CAFTA goes to Congress; Catholic groups voice opposition

Published: 2005-06-24

WASHINGTON (CNS) -- As the White House sent legislation authorizing the Central American Free Trade Agreement to Congress, Pax Christi USA and Catholics for Faithful Citizenship joined other religious organizations in declaring their opposition, saying it "works against the culture of life and is not consistent with the teachings of the Catholic Church." Michael Jones, communications director of Pax Christi USA, said in a teleconference June 22 that the provisions of CAFTA stand in stark contrast to the economic model articulated in Catholic social teaching. "Trade and economic policies are without a doubt life issues for millions around the globe," Jones said. Church teaching "stands against any policy or course of action which diminishes life, dignity or the rights of the human person," he added. "Given this lens, it is clear that support for CAFTA in its current form is inconsistent with the social teachings of our church, and with efforts to build a culture of life."

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