March 2012 Motion passed by the Executive of the General Council: Policies Related to Gender Identity
The Executive of the General Council affirmed that:
The United Church of Canada acknowledges the difference (distinction) between gender identity referring to a person’s innate, deeply felt sense of being male, female, both or neither; and sexual orientation – having to do with the gender to which one is emotionally and physically attracted, and
“Gender identity” is not a barrier to membership and ministry of The United Church of Canada.
The Executive also requested that the General Secretary, General Council:
update all existing policy statements which refer only to “sexual orientation” by adding “and gender identities” to those policy statements and,
provide opportunities for members of the Transgender community to share their stories at the 41st General Council 2012.
The Executive of The General Council Meeting on March 24 – 26, 2012
Draft Minutes, pp. 486-487
