wfn.org | UCC Synod asks transformation of U.S. border justice

[George Conklin <gconklin@wfn.org>]

United Church of Christ
Office of Communication
700 Prospect Ave.
Cleveland, OH 44115
contact: Barbara Powell
phone: 216-736-2222
email: powellb@ucc.org
http://www.ucc.org

PROVIDENCE, RI - July 6 1999 -  Seeking a “complete transformation and
revolution” in our minds, hearts and bodies in relation to border ministries,
General Synod overwhelmingly approved “Border Justice Issues: A challenge for
the 21st  Century Church” on Monday night. Based upon almost identical
resolutions submitted by the Southwest Conference and the Commission for Racial
Justice, the final document calls upon various national instrumentalities
(Commission for Racial Justice, the Board for World Ministries, the Board for
Homeland Ministries and their successors) in concert with the three conferences
along the U.S.  Mexico border to raise awareness around border issues,
coordinate activities, and be responsible for a report to the TwentyThird
General Synod.
        In addition, a resolution supporting the Farm Labor Organizing
Committee’s Boycott of Mount Olive Pickles passed easily, urging “a greater
measure of justice and dignity to those who work in the agricultural industry.”
The resolution calls for a boycott of  the company in the areas where the
pickles are marketed and asks for letters to the CEO from nonaffected areas
informing him of their concern and support for the boycott.