27 Pluralism. We celebrate that we are [all sacred beings] diverse in culture, experience, and
28 theology.
29 We covenant to learn from one another in our free and responsible search for truth and
30 meaning. We embrace our differences and commonalities with Love, curiosity, and respect.
Justification for Amended Language for
Most members we spoke to wanted clear, concise language, especially in the first sentence which introduces the value. We also want clear, inclusive language for others who may wish to learn about the UU faith and values.
Our revision more clearly states that we celebrate our diversity, rather than we celebrate that we are sacred beings. We don’t have to believe that we are sacred beings in order to celebrate our diversity, yet inserting sacred beings into the sentence (and by implication into our relationships) implies such a belief. Many of us may not believe in or attach meaning to sacred beings, but do indeed celebrate our diversity.
Anyone who wishes to use the Blue Boat Passengers group for finding each other and coordinating to do the 15-congregation amendment process may do so while the group remains open (must follow group rules).
Here are some comments about the 15-congregation amendment process, from Donald Wilson, who used to be on the GA Planning Committee:
"“Unlike how the amendment process was run for this GA (ie at the discretion of the moderators and board), the process you’ve mentioned is bylaw and subject to little to no interpretation. I wouldn’t wait however. You need to get the petition from the UUA Board Secretary in the next couple weeks, and you have to have it turned Into the Board before February 1st.”
“You don’t even have to have a congregational vote. You just have to get their board to sign off.” ETA: You must check this–rules vary by congregation. Also, look for the UU Governance Lab group on Facebook to connect with Donald Wilson directly.
Also, a comment from another member who was participating on Discuss:
“Some of us are connecting on Slack, mainly to remain in contact with others interested in specific amendments or the amendment process in general at GA 2024.”