TJMC's
Policy on Non-Discrimination
In the spirit of the guiding purposes and principles of the Universalist Association, Thomas Jefferson Memorial Church Unitarian Universalist endeavors to create a community of respect among its staff, members, friends, and the
larger community. To this end, we promote the full participation in our activities of all persons regardless of race, color, creed, gender, ability and/or disability, affectional or sexual orientation, theological orientation,
age, socioeconomic status, ethnic origin or national origin.
We acknowledge that discrimination is deeply ingrained in this nation, both in institutional and personal forms and that the problem will likely persist for a long time to come. TJMC is committed to the process where
discrimination, whether obvious or subtle, is identified and steps are taken to correct it. The leadership of the church, including the staff, Board members, and committee chairpersons shall be familiar with this policy and its
intent and be governed by it in decisions and actions within the church community which affect employment, membership, religious education, and other church activities. For example, advertising for church activities, job
openings, and programs should reach a broad and diverse audience. In addition, every church activity, duty, policy, or component should be scrutinized, and periodically reevaluated to eliminate bias, whether intentional or
unintentional.
For the individual, the church will foster an environment in which discriminatory practices of all sorts can be identified and addressed, including those which the individual may unknowingly be a part of. For example, the
privileges of certain groups over other groups (white over nonwhite, men over women, heterosexual over homosexual, etc.) are not often recognized by the privileged group. Individuals are encouraged to approach members, the
minister, or relevant social action committees for advice, support, and assistance in carrying out this policy.
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