FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Troth Board of Directors has approved a new set of governance policies and procedures designed to strengthen transparency, accountability, fair process, conflict management, and member trust across the organization.

The newly approved framework includes updates to the Whistleblower Protection Policy, Conflict of Interest Policy, as well as brand new procedures like the Procedure for the Investigation and Adjudication of Conduct Violations, Conflict Escalation and Resolution Procedure, and referred changes to The Troth’s bylaws to the membership for ratification at the next Election.

Together, these reforms mark a major step in The Troth’s continuing work to build a durable, transparent, and democratically accountable religious institution.

The updated Whistleblower Protection Policy establishes protections for good-faith reporting of serious concerns, including suspected violations of Troth policy, misuse of authority, retaliation, financial impropriety, concealment of misconduct, and interference with official governance processes. It also makes clear that retaliation against people who raise concerns or participate in investigations is prohibited.

The updated Conflict of Interest Policy requires prompt disclosure of actual, potential, or perceived conflicts of interest and provides clear standards for recusal when impartiality may reasonably be questioned. It applies not only to Directors and Executive Officers, but also to other people acting on behalf of The Troth when they may influence decisions, investigations, expenditures, appointments, discipline, or public action.

The newly approved investigation and adjudication procedure creates a clearer process for receiving reports, gathering evidence, reviewing alleged conduct violations, protecting fairness, and ensuring that final decisions remain accountable to the Board of Directors. The conflict escalation procedure provides a pathway for addressing serious interpersonal or organizational conflicts before they become destructive.

“These reforms are not about creating bureaucracy for its own sake. We know policy isn’t the fun part for most people,” said President Ben Kowalsky-Grahek. “They are about protecting members, supporting future leaders, reducing confusion, and making sure The Troth can handle hard situations with fairness and maturity.”

The approved policies and procedures are now part of The Troth’s governance framework and will be made available through The Troth’s official website and member communications. All policies and procedures are available for review and download below.

About The Troth
The Troth is an inclusive Heathen religious organization dedicated to honoring the Gods, ancestors, and spirits; supporting Heathen religious practice; educating members and the public; and building welcoming, ethical, and accountable Heathen community.

For More Information
Troth Communications
communications@thetroth.org
https://www.thetroth.org