Whereas, sexism deprives the Church and society of the opportunity to use the skills and talents which women have; and
Whereas, the study showing the pervasiveness of sexual harassment throughout The United Methodist Church raised many concerns about changing this trend; and
Whereas, the recent Judicial Council decision ruling against the mandatory inclusion of women at all levels of the Church seems to be a sign that women are losing ground; and
Whereas, sexism, when not monitored, continues to rear its ugly head and deny the majority of women in The United Methodist Church the opportunity to participate fully and equally in all areas of the Church;
Therefore, be it resolved, that the General Conference affirm the work and the necessity for the continuance of the General Commission on the Status and Role of Women and of the annual conference Commissions on the Status and Role of Women; and
Be it further resolved, that each annual conference commission be given the financial backing to pursue projects which are aimed at educating the members of the local churches about the issues of sexism and at sponsoring the leadership events which enable the annual conference commission members to be better advocates for all who seek equity and inclusiveness; and
Be it further resolved, that the General Conference make it mandatory for each annual conference, United Methodist seminary, and all United Methodist-related institutions to have policies on sexual harassment in force by January 1997; and
Be it further resolved, that Black Methodist For Church Renewal supports the General Commission on the Status and Role of Women as the advocacy and monitoring agency of women's issues in The United Methodist Church.
General Conference Webmaster: Susan Brumbaugh
PETS Creator: John Brawn
Petition Text: 22030-IC-NonDis-O
1996 United Methodist General Conference