No First Use of Nuclear Weapons
WHEREAS, responsible scientists testify that the present stockpile of nuclear weapons, if used, could put an end to all human life; and
WHEREAS, any use of nuclear weapons, even in response to an attack by conventional weapons, could quickly escalate to an all-out nuclear war; and
WHEREAS, respected government leaders, scientists, military strategists and clergy agree that a United States pledge of NO FIRST USE would be a significant step toward easing world tensions; and
WHEREAS, continued pursuit and refinement of the first use option, and research and development of first strike weapons, could encourage preemptive nuclear attacks; and
WHEREAS, continued refusal of the US to make a pledge of NO FIRST USE will increase international tensions and make nuclear war more likely, and will continue to harm the US stature regarding its moral position; and
WHEREAS, it would be indefensibly immoral for any country to use nuclear weapons;
BE IT RESOLVED: That the 1984 General Assembly of the Unitarian Universalist Association: 1) urges the President to declare that it shall be the policy of the US to renounce the first use of all nuclear weapons, and to conclude treaties with all nations renouncing the first use of all nuclear weapons; and 2) urges the Washington office of the Association and member societies to lobby for congressional passage of H.J. Res. 393 by local representatives (or subsequent legislation covering this concept).