The following statement was released by leaders of the Massachusetts Conference on Oct. 31, 2018

Statement by the Leadership of the United Church of Christ - Massachusetts Conference

Supporting Question 3 is consistent with the beliefs and practices of the United Church of Christ. Working together to create a loving and just society is at the heart of a living faith and includes advocating for human rights.  Creating a society that offers dignity and leads each person to a fulfilled life is an act of faith. 
 
We believe that all God’s children are worthy of love, respect and safety.  Every person is made in God’s many images.  We stand with and give voice to people who are misunderstood, dismissed or endangered.
 
As Christians who seek justice for all people, we are called to resist bias in society and in the Church.  While local churches and denominations cannot endorse political parties or specific candidates, they can speak to ballot initiatives that reflect their values. Therefore, we, the leadership of the Massachusetts Conference, United Church of Christ, stand firmly in favor of Question 3 to preserve the public accommodation law protecting transgender people.  We urge all citizens of the Commonwealth to vote YES on 3. 

The Rev. Don Remick, Transitional Interim Conference Minister
The Rev. Corey Sanderson, President and Chair, Board of Directors
Open and Affirming Ministry Team of the Massachusetts Conference
Lee Pendergast Gagen, Fundraising and Development Specialist
The Rev. Kelly Gallagher, Associate Conference Minister
The Rev. Jill Graham, Associate Conference Minister
Dawn Hammond, Associate Conference Minister for Policy and Finance
The Rev. Patty Kogut, Associate Conference Minister
The Rev. Dr. Jonathan New, Associate Conference Minister for Stewardship and Financial Development
The Rev. Ellie Richardson, Associate Conference Minister for Lay & Clergy Leadership Development
Tiffany Vail, Associate Conference Minister for Communications
The Rev. Wendy Vander Hart