Overture 62
On Divestment and Israel—From the Presbytery
of San Francisco.
The Presbytery of San Francisco overtures
the 217th General Assembly (2006) of the PC(USA)
to take the following actions:
1. Reaffirm the 216th General Assembly
(2004) decision to initiate a process of phased, selective
divestment of multinational corporations that contribute to
the construction of the separation barrier, profit from the
Israeli occupation of the West Bank, or Palestinian violence.
Request divestment from selected corporations where, according
to Mission Responsibility Through Investment (MRTI), dialogue
and shareholder actions have not produced satisfactory results.
Rationale
The occupation of the West Bank continues
unabated, taking more land and isolating Palestinians from one
another and their livelihood, undercutting the possibility of
a viable economy. Action by the 217th General Assembly (2006)
is required to carry forward the process initiated by the 216th
General Assembly (2004).
2. Direct the MRTI to recommend opportunities
for investment in joint Palestinian-Israeli ventures, including
those provided by organizations such as Oikocredit, which
benefit both peoples.
Rationale
This action demonstrates the historic commitment of the PC(USA)
to the well-being of both Israel and Palestine, and expresses
our hope for mutual cooperation and a just solution to the conflict
between the two peoples.
3. Direct the Presbyterian Peacemaking Program
to offer study tours for members and congregations of the
PC(USA), as well as interfaith groups, that incorporate visits
and interaction with both Israelis and Palestinians, especially
meeting with those working toward peace and reconciliation.
Rationale
Many tours to the Holy Land visit only Israel
or only Palestine and provide a one-sided version of the conflict
between these two peoples. This overture seeks to correct this
imbalance by providing study tours to see and hear all sides
of the story.
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