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Initiative on Catholic Social Thought and Public Life

April 12, 2016

Resisting the "Throwaway Culture"

Protecting Human Life and Dignity

Violence surrounds us. It begins with the destruction of unborn children and threatens poor families in our nation, those suffering racial injustice, victims of sexual assault, immigrants and refugees across the globe, and people caught in the crossfire of war. Pope Francis' stark metaphor of a "throwaway culture" is a powerful warning that calls us to defend the life and the dignity of all, especially the most vulnerable. In the face of advocacy and acceptance of violence, three respected leaders explored how to build a culture of life and offer a life-giving message of hope.

President John J. DeGioia offered opening and welcoming remarks. John Carr, director of the Initiative on Catholic Social Thought and Public Life, moderated the conversation. The panel included George Mason Law professor Helen Alvaré, Fordham professor Charles Camosy, and executive director of Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley Sr. Norma Pimentel, M.J.

Helen Alvaré is a professor of law at George Mason University School of Law, former leader of USCCB pro-life efforts, and founder of WomenSpeakforThemselves.com.

Charles Camosy is an associate professor of theological and social ethics at Fordham University, author of Beyond the Abortion Wars: A Way Forward for a New Generation, and columnist for Religion News Service.

Sr. Norma Pimentel, M.J., is the executive director of Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley and organizer of the Sacred Heart Immigrant Welcome Center on the U.S.-Mexican border.

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