How to Pass a Congregational Resolution
- Identify the goal of the
resolution. The first step is
developing a clear intention and “pitch,” including:
- What precisely is the resolution on, i.e. is it a broad statement of concern or about a specific piece of legislation?
- What goal does it serve, such as influencing the position of elected officials, building coalitions, etc.
- How will it be used, e.g. with
the media, as part of a national campaign.
- Depending on the end goal, decide
whether or not a resolution is the best way to get there. For Freedom to Marry
campaigns, for example, there may be a few goals, including getting Members of
Congress (or local elected officials) to oppose the Federal Marriage Amendment,
and/or shaping public opinion in the community. A concern is that passing a
congregational resolution can sometimes be so time-consuming that there's isn't
much time and energy left for the "real" work (such as organizing lobbying
visits).
Consult with individuals from communities most affected by the issue both in and outside the congregation such as such as people of color, GLBT (gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender), low-income folks, youth and others. By doing so, accountability is created and relationships are built and strengthened.
- Talk to the minister, social
action chair, congregational president, and board members to:
- Find out the procedures by which the congregation considers a
resolution.
- Find out the procedures by which the congregation considers a
resolution.
- Gain ministerial and congregational leadership support that is needed for
any congregation-wide effort to succeed.
- Draft the resolution. First and foremost the resolution should be grounded
in Unitarian Universalism. Research General Assembly Statements of Conscience
and resolutions, UU history, and writings.
To create trust and reflect a diversity of opinion a few people should draft the resolution. Members and others with expertise should be consulted. Leadership from communities affected by the issue, such as people of color, GLBT (gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender), low-income folks, youth and others should be sought.
- Line up support. Share plans to introduce the resolution with members who
will support it and ask for their input in how to build consensus to pass
it.
- Urge open discussion on the issue. Schedule time for internal education.
Consider showing a video or inviting an outside speaker. Allow small group time
for processing of feelings and sharing of stories.
- Introduce the resolution. Be sure that everyone involved in the decision
has a copy of the resolution. Be available to answer questions or to provide
background information.
- Be sure to alert the media and lawmakers once the resolution passes. Send
a press release to the local press and make follow-up phone calls. Send a copy
of the ratified resolution to coalition partners.
Passing a short resolution along with a fundraising drive to publish it in a local paper might help to shape public opinion. A resolution may receive media attention if it is tied to the launch of an action campaign. In general the media are drawn to “verbs” rather than “words.” Such a campaign could even become a growth opportunity for the congregation.
This work is made possible by the generosity of individual donors and congregations. Please consider making a donation today.
Last updated on Monday, December 19, 2011.
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