The resolutions adopted by the Union represent the evolutionary changes in its stands on many political, social, economic, and humanitarian issues. Since its inception in 1873, the Union has not hesitated to speak out on issues of the widest scope and significance, always seeking to elucidate current problems according to its interpretation of the voice of prophetic Judaism.
Members of Reform congregations set the policy for the Movement regarding issues of importance by proposing and voting on resolutions.
During the Union for Reform Judaism’s Biennial General Assembly, which takes place during the plenary sessions of the Biennial, delegates from the over 900 member congregations consider and vote on resolutions that reflect the consensus positions of our membership. This democratic process and the commitment of the Reform Movement to speak out on issues of concern is as old as the Movement itself, and is evidenced by the hundreds of resolutions adopted since its inception.
The resolutions adopted by the Union for Reform Judaism neither bind the members of individual congregations, nor do they presume to speak for all. Joining a Reform congregation does not mean one subscribes to a particular political perspective. In any group, there will be divergent opinions, and policymakers understand that when religious bodies take positions, there may very well be individuals in the group who disagree with the stated position.
Proposed resolutions will be published sufficiently far in advance of the Biennial to allow our congregations to hold congregational or board meetings to obtain a sense of the congregation’s attitudes concerning the issues addressed in the resolutions.
Please note that the referenced resolutions may be amended and additional resolutions may be presented during the Biennial. Furthermore, much informative debate takes place at the Biennial. Therefore, it may not be practical to instruct delegates’ voting specifically. Instead, you may wish to give your delegates discretion to vote according to developments on the Biennial floor.
