Unit elections steam ahead though gatherings are called off
The National Spiritual Assembly sent an email to all Local Spiritual Assemblies on 25 January, regretfully announcing that this year’s unit convention gatherings have been cancelled, and unit elections will be held by distance voting only. The National Assembly wrote:
The friends are called upon to respond to the exceptional situation by conscientiously participating in the voting for their delegate/s—the main aim of the unit convention. Indeed, we hope to see higher rates of participation than ever before.
A special appeal is made to those who are 18, 19 or 20 years old who have their first opportunity to vote. This marks a significant moment of taking on a new responsibility for participation in the affairs of the Cause.
By “distance voting” is meant voting by post or other acceptable means of providing ballots to the Head Teller. This is described in more detail later in this article.
The National Assembly explained its decision as follows:
… in reading the unfolding reality of the Omicron presence in the community, and the rapid spread that we have observed overseas, distance voting nationwide is the wiser and safer option. It is the most reliable way to protect the vulnerable from the risk of severe illness, and to guard others from the unnecessary burden of a milder but still unpleasant illness. It relieves all voters of a sense of obligation to be present at a physical gathering under these circumstances. To refrain from holding unnecessary gatherings is also a socially responsible measure in the interests of the wider society. While it would be wonderful if conditions in the country are not serious by 5 February, caution requires being prepared for a less favourable situation.
Distance voting
Please watch out for communications from your unit Head Teller and host Assembly about how to send in your ballot.
Given the shortness of time until the election day and possible unreliability of the postal service, the National Assembly has asked Head Tellers and host Assemblies to arrange additional options to support the friends to vote. Such options may include a pickup service for ballots and a specially designated venue for dropping off ballots where they can be held safely and securely for the tellers. A few units have opted to make online voting available, using a system provided by the National Assembly.
Voting fulfills primary function of unit convention
The National Assembly wrote:
By fulfilling our duty as responsible voters, the primary role of a Unit Convention will be fulfilled. Although it is a sad fact that friends will not be gathering to consult, and online conventions are not an option, there are many and varied opportunities for consultation in other spaces over coming months that we trust the believers will avail themselves of whenever possible, whether online or in person.
The National Assembly assures the friends throughout Aotearoa of its heartfelt prayers for their well-being as they move forward with confidence and composure.
