One of the aims of California Interfaith Power and Light is to educate its member congregations and individuals on pressing legislation and initiatives before our federal, state, and citizen voters. Contrary to what many believe, faith traditions hold action in the social sphere as an important tenet. Bringing the religious beliefs of respect and dignity of Creation, work for the common good, and community empowerment into society is yet another form of religious expression, one which, when done well, strengthens society as a whole and builds relationships among diverse groups.

For an Update on CIPL California 2011 Priority Bills, Click Here.

Interfaith Power & Light’s Policy on Clean Energy Issues

California Interfaith Power & Light, as part of the IPL national network, holds certain positions on specific issues, such as nuclear energy, coal and energy efficiency. Click here to read about IPL’s Clean Energy Agenda and more.

CIPL Part of an Unprecedented Effort to Defeat Prop 23

On November 2, a dangerous proposition that aimed to overturn California’s landmark Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 was defeated. While the defeat of a proposition in itself is not remarkable, what was noteworthy was the grassroots effort involved, comprising a bipartisan representation of faith, public health, labor and environmental justice organizations.

CIPL formed an Interfaith Advisory Group, which guided the education and advocacy of faith communities across California. Working in partnership with the state-wide campaign to Defeat the Dirty Energy Prop, CIPL clergy and staff participated in presentations and actions to get out the vote from houses of worship.

Another noteworthy component of this campaign was that Prop 23 was the first and only referendum in the country on climate and clean energy – and the voters overwhelmingly chose to address climate change and move forward with clean energy initiatives.

Click here to read an excellent story from the L.A. Times about this issue.