I heard almost the identical plea back in the early ’80s from a Reform guy giving a talk about patrilineal descent. To paraphrase:

“We affirm that attempts to delegitimize rabbis and synagogues for the positions they take on this debate go against the spirit of respectful and meaningful conversation.

“In that vein we affirm that recognizing the children of Jewish fathers and non-Jewish mothers who have gone through Jewish life cycle events as full fledged Jews in accordance with Jewish culture.

“Finally, we call on everyone to continue this discussion in a thoughtful and respectful manner, in a spirit of generosity and a commitment to truth and communal harmony.”

When you try to change things that affect us all unilaterally, it’s a bit hypocritical to ask others to be respectful in their opposition.