Rev. James D. Conley, D.D., S.T.L. | Diocese of Lincoln website

Nebraska Catholics are gearing up for the 10th annual Catholics at the Capitol event, set to take place on March 6. The event, organized by the Nebraska Catholic Conference (NCC), provides a platform for Catholics to advocate for their values and engage with legislators on important public policy issues.

Reflecting on the impact of last year's event, Judy Westin of St. Michael Parish in Hastings described the experience as witnessing history and feeling blessed to be a part of it. The 2023 event saw the Nebraska Heartbeat Act (LB626) take center stage, with inspiring talks from Governor Jim Pillen and several state senators.

The upcoming event promises a lineup of speakers including Senator Joni Albrecht, Governor Pillen, and other state officials, who will address topics such as school choice expansion, religious liberty protections, and life-affirming options for vulnerable moms and families.

One of the key focuses of this year's event will be strategies to defeat a pro-abortion ballot initiative in Nebraska. NCC Executive Director Tom Venzor emphasized the importance of understanding the consequences of the initiative and mobilizing efforts to oppose it.

Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in live legislative debates and engage in face-to-face meetings with state senators. Paige Brown, communications and outreach specialist for the NCC, highlighted the impact of coordinated clothing at last year's event, noting that even simple gestures can make a difference in influencing legislators.

Tickets for the event are priced at $15 each, covering the cost of breakfast, lunch, and refreshments. They can be purchased online at NECatholic.org or by phone.

As Megan Fehr, communications and outreach specialist at NCC, expressed, Catholics at the Capitol is designed for individuals of all political backgrounds, providing a valuable opportunity for Catholics to come together and make their voices heard on important issues.