A Stitch in Time
By Bishop Jeffery Leath
The 51st General Conference plan calls for each district delegation (with alternate delegates) to gather in its own room in Orlando, Florida. There will be communication connections along with a space for leadership and observers (possibly). Each room will be limited to 50% of its intended capacity for social distancing along with standard medical procedures. This is reasonable, creative and may succeed. Kudos General Conference Commission!
The elaborate plan, however, is not the best we can offer.
Current Plan Weaknesses (not an exhaustive list):
- There is no indication that either our legal or medical experts have approved the plan. We have been informed of medical protocols and waivers. What do “our” experts say about safety and legal risk exposure.
- There is a fixation on low tech voting and other convention technology which can be equaled or surpassed in convenience, if not security and accuracy. The “clickers” are not 100% secure from hacking. What do independent experts say about current voting technology efficacy? How sanitary and time efficient will the collection and distribution of “clickers” be in multiple rooms?
- What happens if persons in a district delegation test positive while we are in Orlando? Will the entire district be quarantined? Will no one in that district be able to vote and deliberate? What will be the quarantine threshold? Who will make the call? What will be the process to protect delegate rights? In average times, the Health Commission is flooded with blood pressure and diabetes related ailments reflective of our population. Who are we urging to spend 5 days in a more uncovered COVID-19 environment?
- What if someone on the Episcopal Committee tests positive? Will the Episcopal Committee be shut down because we have not prepared for virtual sessions to complement in person work? Will the General Conference dissolve into a committee of the whole to finish the Episcopal Committee work?
- Do we have the discipline to follow rules. Can we truly enforce segregation in corridors and restaurants, and safety precautions in the private interactions of delegates with their tourist family/friends?
A COMMONSENSE APPROACH TO PROTECT THE PEOPLE:
IN ADDITION to the segregated room sessions in Orlando, Florida, we need a truly virtual, voluntary alternative. Delegates should be allowed to vote and otherwise participate in sessions whether they are quarantined in their Orlando hotel room; comfortable in their Ṱhohoyanḓou office; or, gathered in a meeting space with other delegates in Lusaka. The issue is OPTION, not mandate. Without internet-based voting and choices for remote participation, the proposed Segregated Meeting is a sad excuse for what could be a genuine Hybrid Meeting.
Loyal AMEs should not have to choose between risking their health and caring for the church. Will the chief shepherds guard the flock, or will they be the Sauls who hold the garments of those who tenaciously pursue plans where some will be stoned by virus and injustice in July. A stitch in time can save us. Listen to the Lambs!
