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News 2003

Fact Sheet on Conscientious Objection

The Process

A claim for exemption as a conscientious objector cannot be made until Congress has instituted a draft and an individual has received a draft induction notice. It is important, however, that those who intend to claim CO status build a file documenting their beliefs well in advance.

The first step for a potential draftee is to determine if he is truly a conscientious objector. The best way to do this is by responding to the three questions below through personal reflection, writing, and conversations with parents, ministers, friends, and qualified draft counselors.

The 3 Questions

On Selective Service System Form 22, Claim Documentation Form-Conscientious Objector, individuals will be asked the following three questions:

1. Describe your beliefs which are the reason for you claiming conscientious objection to combatant military training and service or to all military training and service.

2. Describe how and when you acquired these beliefs. Your answer may include such information as the influence of family members or other persons; training, if applicable; your personal experiences; membership in organizations; books and readings which influenced you.

3. Explain what most clearly shows that your beliefs are deeply held. You may wish to include a description of how your beliefs affect the way you live.

CO Classifications

Claimants must request one of the following:

Class 1-A-O: Exemption from only training and service as a combatant member of the armed forces

Class: 1-O: Exemption from all training and service as a member of the armed forces.

Documenting A Claim

For full information about documenting a CO claim, see the resource Conscientious Objectors and the Draft, other information contained in this section of our website, or contact the Office of the Executive Vice President of the UUA or call (617) 948-4303.

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