Originally Posted by chaotic_resolve
(Post 248246)
Steady there, steadfast. I didn't say all or even half . . . I did say a lot though. Also, I didn't single you, nor any other ministers out. As far as I'm concerned, you're not in the group I mentioned.
You should note that there have been ministers and others who have acknowledged that, while small in number, there are ministers who do fit the description I provided.
Now, I apologize for using that particular word. Lord knows I'm not well versed in political diplomacy. I tend to speak my mind and deal with the fallout later. I'm known around my friends and others for being rather blunt and sometimes a little caustic in speaking my mind and telling the truth. I was naive to think that my being white would provide an exception for being labeled a racist by using the word. Lord knows, I am not a racist. Again, I do apologize for the use of that word.
I do not regret, however, nor do I apologize for the statements I've made. I stand by them regardless of how uncomfortable they make you, or other ministers, feel.
I used to think that racism didn't exist in the church until I met several ministers who didn't want their daughters to go on a youth trip because, and I won't use their exact words because it would be offensive to everyone - myself included, some african-american boys were going on the trip.
I've been in a meeting where a well-known minister preached about other churches and ministers not allowing minorities in their churches or on their platforms.
So while I may not be diplomatic, I'm not ignorant to the racism that still exists in the United States, even in some of our churches.
Because of that, and because no other minority has yet been voted into a major UPC office (WF was ~appointed~ as Promotions Director, not voted by the full body of ministers), I stated and will state again that even if he was technically qualified, WF would not be voted in as GYD President because too many ministers don't want an African-American man in that position.
If you can disprove this by providing me with an example of a high-profile position filled by a minority who was voted into office by the full body of ministers, I will gladly post an apology and retraction in the biggest font and brightest color.
Unfortunately you and I know there is no one.
This technical disqualification of WF gives perfect cover to those who don't want him in the office. Because in the election after this up-coming one, either the new GYD President will be voted back into the position, or the Secretary will assume the position. And WF will be left on the outside looking in.
That's JMO.
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