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The final texts of the responsive resolutions adopted by the UUA General Assembly during the final plenary session June 28 are now online:
- Responsive Resolutions on Inclusion: Two resolutions introduced by members of Allies for Racial Equity endorsed the “Inclusion” section of the Commission on Appraisal’s proposed revision of Article II (the “Principles and Purposes”), after delegates had earlier rejected the revision as a whole. The first resolution, jointly introduced by the Youth Caucus, urged the Board of Trustees to reintroduce the Inclusion section as an amendment to Article II as soon as feasible. The Inclusion section would replace the current “Non-Discrimination” section. The second resolution called on delegates to embrace the covenant in the proposed Inclusion section individually and in their congregations. Here’s the text of the proposed Inclusion section:
Section C-2.4 Inclusion.
Systems of power, privilege, and oppression have traditionally created barriers for persons and groups with particular identities, ages, abilities, and histories. We pledge to do all we can to replace such barriers with ever-widening circles of solidarity and mutual respect. We strive to be an association of congregations that truly welcome all persons and commit to structuring congregational and associational life in ways that empower and enhance everyone’s participation.
- Responsive Resolution on Article II: This resolution “strongly urges” the Board “to facilitate a continuation and further deepening of the discussion of the Principles and Purposes begun by the review conducted by the UUA Commission on Appraisal . . . throughout all levels of the Association, at least until such time as further revisions to Article II may be presented to a General Assembly.”
- Responsive Resolution on Article XV: This resolution grew out of frustration with the rules governing the General Assembly’s consideration of the Commission on Appraisal’s proposed revision of Article II and asks the Board to review Article XV, which governs the process for amending Article II.
Responsive Resolution on Barriers to Inclusion in Outreach to African UU and Other Progressive Religious Congregations, which addressed the inequitable way that U.S. visas were handled for UU men and women from Africa. UU women from Kenya applied for but were denied visas to attend the International Convocation of UU Women in Texas earlier this year, but UU men from three other African countries were granted visas to attend the General Assembly. The resolution asks the UUA staff to seek an explanation from the State Department or other appropriate agency.