On June 24, 2025, the Sisters of Charity of New York joined more than 50 congregations of Catholic women religious across the country for Sisters Speak Out—a national day of action calling for justice, compassion, and dignity for all.
Our local gathering took place at Mount Saint Vincent Convent, where Sisters and Ministry Representatives raised their voices against immoral budget proposals and harmful policies that threaten the most vulnerable in our communities.
We invite you to watch the full program on our YouTube page, and to share it with others who believe in building a more just and loving world.
Together, we spoke out on urgent issues:
- Immigration and economic justice
- Homelessness and housing
- Healthcare, food insecurity, and environmental concerns
- The moral imperative to protect human dignity in every policy and budget decision
Program Highlights:
Gathering Song: Ubi Caritas – Sr. Regina Bechtle
Welcome: Sr. Carol De Angelo
Why We Are Gathered: Diandra Garcia-Heredia
Prayer: Sr. Margaret O’Brien
Speakers:
- Sr. Donna Dodge – SCNY President
- Sr. Kathy Byrnes – POTS Part of the Solution and Food Insecurity
- Barbara Burke – Pro Bono Housing Attorney on Student Housing
- Sr. Karen Helfenstein – Medicaid, Vaccines, and Healthcare
- James Butler – LEFSA Life Experience and Faith Sharing Associates Team Member on Homelessness
- Sr. Virginia Searing – Guatemala and Honoring Her Nephew
Call to Action: Diandra Garcia-Heredia
Sending Forth Blessing: Sr. Donna Dodge
Closing Song: Ubi Caritas – Sr. Regina Bechtle
I was so proud to be an SCNY after hearing the remarks at the Speak Out! The impacts of this dangerous budget will seriously impact our ministries. Each person spoke from the heart about the sufferings and deaths that will ensue if this budget reconciliation bill gets passed.