Is an ONA welcome restricted to “sexual orientation?” What about transgender persons?
Based on the 1985 General Synod resolution, “Open and Affirming” statements specifically address sexual orientation. It is clear from the ongoing, often bitter struggles around LGB concerns in many denominations that there is need for clarity about the church’s inclusion of LGB persons. The UCC Coalition for LGBT Concerns also shares the commitment of many in our national church setting to inclusion of transgender persons in the UCC. It encourages all settings which are engaged in an ONA process to include information about transgender experience and to include “transgender” persons or persons of all “gender identities” in their statements. Further, the misinformation, stereotypes, and prejudices which fuel heterosexism, racism, ageism, sexism etc. are evident and interrelated in our society. ONA statements recognizing this and expressing commitment to continually work against such oppressions are encouraged.
