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The Salvation Army is committed to the equality of men and women.
In 1895, William Booth directed senior leaders in Orders and Regulations for Salvation Army Staff Officers: “Women must be treated as equal with men in all the intellectual and social relationships in life.” While acknowledging this directive has not always been achieved, The Salvation Army retains this commitment in the current ‘Orders and Regulations for Officers.”
The 2019 International Positional Statement on Sexism, states: “An important principle in the government of the Army is the right of men and women to share equally in the proclamation of the gospel of Jesus Christ to the world. Both men and women Salvationists, married or single, can hold any rank, responsibility or position of authority in the Army from that of local officer to that of General. Additionally, The Salvation Army embodies a worldwide tradition of service to others without discrimination and will advocate on behalf of women and girls.”
New International Women’s Ministries Vision Statement
“We envision women who are: Transformed and empowered by the gospel to lead a Christlike life; Enriched mutually through local and global connections and support; Equipped to fulfill their potential through lifelong learning and development; Engaged in social justice and action to positively impact the world.”
Statement of Position: Sexism
Sexism is discrimination based on sex or gender, most often against women and girls, and is increasingly understood as a fundamental human rights issue.
Sexism often includes a combination of prejudice plus power. It is expressed through systemic, structured prejudice and cultural discrimination and can be present in a family, communities of faith, and societal and national cultures.
The Salvation Army believes that both male and female are made in the image of God and are equal in value, and therefore is opposed to sexism. We reject any view that subordinates women to men, or men to women.
The Salvation Army believes that our world is enhanced by equitably valuing, equipping and mobilizing all human beings. While valuing gender equity, The Salvation Army acknowledges with regret that Salvationists have sometimes conformed to societal and organizational norms that perpetuate sexism.
We are committed to model the equitable valuing, equipping and mobilizing of men and women, and will speak into societies around the world where sexism exists.
General Brian Peddle issued a global call to pray for women and girls in commemoration of the 25th anniversary of the United Nations Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, which identified 12 critical areas of concern for women and girls.
“I’m asking you to join me in a cry for justice,” Peddle said in a special video message. “A heartfelt longing to deal with the wrongs of this world.”
United Nations Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action: 12 critical areas of concern for women and girls
- Women and the environment
- Women in power and decision-making
- The girl child
- Women and the economy
- Women and poverty
- Violence against women
- Human rights of women
- Education and training of women
- Institutional mechanisms for the advancement of women
- Women and health
- Women and the media
- Women and armed conflict
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