FAQs

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GENERAL

What is the Ignatian Family Teach-In (IFTJ)?
The Ignatian Family Teach-In for Justice is an annual gathering for members of the Ignatian family (Jesuit institutions and larger church) to come together in the context of social justice and solidarity to learn, reflect, pray, network, and advocate together.  We gather each year in the spirit of the Jesuit martyrs of El Salvador, using their lives and ministry as inspiration for discovering the injustices of today and how we might engage in them.  The Teach-In is a place where people are empowered, re-energized, inspired, challenged, and supported by a community that sees faith and justice intregally linked.

How are speakers chosen for the IFTJ?
The Teach-In is a space for prophetic voices for solidarity with the economically poor, the marginalized, and the Earth who have an openness to an Ignatian approach to faith and justice.  In those we invite to be with us and in those who come to participate we embrace words that challenge individuals and institutions to be agents for justice and solidarity in ways that may cause us to feel uncomfortable in the context of dialogue and mutual respect. Within this context, speakers are chosen by a IFTJ Steering Committee composed of staff, members, and volunteers connected to Jesuit universities, high schools, parishes, and other Jesuit ministries.

Will you have the IFTJ streaming online?
Yes, you will be able to view some portions of the IFTJ live on our website.

When is the IFTJ?
November 16-18, 2012

Where is the IFTJ?
Hyatt Regency Crystal City in Crystal City, VA (just outside of Washington D.C.)

Is there assigned seating?
No-seating is first come, first served

I saw something called “networking sessions” on the schedule. What are those?
Networking sessions will give IFTJ participants the opportunity to get to know other participants in a smaller setting. The second networking session will be issue focused and will allow participants to connect around the work they are doing and form connections for future collaboration.

Will there be an advocacy day included in this year’s Teach-In?
Due to the Congressional schedule, there will not be an advocacy day directly following the Ignatian Family Teach-In in Washington DC. There will, however, be a network-wide advocacy effort called Ignatian Family Advocacy Month in February 2013. IFTJ participants will undergo advocacy trainings in preparation for In-district legislative visits in February.

GETTING INVOLVED

How can my students and/or I get involved in the Teach-In?

There will be multiple opportunities for students and staff to get involved with the Teach-In throughout the weekend.

 

PRICING

How much does it cost to attend?
Prices range from $30-$65 and cover all materials and entry to IFTJ events throughout the weekend. Please see the pricing page for more details.

What is a “Member Institution?”
ISN membership is open to institutions and individuals who share in ISN’s mission to promote and advance social justice and advocacy efforts of the Ignatian family. As a member of the ISN, you can connect, strengthen, and broaden your communication with Jesuit affiliated schools, parishes, ministries, and organizations in order to enhance your efforts to live and act upon “a faith that does justice.” Click here to learn more about becoming a member.
*Please note, member institutions receive registration discounts for the IFTJ 2012.

What does the registration fee include?
The registration fees cover all materials and entry to IFTJ events throughout the weekend. Please note that registration fees do not cover meals, but there are many affordable meal options within walking distance of the Hyatt Regency Crystal City.

REGISTRATION

How do I register for the IFTJ?
Registration will become available in early April 2012.

CANCELLATION POLICY

What is your cancellation policy?
Ignatian Solidarity Network will provide a full registration refund if cancellations occur prior to 10/20/12.Cancellations made after this date will not receive a refund. Please note that ISN prepares materials and IFTJ arrangements according to the number of participants registered.

TRAVEL & TRANSPORTATION

I’m travelling to Washington DC for the IFTJ. Where should I stay?
The IFTJ will take place at the Hyatt Regency Crystal City, and ISN has contracted special room rates for our IFTJ participants. To book your hotel room, please visit the Travel & Hotel page. Hotel rooms must be booked by October 18, 2012.

I heard the Hyatt Regency Crystal City is included in an international boycott of Hyatt hotels. How has Ignatian Solidarity Network responded to is?

Ignatian Solidarity Network has taken multiple steps to engage the issue. Please see ISN’s official statement and resources regarding the boycott here.

What are the closest airports to the IFTJ?
The closest airport is Reagan National Airport (less than 5 minutes from the hotel), and IFTJ participants can catch a free shuttle to the IFTJ from the airport. BWI and Dulles International airports typically offer more economical flight prices, but please note that public transportation travel time to/from the airport will be approximately 2 hours and cost an additional $10-15 each way.

Will there be free transportation to/from the hotel?
The Hyatt Regency offers a free shuttle to/from the Reagan National Airport and Crystal City Metro Stop. Shuttles arrive every 15-20 minutes.

Will parking be available?
Yes, parking will be available cars and vans at the Hyatt Regency for the discounted rate of $12.50/day.