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The purpose of this section of the website is to provide background on our key domestic and international issues for 1999.
The Backgrounders will provide basic information on each issue. We hope you will use this information for discussion on social concerns committees, with families or as preparation for meeting with your members of Congress.
What are the Issues?
While there are many important policy discussions, we have identified four Priority Issues for 1999. Priority Domestic issues this year are Social Security and Minimum Wage. Priority International issues this year are Third World Debt and Arms Issues. Talking Points in a question and answer format are provided for the four priority issues to assist you and a state or diocesan-wide delegation in discussion with policy makers. The "Message to Congress" is a brief summary of the most important overarching moral criteria of our social teaching, a useful tool to share with you members of Congress during your meetings.
We urge you to make appointments with your Congressional leadership, either here in Washington, or in their home offices during a recess.
USCC Social Development & World Peace's briefing papers on current policy:
| Domestic Issues
Social Security |
International Issues
International Debt |