May 05, 1997 (20:34)

Dear Representative Sabo,

I have called and written to you about many issues of peace and justice, all affecting other peoples lives more directly than my own. Now I am asking a very personal favor: please join the cosponsors of the Peace Tax Fund Bill, a law which would allow us to pay 100% of our taxes in good conscience.

For many years now (I am now 60 years old) I have realized the devastation war wreaks on the lives of people all over the world, wars supported and paid for by U.S. dollars. I believe that Jesus preached a gospel of nonviolence and that to be a Christian means never (for any reason whatsoever) can we take another life.

It follows, of course, that we can't pay someone else to kill other people either. Since over 50% of our Federal tax money goes to pay for wars: past, present, and future, I cannot in good conscience pay Federal taxes.

The IRS "stole" money from me when I refused to pay it willingly, adding penalties and interest. Finally a law was passed making foster parent payments nontaxable, and so, as a foster parent, I am able to survive and live in good conscience. But I am no longer able to teach (I have a Master's degree in Education and about 20 years teaching experience) nor work at any other type of job because of the system of taxation which requires everyone to pay for U.S. involvement in violent oppression and repression in third world countries.

If the Peace Tax Fund were implemented, it would allow conscientious objectors like myself to have the military portion of their income, estate, and gift taxes directed towards peace-enhancing services like education, public health, and research in non-violent conflict resolution.

I watch your voting record carefully,and am politically involved (attend caucuses, act as delegate, vote). Sometimes I am disappointed in your perceived need to compromise in sending only a "few" million dollars to support war efforts, but am generally pleased with your voting record.

I am interested in your evaluation of this most needed legislation and eagerly wait your reply.

Sincerely,

Judith Felker