ADVISING THE INSTITUTION ON POLICY ISSUES Session 3 2012 Chaplain Development Conference SWBTS

POLICY A principle, procedure, or rule to guide decisions and achieve organizational success; a statement of intent; an instrument of change, stability, or clarity that leads an organization to a desired desired endstate Chaplains advise on policy matters effecting religion, morals, and morale

Religious Policies Praying at public events Chapel utilization Memorial Ceremony For A Suicide Accommodation of religion Chaplains and Combatives Training Chaplains as non-combatants Religious Holidays/Observances

Policies Impacting Chaplains Suicide Prevention Training Program Disciplinary Action Policy Moral Leadership Training Sexual Harassment Action Plan Spiritual Fitness Program Diversity Training Respect For Others in the Workplace Alcohol and Drug Abuse Policy

REPEAL OF DON’T ASK, DON’T TELL POLICY INFORMATION BRIEFING ARMY CHIEF OF CHAPLAINS

Repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell 1993 – Pres. Clinton signs DADT policy into effect 2007 – Sen. Obama promises repeal of DADT 2008 – Bipartisan study group of senior retired military officers assesses the policy; any changes could not risk readiness, morale, good order and discipline, unit cohesion 2009 – Policy discussion among military staff Feb 2010 – DADT Tier 1 Training begins Dec 22, 2010 – President Obama signs repeal of DADT

2008 Study Group Findings One: The law locks the military’s hands from adapting DADT policy to changing circumstances Two: Existing military laws and regulations provide commanders means to discipline bad behavior Three: DADT has forced some commanders to choose between breaking the law and undermining the cohesion of their units Four: DADT has prevented some GLBT service members from obtaining psychological and medical care as well as religious counseling Five: DADT has caused us loss of talented troops

2008 Study Group Findings (2) Six: DADT has compelled some GLBT service members to lie about their identity. Seven: Many GLBT are serving openly. Eight: DADT has made it harder from some GLBT to perform their duties. Nine: Military attitudes towards gays and lesbians are changing. Ten: Evidence shows that allowing gays and lesbians to serve openly is unlikely to pose any significant risk to morale, good order, discipline, or cohesion.

2008 Study Recommendations ONE: Congress should repeal 10 USC 654 and return authority for personnel policy under this law back to DoD TWO: Prerogative to disclose sexual orientation should be considered a personal and private matter THREE: Remove from DoD directives all references to “bisexual”, “homosexual”, “homosexual conduct “, “homosexual acts”. FOUR: Immediately establish and reinforce safeguards for the confidentiality between service members and chaplains, doctors, mental health.

CHAPLAINS AND DADT Policy concerns: -- Free exercise of religion for all Soldiers -- Confidentiality -- Continued faithful advocate for the welfare of soldiers, families, and DoD civilians Chaplain concerns: -- Free exercise of religion -- Not required to take actions violating own faith -- Ensure dignity and respect for all -- Importance of advising the commander

ADDRESSING POLICY CONCERNS Informally address concerns with appropriate colleagues and administration Formally address concern to supervisor or administration via memoranda requesting a formal response Approach organization’s board of directors Address concern outside of the organization Notify appropriate agencies such as governor’s office or Congress, advocacy group, or media

Regarding Policy When is an organizational policy a “deal breaker” for me as a Christian minister/chaplain?

Roman Catholic Response To the National Health Care Policy *A “Fortnight For Freedom” --June 21 to July 4 --purpose: to highlight the importance of religious freedom --an ecumenical event focusing on prayer, education, and public action --involvement of SBC churches?

QUESTIONS?