Indianapolis, Ind. – Disciples News Service – July 31, 2009 — Representatives at the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) biennial convention voted today to uphold an economic boycott in South Carolina and move the group’s 2010 meeting from Charleston.
The National Convocation, a group of African-American Disciples, decided to cancel plans to meet in Charleston in 2010. This action followed a request by South Carolina NAACP leaders to support an ongoing tourism boycott protesting the continued display of the Confederate flag on the State House grounds.
South Carolina NAACP officials approached Convocation leaders last week requesting the change, according to the Rev. Timothy James, administrative secretary of the National Convocation. The National Convocation is a ministry within the structure of the Disciples to support and strengthen African American congregations’ partnership in the total mission of the church. The Confederate flag for many represents a symbol of oppression, said the Rev. Matt Harris of Los Angeles in comments to the group. The banner originally flew above the State Capitol to protest passage of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, South Carolina NAACP President Lonnie Randolph said at the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) gathering in Indianapolis. Pressure from the civil rights community led South Carolina government officials to move flag from the top of the state capitol. The flag, however, continues to fly on state-owned property nearby. In response, tourism, business, civic and other organizations nationwide have supported a call not to hold conventions in the state. “We don’t even need to take a vote,” said South Carolina Regional Pastor Sotello Long, following impassioned presentations by South Carolina NAACP representatives. The group voted overwhelming to support the boycott with only one dissenting vote. The group also approved working with the national NAACP to negotiate contract details. An alternate site for the 2010 National Convocation was not decided at today’s meeting. Cities under consideration include Chicago, New York and Washington, DC.
Written By: Cliff Willis # #
Contact: Wanda Bryant WillsExecutive Director of Communications,Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)317-713-2496 or,David L. Shank, 317-293-5590; (cell) 317-753-1440
