Focus on Arts and Ecology

Dear Jon,

Russia has invaded Ukraine, and the horror of war is upon the world once again.

On a political level, this is a deeply complex crisis. History, alliances, economics, and power structures all intermingle in a dizzying web. In the media, a considerable effort is being made to untangle these factors as the world scrambles to make sense of the shattered peace in Europe. It’s enough to make anyone’s head spin.

But on a human level, this week has reflected a long-held, undeniable truth: War is an abomination.

Dreams upended. Homes destroyed. Families broken. These are the true costs of war, and they must never be lost in the discussions of what is happening in Ukraine. Every bullet fired and every missile launched is an assault on humanity.

The United Nations estimates that 100,000 Ukrainians have already been displaced because of the Russian invasion. That figure is sure to balloon in the coming days and weeks. Millions of people who had no desire for war are now bearing the consequences of it.

We join the international community in condemning these illegal actions taken by Russian leaders. We urge President Putin to immediately withdraw all Russian military forces from all areas of Ukraine and to return to the table for diplomatic negotiations to resolve this crisis. And we urge Congress and the administration to ensure that the U.S. response to this tragedy prioritizes the safety and protection of civilians.

Many of the solutions being considered right now—such as extensive, broad sanctions and sending more weapons to Ukraine—will only deepen the crisis and make diplomacy more difficult. This will cause greater hardship and suffering for innocent people across the region.

Peace will not be easy to attain, but it must be vigorously pursued. Contact your lawmakers and tell them that diplomacy is the best way to protect human lives and avoid further suffering.

Elsewhere

Support for Ukrainians Seeking Safety
The United States must prepare to respond to large-scale refugee flows and support efforts to ensure those inside Ukraine can safely evacuate. FCNL joined partners this week in calling for immediate protection from deportation for Ukrainians already in the United States.

Iran Nuclear Deal Appears Possible
After a year of negotiations, the United States and Iran appear close to returning to the 2015 nuclear deal. Several complex issues remain unresolved, but significant progress has been made. Restoring this agreement is imperative to advancing global peace and security. 

Opportunity to Expand Protections for Pregnant Workers
No one should have to choose between a paycheck and a healthy pregnancy. Yet, thousands of pregnant workers are denied accommodations, fired, or pressured to leave their positions each year. The bipartisan Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (H.R. 1065/ S.1486) could change that. Lawmakers may offer PWFA as an amendment to appropriations legislation—urge them to act!

To Prevent Nuclear Crisis: Support No First Use
The crisis in Ukraine is a potent reminder: nuclear weapons remain an existential threat to us all. With nuclear superpowers involved, there is a risk of conflict spiraling out of control. There is, however, one concrete action that our leaders could take to lessen the chance of a nuclear war: Declare that the United States will never use nuclear weapons first in a conflict.

Historic Supreme Court Nominee Announced
President Biden announced his selection of Ketanji Brown Jackson as his nominee to the Supreme Court. This sets in motion a historic confirmation process for the first Black woman to sit on the highest court in the nation.

State of the Union: Tweet with Us
On Tuesday, March 1, President Biden will deliver his State of the Union Address. This annual message is an important opportunity for advocates to hear the president’s priorities for the coming year and listen for the places where our voices will be needed. Many of our lobbyists will be following along and discussing on Twitter. You can connect with us via @fcnl.

	Sincerely, Jessie Palatucci Senior Manager Digital Communications
	Alex Frandsen Digital Communications Associate

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