Advocacy in Action: Responding to St. Julie’s Call
July 8, 2026
St. Julie Billiart devoted her life to those on the margins. The Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur of Notre Dame de Namur continue that work today.
In a world where human dignity is under constant threat, the Sisters of the U.S. East-West Province remain committed to justice and peace. Through prayer, direct action, legislative visits, advocacy campaigns, statements and public witness, they live their mission in concrete, tangible ways.
Standing Against Human Trafficking
On National Human Trafficking Awareness Day, January 11, 2026, over a dozen Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur joined the Anti-Trafficking Coalition of Boston’s annual vigil at the Motherhouse of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Boston.
Guest speaker Edith Ayuso of the Attorney General’s Office, Division of Victim Assistance, reminded participants that human trafficking—the buying and selling of men, women and children—remains an urgent reality in our cities and communities today. Representatives from the FBI, connected to the Coalition through Bakhita House, were also in attendance.
The Sisters came prepared to contribute. The Ipswich, Massachusetts, community donated handmade hats and cards of encouragement, crafted by Sister Trish O’Rourke, SNDdeN, for the Coalition’s “Bags of Love” project. These bags, filled with toiletries, gift cards and other essentials, are given directly to women upon rescue to help meet their immediate needs. Ayuso expressed sincere appreciation for the Sisters’ ongoing support of trafficking survivors in the Boston area.
A Public Witness for Peace
Sisters across the country gather regularly to give public witness to their Gospel values. At the end of March, Sisters, Associates, staff and co-workers gathered to advocate, adding their voices to those of Pope Leo XIV and people around the world calling for peace and justice. Sisters stood on the streets with signs of support for immigrants and prayers for peace. Not deterred by physical limitations, Sisters in cars covered with messages of advocacy looped the rally routes, ensuring everyone’s participation.
Justice and peace advocacy is the ongoing work of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur. The Sisters remain present, active and committed to the belief that every human life matters and every act of justice counts.
