Workshop Overview:
In this 90-minute interactive session, participants will explore how to evaluate, and score proposed legislation through a faith-based framework that prioritizes the well-being of vulnerable communities. As faith-based advocates, particularly within the context of the Presbyterian Church (USA), we are called to uplift the marginalized and voiceless in our advocacy efforts ensuring their voices are present when decisions impacting their life are made. This workshop will provide tools for scoring legislation based on core values including racial justice and human dignity, offering practical methods for incorporating these values into decision-making processes.

We will examine key legislative proposals in the context of their impact on vulnerable populations, such as low-income communities, people of color, immigrants, and those most affected by environmental harm. Using case studies and real-world examples, participants will learn how to assess proposed legislative bills for their social, economic, and environmental impacts, with a special focus on domestic human needs and equity.

Through facilitated discussions and small group exercises, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how faith communities can engage in legislative advocacy, ensuring that their voices are aligned with God's call to love and serve those who are most in need. By the end of the workshop, participants will be equipped to apply faith-centered advocacy strategies in their own legislative work, promoting policies that reflect compassion and justice for all people, particularly the most vulnerable.

Biography: Rev. Christina A. Cosby serves as the Representative for Domestic and Environmental Policy Concerns for the Presbyterian Church (USA) Office of Public Witness in Washington DC. Where she advocates for federal policies that reflect the church’s commitment to social justice, human dignity, and environmental stewardship. In her role, Christina bridges the church’s values with government action, advocating for the common good through issues of climate justice and domestic human needs. Prior to this, she worked as the Middle East and Europe Mission Specialist with Presbyterian World Mission, focusing on furthering international partnerships and the church’s work in dismantling systemic poverty, building congregational vitality, and eradicating racism globally. Christina's experience spans across faith-based advocacy, fostering relationships across religious and cultural divides, and centering vulnerable voices. She is passionate about empowering communities to engage in policy discussions rooted in Christian principles. Prior to her work on the national level, she served Madison Avenue Presbyterian Church in New York City as the Director of Christian Formation. She believes that the churches worship, mission, and advocacy efforts must be based in the practices of Christian Education.

An ordained Minister of Word and Sacrament from the Presbytery of the Peaks, Christina holds a Master of Divinity from Princeton Theological Seminary and a Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies and Interpersonal Communication from Queens University of Charlotte.