Social Justice

Social Justice Initiative

Our Belief:
Justice is at the core of our faith. We are called to make a positive difference in our community.  The work we do together to build a world in which all of us are free and thriving is interrelated. 

Purpose:
Provide opportunities for our members and community friends to learn, support, and take action on initiatives that embody Unitarian Universalist values while addressing the needs of our community.

Key Themes for Social Action:
Each year, identify justice theme(s) that resonate within our community, highlighting organizations and initiatives working on these issues so that we can join in support. The themes include:

  • Economic Justice
  • Climate & Environmental Justice
  • Immigrant Justice
  • LGBTQ Justice
  • Racial Justice
  • Reproductive Justice

Planning for the Year:
Over the next year, we will bring together interested members to create a plan, understanding that the plan will be fluid based on issues that may arise. The plan will focus on serving, raising awareness, and supporting those affected by injustice, as well as forging partnerships with other organizations. Our planning process may include:

  • Committee Formation: Establish a committee to select one or more themes for the year and develop a list of potential projects tailored to meet local needs.
  • Membership Input: Conduct a survey to learn about the areas where members are willing to contribute—whether through direct service, advocacy, or education.
  • Plan Submission: Compile the findings and proposed actions into a plan to be submitted to the UU Fellowship of Sheridan board.

Our Roots in Social Justice:
Social justice has long been integral to Unitarian Universalism. Prior to the 1961 merger, both Unitarians and Universalists played active roles in movements for abolition, women’s suffrage, temperance, prison reform, and more. Post-merger, our activism evolved to include civil rights, peace, feminism, LGBTQ rights, and environmental advocacy. Historical efforts have included:

  • Offering sanctuary to draft resisters
  • Serving as staging areas for civil rights marches
  • Organizing transportation for national demonstrations
  • Advocating for the Equal Rights Amendment
  • Supporting immigrant communities

Our liberal stance on social issues is a foundational aspect of our congregations. Unitarian Universalism is not only about the freedom to explore diverse theological views—it also compels us to engage actively in the struggle for social justice.

Objectives:

  • Inclusive Engagement: Attract participants of all ages to social action initiatives.
  • Community Projects: Organize projects that directly address community concerns.
  • Network Building: Foster strong connections between members, community partners, and those we serve.
  • Active Advocacy: Take decisive action to address social injustices and support organizations dedicated to solving these challenges.

—

Kay Wallick

“Side with Love is a public advocacy campaign that seeks to harness love’s power to stop oppression. We are the Organizing Strategy Team of the Unitarian Universalist Association and all are welcome to join.” Click the banner below to go to their website.