What’s It Like as a Delegate at GA?

So, what’s it like being a delegate? Well, to start there were over 6,000 congregational delegates. As a first time delegate it was initially pretty overwhelming. Just learning how to use the tools to participate, such as a new to me app, was a large part of the process. Introductions to Article 11 Amendments, a business resolution on Divestiture from fossil fuel investments under the UUA Endowment Fund, and Actions of Immediate Witness were but a few items brought to delegates for a vote. For instance, Divestiture from fossil fuels has actually been voted on and approved before this GA, but a resolution to the amendment was introduced to fund reparations using divestiture monies. That amendment was hotly debated among delegates and ultimately not passed. It is important to know that the resolution to the amendment did not pass because delegates felt reparations is a separate and important topic that should  receive full attention and more study. The groups responsible for presenting this amendment have vowed to do more work to bring it forth again in 2024. Only amendments approved by delegates were brought before the full assembly. The UUA bylaws govern this whole process. Democracy in action!

There were so many workshops offered, vendors to visit, chances to worship together, a Q&A session with our then not yet elected President, the Ware Lecture given by Imani Perry and much more. Being a delegate has definitely given me a much wider understanding of UU governance, the commitment of so many staff, congregants and congregations to our principles and sources and to each other, the young people who are raising their voices, and the thoughtfulness of delegates. 

Thanks Piedmont UU Church for giving me this opportunity! I would highly recommend this experience.

Beth