Our Work

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 Advocacy

Progressive leaders in The United Methodist Church and its predecessor denominations have long advocated for racial/ethnic justice, reconciliation and inclusiveness in the church and in society. Admittedly, our history is marred by racial prejudice and discrimination, segregation and schism, merger and compromise. But it also includes valiant efforts by principled women and men to break down barriers, loose the bonds of injustice and build a multiethnic, multiracial church, a beloved community of justice, healing and hope.

In the words of our United Methodist Constitution:

The United Methodist Church recognizes that the sin of racism has been destructive to its unity throughout its history. Racism continues to cause painful division and marginalization. The United Methodist Church shall confront and seek to eliminate racism, whether in organizations or in individuals, in every facet of its life and in society at large. The United Methodist Church shall work collaboratively with others to address concerns that threaten the cause of racial justice at all times and in all places. (Article V, Book of Discipline (2004), ¶5)

Read about the call to "a fully inclusive United Methodist Church..."

Effective advocacy for any just cause must be persuasive, collaborative and resonant with the values, concerns, hopes and aspirations of many people. It also relies on the multidimensional projection of eloquent words and dynamic actions to impact the public conscience, to stir an impassioned response and to bring about substantive change for the better. The General Commission on Religion and Race occasionally addresses issues and incidents important to its ministry of racial/ethnic justice, inclusiveness and reconciliation through advocacy statements and actions, often on behalf of others. Those statements and actions may take numerous forms, including:

  • Public statements, board resolutions, media commentaries and other efforts to communicate its concerns.
  • Petitions to the United Methodist General Conference every four years to take official positions through resolutions or to modify its disciplinary policies.
  • Petitions to the United Methodist Judicial Council for rulings that support justice and fairness.
  • Direct or indirect intervention and mediation in incidents.
  • Leadership or participation in issue campaigns.
  • Participation on joint task forces engaged in concerted planning and action.
  • Participation in public advocacy events, such as marches, rallies and forums.
  • Dissemination of information and urgent calls to action through broadcast alerts.
  • Limited funding of viable projects and advocacy initiatives that address GCORR’s concerns through effective, principled action.

GCORR's work in advocacy addresses the following areas:

Monitoring

The General Commission on Religion and Race periodically reviews general church agencies, annual conferences, theological schools, and local churches to monitor their affirmative action and racial inclusiveness policies and related actions. We assist these ministry partners in monitoring their policies, programs, products, personnel, and procedures for racial/ethnic inclusiveness and in planning and evaluating efforts toward improvement.

GCORR's work in monitoring addresses the following areas: