09 July 2008
First major equalities and diversity report presented to Methodist Conference
The Methodist Conference has received a major report
challenging the Church to eliminate discrimination in an
increasingly diverse Christian community.
This report is the result of a project initiated in 2004 by the
Conference and carried out by the Equalities and Diversity Project,
a representative group including members who have experienced
oppression due to race, gender, sexuality and disability. The
report shows journey the Church has taken in considering these
issues since 2004 and indicates the direction of future
developments.
The report was presented for exploration by the wider Church,
offering an opportunity for the Church to engage in its first
comprehensive dialogue about the broad agenda of equalities and
diversity. It addresses the many different kinds of discrimination
faced by groups both with the churches but also in wider society
including, sexism, racism, disablism and homophobia. It also
outlines some of the stories that people in these situations have
shared with the group. The stories will be collected into a series
of booklets to accompany a further report in 2009.
Alison Parker, Equalities and Diversity Project Worker for the
Methodist Church, says; 'This is a major step on the road to
creating a more inclusive, welcoming and credible Church. The
Church as the Body of Christ is an expression of unity in the great
variety of God's creation. This report has offered a challenging
and exciting opportunity to hear the voices of the marginalised and
those working for change in the Church.'
The report identifies areas for further work on equalities and
diversity in the Church including a theological exploration of the
issues and the formulation of an equal opportunities policy for
adoption by the Church in 2009.
Conference received the report and commended Equally Different?, a
new equalities and diversity campaign resource for use in local
churches, circuits and districts. This will include worship and
Bible study materials for use by individuals and groups, resources
for children and young people considering the issues and display
materials such as posters and postcards. A supporting website,
www.methodistchurch.org.uk/equallydifferent, will offer the chance
for people to share their own experiences and ideas.