires both. Lasting justice requires reconciliation.<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u201c[S]tructures and processes will not be enough to build a lasting peace; only the path of forgiveness will make this possible\u201d: (The Church and Racism, 10)<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

<\/strong><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0)” custom_padding=”20px||0px||false|false” animation_style=”fade” animation_duration=”750ms” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_3,1_3,1_3″ use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”2″ custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” module_class=” et_pb_row_fullwidth” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” width=”100%” width_tablet=”100%” width_phone=”” width_last_edited=”on|desktop” max_width=”100%” max_width_tablet=”100%” max_width_phone=”” max_width_last_edited=”on|desktop” custom_padding=”0px||50px|” custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”0px||30px||false|false” make_fullwidth=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/A-protester-during-a-rally-holds-a-sign-about-truth-and-violence-crop.jpg” alt=”First we need to face the truth of our past sins and seek forgiveness to eradicate institutional racism.” title_text=”A protester during a rally holds a sign about truth and violence-crop” align=”center” force_fullwidth=”on” align_tablet=”center” align_phone=”” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ text_font=”||||||||” header_font=”||||||||” header_text_color=”#054368″ header_2_font=”||||||||” header_2_text_color=”#054368″ custom_padding=”||0px|” custom_padding_tablet=”20px||” custom_padding_phone=”” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|tablet” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Forgive<\/h2>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ text_font=”||||||||” text_text_color=”#084369″ header_font=”||||||||” header_text_color=”#054368″ header_2_font=”||||||||” header_2_text_color=”#054368″ custom_margin_tablet=”” custom_margin_phone=”||10px||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_padding=”||0px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Forgive the wounds of the past<\/strong>. Acknowledge slavery, Jim Crow, redlining, mass incarceration. Forgiveness is not forgetting, but truth-telling \u2013 making healing possible.<\/span><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/A-person-holds-up-an-I-voted-sticker-crop.jpg” alt=”Institutional racism can be beaten by just policies that uproot systemic flaws.” title_text=”A person holds up an I voted sticker-crop” align=”center” force_fullwidth=”on” align_tablet=”center” align_phone=”” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” module_class=”portrait” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” border_color_all=”#054368″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ text_font=”||||||||” header_font=”||||||||” header_text_color=”#054368″ header_2_font=”||||||||” header_2_text_color=”#054368″ custom_padding=”||0px|” custom_padding_tablet=”20px||” custom_padding_phone=”” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|tablet” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Repair<\/span><\/h2>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ text_font=”||||||||” text_text_color=”#084369″ header_font=”||||||||” header_text_color=”#054368″ header_2_font=”||||||||” header_2_text_color=”#054368″ custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”||||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”|10px|10px|10px|false|false” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Repair<\/strong> through just policies<\/strong>. Implement targeted remedies that address documented harms: Invest in disinvested communities, equitably fund schools, reform sentencing, enforce anti-discrimination laws.<\/span><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/A-group-of-people-join-hands-in-prayer.jpg” alt=”At a women’s business dinner, a woman of color stands up to speak, showing our responsibility to stand up against racism in the United States” title_text=”A group of people join hands in prayer” align=”center” force_fullwidth=”on” align_tablet=”center” align_phone=”” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ custom_margin_tablet=”” custom_margin_phone=”10px||||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ text_font=”||||||||” header_font=”||||||||” header_text_color=”#054368″ header_2_font=”||||||||” header_2_text_color=”#054368″ custom_padding=”||0px|” custom_padding_tablet=”20px||” custom_padding_phone=”” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|tablet” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Rebuild<\/h2>\n

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Rebuild trust<\/strong>. Form equal partnerships across racial lines in parishes, schools, neighborhoods\u2014collaborating on shared work, learning from each other\u2019s experience. Demonstrate through sustained action that justice and solidarity are not just aspirations but commitments being lived out daily.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_enable_color=”off” custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px||false|false” animation_style=”fade” animation_delay=”200ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text module_class=”bullets-module” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ text_text_color=”#054368″ max_width=”80%” module_alignment=”center” custom_padding=”10px||10px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

\u201cNo process of peace can ever begin unless an attitude of sincere forgiveness takes root in human hearts.\u201d<\/h5>\n
Pope St. John Paul II, 1 <\/a><\/h5>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_enable_color=”off” custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”20px||25px||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”20px||25px||false|false” custom_padding_phone=”20px||25px||false|false” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_enable_color=”off” custom_padding=”0px||0px||true|false” custom_padding_tablet=”|20px||20px” custom_padding_phone=”” animation_style=”fade” animation_delay=”200ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_divider divider_position=”center” divider_weight=”2px” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ max_width=”50px” module_alignment=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Not An End ” module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_color=”#ffffff” custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” animation_style=”fade” animation_duration=”750ms” animation_delay=”200ms” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_5,3_5″ make_equal=”on” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”35px|0px|35px|0px|false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”20px||0px||false|false” animation_style=”fade” animation_delay=”200ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_5″ module_class=”ds-vertical-align” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/A-lineup-of-job-applicants-seated-in-chairs-as-they-await-their-chance.jpg” alt=”Institutional racism is a structure of sin and demands a firm commitment to reverse.” title_text=”A lineup of job applicants seated in chairs as they await their chance” align_tablet=”center” align_phone=”” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ custom_margin=”25px||20px||false|false” custom_padding=”||0px|||” custom_padding_tablet=”0px||” custom_padding_phone=”” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” global_colors_info=”{}”]
\n[\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ module_class=”ds-vertical-align” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ header_font=”||||||||” header_text_color=”#054368″ header_4_font=”||||||||” header_4_text_color=”#084369″ custom_margin=”|||40px|false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”” custom_margin_phone=”|||0px|false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_padding=”||10px||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”|0px||” custom_padding_phone=”” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

The Way Forward<\/h4>\n

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The challenge of institutional racism\u2014policies and practices that systematically deny opportunity based on race\u2014is not merely a question of bad laws or personal bias. It is a structure of sin<\/strong> that distorts the social order, fractures human solidarity and denies the equal dignity of every person made in the image of God.<\/span><\/p>\n

Dismantling a systemic problem requires systemic solutions. Ending institutional racism demands a dual commitment<\/strong>:<\/span><\/p>\n

    \n
  1. Sustained Structural Change\u2014Reforming Systems:<\/strong> We must align our institutions and policies with justice, replacing systems that perpetuate inequity with those that promote human flourishing and the common good.<\/span><\/li>\n
  2. Personal Conversion \u2014 Renewing Hearts:<\/strong> Structural reform will remain hollow unless it is animated by a conversion of heart. True solidarity demands the courage to translate respect for others into concrete, sustained action.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    Ultimately, the call to end institutional racism is a mission of reconciliation<\/strong>. It asks us to repair the wounds of the past and to build a future where every institution reflects the Gospel truth that every life possesses equal and infinite worth.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

    This synthesis of conviction and action\u2014of reformed structures and renewed hearts\u2014is the path toward a society that truly honors human dignity, justice and the common good.<\/span><\/p>\n

    [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_enable_color=”off” custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”20px||25px||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”20px||25px||false|false” custom_padding_phone=”20px||25px||false|false” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_enable_color=”off” custom_padding=”0px||0px||true|false” custom_padding_tablet=”|20px||20px” custom_padding_phone=”” animation_style=”fade” animation_delay=”200ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_divider divider_position=”center” divider_weight=”2px” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ max_width=”50px” module_alignment=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0)” module_alignment=”center” custom_padding=”0||0||false|false” animation_style=”fade” animation_duration=”750ms” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” locked=”off” collapsed=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” module_class=” et_pb_row_fullwidth” _builder_version=”4.16″ width=”100%” width_tablet=”100%” width_phone=”” width_last_edited=”on|desktop” max_width=”100%” max_width_tablet=”100%” max_width_phone=”” max_width_last_edited=”on|desktop” custom_padding=”50px||0px||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”50px||20px||false|false” animation_style=”fade” animation_delay=”200ms” make_fullwidth=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ text_font=”||||||||” text_text_color=”#054368″ header_text_color=”#eb7525″ text_orientation=”center” custom_margin_last_edited=”off|phone” custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”||||false|false” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” animation_style=”fade” animation_duration=”750ms” inline_fonts=”Playfair Display” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

    Catholic Social Teaching and Other Issues<\/span><\/h4>\n

    [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” locked=”off” collapsed=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_5,3_5,1_5″ use_custom_gutter=”on” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” module_class=” et_pb_row_fullwidth” _builder_version=”4.16″ width=”100%” width_tablet=”100%” width_phone=”” width_last_edited=”on|desktop” max_width=”100%” max_width_tablet=”100%” max_width_phone=”” max_width_last_edited=”on|desktop” custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”” custom_margin_phone=”” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”||||false|false” make_fullwidth=”on” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_slider show_image_video_mobile=”on” module_id=”issues-slider” module_class=”mosaic-width” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” header_font=”Open Sans|700|||||||” header_text_color=”#084369″ header_font_size=”24px” header_line_height=”1.5em” body_font=”||||||||” body_text_color=”#084369″ z_index=”0″ module_alignment=”center” content_width=”auto” min_height=”500px” min_height_tablet=”” min_height_phone=”600px” min_height_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”||20px||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|tablet” animation_style=”fade” animation_duration=”750ms” global_module=”40043″ locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_slide heading=”Transgenderism” button_link=”\/male-female-transgenderism\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/gender-theory-2.png” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” header_font=”||||||||” header_text_align=”center” header_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#ffffff” background_enable_color=”on” button_on_hover=”on” width=”100%” max_width=”100%” link_option_url=”\/male-female-transgenderism\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 150px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n

    We are facing a\u00a0crisis<\/strong><\/em>\u00a0in human sexuality<\/strong>\u00a0caused by a representation of human anthropology that cancels out differences between men and women.<\/p>\n

    CLICK<\/strong> to read more.<\/p>\n

    [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Abortion” button_link=”\/abortion\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Abortion.jpg” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” _builder_version=”4.20.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font=”||||||||” header_text_align=”center” header_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#ffffff” background_enable_color=”on” button_on_hover=”on” link_option_url=”\/abortion\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 150px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n

    One of the most divisive issues during the past 50 years! Why is the Church so one-sided<\/strong> (and must always be so)?<\/p>\n

    CLICK<\/strong> to read more.<\/p>\n

    [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Racism in the United States” button_link=”\/racism-in-the-united-states\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Racism.jpg” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” image_alt=”Racism is contrary to Christ and the teachings of the Gospel” _builder_version=”4.19.5″ _module_preset=”default” header_font=”||||||||” header_text_align=”center” header_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#ffffff” button_on_hover=”on” custom_padding=”||||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”||||false|false” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” link_option_url=”\/racism-in-the-united-states\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 150px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n

    The belief humanity can be divided into separate and exclusive biological entities with some races innately superior<\/strong> to others. This leads to personal and societal prejudice, discrimination, or antagonism directed against other people because they are of a different race or ethnicity. What does Catholic social teaching have to say about such an insidious \u201cism\u201d<\/strong>? CLICK <\/strong>to read more.<\/p>\n

    [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Democratic Socialism” button_link=”\/socialism\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/CAPP-Socialism-Icon-1.png” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” image_alt=”The Church has consistently spoken out against socialism in all its forms, most recently, democratic socialism” image_tablet=”” image_phone=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/CAPP-Socialism-Icon-1.png” image_last_edited=”on|phone” _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” header_font=”||||||||” header_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#ffffff” background_enable_color=”on” button_on_hover=”on” custom_padding=”||||false|false” link_option_url=”\/socialism\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 150px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” border_style_all_image=”none” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” image__hover_enabled=”on|desktop” custom_css_slide_image_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_css_slide_image_phone=”width: 150px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” image__hover=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/CAPP-Socialism-Icon-1.png” custom_css_slide_image_tablet=”width: 150px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n

    Candidates for President of the United States and many in congress espouse this as an alternative model for our country<\/strong>. What, exactly, is it?<\/strong> What does the Catholic Church say?<\/p>\n

    CLICK<\/strong> to read more.<\/p>\n

    [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Climate Change” button_link=”\/climate-change\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Climate-Change.jpg” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” image_alt=”Climate Change is a real issue and must be met with dialog, faith, and science, ordered toward the common good.” _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” header_font=”||||||||” header_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#ffffff” button_on_hover=”on” link_option_url=”\/climate-change\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 150px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n

    One political party committed the US to the Paris Agreement and proposes a \u201cGreen New Deal\u201d<\/strong>. Another party withdrew from the Paris Agreement and inimically opposes<\/strong> the other\u2019s proposal. What does Catholic social teaching say?<\/p>\n

    CLICK<\/strong> to read more.<\/p>\n

    [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Immigration” button_link=”\/immigration-and-mass-deportations\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/icon-10-1.png” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” image_alt=”Climate Change is a real issue and must be met with dialog, faith, and science, ordered toward the common good.” _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” header_font=”||||||||” header_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#ffffff” button_on_hover=”on” link_option_url=”\/immigration-and-mass-deportations\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 150px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n

    The Church recognizes the rights of nations to govern and protect themselves in the interests of the Common Good and <\/strong><\/em>\u201c\u2026the right of all men to migrate\u00a0to other countries and to seek conditions worthy of human life for themselves and for their families.\u201d\u00a0(Gaudium et Spes)<\/a><\/p>\n

    CLICK<\/strong> to read more.<\/p>\n

    [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Universal Healthcare” button_link=”\/universal-healthcare\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/National-health.jpg” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” image_alt=”national health care” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” header_font=”||||||||” header_text_align=”center” header_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#ffffff” button_on_hover=”on” custom_padding=”||||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”||||false|false” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” link_option_url=”\/universal-healthcare\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 150px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n

    US health care is, in many ways, the envy of the world<\/strong>. Would universal<\/strong>, or<\/strong> national, healthcare<\/strong>\u00a0improve it?<\/strong> See how Catholic social teaching can inform the discussion!<\/p>\n

    CLICK<\/strong> to read more.<\/p>\n

    [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Euthanasia” button_text=”Click Here” button_link=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/2024\/12\/euthanasia\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/icon-8-1.png” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” header_font=”||||||||” header_text_align=”center” header_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#ffffff” button_on_hover=”on” custom_padding=”||||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”||||false|false” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” link_option_url=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/2024\/12\/euthanasia\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 150px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n

    Without a Christian perspective, the world often seeks to avoid suffering at all costs and strives to make death as painless as possible. It is then that \u201c[w]e must accompany people towards death, but not provoke death<\/strong>\u00a0or facilitate any form of suicide.\u201d\u00a0(Pope Francis)<\/a><\/p>\n

    CLICK<\/strong> to read more.<\/p>\n

    [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”The Family” button_link=”\/the-family\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/The-family.jpg” image_alt=”The Family is the answer to the poisons destroying our society.” _builder_version=”4.19.5″ _module_preset=”default” header_font=”Open Sans|700|||||||” header_text_align=”center” header_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#ffffff” link_option_url=”\/the-family\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 150px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n

    The answer<\/strong> to the dangers to our society.<\/p>\n

    \u201cThe\u00a0future of humanity<\/b>\u00a0passes <\/strong>by way of the family.\u201d\u00a0<\/strong>(Pope St. John Paul II, 86)\u200b<\/a><\/p>\n

    CLICK<\/strong> to read more.<\/p>\n

    [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Marriage” button_link=”\/the-family\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Marriage.jpg” image_alt=”marriage” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” header_font=”Open Sans|700|||||||” header_text_align=”center” header_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#ffffff” link_option_url=”\/the-family\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 150px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n

    The foundation of the family.<\/strong><\/p>\n

    “[T]ranscends the feelings <\/strong>and momentary needs of the couple\u201d. It is born \u201cfrom the depth of the obligation\u00a0<\/strong>assumed by the spouses”. (Pope Francis, 66)<\/a> <\/i><\/strong><\/p>\n

    CLICK <\/strong>to read more.<\/p>\n

    [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Dignity of Work” button_link=”\/dignity-of-work\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/icon-7.png” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” image_alt=”Climate Change is a real issue and must be met with dialog, faith, and science, ordered toward the common good.” _builder_version=”4.19.5″ _module_preset=”default” header_font=”||||||||” header_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#ffffff” button_on_hover=”on” link_option_url=”\/dignity-of-work\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 150px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n

    “We were\u00a0created<\/strong>\u00a0with a vocation\u00a0to work<\/strong>.”<\/p>\n

    CLICK<\/strong> to read more.<\/p>\n

    [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Gun Control” button_link=”\/gun-control-pros-and-cons-and-self-defense\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Gun-control-icon-1_v1_r3.png” _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” header_font=”Open Sans|700|||||||” header_text_align=”center” header_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#ffffff” link_option_url=”\/gun-control-pros-and-cons-and-self-defense\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 150px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n

    It is one of the most divisive and painful issues in the United States.<\/strong>\u00a0Gun ownership is an issue where there is legitimate diversity of opinion. How does the Church reconcile self-defense with the sacredness of human life?<\/p>\n

    CLICK<\/strong> to read more.<\/p>\n

    [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Overpopulation” button_link=”\/overpopulation\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/Overpopulation-icon-Draft-4.png” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” header_font=”Open Sans|700|||||||” header_text_align=”center” header_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#ffffff” link_option_url=”\/overpopulation\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 150px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n

    From the Church\u2019s perspective, the problem was never people themselves. <\/strong>The real question is not how many people the Earth can hold, but how we understand the human person.<\/p>\n

    CLICK<\/strong> to read more.<\/p>\n

    [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”The Death Penalty” button_link=”\/the-death-penalty\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/CAPP-Prison-Icon.png” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” image_alt=”Climate Change is a real issue and must be met with dialog, faith, and science, ordered toward the common good.” _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” header_font=”||||||||” header_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#ffffff” button_on_hover=”on” link_option_url=”\/the-death-penalty\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 150px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n

    The Church’s historical teaching, the changes Pope Francis made, and what the Church teaches now.<\/p>\n

    CLICK<\/strong> to read more.<\/p>\n

    [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”COVID-19″ button_link=”\/covid19\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Covid.jpg” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” image_alt=”Covid-19 is tearing families, communities, and nations apart. Catholic social teaching can guide us through it.” image_tablet=”” image_phone=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/CAPP_CrisisInfog-2004_Icons_medical-supplie.png” image_last_edited=”on|phone” _builder_version=”4.19.5″ _module_preset=”default” header_font=”||||||||” header_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#ffffff” background_enable_color=”on” button_on_hover=”on” max_width=”100%” custom_padding=”||||false|false” link_option_url=”\/covid19\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 150px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” border_style_all_image=”none” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” image__hover_enabled=”on|desktop” custom_css_slide_image_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_css_slide_image_phone=”width: 150px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” image__hover=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Covid.jpg” custom_css_slide_image_tablet=”width: 150px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n

    The Crisis and<\/strong> the Cure<\/strong>: How does Catholic social teaching evaluate governments\u2019 response?<\/p>\n

    CLICK<\/strong> to read more.<\/p>\n

    [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”The Common Good” button_link=”\/the-common-good\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/The-Common-Good.png” image_alt=”The Family is the answer to the poisons destroying our society.” _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” header_font=”Open Sans|700|||||||” header_text_align=”center” header_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#ffffff” link_option_url=”\/the-common-good\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 150px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n

    The Common Good is\u00a0not<\/strong> a principle, but an aspirational result<\/strong>: \u201cthe sum total of social conditions which allow people, either as groups or as individuals, to reach their fulfillment more fully and more easily\u201d.\u00a0(Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1906)<\/a><\/p>\n

    CLICK<\/strong> to read more.<\/p>\n

    [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Physical Environment” button_link=”\/physical-environment\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Our-Physical-Environment.jpg” image_alt=”God has called us to be stewards of this world, our physical environment and common home.” _builder_version=”4.19.5″ _module_preset=”default” header_font=”Open Sans|700|||||||” header_text_align=”center” header_text_color=”#054368″ header_font_size=”30px” header_line_height=”1.5em” body_font=”||||||||” body_text_align=”center” body_text_color=”#054368″ background_color=”#ffffff” background_enable_color=”on” transform_translate_linked=”off” link_option_url=”\/physical-environment\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 150px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n

    This is about more than<\/strong> \u2018just\u2019 protecting<\/strong> the environment. There are profound spiritual dimensions involved.<\/p>\n

    CLICK<\/strong> to read more.<\/p>\n

    [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Integral Ecology” button_link=”\/integral-ecology\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Integral-Ecology.jpg” image_alt=”Physical and human environments are linked and only integral ecology can care or them both.” _builder_version=”4.19.5″ _module_preset=”default” header_font=”Open Sans|700|||||||” header_text_align=”center” header_text_color=”#054368″ header_font_size=”30px” header_line_height=”1.5em” body_font=”||||||||” body_text_align=”center” body_text_color=”#054368″ background_color=”#ffffff” background_enable_color=”on” transform_translate_linked=”off” link_option_url=”\/integral-ecology\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 150px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n

    The solution to all<\/strong> our environmental problems!<\/p>\n

    CLICK<\/strong> to read more.<\/p>\n

    [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Human Environment” button_link=”\/human-environment\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Human-environment.jpg” image_alt=”How many talk about the serious destruction of our human environment where we grow, live, and work?” _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” header_font=”Open Sans|700|||||||” header_text_align=”center” header_text_color=”#054368″ header_font_size=”30px” header_line_height=”1.5em” body_font=”||||||||” body_text_align=”center” body_text_color=”#054368″ background_color=”#ffffff” background_enable_color=”on” transform_translate_linked=”off” link_option_url=”\/human-environment\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 150px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n

    \u201c[W]e must also mention the more serious destruction<\/strong> of the human environment, something which is by no means receiving the attention it deserves.\u201d\u00a0(Pope St. John Paul II, 38)<\/a><\/p>\n

    CLICK<\/strong> to read more.<\/p>\n

    [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”The Four Dangers to Society” button_link=”\/pathologies-overview\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Danger-societi.jpg” image_alt=”The Church has identified four dangers to society, pathologies, eating away at our culture.” _builder_version=”4.19.5″ _module_preset=”default” header_font=”Open Sans|700|||||||” header_text_align=”center” header_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#ffffff” background_enable_color=”on” link_option_url=”\/pathologies-overview\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 150px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n

    The Church identifies the major \u2018risks and problems\u2019 eating away at our cultural, economic and political systems. What are they?<\/strong><\/p>\n

    CLICK<\/strong> to read more.<\/p>\n

    [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Consumerism” button_link=”\/consumerism\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Consumerism.jpg” image_alt=”Consumerism is a terrible affliction of the developed world and an affront to human dignity.” _builder_version=”4.19.5″ _module_preset=”default” header_text_align=”center” header_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#ffffff” background_enable_color=”on” custom_padding=”||||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” link_option_url=”\/consumerism\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 150px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n

    Having and wanting a lot of \u2018stuff\u2019 is at the heart of several of society\u2019s ills<\/strong>. Which ones? Why does this limit our freedom?<\/p>\n

    CLICK<\/strong> to read more.<\/p>\n

    [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Environmental Degradation” button_link=”\/environmental-degradation\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Environmental-Degradation.jpg” image_alt=”Our environments, both our physical and human (moral), are in peril, in more ways than you likely realize” _builder_version=”4.19.5″ _module_preset=”default” header_font=”Open Sans|700|||||||” header_text_align=”center” header_text_color=”#054368″ header_font_size=”30px” header_line_height=”1.5em” body_font=”||||||||” body_text_align=”center” body_text_color=”#054368″ background_color=”#ffffff” background_enable_color=”on” transform_translate_linked=”off” link_option_url=”\/environmental-degradation\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 150px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n

    Yes! The environment is in danger. But, it is actually worse<\/strong> (and, more complicated) than you think<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

    CLICK<\/strong> to read more.<\/p>\n

    [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Alienation” button_link=”\/alienation\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Alienation.jpg” image_alt=”alienation” _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” header_font=”Open Sans|700|||||||” header_text_align=”center” header_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#ffffff” link_option_url=”\/alienation\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 150px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n

    Society and individuals are alienated! We are \u201cmarked by a \u2018globalization of indifference\u2019<\/strong> that makes us\u2026closed in on ourselves.\u201d\u00a0(Pope Francis, 1)<\/em><\/span><\/a> \u00a0The consequences are devastating!<\/p>\n

    CLICK<\/strong> to read more.<\/p>\n

    [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Radical Secularism” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Radical-Secularism.jpg” _builder_version=”4.19.0″ _module_preset=”default” header_font=”Open Sans|700|||||||” header_text_align=”center” header_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#ffffff” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 150px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n

    [COMING SOON]<\/strong><\/p>\n

    \u201cThe greatest challenge of our time\u201d!<\/strong>\u00a0(Pope Benedict XVI, 3)<\/em><\/span>\u200b<\/a>\u00a0Why?<\/strong> Radical secularism holds that there is no such thing as an objective truth. But, \u201cWithout truth, without trust and love for what is true…social action ends up serving private interests and the logic of power.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0(Pope Benedict XVI, 5)<\/em>\u200b<\/a>\u00a0Sound familiar?<\/p>\n

    [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”How to Vote” button_link=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/catholic-social-teaching-voting\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/CAPP-Politics-Icon-v2.png” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” header_font=”Open Sans|700|||||||” header_text_align=”center” header_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#ffffff” link_option_url=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/catholic-social-teaching-voting\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 150px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n

    Participation in politics is a Christian obligation: <\/strong>\u201cWe, Christians, cannot \u2018play Pilate\u2019 and wash our hands\u2026We must participate in politics because politics is one of the highest forms of charity\u201d. (Pope Francis)<\/em>\u200b<\/a><\/p>\n

    CLICK <\/strong>to read more.<\/p>\n

    [\/et_pb_slide][\/et_pb_slider][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_color=”#f2f2f2″ custom_padding=”0px||0px” animation_style=”fade” animation_duration=”750ms” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” collapsed=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”50px||50px” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ text_font=”||||||||” text_text_color=”#054368″ header_font=”||||||||” header_text_color=”#eb7525″ header_4_font=”||||||||” header_4_text_align=”center” header_4_text_color=”#084369″ custom_margin_phone=”|-99px||-99px” custom_margin_last_edited=”off|phone” custom_padding=”||10px|” inline_fonts=”Open Sans,Playfair Display” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

    Why These Issues Matter<\/h4>\n

    [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.16″ text_font=”||||||||” text_text_color=”#054368″ header_font=”||||||||” header_text_color=”#eb7525″ header_2_font=”||||||||” header_5_font=”||||||||” header_5_text_align=”center” width=”80%” width_tablet=”100%” width_phone=”” width_last_edited=”on|phone” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin_phone=”|-99px||-99px” custom_margin_last_edited=”off|phone” custom_padding=”||1px|” inline_fonts=”Open Sans,Playfair Display” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

    Catholic social teaching informs our consciences and requires action from us, the lay faithful. \u201cWorking for a just distribution of the fruits of the earth and human labor is not mere philanthropy. It is a moral obligation.<\/strong>
    \nFor Christians, the responsibility is even greater: it is a commandment.<\/strong>\u201d<\/h5>\n
    [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.16″ text_font=”||||||||” text_text_color=”#054368″ header_font=”||||||||” header_text_color=”#eb7525″ header_2_font=”||||||||” header_5_font=”||||||||” header_5_text_align=”center” text_orientation=”center” width=”80%” width_tablet=”100%” width_phone=”” width_last_edited=”on|phone” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin_phone=”|-99px||-99px” custom_margin_last_edited=”off|phone” inline_fonts=”Open Sans,Playfair Display” global_colors_info=”{}”]Pope Francis<\/a>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider divider_position=”bottom” divider_weight=”2px” _builder_version=”4.16″ max_width=”50px” module_alignment=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Widget of Issues ” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_margin=”0px|0px|0px|0px||” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” saved_tabs=”all” collapsed=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_5,3_5,1_5″ use_custom_gutter=”on” module_class=” et_pb_row_fullwidth” _builder_version=”4.19.5″ width=”100%” width_tablet=”100%” width_phone=”” width_last_edited=”on|desktop” max_width=”100%” max_width_tablet=”100%” max_width_phone=”” max_width_last_edited=”on|desktop” custom_margin=”0px|0px|0px|0px” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” make_fullwidth=”on” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_5″ _builder_version=”4.19.5″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.19.5″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_slider show_image_video_mobile=”on” module_class=”three-principles” _builder_version=”4.19.5″ header_font=”Open Sans|700|||||||” header_text_color=”#084369″ header_font_size=”24px” header_line_height=”1.5em” body_text_color=”#084369″ width_last_edited=”off|desktop” custom_margin=”|||” custom_padding=”|||” animation_style=”fade” animation_duration=”750ms” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 70% !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_slide heading=”Three Key Principles” button_link=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/catholic-social-teaching-principles\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/3-Key-principle-icons-resized.png” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” _builder_version=”4.19.5″ header_font=”||||||||” background_color=”#ffffff” button_on_hover=”on” link_option_url=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/catholic-social-teaching-principles\/” custom_css_slide_image=”margin: 0 auto;||text-align: center;” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n

    Catholic social teaching is built on three foundational principles –\u00a0<\/strong>Human Dignity<\/strong>,\u00a0Solidarity\u00a0<\/strong>and\u00a0Subsidiarity.\u00a0Human Dignity<\/em><\/strong>, embodied in a correct understanding of the human person, is the greatest. The others flow from it. Good governments and good economic systems find ways of fostering the three principles: \u201cThe State must contribute to the achievement of these goals both directly and indirectly. Indirectly and according to the\u00a0principle of subsidiarity<\/strong>,\u00a0<\/em>by creating favorable conditions for the free exercise of economic activity, which will lead to abundant opportunities for employment and sources of wealth. Directly and according to the\u00a0principle of solidarity<\/strong>,\u00a0<\/em>by defending the weakest\u201d (Pope St. John Paul II, 15)<\/a><\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

    [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Human Dignity” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/human-dignity-1.jpg” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” _builder_version=”4.16″ header_font=”||||||||” background_color=”#ffffff” button_on_hover=”on” link_option_url=”\/human-dignity” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n

    This means a correct understanding of the human person and of each person\u2019s unique value. All Catholic social teaching flows from this: the inherent dignity of every person that comes from being made in God\u2019s image. This is \u201cthe basis not only of the unity of the human family but also of our inviolable human dignity<\/strong>\u201d (Pope Benedict XVI) and it is in this beginning that human rights are grounded.<\/p>\n

    [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Solidarity” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/solidarity-1.jpg” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” _builder_version=”4.16″ header_font=”||||||||” background_color=”#ffffff” button_on_hover=”on” link_option_url=”\/solidarity” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n

    Solidarity<\/strong> is not \u201ca feeling of vague compassion or shallow distress at the misfortunes of others. It is a firm and persevering determination to commit oneself to the common good\u201d (Pope St. John Paul II, 38)<\/a><\/em><\/span>. Love of God and love of neighbor are, in fact, linked and form one, single commandment. \u201cWe cannot believe in God the Father without seeing a brother or sister in every person, and we cannot follow Jesus without giving our lives for those for whom he died on the cross.\u201d (Pope Francis)<\/a><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

    [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Subsidiarity” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/subsidiarity-1.jpg” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” _builder_version=”4.16″ header_font=”||||||||” background_color=”#ffffff” button_on_hover=”on” link_option_url=”\/subsidiarity” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n

    Subsidiarity<\/strong> identifies how decisions in society need to be taken at the lowest competent level. \u201cIt is a fundamental principle of social philosophy, fixed and unchangeable, that one should not withdraw from individuals and commit to the community what they can accomplish by their own enterprise and industry. So, too, it is an injustice and at the same time a grave evil and a disturbance of right order to transfer to the larger and higher collectivity functions which can be performed and provided for by the lesser and subordinate bodies\u201d. (Pope Pius XI, 79)<\/em><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

    [\/et_pb_slide][\/et_pb_slider][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” admin_label=”Image & Text” module_id=”newsletter” module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_color=”#eb7525″ z_index=”950″ display_conditions=”W3siaWQiOiI2MmUwMjk2ZS1lYmY5LTQwYWYtYmM0Mi0zZmEzYzUyNGNlYTEiLCJjb25kaXRpb24iOiJwYWdlIiwiY29uZGl0aW9uU2V0dGluZ3MiOnsiZGlzcGxheVJ1bGUiOiJpc05vdCIsImR5bmFtaWNQb3N0cyI6W3sibGFiZWwiOiJDYXJpdGFzIGluIFZlcml0YXRlIiwidmFsdWUiOiI0NzIxNCJ9XSwicG9zdFR5cGVMYWJlbCI6IlBhZ2VzIiwiYWRtaW5MYWJlbCI6IlBhZ2VzIiwiZW5hYmxlQ29uZGl0aW9uIjoib24ifSwib3BlcmF0b3IiOiJPUiJ9XQ==” custom_margin=”||” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_padding_phone=”0px||0px||false|false” animation_direction=”left” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” global_module=”45073″ saved_tabs=”all” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ make_equal=”on” module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.21.0″ custom_margin=”||” custom_padding=”0px||0px||true|false” animation_style=”fade” animation_delay=”200ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ module_class=”ds-vertical-align” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ text_font=”Playfair Display||||||||” text_text_color=”#ffffff” header_font=”||||||||” header_text_align=”center” header_text_color=”#eb7525″ header_2_text_color=”#ffffff” header_3_text_color=”#ffffff” header_3_font_size=”30px” header_4_font=”Playfair Display|700|||||||” header_4_text_color=”#ffffff” header_4_font_size=”32px” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”||” custom_padding=”||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

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