More than 1,000 people are expected to gather this evening in Pittsburgh to call on elected officials to publicly commit to policy goals and outcomes. Pennsylvania Interfaith Impact Networks (PIIN) will address topics ranging from funding for education to next month's election during its annual "public action" event "Fire of Faith: Rekindling Democracy and Community."
Jonathan Mayo, Vice President of PIIN, said although the group is asking for support from elected officials, it will have to be a community effort to accomplish certain goals.
“That’s going to be on us, largely. It’s one thing to bring them in the room and it’s a real high-energy atmosphere, and to get them to say ‘yes’ to working with us on these things. And then it’s up to PIIN, the people in the room, the citizens of Pennsylvania, our partners, to follow up.”
Comprised of organizations and various religious congregations, PIIN works towards creating cohesiveness between the faith community and the education of local youth, which Mayo said is a primary focus because of education budget cuts.
“PIIN is fighting the fight as best it can at the local level to try to make sure that what funds do come in are spread equally among all of the students in the city of Pittsburgh,” Mayo said.
Additional issues such as funding for public transit and the Clean Rivers Campaign, and the November election will also be addressed. Mayo said elected officials from all levels of government are expected to attend.
“It’s local, it’s statewide, and it’s also some federal officials. Representative Mike Doyle will be there for instance, so we do have some national folks in the room, I believe Congressman Critz will be there as well,” Mayo said.
The event will be held at Rodef Shalom on Fifth Avenue in Oakland and will begin at 7:00 p.m.
