10.23.24 | Advocacy and Action, Legislative Advocacy
United Methodists define themselves as a people of personal and social holiness. Our pastors preach with the Bible in one hand and a newspaper in the other and our laity bring their faith to conversations about social issues facing our communities and world.
Sometimes our faith leads us to disagree with popular opinion or cultural norms. In these instances, United Methodists speak out in a spirit of respect and dissent.
While United Methodist do not condone violence, we are aware that protest and civil unrest can at times lead to violent acts. In these instances, United Methodists stand as a witness to peace and civility. They also take steps to ensure that their churches and congregations are kept safe from potential violence.
Resources:
- Rights of Protesters – from the American Civil Liberties Union
- Protests and Public Safety – A guide for cities and citizens form Georgetown Law
- Election Protection – a national, non-partisan election protection coalition to ensure all voters have an equal opportunity to vote and have that vote count
- Report Potential Voter Suppression – from the ACLU Legal Defense Fund
- Creating Change Together – A toolkit for civic engagement from the Board of Church and Society
De-Escalation Responses:
Sometimes churches become the target of protesters. What should you know if your building becomes the site of protests? When addressing protestors outside your building, it helps to de-escalate the situation by:
- Giving as little attention to the protestors as possible
- Avoid staging unplanned counter-protests
- Take efforts to ensure people’s safety
- If it feels appropriate, call the police. If you know about protests beforehand, inform the police then:
- Have a statement ready for the media that focuses on your message and ministry goals; and
- Inform your members about what is happening, or expected to happen, at the church
De-Escalation Resources:
- Demonstration Response Checklist from Brotherhood Mutual Insurance
- Dealing with Disruptive Individuals
