Dozens of religious leaders, lawmakers and activists from across the state gathered in the Rhode Island State House rotunda on Wednesday afternoon after a short march from the Gloria Dei Church on Hayes Street. It was all in service of the 15th Annual Fighting Poverty with Faith Vigil, held at the start of every legislative session in our state.

You can watch the vigil here:

Coalition members called on political leaders to “govern with compassion and propose policies for legislative action in 2023 to reduce poverty in the state.” Organized by the Rhode Island Interfaith Coalition to Reduce Poverty, the vigil sought to encourage elected officials to fight for economic justice, and to promote the long-standing vision of the Coalition, which includes:

• A safe and affordable home;
• Adequate, nutritious food;
• Quality and equal education;
• Affordable and accessible health care; and,
• Work with decent wages

“The participants of this vigil are united by our vision for our state: a Rhode Island where not one child goes hungry, no family goes unhoused, and no community goes unheard,” said Lieutenant Governor Sabina Matos, addressing the crowd. “I look forward to working with community organizers, state legislators, and my fellow general officers this year to raise income levels, expand access to support services, and help older Rhode Islanders enjoy the fruits of their lifelong labors.” Also on hand were House Majority Leader Christopher Blazajewski and Senate Majority Leader Ryan Pearson.

The event was emceed by Rabbi Jeffrey Goldwasser. Archdeacon Grace Swinski, from the Rhode Island Episcopal Diocese, provided the keynote adress.

At the vigil the Coalition announced it’s 2023 platform, which includes:

• Federal Aid: Working to ensure that APRA and other federal funds are used to address poverty, inequality, and Rhode Islanders in need;
• Housing: Advocate for more low-income housing and protecting Rhode Islanders from evictions and utility shutoffs; Avocate for emergency housing and services for people experiencing homelessness;
• Immigrant Rights: Providing immigrant communities in Rhode Island with adequate access to services and benefits;
• RI Works: Continue to update the RI Works program and increase the benefit rate and allowances that recipients receive;
• Revenue RI: Advocate for a more just tax structure to build revenue for needed programs and services;
• Environmental Justice: Work with local advocates to prioritize environmental justice legislative initiatives; and,
• Food Sustainability: Protecting and expanding food access and services for Rhode Islanders in need.

After the platform was shared, clergy took turns reading the names of elected officials, asking them to govern with wisdom, care and compassion.