Operation Morning Star began in 1989 as a tool to increase membership, and was named after our
Blessed Mother, the patroness of Catholic Daughters. "Morning Star" is one of Our Lady's titles in the
litany of the Blessed Virgin.
In 1989 and for several
years, there was an "open door" with the White House and it's staff, and with the legislators in Washington.
Our legislative council would receive a telephone call from a White House staff asking "what is the Catholic thought"
on a specific issue. Our National Regent and other members on the executive committee could meet with a US Senator or
congressman almost upon a moments' notice.
The "open door" policy started changing in 1992. The number of lobbists increasted; individuals and
organizations with money were the ones gaining access to the legislators. The immediate access that CDA shared with
other similar organizations gave way to the famous "K street lobbyists".
For several years now, responding to alerts as constituents has
been the primary avenue we have been forced to follow to reach our legislators in Washington. THIS is why it is crucial
that members respond to legislative alerts.
This is why it is
crucial for every court to name a legislative chairman. This is why it is crucial that every state have a legislative
chair to make contact with other chairs to reach our members- the grassroots of our organization.
With 90,000 members,--if half of them, 45,000----
contacted their legislators-- we should make a difference!
As Fall ELECTIONS approach, be mindful that your vote DOES make a difference! Study the issues, and
try to ask questions if you don't understand them. Follow the teachings of the Church, and your heart.
IT IS IMPORTANT that ALL CDA MEMBERS understand that as a non-profit (501)c(3) organization, that
:
1. CDA CANNOT and DOES NOT endorse or support
any political party or candidate (local, state, or federal), including nominees;
2. CDA members CANNOT and DOES NOT lobby legislators (local, state or federal) for any reason;
3. CDA members could LOSE it's tax-exempt status if any of the above should occur.
Our organization supports ISSUES.
As members, we have a responsibility
to become informed, active, and responsible participants in lawmaking in the political process.
Each year, the CDA national legislative program supports and participates in the March for Life at our National,
and State capitals. We march for Pro-Life, WRAP (White Ribbon Against Pornography), Pennies for the Unborn, just to
name a few.
For MORE information on the topics above and current issues
before the legislation, or addresses to your local representative, please contact our
State Regent
