More Information on Conscientious Objection and the Military

CCW's Aguayo Amicus Brief

GAO Report on Conscientious Objectors

CCW's Analysis of the GAO Report

DOD Instruction on Conscientious Objection

Army Regulation on Conscientious Objection

Marine Corps Order on Conscientious Objection

Navy Manual on Conscientious Objection

Air Force Instruction on Conscientious Objection

Coast Guard Instruction on Conscientious Objection

In early 2008, the Center on Conscience & War (CCW) gathered together supporters of the MCOA to decide how to move forward to protect the fundamental freedom of conscientious objection for those in our armed forces.  After careful discussion and reflection on past lobbying campaigns it was decided that CCW needed a new approach.  This new approach would highlight not only the fact that the current policy for discharging or reassigning conscientious objectors can be suspended (it is not written into law), but that the policy blatantly fails to protect the religious freedom of the majority by not allowing for selective conscientious objection.   Selective conscientious objection is supported by the overwhelming majority of faith perspectives (think “Just-War Tradition”) as well as non-religious individuals.  Through leveraging this particular measure of the MCOA it is our belief that we can both awaken the conscience of both places of worship and members of Congress. 

The success of this measure depends on a focused and sustained effort by not only the Center on Conscience & War, but also by our supporters.  We have developed this webpage to provide you with all the necessary information and knowledge to ensure a successful lobbying visit with your Representative.  Please do not hesitate to contact CCW with any questions you may have in regards to our lobbying efforts and thank you for supporting the Military Conscientious Objector Act.

Understanding the Military Conscientious Objector Act:
A Grassroots Lobbying Packet

Your Visit to Capitol Hill