The Troth Adopts a New Activism Policy

Official Announcements | January 21, 2024
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At the November 2023 Board Meeting, The Troth adopted a new Activism Policy

The Troth’s Board of Directors authored and approved a new Activism Policy at the November 2023 meeting.

The Troth had an Activism Policy?

Yes, but it was in our FAQ:

Does The Troth promote activism?

Some members might interpret this that way, and that’s their prerogative. However unless someone is doing something to harm others, we cannot know who is and who is not prejudiced in one of these manners. By standing against them, we mean that we do not stand with them. Should someone break the law of the land with hate speech or a hate crime, or simply a crime, that is the job of the local authority, police, to handle. Calling the police is certainly an option. We do not condone assault, or any other form of violence, save self defense. The Troth expects all members to abide by these guidelines and leaves decisions as to how to best do so in a manner that places the safety of all participants as the highest priority. Being a good host and a good guest and helping keep frith or grith are what we support. Walking away or not associating with those who are discriminatory and prejudiced against those of different ethnicity, sexual orientation, ability, is what we would promote.

The Board deliberated on a new policy that would be more broad and encourage community engagement.

The new policy focuses more on positively defining what kinds of activities we as an organization encourage, rather than actions we specifically discourage.

All members of The Troth are encouraged to engage with their communities in ways that promote the Heathen values of peace, understanding, and justice–but we will not dictate to our members how they must or must not engage in activism for causes they care about, provided said activism does not cause a conflict with the original oath of membership.

Members may not claim to be official representatives of the Organization without express permission. Permission may be obtained from the Organization to act as official representatives for activist events like Pride Parades, Sit-Ins, or peaceful protests via a petition.

These requests will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis by the Board of Directors, who may delegate this task to a subordinate department as needed.

The Troth reserves the right to participate in activism as an Organization through venues like interfaith partnerships that promote the Heathen principles of generosity, hospitality, democracy, equity, and peace.

The Troth will not partner with organizations, nor will we participate in actions that promote violence, racism, sexism, bigotry, or are otherwise in conflict with the Organization’s principles.