Whereas the broader Pagan community has been quite concerned over accusations that Pagan religion involves child abuse; and

Whereas history is replete with unfortunately examples of scapegoating minority groups and religions in this way, and whereas we recognize the destructiveness of physical and sexual abuse, and that such abuse is profound, real and widespread, affecting individuals and social structures in which they live;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED That the Covenant of Unitarian Universalist Pagans urges the careful evaluation of reported incidents of abuse, in order to distinguish between established fact and unfounded allegations based solely on religious affiliation, and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED That CUUPS affirms its commitment to the Child Abuse Neglect resolution of the 1977 UUA General Assembly urging "all persons to support ... programs in child abuse and neglect, specifically by reporting incidents of ... abuse (and) supporting...services to abusing and neglecting families," and the resolution On Children Poverty and Violence adopted by the 1984 General Assembly advocating "the strengthening ... of legislation and programs (to) prevent child abuse and alleviate the effects of family violence, where it exists," and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED That CUUPS reasserts its commitment to the Principles of the Unitarian Universalist Association:

• The inherent worth and dignity of every person;
• Justice, equity and compassion in human relations;
• Acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations;
• A free and responsible search for truth and meaning;
• The right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in society at large;
• The goal of world community with peace, liberty, and justice for all;
• Respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part. 

For resources regarding abuse elsewhere see:

National Child Abuse Hotline
www.childhelp.org/pages/hotline-home 
www.rainn.org