Attorney named CLC director of public policy

AUSTIN—Austin attorney Kathryn Freeman has been named director of public policy for the Christian Life Commission of the Baptist General Convention of Texas.

Freeman, a member of David Chapel Missionary Baptist Church in Austin, will lead the CLC’s efforts related to government and legislation.

Kathryn FreemanShe earned her undergraduate degree from Texas A&M University and her law degree from the University of Texas School of Law. She formerly served as attorney for Texas Appleseed and policy coordinator for the Institute of Urban Policy.

CLC Director Gus Reyes expressed confidence Freeman will be a great addition to the commission.

“Kathryn brings the CLC a skillset that enhances our capacity to establish connections between legislative efforts, pastors and church members,” he said.

In her new role, Freeman wants to educate Texas Baptist churches on the importance of governmental awareness and involvement.

“I would really like to contribute to a better understanding of the way public policy affects our lives and why your church, or you as a Texas Baptist, should really engage in what the Christian Life Commission is doing,” she said.

Freeman also wants to enlighten churches about the collaboration that can take place with the government on often-overlooked community issues, such as child poverty, hunger and human trafficking.

“For Texas Baptists, or Christians in general, if there’s an issue that you care about and if we take God’s command to care for the widows and orphans seriously, the government does have a role to play in providing that care,” she said.

Freeman also hopes to see Texas Baptists advocate for their communities with local officials. She wants to put a structure in place that will help churches engage more effectively with elected officials and policy makers about issues that are important to Texas Baptists and their communities.