There have been concerns from many in the congregation about how protests are being handled on Sundays for the past several weeks. The following guidelines are intended to help clarify things for everyone concerned.
Members of this community are welcome to attend services. Members are welcome to protest as long as they remain on the public sidewalks. But the Church does not give permission to exercise this freedom to protest while in or on Church property. The following are not allowed:
- Protest signs in our church buildings;
- Interruptions (spoken or visual) during church services;
- Blocking our entry doors, or making it difficult for ushers and greeters to welcome people and for congregants to enter or leave our buildings;
- Standing on Church sidewalks and steps without specific permission;
- Tabling in Fuller Hall from non-sanctioned groups in the church.
The Church supports the right to protest when we affirm the freedom to distribute hand-outs, hold signs, and the like while on the public sidewalks around our block. The Church also supports our congregants’ right to a worship experience without unwelcome interference. The Sanctuary and the Church buildings are sacred spaces, and the goal of these guidelines is to protect that sense of sacred space.
These guidelines have been established with referencing the congregation’s Safe Church Policy as well as guidance from the ACLU.
We ask that you respect these guidelines. And of course, please be in touch if you have questions.
Executive Team, First Unitarian Church of Portland