Resolution from the annual meeting of the NA GBC&TP,
January 11, 2020

We, the ISKCON North American GBC Members and Temple Presidents, profoundly thank the international GBC body for its resolution allowing qualified Vaishnavis to give initiation under the GBC specified circumstances.

This resolution is in line with Srila Prabhupada’s teachings and example as well as our longstanding Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition. It will allow us to more effectively reach diverse North American audiences in our preaching. We find it is exactly in accord with Srila Prabhupada’s intentions and desire to encourage preachers of all backgrounds.

We note that the GBC resolution also allows regional leaders to opt out of the practice in their regions if they so choose.  Thus we strongly oppose the call of some ISKCON leaders in India for the GBC to rescind the resolution. We believe that so doing would irreparably damage ISKCON’s preaching and reputation in North America and possibly the faith of devotees around the world in the GBC’s objectivity and leadership.

The GBC has shown great wisdom in courageously following Srila Prabhupada’s call for ‘unity in diversity.’ ISKCON’s North American leaders strongly and respectfully request the GBC to stand firm and not rescind its wise, reasonable, and Krishna conscious decision.

Vote: 45 in favor, 0 opposed, 0 abstentions.

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