Advocates for wide participation and full inclusion. PCUSA anti oppression ministries: resisting racism, sexism, ageism, ableism & equipping the church
A shout out to CORs in presbyteries in synods. This role is well beyond simply *counting* and *getting people to the table.* And if your presbytery or synod does not have a COR, consider the implications on equity and accessibility in your context. #GA225
What can we learn from previous GAs as well as the unique experiences of #GA224 and #GA225? How might this shape the ways we deliberate and discern together in the future?
As #GA225 considers process, equity, accessibility, and representation, we highlight STAN-36. This overture was approved to review the standing rules of the General Assembly and bring recommendations to the 226th GA. https://t.co/Rvojx1eBMY
@jodicraiglow As a friendly reminder, if you have been tracking the #GA225 plenaries this week, please include your observations here: https://t.co/SXSJJHQidU
@collette_lynner Yes, in person assemblies have people lined up to make comments. Often times they are holding a specific colored paddle that notes if they are speaking for, against, have a question, etc.
As #GA225 considers GA-MC-15: We’ve generally had a range of 75-85% participation (via vote tallies) of RECs & TECs on Tuesday and Wednesday. Knowing if there are *patterns* to those unable or disinterested in participating virtually is part of equity & representation work.(1/3)
@WillyMac4 We stress the importance of data collection as *one* way to analyze equity and accessibility: Commissioners and advisory delegates will respond to a post-#GA225 survey. We are still collecting data in real time until #GA225 concludes.
The upshot: no one knows the equity impacts of #GA225 (unique as it is). Taking seriously what we don’t know is part of equity work as well. How will this impact the final decision on this important piece of business? (3/3)
Is non-participation a wifi issue? Work/PTO issue? Feeling disconnected or confused without adequate support? Do the barriers break across lines of race or gender? Some of these are fixable/structural, others not, but if we don’t get curious, we’ll never know. (2/3) #GA225
Equity isn’t about “equal” portions of power, proportional access, or zero-sum thinking, it’s about *restructuring* the norms of power and access to transform & heal our spaces so we can better reflect the kindom of God. (3/3) #GA225
We’ve had questions & comments comparing our racial identity data with our denomination as a whole, so it’s a good time to talk equality vs. equity. “Equality” would say: this #GA225 has more than proportional representation of BIPOC folx, so we are “doing well.” BUT… (1/3)
*Equity* would ask if there were additional barriers or burdens for people of color in order to make themselves present for this assembly. We could ask the same questions about people with disabilities or trans and genderqueer folx. (2/3) #GA225