Submission 401 Kathryn Converse Prairie Unitarian Universalist, Madison, WI
What is your suggestion or idea?
I suggest that the Article 2 Commission Proposal be tabled until another opportunity for study, discussion and comment takes place at all member UU congregations. I have read all the discussion entries and there is just too much confusion and opposition.
What is the reason for your amendment idea?
Despite the UUA’s apparent efforts, these changes are happening without widespread knowledge, input and a great deal of opposition. I think it is too soon to force a vote on these very important principles that are our foundation. I think it could cause irreparable and long term damage.
Have you discussed this idea with your congregation or other UUs?
Within our society, we have had Sunday services and two study groups with multiple sessions. There is still confusion, no consensus, and not enough time to reach any reasonable recommendations. We have caused actual and potential loss of members.
Many members question if the time and energy being sent on word choices in this process could be better directed to action items that could result in greater inclusiveness within our societies
it seems that many people are still catching up, and we are a long way from a consensus. Pushing through these changes on the current timetable may result in its acceptance, but I suspect the votes will be close and the wounds will be deep. Or, it may result in a narrow loss for the proposal. Again, the wounds will be deep. Taking a year to more fully discuss and refine the proposal seems the more prudent approach.
I think they should start over. I didn’t hear about this until late last year. I was extremely surprised they did a complete rewrite. It was uncalled for. I’ve grown to like what we have now over the last 20 some years. It was on my refrigerator, and it made me think.
I hope it gets voted down so we can have a pause and a do-over.