North Dakota Archives – Concerned Women for America

Apr 16 2021

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Fairness in Girls’ Sports Bill Passes – One more call to make!

By Linda Thorson | North Dakota | No Comments

We have reason to celebrate in North Dakota! HB 1298, a bill relating to participation in athletic events exclusively for females, was passed by the State Senate yesterday, April 15. The bill now heads to the Governor for his signature. Read my press release here.

Thank you for sending messages to the House and Senate members about this important bill that protects girls’ sports! Your voice made the difference.

But the work is not over. I need you to make one more call to Gov. Doug Burgum! It is very important that he hears from those who stand with him on protecting girls’ sports.

First, pray for Gov. Burgum that he will sign the bill. Pray that God would give him the wisdom and understanding to accomplish His purposes.

Second, contact Gov. Burgum here (call or email) and encourage him to stand with female athletes and sign HB 1298. Let him know that you stand with him in support of the bill. If you are a member of Concerned Women for America of North Dakota, be sure to let him know.

Suggested message:
Dear Gov. Burgum,

Please sign HB 1298. Protect equal opportunity for female athletes and provide a fair playing field for girls and women’s sports. Individual male-born athletes should not be eligible to participate on an athletic team that is exclusively for females.

Sincerely,
Your name and town

Thank you for your prayer and action on this very important bill.

“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” Ephesians 6:12

Linda Thorson
State Director

Apr 16 2021

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Girl’s Sports Bill Passes – On to Governor

By Linda Thorson | North Dakota | No Comments

Concerned Women for America of North Dakota State Director Linda Thorson applauds the passage of the fairness for female athletes bill by the North Dakota legislature. Read the full press release.

Apr 08 2021

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Voice Your Support for a Pro-Life Bill

By Linda Thorson | North Dakota | No Comments

It’s time to STOP North Dakota State University’s (NDSU) relationship with Planned Parenthood! Thank you for responding to the last alert! On April 7, the North Dakota House voted to pass SB 2030! SB 2030 makes it clear that the university system can no longer partner with abortion providers and penalize campuses that violate the law.

For more details about SB 2030, read my letter to the editor and watch the April 7 House floor debate.

SB 2030 now returns to the Senate Appropriations Committee for their vote to concur or not concur with amendments that stop our universities from partnering with Planned Parenthood or any other entity that provides or promotes abortion. The amendments on the bill make the law covering the prohibition clearer by adding a penalty. Those who are opposed to the bill claim “academic freedom” must be protected but nothing justifies partnering with abortion providers!

SB 2030 could be voted on as early as tomorrow.

Take Action!
Contact the Members of the Senate Appropriations Committee and ask them to “vote to concur with the House on SB2030 with amendments.” Email addresses and a suggested message for members are located below my signature line. If applicable, be sure to mention that you are a member of Concerned Women for America of North Dakota.

Pray!
Pray that members of the committee support this life bill and stand against the horrors of abortion! Partnering with an organization committed to death cannot be justified by “academic freedom.”

“Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb is a reward.” Psalm 127:3

Linda Thorson
State Director

Suggested email message:

Dear Senator,
Please vote to concur with the House on SB2030 with amendments. I stand against any partnership with an organization that promotes or provides abortions and ask for you do to the same.

Respectfully Yours,
Your Name and Town

Members of the Senate Appropriations Committee:

(You can send a message to all members at one time by copy and pasting this – [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected];[email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected];[email protected]; [email protected]

(If you have the time, individual email messages are always best.)

Chairman Sen. Ray Holmberg (Republican – District 17) [email protected] or Cellphone 701-739-5334

Vice-Chairman Sen. Karen Kresbsbach (Republican – District 40) [email protected] or Cellphone 701-720-1291

Vice-Chairman Sen. Terry Wanzek (Republican – District 29) [email protected] or call 701-251-6113

Sen. Brad Bekkedahl (Republican – District 1) [email protected] or Cellphone 701-570-1879

Sen. Kyle Davidson (Republican – District 41) [email protected] or Cellphone 701-261-8703

Sen. Dick Dever (Republican – District 32) [email protected] or Cellphone 701-391-6330

Sen. Robert Erbele (Republican – District 28) [email protected] or call 701-378-2272

Sen. Joan Heckaman (Democrat – District 23) [email protected] or call 701-302-0355

Sen. David Hogue (Republican – District 38) [email protected] or call 701-852-0381

Sen. Tim Mathern (Democrat – District 11) [email protected] or call 701-235-9817

Sen. Dave Oehlke (Republican – District 15) [email protected] or Cellphone 701-230-1598

Sen. Nicole Poolman (Republican – District 7) [email protected] or call 701-250-6730

Sen. David Rust (Republican – District 2) [email protected] or Cellphone 701-216-0270

Sen. Ronald Sorvaag (Republican – District 45) [email protected] or Cellphone 701-361-2156

Mar 29 2021

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Let’s Stop Funding Planned Parenthood Courses!

By Linda Thorson | North Dakota | No Comments

The Safe Spaces course, i.e., sex education course. for K-12 teachers, is being offered again through Distance and Continuing Education at North Dakota State University (NDSU). The instructor, Katie Christensen, is the State Director of External Affairs, Planned Parenthood, North Central States. Materials recommended for children in Safe Spaces include, It’s Perfectly Normal by Robbie Harris. The book for elementary-aged children contains graphic drawings of female and male anatomy and covers topics such as sexual intercourse, abortion, and homosexuality.

In February, the North Dakota Senate passed SB 2030, a higher education challenge matching grant program that provides North Dakota universities and colleges matching grant funds for student scholarships. The bill passed with an amendment, taken from the North Dakota Century Code that prohibits state entities from partnering with an abortion provider or promoter. Watch the Senate floor debate here.

The issue of the amendment is simple – either NDSU chooses to continue its partnership with Planned Parenthood or NDSU drops its affiliation with the largest abortion provider in America and receives state funds for their student grant program.

The North Dakota House Appropriations Committee for Education is bringing the bill, which includes the aforementioned amendment, to the House floor for a vote. Advocates for the Safe Space (Sex Education) course claim the amendment is an afront of academic freedom. The North Dakota House members need to hear from YOU!

Take Action
Contact your House member and ask him or her to support SB 2030 as amended. Use this link to find out who represents you in the House or send a message to all House members. A suggested message and email addresses for the House are located below my signature line.

Pray
Pray that our legislators will vote to keep the bill amendment that would prohibit courses to be taught by Planned Parenthood staff at NDSU. Pray they do not cave to pressure from the abortion industry. Pray the light of truth illuminates into the darkness of abortion and that our state leaders will be a voice for life!

“This is the message which we have heard from Him and declares to you, that God is light and in Him is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth.” 1 John 1:5-7.

Linda Thorson
State Director

Sample emails message:
Dear Representative ____________,
Please vote yes on SB 2030, the higher education challenge matching grant program bill that includes the amendment which forbids state entities from partnering with an abortion provider or promoter.

Sincerely,
Your Name, Town

Mar 23 2021

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We Need Your Calls Again on the 10 Commandments and Pledge Bill!

By Linda Thorson | North Dakota | No Comments

“These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.” Deuteronomy 6:6-7

Because of your prayer and action, SB 2308, a bill relating to school board authority regarding the posting of the Ten Commandments and the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance (with immunity), passed through the North Dakota Senate last month. The House Judiciary Committee will hear the bill on Wednesday, March 24, 2021. They need to hear from you today!

The Ten Commandments hang in our North Dakota State Capitol and other buildings throughout the state. Students should not be prohibited from the same environment the public, lawgivers, and judges are granted.

Take Action!

Contact the 14 members of the House Judiciary Committee listed below my signature.
Ask them to support SB 2308. You can simply write in the subject line: “Please vote Do Pass on SB 2308”. There is a suggested email message provided below my signature line, or use your own message. If you are a member of Concerned Women for America of North Dakota, please be sure to let them know.
Forward this information to friends and family.

Pray for our leaders that they will have the courage, wisdom, and understanding to allow schools to post the Ten Commandments and to recite the Pledge of Allegiance with immunity.

Linda Thorson
State Director

Take this opportunity to be a voice for our children. Please contact the members of the committee individually or use the list of email addresses at the bottom and send one message to all. Note: All messages are counted, but individual messages are always best.

Suggested Message:
Dear Representative,
Please vote “Do Pass” on SB 2308 to allow schools to post the 10 Commandments and recitation of the pledge of allegiance with immunity.
Sincerely,
Your name, town

House Judiciary Committee Members

Chairman Lawrence Klemin (Republican – District 47) Email [email protected] |Cellphone 701 222-2577
Vice-Chairwoman Karen Karls (Republican – District 35) Email [email protected] or call 701-258-6336
Representative Rick Becker (Republican – District 7) Email [email protected] |Cellphone 701-527-6902
Representative Ruth Buffalo (Democrat – District 27) Email [email protected] |Cellphone 701-491-8175
Representative Cole Christensen (Republican – District 24) Email [email protected] |Cellphone
701-659-1776
Representative Claire Cory (Republican – District 42) Email [email protected] |Cellphone 701-213-6553
Representative Karla Rose Hanson (Democrat – District 44) Email [email protected] |Cellphone 701-793-9181
Representative Terry Jones (Republican – District 4) Email [email protected] |Cellphone 701- 627-3397
Representative Jeff Magrum (Republican – District 28) Email [email protected] |Cellphone 701-321-2224
Representative Bob Paulson (Republican – District 3) Email [email protected]| Cellphone 701-833-4752
Representative Gary Paur (Republican – District 19) Email | Cellphone 218-791-0491
Representative Shannon Roers Jones (Republican – District 46) Email[email protected]|Cellphone
701-630-6746
Representative Bernie Satrom (Republican – District 12) Email [email protected] |Cellphone 701-320-7239
Representative Steve Vetter (Republican – District 18) Email [email protected] |Cellphone 612-770-8689

Email address for House Judiciary Members: [email protected]; [email protected];
[email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected];
[email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected];[email protected]

Mar 20 2021

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Help Protect Free Speech Policies on College Campuses

By Linda Thorson | North Dakota | No Comments

You can make a difference by praying and acting on an important bill to protect faculty and students’ right to religious liberty and freedom of speech on college and university campuses in North Dakota.

Campuses across the nation have enacted policies that infringe on First Amendment rights. Concerned Women for America (CWA) of North Dakota supports HB 1503, which clarifies and ensures policies at public colleges and universities in North Dakota are constitutional. The bill also confirms an institution may not discriminate against any student organization and must provide all faith-based clubs with the same benefits afforded to other college organizations.

On Monday, March 22, I will testify on behalf of our CWA of North Dakota members in support of the bill and urge the Senate Education Committee members to give HB 1503 a “Do Pass” recommendation.

Please Take Action:
#1. Email or call the members of the Senate Education Committee listed below my signature line and ask them to vote a “Do Pass” on HB 1503. If you are a member of Concerned Women for America of North Dakota, please let them know. Do not hesitate to leave a message on their voicemail.

Suggested message:
Please vote “Do Pass” on HB 1503. Protect the First Amendment rights of free speech and religious liberty to all students and faculty on college campuses in ND.

Sincerely,
Your name and town

#2. Forward this email to family and friends! Every email message and every phone call are counted!

Please Pray:
Pray for our legislators on the Senate Education Committee by name that God would give them the wisdom and understanding to accomplish His purposes.

“Wisdom calls aloud outside; She raises her voice in the open squares. She cries out in the chief concourses, at the openings of the gates in the city She speaks her words.” Proverbs 1:20

Linda Thorson
State Director

Members of the Senate Education Committee:

Chairman Sen. Donald Schaible (Republican – District 31) Email[email protected] or call 701-824-3168
Vice-Chairman Jay Elkin (R – District 36) Email [email protected] | Cellphone 701-290-6583
Cole Conley (Republican – District 12) Email [email protected] | Cellphone 701-320-9460
Randy Lemm (Republican – District 20) Email [email protected] | Cellphone 701-430-1536
Erin Oban (Democrat – District 35) Email [email protected] | Cellphone 701-527-1642
Michael Wobbma (Republican – District 24) Email [email protected] | Cellphone 701-595-1579

Mar 20 2021

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CWA Applauds the North Dakota Legislature’s Clarification on the Equal Rights Amendment

By Linda Thorson | North Dakota | No Comments

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 20, 2021

FOR MORE INFORMATION
Linda Thorson (701) 331-9792

Concerned Women for America Applauds the North Dakota Legislature’s Clarification on the Equal Rights Amendment

Bismarck, North Dakota – The final step needed to pass SCR 4010, the Equal Rights Clarification Resolution, is done. The North Dakota House passed the resolution this week, which notifies the U.S. Congress, the Archivist of the United States, and the federal courts that when the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) expired on March 22, 1979, North Dakota’s ratification also lapsed.

The 67th North Dakota legislative body has declared that once the ERA expired, it ceased to exist. SCR 4010 does not rescind the Equal Rights Amendment; it clarifies that the deadline for ratification has long ago expired.

This resolution combats ERA proponents who ignore the facts of a deadline to promote not only a genderless agenda through the suppression of natural differences between men and women but also to encourage public funding of abortion.

Concerned Women for America of North Dakota state director, Linda Thorson, speaking for Concerned Women for America LAC, had this to say on the passage of SCR 4010:

“Abortion proponents (including the National Abortion and Reproductive Rights Action Leagues and Planned Parenthood) have long argued in court filings that state-level ERAs guarantee a right to abort children with public funding. For them, any attempt to restrict a woman’s access to abortion under the ERA is a form of sex discrimination as women could not be singled out for a characteristic that is unique to them and treated differently based on that physical characteristic, such as pregnancy.

“Women don’t need the ERA to flourish in America. The 14^th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution and multiple federal and state statutes guarantee women all the rights inherent to American citizens – equal employment, equal pay, education, credit eligibility, and more. Women are thriving and succeeding, and they are doing this without the assistance of the ERA.”

###
Concerned Women for America Legislative Action Committee (CWALAC) is the legislation and advocacy arm of Concerned Women for America. Concerned Women for America is the nation’s largest public policy women’s organization with a rich 40-year history of helping our members across the country bring Biblical principles into all levels of public policy.

Mar 17 2021

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Call Your Senator: Save Girls Sports Bill

By Linda Thorson | North Dakota | No Comments

We need your voice! HB 1298 passed out of the House last month and the bill is now in the Senate. HB 1298 was heard in the Senate Judiciary Committee members on Tuesday, March 16. I had the privilege of testifying on behalf of Concerned Women for America of North Dakota at the hearing. You can watch my testimony here. Click on my name to the right of the video (3:21:04 mark). No vote was taken on the bill.

The Bismark Tribune covered the hearing. Read the story and my comment here. CBS KXNet.com reported on the story here.

HB 1298, a bill that would provide a level playing field for female athletes. Read Concerned Women for America’s Protecting Women’s Sports CWA Fact Sheet for important information on this issue.

Please Take Action:
#1. Email or call the members of the Senate Judiciary Committee listed below my signature line and ask them to vote a “Do Pass” on HB 1298. If you are a member of Concerned Women for America of North Dakota, please let them know. Do not hesitate to leave a message on their voicemail.

Suggested message: Please vote “Do Pass” on HB 1298. Protect equal opportunity and a fair playing field for girls and women’s sports. Individual male-born athletes should not be eligible to participate on an athletic team that is exclusively for females.

Sincerely,
Your name and town

#2. Forward this email to family and friends! Every email message and every phone call are counted!

Please Pray: Pray for our legislators on the Senate Judiciary Committee by name that God would give them the wisdom and understanding to accomplish His purposes.

“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” Ephesians 6:12

Linda Thorson
State Director

Members of the Senate Education Committee:

Madam Chair Sen. Diane Larson (Republican-District 30) Email [email protected]|Cellphone 701-400-7218
Vice-Chairman Sen. Michael Dwyer (Republican-District 47) Email [email protected] | Cellphone 701-400-6075
Sen. JoNell Bakke (Democrat- District 43) Email [email protected] | Cellphone 218-779-3961
Sen. Robert Fors (Republican-District 19) Email [email protected] | Cellphone 218-779-0580
Sen. Jason Heitkamp (Republican-District 26) Email [email protected] | Cellphone 701-640-4643
Sen. Larry Luick (Republican-District 25) Email [email protected] or call 701-474-5959
Sen. Janne Myrdal (Republican – District 10) Email [email protected] |Cellphone 701-331-0946

Mar 09 2021

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Calls Needed on Equal Rights Clarification Resolution!

By Linda Thorson | North Dakota | No Comments

Concerned Women for America of North Dakota stands in favor of SCR 4010, the Equal Rights Clarification Resolution, which clarifies that the proposed 1972 Equal Rights Amendment to the Constitution of the United States was only valid through March 22, 1979, and should not be counted by lawmakers, or any other person, as a live ratification.

SCR 4010 passed the State Senate and will be heard this Thursday, March 11, in the House Government and Veterans Affairs Committee. We are told there will be a lot of opposition to this good clarification resolution from those who support removing any restrictions on abortion, including parental consent! The House Government and Veterans Affairs Committee members need to hear from you.

Take Action!

Contact the 14 members of the House Government and Veterans Affairs Committee and ask them to support the resolution. The committee members are listed below my signature. You can simply write “Please vote, ‘Do Pass’ on SCR 4010” in the email subject line or use the message provided below my signature line.
If you are a member of Concerned Women for America of North Dakota, please be sure to let them know.
Forward this information to friends and family.

Concerned Women for America, Founder, and former Chairman of the Board of Directors, Beverly LaHaye, one of the most important pioneers of the conservative feminist movement, founded CWA in 1979 because she believed that women needed voices in the public sphere that represented their beliefs and values. It was the 1975 Equal Rights Amendment that gave Mrs. LaHaye motivation to begin the mission of CWA, as it remains today, protects and promotes Biblical values and Constitutional principles through prayer, education, and advocacy.

Thank God for the ways He chooses to use our lives and our voices for His glory, to protect and promote His ways. Thank God for Mrs. LaHaye and her obedience to lead others to promote Biblical values in our culture. Use your voice today and ask the committee to support the resolution.

“For if you remain completely silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father’s house will perish. Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” – Esther 4:14

Linda Thorson
State Director

Sample email or phone message:
Dear Rep. ______,

Please give the Equal Rights Clarification Resolution, SCR 4010, a “Do Pass” recommendation. The deadline for ratification expired long ago. The ERA is a poorly worded resolution and could be used to mandate Medicaid funding for abortions and end conscience clauses for nurses, doctors, and hospitals who do not want to participate in performing abortions.

Sincerely,
Your Name, Town

Contact the members of the Government and Veteran’s Affairs Committee:
• Chairman, Rep. Jim Kasper (Republican – District 46) [email protected] or Cellphone 701-799-9000
• Vice-Chairman, Rep. Ben Koppelman (Republican – District 16) [email protected] or Cellphone 701-491-0665
• Rep. Pamela Anderson (Democrat – District 41) [email protected] or Cellphone
• 701-306-3362
• Rep. Jeff Hoverson (Republican – District 3) [email protected] or Cellphone: 701-340-8237
• Rep. Karen Karls (Republican – District 35) [email protected] or call 701-258-6836
• Rep. Scott Louser (Republican – District 5) [email protected] or Cellphone 701-833-8489
• Rep. Jeffery Magrum (Republican – District 28) [email protected] or Cellphone 701-321-2224
• Rep. Mitch Ostlie (Republican – District 12) [email protected] or Cellphone 701-320-8822
• Rep. Karen Rohr (Republican – District 31) [email protected] or Cellphone 701-202-1956
• Rep. Austin Schauer (Republican – District 13) [email protected] or Cellphone 701-730-4474
• Rep. Mary Schneider (Democrat – District 21) [email protected] or Cellphone 701-306-0860
• Rep. Vicki Steiner (Republican – District 37) [email protected] or Cellphone 701-290-1376
• Rep. Greg Stemen (Republican – District 27) [email protected] or Cellphone 507-828-7836
• Rep. Steve Vetter (Republican – District 18) [email protected] or Cellphone 612-770-8689

Mar 03 2021

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State Director Interviewed on ERA Resolution

By Linda Thorson | North Dakota | No Comments

Concerned Women for America of North Dakota State Director Linda Thorson was recently interviewed by a local CBS station regarding SCR 4010, the Equal Rights Clarification Resolution, which clarifies that the proposed 1972 Amendment to the Constitution of the United States was only valid through March 22, 1979, and should not be counted by lawmakers, or any other person as a live ratification.

Watch the interview here.

Feb 18 2021

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Action Needed! Equal Rights Amendment Resolution

By Linda Thorson | North Dakota | No Comments

First, I want to thank you for the calls, emails, and prayers on HB 1415, the physician-assisted suicide bill that I emailed you about earlier this week. This was a dangerous bill, but because of your voice, the bill was voted down by an overwhelming majority!

We need your voice again! SCR 4010, the Equal Rights Clarification Resolution, clarifies that the proposed 1972 Amendment to the Constitution of the United States was only valid through March 22, 1979, and should not be counted by lawmakers, or any other person as a live ratification. SCR 4010 could be voted on by the Senate as early as tomorrow, Friday, February 19. Concerned Women for America of North Dakota stands in favor of SCR 4010 and urges the senators to support the resolution.

On Friday, February 5, 2021, CWA of North Dakota submitted written testimony and gave oral testimony (beginning at 10:31:42) to support SCR 4010. The resolution passed out of committee and now heads to the full Senate for a vote. In my testimony, I stated, “Women don’t need the ERA to flourish in America. The 14^th Amendment to the Constitution and multiple federal and state statutes guarantee women all the rights inherent to American citizens – equal employment, equal pay, education, credit eligibility, etc. Women are thriving and succeeding, and they are doing this without the assistance of ERA.”

Take Action!
Send a message to your state senator, and ask him or her to vote “Yes” on SCR 4010. You can find the name and contact information of your senator here. Enter your house number, zip code, and press Search. Click on the name of your senator to see their email address. Use the suggested message below my signature line or simply write, “Please support SCR 4010.”

Please Pray:
Father, thank you for the men and women who represent us as lawmakers in the North Dakota legislature. Provide each with the wisdom, strength, and discernment to know that Your ways will be honored and Your Name is glorified across our land!

“To do what is right and just is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice.” Proverbs 21:32

Linda Thorson
State Director

Suggested email message:

Dear Senator,

Please give SCR 4010 a “Do Pass” recommendation. The deadline for ratification of the ERA expired over 40 years ago. The ERA is a poorly worded amendment and could be used to mandate Medicaid funding for abortions and end conscience clauses for nurses, doctors, and hospitals who do not want to participate in performing abortions.

Sincerely,
Your Name, Town

Feb 14 2021

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Action Needed NOW on Physician-Assisted Suicide Bill

By Linda Thorson | North Dakota | No Comments

Happy Valentine’s Day! God’s love never fails us, does it? Take this opportunity to demonstrate God’s love for all; be a voice calling for the protection of life!

On Monday, February 15, HB 1415, the Physician-Assisted Suicide bill, will be voted on by the full House. E-mails and phone calls to the North Dakota state House members are critical to stopping this bill.

Concerned Women for America of North Dakota gave written testimony and testified before the House Human Services Committee in opposition to HB 1415. You responded to my e-alert and made calls and sent e-mails to the committee members. They heard you and gave the bill a “Do Not Pass” recommendation!

Please Take Action:
#1: E-mail your two Representatives and ask them to vote “No” on HB 1415. You may find the name and contact information for your Representatives here or send an e-mail message to every member of the House. E-mail addresses for all House Members are listed below my signature line.

Suggested message:
Please vote “No” on HB 1415. Physician-assisted suicide devalues human life. There is no “death with dignity” when a person is helped to end their own life.

Sincerely,
Your name and town

#2: Forward this e-mail to family and friends! Every e-mail message and every phone call are counted!

Please Pray: This season of our lives is so challenging, and God knew we would need these words of encouragement: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:9

Linda Thorson
State Director

Feb 10 2021

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North Dakota: Calls Needed BEFORE 1:00 p.m. to Help Protect Female Sports!

By Linda Thorson | North Dakota | No Comments

HB 1298, a bill that would provide a level playing field for female athletes, will be heard on the House floor this afternoon, Wednesday, February 10. It is especially important that you contact your two state representatives by 1:00 p.m. today and urge them to vote “Yes” on HB 1298. Fair competition and equality in women’s sports are being threatened, and this legislation will combat that. Individual male born athletes should not be eligible to participate on an athletic team that is exclusively for females.

HB 1298 received a “Do Pass” recommendation from the House Human Services Committee in January. You may read or watch (start at the 3:10 mark) my testimony before the committee.

Read Concerned Women for America’s Protecting Women’s Sports CWA Fact Sheet for additional information on this issue.

Take Action!

Contact your House members today and urge them to support HB 1298. If you do not know who your state house members are, click here. Enter your house number, zip code, and press Search. Click on the name of your representatives to see their email address. Send an email message, “Please vote in favor of HB 1298.” Also, if you are a member of CWA of North Dakota, be sure to let them know.
Please forward this on to family and friends!

Pray! Be encouraged! We have so much to be grateful for. Thank God for all those He has placed in authority. Thank Him for His beautiful creation.

“So, God created man in His own image; in the image of God, He created him; male and female He created them.” – Genesis 1:27

Linda Thorson
State Director
CWA of North Dakota
For Concerned Women for America LAC

Feb 02 2021

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Update! Your Voice Needed: Ten Commandments/Pledge of Allegiance

By Linda Thorson | North Dakota | No Comments

Update on the bill:

Thank you to everyone who took the time to pray and send messages on SB 2308, the bill that enables school boards to allow the posting of the Ten Commandments and the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance with immunity from liability. Read the original alert below.

Great News! The Senate Judiciary Committee gave SB2308 a “Do Pass” recommendation, and the bill then passed the full Senate with a vote of 36 to 11. You can watch the debate on the Senate floor here (beginning at the 1:25:54 minute).

Concerned Women for America of North Dakota will keep you posted as the Ten Commandments and Pledge of Allegiance Recitation bill goes next to a House Committee for a vote!

Please Pray: Pray for our leaders and thank God that the majority had the courage, wisdom, and understanding to allow schools to post the Ten Commandments and to recite the Pledge of Allegiance with immunity.

Action: Send a thank you message to the 34 senators who voted in favor of the bill! A suggested message and their email addresses are below my signature.

“Therefore, I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.” – I Timothy 1: 1-4

Linda Thorson
State Director

Suggested Message:
Dear Senator,
Thank you for voting “Yes” on SB 2308 to allow schools to post the Ten Commandments and for schools to allow the Pledge to be recited with immunity.

Sincerely,
Your name, town

Here are the 34 senators to thank!

Orginal alert

You can make a difference in North Dakota by praying and acting on an important education bill, SB 2308. The bill provides schools immunity from liability for damages resulting from the decision to:

Permit students to recite the Pledge of Allegiance.
Post a copy of the Ten Commandments in the school and the classroom.

Today, Tuesday, February 2, 2021, the Senate Judiciary Committee heard testimony and gave the bill a “Do Pass” recommendation! Click here to watch the Senate Judiciary Committee hearing (begins at 8:59:27).

SB 2308 will be heard on the floor of the Senate soon! Please pray and Act today!

Please Take Action:
#1 Email members of the North Dakota Senate listed below my signature line and ask them to vote “Yes” on SB 2308. If you are a member of Concerned Women for America of North Dakota, please let them know. Do it today!

Suggested message:

Dear Senator,

Please vote “Yes on SB 2308.” The Pledge of Allegiance is a necessary part of American tradition, and recitation should be encouraged in our classrooms. Schools should be able to display the Ten Commandments. There is no better moral code to guide student behavior.

Sincerely,
Your name and town

#2 Forward this email to family and friends! Every email message is counted!

Please Pray: Pray for our state senators, that God would give them courage, wisdom, and understanding to accomplish His purposes.

“But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law he meditates day and night.” Psalms 1:2

Linda Thorson
State Director

North Dakota State Senators:

Jan 30 2021

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Calls Needed to Oppose Physician-Assisted Suicide

By Linda Thorson | North Dakota | No Comments

You can make a difference in North Dakota by praying and acting on an important bill concerning life and death – HB 1415, relating to physician-assisted suicide. Though there are many sound academic reasons to oppose physician-assisted suicide, Concerned Women for America of North Dakota believes the most important reason is that God, and God alone, is the author of life. We cannot take on the role of God and take life based on our inconsistent judgment.

This Monday, February 1, I will testify in front of the House Human Services Committee in opposition to the bill. I will urge the committee members to give HB 1415 a “Do Not Pass” recommendation. I covet your prayers. The committee will vote on the bill at a later date.

Please Take Action:

#1. Email or call the House Human Services Committee members listed below my signature line and ask them to vote a “Do Not Pass” on HB 1415. If you are a member of Concerned Women for America of North Dakota, please let them know. Do not hesitate to leave a message on their voicemail.

Suggested message:
Please vote “Do Not Pass” on HB 1415. Physician-assisted suicide devalues human life. There is no “death with dignity” when a person is helped to end their own life.

Sincerely,
Your name and town

#2. Forward this information to family and friends! Every email message and every phone call are counted!

Please Pray: Pray for our legislators on the House Education Committee by name, that God would give them the wisdom and understanding to accomplish His purposes.

“Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in Your book before one of them came to be.” Psalm 139:16
Linda Thorson
State Director

Jan 28 2021

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State Director Testifies in Favor of Save Girls Sports Bill

By Linda Thorson | North Dakota | No Comments

Concerned Women for America of North Dakota, Linda Thorson, testified before the House Human Services Committee in support of HB1298, a bill that seeks to protect fair competition and equality in women’s sports that is now under threat.

Read my testimony.

Watch my committee testimony (start at 3:10 mark).

Jan 22 2021

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Voice Your Support for Fair Competition and Equality in Women’s Sports

By Linda Thorson | North Dakota | No Comments

You can make a difference in North Dakota by praying and acting on important bills being considered during the 2021 North Dakota legislative session. HB1298, relating to participation in athletic events exclusively for males or females, is one such bill. As the Director of the state’s largest public policy woman’s organization, the testimony I will be giving next week before the House Human Services Committee addresses the issue’s impact on girls’ and women’s sports. Fair competition and equality in women’s sports are being threatened, and this legislation will combat that.

Read Concerned Women for America’s Protecting Women’s Sports CWA Fact Sheet for important information on this issue.

This Monday, January 25, I will testify in favor of the bill and urge the committee members to give HB1298 a due-pass recommendation. I covet your prayers. The Human Services Committee will vote on the bill at a later date.

Please Take Action:

#1 – Email or call the members of the House Human Services Committee listed below my signature line and ask them to vote a “Do Pass” on HB1298. If you are a member of Concerned Women for America of North Dakota, please let them know. Do not hesitate to leave a message on their voicemail.

Suggested message:
Please vote “Do Pass” on HB 1298. Individual male born athletes should not be eligible to participate on an athletic team that is exclusively for females. Protect equal opportunity and a fair playing field for girls and women given under Title IX.

Sincerely,
Your name and town

#2 – Forward this information to family and friends! Every email message and every phone call are counted!

Please Pray: Pray for our legislators on the House Human Services Committee by name, that God would give them the wisdom and understanding to accomplish His purposes.

“Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.” – James 3:13

Linda Thorson
State Director

Members of the House Human Services Committee:

Chairman Rep. Robin Weisz (Republican- District 14) [email protected] or call 701-962-3799
Vice-Chairman Rep. Karen Rohn (Republican – District 31) [email protected] or cell phone 701-202-1956
Rep. Mike Beltz (Republican – District 20) [email protected] or Cellphone 701-430-1209
Rep. Chuck Damschen (Republican – District 10) [email protected] or cell phone 701-370-1758
Rep. Bill Devlin (Republican – District 23) [email protected] or call 701-524-2303
Rep. Gretchen Dobervich (Democrat – District 11) [email protected] or cell phone 701-361-5627
Rep. Clayton Fegley (Republican – District 4) cfeg[email protected] or cell phone 701-263-1442
Rep. Dwight Kiefert (Republican – District 24) [email protected] or cell phone 701-490-0443
Rep. Todd Porter (Republican – District 34) [email protected] or call 701-255-0812
Rep. Matthew Ruby (Republican – District 40) [email protected] or cell phone 701-509-8149
Rep. Mary Schneider (Democrat – District 21) [email protected] or cell phone 701-306-0860
Rep. Kathy Skroch (Republican – District 26) [email protected] or call 701-538-7396
Rep. Bill Tveit (Republican – District 33) [email protected] or cell phone 701-870-4014
Rep. Greg Westlind (Republican – District 15) [email protected] or cell phone 701-739-8275

Nov 29 2020

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CWA of North Dakota Prayer Project Opportunity

By Linda Thorson | North Dakota | No Comments

Wow! What a year this has been. It has been a year like we have never experienced in our lifetime – the coronavirus and its restrictions, lawlessness in our streets, and questions of election integrity.

Now is not the time to grow weary. Isaiah 54:17 promises us that no weapon forged against us will prevail. Prayer opens the keys to Kingdom power and is one of the most powerful weapons God has given us.

So, are you ready to pray?! I am looking for volunteers for Concerned Women for America (CWA) of North Dakota’s Encourage-A-Legislator (EAL) program for North Dakota’s 2021 legislative session, which begins January 5.

If you are new to CWA, EAL is a program of encouragement and prayer for our North Dakota legislators while the Legislative Assembly is in session. This year we have expanded the program to include members of the Executive Branch (Governor, Lieutenant Governor, State Auditor, State Treasurer, etc.)! The program involves sending a postcard every week for six weeks and praying daily for your assigned individual. Click here to review the EAL brochure, which further explains the program.

A special note from CWA of North Dakota’s EAL Coordinator, Karen Anderson, who oversees the EAL program: “I am honored to oversee this program again this session. We have received wonderful feedback from legislators. Many have responded to your prayers and encouraging postcards over the years with words of appreciation. Your efforts encourage and build bridges. We hear back from both conservative legislators as well as those who do not typically agree with CWA. As a part of this effort, I know you, too, will be energized and blessed!”

Are you interested? Now more than ever, our leaders need our prayers and encouragement.

Prayer moves the hand of God in the affairs of this nation! In fact, we are commanded to pray for those in authority: “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made for all people – for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good and pleases God our Savior …” (1 Timothy 2:1-2)

We are looking for your commitment today! Please reply to me by phone (701-331-9792) or email ([email protected]). Be sure to specify the number of legislators you would like to adopt, along with you your name, physical address, and email address. You will receive your postcards and instructions in early January, just prior to the opening of the 2021 North Dakota legislative session.

Linda Thorson
State Director

Apr 15 2020

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North Dakota: Introducing CWA’s Constitution 101 Class!

By Linda Thorson | North Dakota | No Comments

“Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn’t pass it on to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same, or one day we will spend our sunset years telling our children and our children’s children what it was once like in the United States where men were free.” – Ronald Reagan.

While many of us are staying home and/or homeschooling, Concerned Women for America (CWA) is providing a great learning opportunity for teens, pre-teens, and adults. CWA’s General Counsel, Mario Diaz, Esq., has created an educational and entertaining series on the U.S. Constitution.

Mario takes us on a journey to understand America’s founding documents and the principles which guard our liberty. Part I focuses on the Declaration of Independence by way of an introduction to the concepts that undergird the U.S. Constitution.

View Part 1 of this free 30-minute class here. Part II of the series is scheduled for release on April 22 at 3:00 p.m. EST via Facebook Live. So be sure to follow us on CWA’s Facebook page for notifications to join us live!

If you cannot join the Facebook Live, the archive will be posted on the CWA website.

Linda Thorson
State Director

Feb 21 2020

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Coffee Talk Event in Cavalier – A Great Success!

By Linda Thorson | North Dakota | No Comments

We all had a great time at the Coffee Talk event in Cavalier! Sixteen women came out in sub-zero temperatures on February 18, to learn about the ministry and mission of Concerned Women for America (CWA) of North Dakota. It was a blessing to gather with the body of Christ to fellowship and encourage one another in the Lord!

A special thanks to the area’s Prayer/Action Chapter Leader, Linda Werven, for organizing the event!

Young mothers, a newly married woman, and others of all ages gathered to encourage one another and learn ways the nation’s largest public policy women’s organization, CWA, works to protect and promote Biblical values and Constitutional principles through prayer, education, and advocacy on a local, state, and national level.

As conservative Christian women, we discussed current issues and the ways we can increase our influence in today’s culture from Penny Young Nance’s book Feisty and Feminine, A Rallying Cry for Conservative Women. Everyone was given a book as a gift from CWA of North Dakota. We talked about many of the topics in the book such as the devaluation of women, the marriage debate, women in the workplace, the impact of local chapters, and more. We were inspired by Nance’s view of the Proverbs 31 woman, “I think, though, that the key to the Proverbs 31 woman is found in the end of the passage: ‘A woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.’”

Thank God for the voices of Christian women today. “Wisdom calls aloud in the street, she raises her voice in the public squares; at the head of the noisy streets she cries out, in the gateways of the city she makes her speech.” Proverbs 1:20,21

Will you join their voices and stand up to defend Biblical values and constitutional principles through prayer, education, and advocacy? Please contact me if you would like more information on hosting a Coffee Talk in your area!

In His service,

Linda Thorson
State Director

North Dakota

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