Article V - Talking Points

Talking Points

What is Article V and Why is it Important?

Article V of the Book of Discipline is a foundational element in the United Methodist Church's commitment to eradicate racism in all its forms. The following language was approved by General Conference to be added: " The United Methodist Church proclaims that from God’s goodness and love, 

God created all persons as God’s unique and beloved children. Racism opposes God’s law, goodness, and love and diminishes the image of God in each person. Fueled by white privilege, white supremacy, and colonialism, the sin of racism has been a destructive scourge on global society and throughout the history of The United Methodist Church. It continues to destroy our communities, harm persons, obstruct unity, and undermine God’s work in this world. Racism must be eradicated. Therefore, The United Methodist Church commits to confronting and eliminating all forms of racism, racial inequity, colonialism, white privilege, and white supremacy, in every facet of its life and in society at large. " This change must be ratified by 2/3rds of all conferences in the global Church to be added to our Book of Discipline Constitution.  This proposed change at General Conference reinforces the Church's strong commitment in addressing racism, colonialism, white privilege, and white supremacy. 

What are some key points of Article V?

    • The use of terms like "white supremacy," "white privilege," and "colonialism" marks a departure from vague language. 

    • By naming these issues directly, the church confronts its own history and complicity in systemic injustices, signaling a pivotal moment in the moral evolution of the institution. 

    • Declaring The UMC as an actively anti-racist institution pushes the church beyond passive acknowledgment and engagement in its work in dismantling racism. 

    • This commitment calls for tangible actions to dismantle racist structures within the church fostering a culture of accountability. 

    • These changes are aligned with broader societal movements advocating for racial justice, including the civil rights movement and recent protests against systemic racism. 

    • The UMC's active acknowledgement of racial injustice, as social movements have done in society in the past, positions it as a relevant and responsive institution addressing contemporary issues rooted in historical injustices. 

    • The language encourages the United Methodist Church to actively work to root out discrimination and oppression. 

    • This action promotes unity and healing, fostering a more inclusive and equitable environment through dialogue and reconciliation among members. 

    • By incorporating this language into its Constitution, the United Methodist Church positions itself as a leader in the fight against racism in both religious and social contexts. 

    • This action sets a precedent for other denominations and organizations, encouraging a broader commitment to justice and equity. 

    • These changes connect to the United Methodist Church's long history of reform and social justice action as well as more deeply living our General Rules – do no harm, do good, and stay in love with God. 

    • By explicitly confronting racism, the church reaffirms its mission to make more just and equitable disciples continuing the work of Jesus Christ. 

What does this proposed change to Article V mean for the United Methodist Church’s systemic racism work?

Article V signifies a crucial advancement for the United Methodist Church in our quest for racial justice. By addressing systemic injustices and cultivating an inclusive environment, we aspire to be a transformative force for equity, dignity, and respect within our communities and generations of the Church not yet present in the Kin-dom.