| Formation | 1869 |
|---|---|
| Type | Religious organization |
| Legal status | 501(c)(3) |
| Headquarters | 475 Riverside Drive Suite 1500 New York, New York 10115 |
| Location |
|
Membership | 500,000 |
Official language | English |
General Secretary & CEO | Harriett Jane Olson |
| ‘Ainise ‘Isama’u | |
Revenue (2021) | $22,450,000 |
| Expenses (2021) | $27,540,000 |
| Website | uwfaith |
United Women in Faith (formerly known as United Methodist Women) is the only official organization for women within the United Methodist Church (UMC). In 2022, United Methodist Women began doing business as United Women in Faith[1] (UWF). Founded in 1869, the organization now has nearly half a million members.[2] UWF offers all Methodist women opportunities for spiritual growth, leadership development, transformative education and service and advocacy.[3] Its current advocacy priorities are climate justice and racial justice, including ending criminalization of communities of color and mass incarceration.[4]
United Women in Faith often offers presentations at General Conference for the United Methodist Church (UMC), and has taken a number of positions on social and political issues. UWF describes itself as open to all women and advocates for women's rights regardless of income, sexual orientation, race, age or other backgrounds.
In 2008, the UMC voted to affirm United Methodist Women's support for pro-choice positions and organizations.[5] In 2016, the General Conference voted in favor of UMW and the church's General Board of Church and Society withdrawing from the Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice.[6] However, the denomination remains pro-choice.[7]