United Methodist Women

The United Methodist Women (UMW) caucus is an official organization for women within the United Methodist Church (UMC). Founded in 1869, it is "the largest denominational faith organization for women with approximately 800,000 members".[1] The UMW is actively involved in both secular and church politics with notable members, including Hillary Clinton, who have worked with the organization.[2]

Church Involvement

The UMW often offers presentations at General Conference for the UMC, and has taken a number of positions on social and political issues. The UMW describes itself as open to all women and advocates for women's rights regardless of income, sexual orientation, race, age or other backgrounds.[3] The UMW supports immigration reform and advocates on behalf of refugees' rights.[4] Along with the General Board of Church and Society, the UMW is pro-choice and supportive of the Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice.[5][6]

Controversy

In 2008, the UMC voted to affirm the UMW's support for pro-choice positions and organizations.[7] However, in 2016, the General Conference voted in favor of withdrawing support for abortion and criticized the UMW for its support for legalized abortion.[8]

References

  1. ↑ "United Methodist Women". unitedmethodistwomen.org. United Methodist Women. 2016. Retrieved May 30, 2016.
  2. ↑ Communications, United Methodist. "Hillary Clinton: 'Time to roll up our sleeves, make it happen' - The United Methodist Church". The United Methodist Church. Retrieved 2016-05-30.
  3. ↑ "Gender Justice: Women's Rights and More". unitedmethodistwomen.org. United Methodist Women. 2016. Retrieved May 30, 2016.
  4. ↑ Communications, United Methodist. "United Methodist Women to explore immigrant rights - The United Methodist Church". The United Methodist Church. Retrieved 2016-05-30.
  5. ↑ Communications, United Methodist. "What is the United Methodist position on abortion? - The United Methodist Church". The United Methodist Church. Retrieved 2016-05-30.
  6. ↑ "Coalition Members | Religious Coalition For Reproductive Choice". rcrc.org. Retrieved 2016-05-30.
  7. ↑ Communications, United Methodist. "Support for the Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice - The United Methodist Church". The United Methodist Church. Retrieved 2016-05-30.
  8. ↑ "UMC withdraws from interfaith pro-abortion rights group". Religion News Service. Retrieved 2016-05-30.
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