Final answer:
Several historical factors influenced the General Council to condemn racial discrimination, including the foundational role of African American churches in civil rights activism, the impact of peaceful protests and societal shifts during the Civil Rights Movement, and the recognition of diversity's benefits during and after World War II.
Step-by-step explanation:
There are numerous historical and social factors that influenced the General Council to officially condemn racial discrimination. The long-standing presence of African American churches and their leaders in fighting against racial injustice plays a significant role. Since the 1700s, figures like Absalom Jones and Richard Allen led by example, establishing the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) church which fought against all forms of racism. Over time, Black churches remained at the forefront of civil rights activism, providing support and leadership in communities, even forming organizations during times when groups like the NAACP were banned. The spiritual messaging of denominations during the Second Great Awakening also supported the idea of equality before God, which contrasted with the racial discrimination experienced in society, further pushing religious communities towards the advocacy for civil rights.
Moreover, the effectiveness of organized, peaceful protests as demonstrated by the Montgomery bus boycott and the broader Civil Rights Movement, evidenced the powerful role of African American churches and leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr., putting pressure on religious institutions to align their public stance on civil rights with the emerging societal norms against racial discrimination. Additionally, socio-economic changes during World War II and the increasing recognition of the benefits that diversity brought to organizations encouraged a wider denouncement of discriminatory practices. Therefore, a combination of historical church leadership, effective civil rights activism, and shifting societal values likely contributed to the General Council's condemnation of racial discrimination.