As Election Day (Nov. 8) draws near, we need to fully embrace our duty as Catholics and citizens and to consider the voting difficulties facing some of our brothers and sisters due to the passage of HB 1878.
While the requirement of a photo ID may seem reasonable, it’s important to understand why many potential voters don’t and can’t obtain one; a non-driver ID costs $18 and requires a birth certificate costing $15. These documents are usually obtained at a DMV office, many of which aren’t accessible by public transportation or to those with disabilities. Some elderly persons of color have no official birth certificate as they were born at home and recorded only in the family Bible. A survey conducted by the St. Francis Xavier (College) Church ID and Birth Certificate Program revealed the major barriers to getting an ID: funding, transportation, possession of necessary documents, and proof of address ( sometimes due to homelessness). If we silence certain sectors of society through burdensome voting restrictions, we are not recognizing each person’s right to shape their own lives and futures. Are we fulfilling our roles as members of what Pope Francis calls “the beloved community” in ensuring that all voices are heard in the Church and the public square? Volunteers and donations are welcome at the St. Francis Xavier weekly ID and Birth Certificate program (314-977-7311), the Missouri State ID Access Coalition (314-977-7309), or the Ashrei Foundation’s ID and Birth Certificate Clinics ( [email protected]). Information provided by Sharon Barron.
Interested in joining the Peace and Justice Ministry? Call Saralou Hendrickson at 314-440-2020.