Last week on State of Belief, Interfaith Alliance’s weekly radio show and podcast, our President Rev. Susan Frederick-Gray was joined by Rabbi Jack Moline to discuss her recent column on religious freedom in Religion Dispatches.

Tune in to hear Rev. Frederick-Gray connect religious freedom to reproductive freedom and trans inclusion. We are proud of all that UU’s do individually and collectively to create inclusive religious communities.

https://bit.ly/3tU07lp


SegmentsA direct threat to religious freedomPiety, Power, & Pence#saynotoreligioushomophobiaThere is a common misconception that all Christians are on one side in the culture wars being waged in this country. Of course, this obscures the fact that a majority of Americans – including those of faith...

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Rev. Mykal Slack, Black Lives of UU Community Minister for Worship and Spiritual Care, will be giving the Berry Street Lecture today. We are excited to cheer Rev. Mykal on as he gives the Berry Street Lecture today during the Unitarian Universalist Ministers Association’s annual Ministry Days gathering.

You can tune in to the Berry Street Lecture by going to the UUMA’s Facebook today at 4:30 p.m. EST. https://bit.ly/3ndFX1W



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Today marks the first day of our annual General Assembly! We are so grateful for our democratic tradition.

This time of year is a reminder that Unitarian Universalists and UU congregations determine the path forward in this faith. Your belief in justice, equity, and compassion and your work building beloved community has brought us to where we are today.

Here are some tips for navigating this year's multiplatform #UUAGA experience.



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The inSpirt Book Shop will be offering free shipping for online orders of $50 or more shipped within the U.S. during this year's General Assembly, from June 20th to June 26th. Take advantage to do all your summer book shopping now, you don't have to be at GA to take advantage of this free shipping! Browse great books and more at https://bit.ly/3znlpso

#UUAGA



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General Assembly 2022 in Portland, OR starts now! We welcome you to join us from around the world.

Watch the Opening Celebration and General Session I live-streamed here: https://bit.ly/3NidMcW


Live-streaming video: June 22 at approximately 7:45pm EDT / 6:45pm CDT / 5:45pm MDT / 4:45pm PDT.

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General Session II at General Assembly 2022 starts now! Today's agenda includes UUA President Rev. Susan Frederick-Gray's president's report, Rules Review, and Voting Process Video, Article II Study Commission, and more.

Watch it live-streamed here:https://bit.ly/3HK0ZPt


Live-streaming video: June 23, 12:30pm EDT / 11:30am CDT / 10:30am MDT / 9:30am PDT.

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We love this article from Them offering a more inclusive holistic perspective on mainstream medicine.

Herbalism is a practice that reconnects people to the land, to their bodies, and to each other — truths that can be especially meaningful for trans people, who too often face a slate of indignities when seeking care within mainstream medicine.

While herbalism does not replace access to emergency medical treatment, surgery, and pharmaceuticals, it offers a vital supplement to conventional healthcare for trans and queer communities. Herbal medicine helps trans people to claim agency of their own bodies and to bypass institutional gatekeeping over who has access to comprehensive healthcare.

As gender-affirming care grows increasingly hard to access, learn how fifth-generation herbalist Yaya Vallis is using natural remedies to help heal their community.

https://bit.ly/3HNDOUv


Yaya Vallis, a fifth generation Black, trans herbalist, knows how plants can be allies in transition.

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Join UU the Vote's General Assembly multi-platform rally during General Assembly 2022 today at 7:30 pm PST. Whether you join in-person in Portland or online with our UU the Vote community across the country, this will be a time of shared inspiration, motivation, strategy, and grounding.

Join UU The Vote today and register here: https://bit.ly/3ydKIPE



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Starting now, watch the Service of the Living Tradition live-streaming from General Assembly 2022!

The sermon will be delivered by Pastor Jacqueline Duhart. This year's music director is Francisco Ruiz. This service honors fellowshipped and credentialed religious leaders; remembering those who have died, recognizing those who have completed active service, and welcoming those who have received fellowship or credentialed status in the past year.

Livestream here: https://www.uua.org/ga/off-site/2022/slt

This service includes a collection to benefit the Living Tradition Fund. These proceeds are used for grants to reduce the burden of seminary student loans, grants to seminary students, and general aid to religious professionals and other congregational staff in need.

#UUAGA

https://bit.ly/3biHKAh


Live-streaming video: June 23, 7:00pm EDT / 6:00pm CDT / 5:00pm MDT / 4:00pm PDT. This service honors fellowshipped and credentialed religious leaders.

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General Session III at GA 2022 starts now, including theological framing, business resolution 1 and 2, article II study commission, and more.

Watch it live-streamed here: https://bit.ly/3yciweT


Live-streaming video: June 24, 12:30pm EDT / 11:30am CDT / 10:30am MDT / 9:30am PDT.

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We are heartbroken and outraged by today's anti-choice Supreme Court decision, but we remain committed to reproductive justice. Whether you are in a state where abortion will be criminalized, or a state in which people will come seeking abortion care, there is a role for all of us–and all our congregations–to play, starting right now. The fight is far from over, but we’re grateful to be in it for the long haul.

Here are three things you can do right now to support both today:

1. Donate to your local abortion fund, and/or the National Network of Abortion Funds.

2.Make a plan to host a(nother) Reproductive Justice Sunday in your congregation.

3.Join Side With Love’s UPLIFT Action campaign for our upcoming three-part Reproductive Justice Congregational Organizing series

Read more from our friends at Side with Love: https://bit.ly/3ndKOQL "


Earlier today, the Supreme Court of the United States handed down its decision in the Dobbs v. Jackson case. The final opinion effectively overturned Roe v. Wade and eliminated federal protections for abortion. Each state will now be able to independently regulate abortion, with at least 26 states p

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This year’s Synergy Bridging Worship service looks at transformative multigenerational worship. Be inspired and illuminated at a celebration of treasured worship elements, rites of passage, and brilliant contemporary music.

This service is open to the public watch it live-streamed now: https://bit.ly/3HTCYFx


Live-streaming video: June 24, 7:00pm EDT / 6:00pm CDT / 5:00pm MDT / 4:00pm PDT. This is a transformative multigenerational worship.

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UUA President Rev. Susan Frederick-Gray and Unitarian Universalists onsite at General Assembly are joining local organizers and activists in Portland, OR for a rally for reproductive justice. Watch the livestream now via @SideWithLove.
#AbortionIsHealthcare #UUAGA



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"How do we move forward? Is together… And seeing all of our issues are interconnected," said Drew Frantz, a reverend with the Unitarian Universalist Church. "This is about the rights of trans people, the rights of Black and brown people. The rights of poor people. So we move forward together with coalitions … and political action … grounded in morality and values — that’s how we move forward."

Grateful for the witness of UUs and so many others in Portland and across the country yesterday in prophetic response and resistance to the Dobbs decision overturning Roe v. Wade.

#UUAGA #AbortionIsHealthcare

https://www.kgw.com/article/news/local/thousands-gather-portland-protest-overturning-roe/283-bcbacf83-f104-45c0-a190-61cea875b8b1

Image credit Alma McCarty



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General Session 4 at General Assembly 2022 starts now, including discussion of actions of immediate witness, responsive resolutions
, theological reflection, and more.

Watch it live-streamed here: https://bit.ly/3u1alkf


Live-streaming video: June 25, 12:30pm EDT / 11:30am CDT / 10:30am MDT / 9:30am PDT.

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A new Unitarian Universalist Association president—the public, spiritual, and executive leader of the UU movement and the UUA organization and staff—will be elected at General Assembly 2023, for a six-year term.

The Presidential Search Committee (PSC), which the General Assembly created in 2010, is tasked with evaluating applications for president and selecting at least two nominees.

The application form is now live online and the PSC will accept applications through July 15, 2022. Nominees will be announced on November 15, 2022. Please share this important leadership opportunity widely.

https://bit.ly/3LPLExm


Association’s next chief executive and spiritual leader to be elected at General Assembly 2023

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Sharing some of UUA LGBTQ and Multicultural Programs Director, Rev. Michael J. Crumpler's recent message via UPLIFT:

"I know the days are heavy and the nights are long, but now more than ever we must find the strength to celebrate Pride.
I know the attacks seem relentless and the tide of death seems to be drowning us all, but now more that ever we must find the strength to celebrate Pride...

And by Pride I don’t just mean a parade, a Tea dance, or even a march. What I mean is now more than ever we must find the strength to live our truth unapologetically. We must find the force of will to fight like hell."
May we give strength to each other during this season of #Pride to find joy and continue the work of justice.

Read the full message here: https://bit.ly/39UwDgH



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We are proud that Unitarian Universalists are connected to so many historic moments of courage and liberation. As we mark the 53rd anniversary of the Stonewall Riots, read reflections from LGBTQ elders who came of age during this transformative time.

Get your copy of this award-winning book from UUA publisher Skinner House in our Inspirit book store and your money supports this faith tradition we all love.
https://bit.ly/3NoCisV

Image credit: The second annual Stonewall anniversary march in New York City, June 21, 1971. 1971 Fred W. McDarrah/Getty Images



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When Unitarian Universalists come together - whether in person or online - we make a powerful impact. Each year, our annual General Assembly gives us an opportunity to amplify our experience in worship, grow our personal and professional networks, and share our love for one another and for this faith in deeply meaningful ways.

Another GA has come and gone. Last week we concluded our multi-platform General Assembly. Enjoy these photos from various events during GA.





















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Trans, non-binary, and gender-queer people have long been absent from the mainstream stories of history despite always being present. Fortunately, historians are now beginning to look more carefully to find and amplify their important stories. We are committed to widening our own circle of history as we use our platforms to lift up the trans and non-binary folks in Unitarian Universalist communities today. #Pride

https://bit.ly/3I1wHru


Often erased from history, scholars are now realizing that transgender and nonbinary people have existed in most human societies across time.

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The narratives and stories that Black people, journalists, and media-makers create and share in community-led newspapers, visual art spaces, libraries, and other physical and digital Black gathering spaces can be useful in helping to make the world around us more loving, more easeful, more liberated, more Black. Media reparations are about saying: no more.

“No” to journalism and media written with the blood of Black lives. Instead, cultural organizer Diamond K. Hardiman shares with us the practice of an invitation to collectively dream of reparative policies, interventions, and futures that will radically transform who has the capital to tell their own stories.

Learn more about how media reparations are an invitation to reclaim black stories from ideation to distribution: https://bit.ly/3ytYu0z


In order to achieve full reparations, we need to reconstruct media systems built on violence, specifically anti-Black violence.

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We're resharing this video including transcription of our President Rev. Susan Frederick-Gray speaking at June 24th’s rally in Portland, OR, in support of abortion access.

“Abortion is healthcare. We will not be silent. We will break the law. We will win.” Read the full transcription and watch the speech about the Supreme Court ruling overturning Roe v. Wade.

And as Unitarian Universalists, we will not stop fighting. We must use this moment as an opportunity for profound reflection and awakening, not just in a momentary outcry, but as a basis for lasting change.

https://bit.ly/3yvWtko



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So far we've collectively raised just over $135,000 in support of four special collections for Side with Love, Living Tradition Fund, the Katie Tyson Fund for Youth and Young Adult Ministries, and our community beneficiary, East County Rising Community Projects.

If you haven't completed all of your intended collection contributions, please make any final gifts by today, today is the last day to donate.

You can still opt to donate to all four collections with a single contribution using Express Donate.https://bit.ly/3Oy4uLp



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Yesterday Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson was sworn in as the newest Justice to the U.S. Supreme Court. Jackson – the first Black woman to sit on the Court - is a former public defender and federal appeals court judge with exceptional credentials, unimpeachable character, and unwavering dedication to the rule of law.

Former Justice Stephen Breyer, her mentor, shared that the Court gained “a colleague who is empathetic, thoughtful, and collegial. I am glad for America. Ketanji will interpret the law wisely and fairly, helping that law to work better for the American people, whom it serves."

As UUs, we are so proud and joyful about this historic moment. And we are thrilled to celebrate this important milestone.

https://nbcnews.to/3I4WGhL


Jackson, a former public defender and federal appeals court judge, replaces Justice Stephen Breyer, who has officially retired from the high court.

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We're resharing this video including transcription of General Session III during last week's General Assembly.

Rewatch Rev. Susan Frederick-Gray reflect her remarks about the Supreme Court ruling overturning Roe v. Wade.

https://bit.ly/3yciweT


On-demand video: Response to SCOTUS ruling overturning Roe v. Wade; Article II Study Commission: Values and Sources of Inspiration; Bylaw Amendments

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We are holding the victims, their families, and all of Highland Park, Illinois in love and light during this heartbreaking time. We are lifting up those who lost friends, family members, and neighbors, and their community, who will live with the consequences of yesterday’s mass shooting forever in their lives and in their hearts. The horrendous toll of this gun violence during a holiday parade is beyond comprehension. As we pray for the victims and their families – and provide support and comfort to their community – we continue to demand action on reasonable gun safety regulations, even while acknowledging the recent passage of new federal gun safety laws.

There have now been more than 300 mass shootings in this country in less than 200 days. A recent decision by the Supreme Court has made it even more difficult for states to pass reasonable gun regulations. We cannot accept living under these conditions of mass violence, especially actions inspired by harmful ideologies.

Our hearts heavy with grief, we offer words of support: You are not alone. Together, we are strong. Together, we will make change.

https://cnn.it/3P4p31Y


A suspect is in custody, police say, after at least six people were killed in a shooting in downtown Highland Park, Illinois, in the area of a July Fourth parade. Follow here for the latest live news updates.

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Following the SCOTUS ruling on abortion, as supporters and advocates of reproductive justice, we know that organizing for justice is intersectional.

Join Side with Love for a three-part Reproductive Justice Congregational Organizing series. Learn how to be a part of organizing a team in your congregation and how to organize the congregation's specific actions in support of abortion access and Reproductive Justice in your community. Participation in all 3 sessions is required. Session one starts July 21, 8 pm ET/5 pm PT.

Learn more and sign up here: https://bit.ly/3P2ixbK



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We could all use some joy. We offer you this message from the UUA's Faith Innovation Specialist Rev. Marisol Caballero.

"To play is to pretend… and honestly, sometimes the world seems too heavy to leave the house, let alone inspire moments of joy. But the more I watch the news these days, the more I'm coming to view playing — intentionally seeking joy — as a means of radical resistance. And I’ll continue to laugh with my friends at songs that deliver terrible emotional advice.”
https://bit.ly/3AtKFRf



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Women are not exclusively affected by the Dobbs decision. Not all people with uteruses are women and abortion is not just a women's issue.

Photo credits: Blair Imani



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Youth and young adults -- have you listened to the UU youth ministry podcast? Tune into JUUst Breathe Live as Eric Bliss and Shannon Harper interview special guests on topics that are central to youth ministry such as climate justice, spiritual direction, and life after bridging/circling.

You can listen to episodes anywhere you get your podcasts or watch them at https://bit.ly/3MOLh6Z.


And now for something completely different! Eric Bliss Yms and I are trying a new tactic for bringing UU youth and emerging adult ministry to the people. JUU...

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51 years ago, Beacon Press published the Pentagon Papers, exposing White House secret cables and official lies. The Pentagon Papers remain a warning that every generation must protect its own constitutional liberties. They also established an important precedent for the press—that unless documents represent an immediate danger to national security, reporters can bring them to the public’s attention. The effects of publishing the Pentagon Papers are timely.

The UUA remains proud of our relationship with Beacon Press all these years later. We’re proud that the books Beacon Press publishes continue to change the way readers think about fundamental issues and continue to promote freedom of speech and thought.

Learn more about how Beacon Press brought the Pentagon Papers to the public: https://bit.ly/3dWrlQo


It occurred 50 years ago this month, a story known primarily by people now dead but one that is vital for our times, and for all time.

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The application form for a new Unitarian Universalist Association President
is currently live. The Presidential Search Committee is accepting applications now through this Friday, July 15, 2022. Nominees will be announced on November 15, 2022. Please share this important leadership opportunity widely.

A new Unitarian Universalist Association president will be elected at General Assembly 2023, for a six-year term.

https://bit.ly/3LPLExm


Association’s next chief executive and spiritual leader to be elected at General Assembly 2023

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The Article II Study Commission invites you into their study. Try using these slides as conversation prompts for coffee hour, an interactive element of your worship service, or as a part of regular small group meetings. Use one slide each week or a set of them together.

Though the conversations will be rich all on their own, for anyone who would like to share their thoughts with the commission, each slide will direct participants to a google form where they can send their answers to us.

https://bit.ly/3RsweD3


These slides can be used as conversation prompts for coffee hour, an interactive element of your worship service, or as a part of regular small group meeti

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The Unitarian Universalist Association has awarded the Bennett Award for Congregational Action on Human Justice and Social Action to First Parish Portland. The Bennett Award, instituted in 1999 by Dr. James R. Bennett to honor a Unitarian Universalist congregation that has done exemplary work in social justice, is accompanied by a $1,000 cash award.

"This congregation’s ministry with the Wabanaki peoples and several of their community organizations is a powerful example of how UU communities can engage in both the internal and external work to support indigenous liberation and sovereignty. The depth of their relationship that is enhanced by the honest self-learning and acknowledgment of historical harms caused by the congregation, has contributed to an ongoing truth-telling and healing process that creates an accountable and shared foundation for mutual liberation. "

We are proud of the ways that Unitarian Universalists are continuing to show up in the fight for social justice.

https://bit.ly/3uI5fJO


The Unitarian Universalist Association has awarded the Bennett Award for Congregational Action on Human Justice and Social Action to First Parish

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Last month we concluded with our first fully multiplatform General Assembly as they voted on two business resolutions and a rules clarification, and two newly elected members for the Board of Trustees. Learn more about General Assembly 2022 in this summary from UU World.

https://bit.ly/3Ivfffc


As the organizers of the 2022 UUA General Assembly had promised, the reimagined multiplatform event in Portland was no business as usual.

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Congratulations to Sister Simone!

Watch her 2014 GA Lecture here:https://bit.ly/3yH4S3D


Watch Sr. Simone receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom 10 Replies Watch Sister Simone receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom Mary J. Novak July 7, 2022 On July 7, 2022, President Joe Biden awarded Sister Simone Campbell, SSS and 16 other extraordinary Americans with our country’s highest ci...

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The Onondaga Nation is set to regain over 1,000 acres of ancestral land in central New York, one of the largest returns of land to an Indigenous nation by a state. “This historic agreement represents a unique opportunity to return traditional homelands back to Indigenous people to steward for the benefit of their community. "

This land that we call home is Indigenous Peoples’ land. This land is a part of who they are. It’s a mixture of their blood, their past, their current, and their future. Unitarian Universalists remain in committed solidarity with Indigenous people. We send our love to the Onondaga Nation as they regain their acres of ancestral land.

https://cnn.it/3ANEJm6


The Onondaga Nation is set to regain over 1,000 acres of ancestral land in central New York in what the Department of Interior calls "one of the largest returns of land to an Indigenous nation by a state."

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This Thoughtful Thursday we bring you a quote by bell hooks. "The moment we choose to love, we begin to move against domination, against oppression. The moment we choose to love, we begin to move toward freedom, to act in ways that liberate ourselves and others."



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Like millions of people across the country, many Unitarian Universalists were outraged on the morning of June 24 when the U.S. Supreme Court announced that it was overturning the federal right to abortion that had been enshrined for nearly fifty years.

The announcement in Dobbs v. Jackson’s Women Health Organization came as UUs gathered for the third day of General Assembly 2022. Unitarian Universalist Association President Susan Frederick-Gray took the stage at GA and said, “This anti-choice decision by the Supreme Court infringes on our deeply held religious beliefs. Access to abortion and the right to choose is an issue of gender equality, bodily autonomy, religious liberty, and access to healthcare, all of which are long-held Unitarian Universalist religious teachings.”

Read UU World article on UUA President Susan Frederick-Gray's speech at a rally in defense of reproductive freedom in downtown Portland here: https://bit.ly/3uPVMAr


UUA President Susan Frederick-Gray leads a rally in Portland, Oregon, and vows to keep fighting for abortion rights (VIDEO)

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While there are some important limitations on what congregations can do in elections, there’s also a broad range of activities that are totally legal and highly effective ways to educate and engage voters. This skill-up will review the basic dos and don’ts, with a focus on the areas that tend to raise the most questions.

Join UU The Vote this Sunday, July 17, 2022, at 4 pm ET.

https://bit.ly/3ciH0eN


Our Squad Skill Ups are a monthly series of trainings on organizing skills to help build our Squads and help YOU build stronger teams in your congregation and community.

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How do we end the deadly "Title 42" policy and restore access to asylum at the U.S.-Mexico border? Even months after the CDC tried to revoke it, the courts have kept it in place. There is a risk of Title 42 becoming permanent law if we don’t stop legislators from attaching it to essential funding bills and COVID relief.

Join this multi-faith event Side with Love, UUSC, and the Interfaith Immigration to get critical updates on asylum access in the US, particularly on the status and impact on Title 42.

Will you join the people of faith committed to restoring asylum at #HealNotHarm Teach-in today at 4 pm ET?

https://bit.ly/3o8vbuF



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The case of Jayland Walker reminds us that, despite modest reforms at some departments, killings by police remain pervasive. These horrific trends of police violence disregard the humanity of the people they have sworn to protect. And so there will be more victims like Jayland Walker, Brett Rosenau, and all who love them next week—and every week—until we turn moments of outrage into change.

Transforming racist structures demands that all of us, as Unitarian Universalists, families, and communities, continue to apply relentless pressure to uproot this deadly policing system.

Read the UU World article on the nationwide police violence epidemic.

https://bit.ly/3uY39FQ


The case of Jayland Walker reminds us that, despite modest reforms at some departments, killings by police remain pervasive.

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These days we could all set aside time to catch up on reading. Check out offerings from Skinner House and Beacon Press.

Skinner House is unafraid to tackle the thorniest issues, they bring insightful writing for every age and stage.

Are you looking to change your thoughts about fundamental issues? Beacon Press
promotes values such as freedom of speech and thought; diversity, religious pluralism, anti-racism; and respect for diversity in all areas of life.

Both publishers offer books on a wide range of topics and resources to help individuals and communities engage with what they are reading. You can purchase Skinner House and Beacon Press books at inSpirit, the UU Book, and Gift Shop.

https://bit.ly/3ME46t1



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It is good that resources to support mental health and suicide prevention are growing across the United States, like this 988 call service that connects people to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. If only we could de-couple the support services for those understood to be at imminent risk of self-harm from law enforcement. We know that police do not represent help or safety for all people.

In this time of tremendous upheaval and trauma and change, we need more mental health support.

Learn more at https://bit.ly/3ce6lXh


We can all help prevent suicide. The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.

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As we come up on the 32nd anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) we share with you this past reflection from Beacon Press.

The UUA is deeply committed to working to create a more welcoming world for people of all abilities.

https://bit.ly/3ckHa5s


This year, the Americans with Disabilities Act has a thirtieth candle to blow out on its birthday cake. The ADA is the widest-ranging and most comprehensive piece of civil rights legislation ever passed in the United States, and it has become the model for disability-based laws around the world. We....

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In light of Non-Binary Awareness last week it is important to remember to shift the focus from just empowering the trans and non-binary community to disempowering cis supremacy + gender normativity.

We are committed to using our platforms to lift up the trans and non-binary folks in Unitarian Universalist communities today.

art by Nerdy Brown Kid
https://bit.ly/3PsNxSW



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Justice today demands courageous action. Unitarian Universalism calls us to move out of comfort and into authentic solidarity with communities targeted for oppression. Grounded in our deeply held values, we find courage in one another to work for the liberation of all people.



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The Unitarian Universalist Association has been a long-time advocate of comprehensive, age-appropriate sexual education. Through the program we have developed with United Church of Christ, Our Whole Lives, we are bringing honest, accurate, life-changing information about sexuality to congregations across the country.

Our Whole Lives provides developmentally appropriate information about topics that include relationships, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, sexual health, and cultural influences on sexuality. It dismantles stereotypes and assumptions while building self-acceptance and self-esteem. It helps children learn what healthy behaviors are and that they have a right to say no. And it teaches people of all ages to foster healthy relationships and improve their decision-making – it is the kind of sexual education that can save lives. We are proud of our commitment and partnership with United Church of Christ regarding the Our Whole Lives program.

#SexEdSavesLives

https://bit.ly/3cuF2Z5


Educators who teach sex ed have been called "groomers" by political pundits on the right. But comprehensive sex ed can help kids identify predatory behaviors.

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Evin Carvill Ziemer

,

Darrick Jackson

,

Alex Sherwood

,

Sarah Gettie McNeill

,

Jennica Davis-Hockett

Continue reading "Welcoming Neurodivergent Folx to Our Congregations"

32 years ago today the Americans with Disabilities Act was signed into law, giving civil rights protections to individuals with disabilities similar to those provided on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, and religion.

While the ADA has made the United States 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 accessible, it’s important to note that more still needs to be done. People with disabilities still face difficulties such as finding jobs, accessible affordable housing, and ways to access support. People with disabilities are forced to adapt to a world that was not designed with their needs in mind. We have a lot of work to do.

The UUA is deeply committed to working to create a more welcoming world for people of all abilities. Get to know some amazing authors writing in this area through our historic publisher,Beacon Press.

https://bit.ly/3zbzcDs



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In memory of Rev. Rob Eller-Isaacs co-minister of Unity Church-Unitarian in St. Paul, Minnesota we share with you "We forgive ourselves and each other and begin again in love," from A Litany of Atonement, by Rev. Robert Eller-Isaacs, #637 in Singing the Living Tradition.

https://bit.ly/3PE8pGZ



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At General Assembly last month, former UUA President and Senior Minister at First Unitarian Church in Portland, Rev. Bill Sinkford received a standing ovation and the Award for Distinguished Service to the Cause of Unitarian Universalism. His commitment to justice and service, and his enduring spiritual courage, exemplifies for all of us what it really means to be a religious leader. Congratulations Rev. Sinkford!

Read the full article in UU World: https://bit.ly/3czttzI


Former UUA President William G. Sinkford recognized for decades of distinguished service to the faith.

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Another world is possible, it can be more than a dream. Prepare yourself for the times of triumph and times of trial that are ahead. Let us all prepare for a path of justice and equality. We need grounding to find a more beautiful world.

How can UU's take a stance and continue reimagining the future? How is your congregation or community connecting to this work?

Photo credit: soleoado



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Have you seen the colorful emoji-like characters from the children’s book series, Mr. Men, all over social media? People have been posting the characters with alternate captions detailing possible traits that might represent them. We hope you enjoy the UU take on this trend.









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Join UU the Vote and the Environmental Voter Project on Monday, Aug 1, 2022, at 7 pm ET to call voters in Arizona ahead of their Primary Election on August 2nd.

This will be the first national phone bank of the 2022 campaign year. November’s midterms will set the tone for the next two years of climate change policy. The Arizona election will have massive ramifications on their state and on the nation.

The stakes are too high to be complacent. Let's help make sure climate voters get to the polls and join us on Monday, August 1st at 7 pm ET.

Sign up here: https://bit.ly/3PJ2G2E



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In the June Dobbs ruling, SCOTUS discarded a half-century of precedent because the U.S. Constitution’s authors failed to affirm reproductive choice. According to SCOTUS, reproductive choice is not “deeply rooted in this Nation’s history and tradition.”

Constitutional conveners were wealthy white men who shut out women, people of color, and the working class from participating. Despite the expansion of rights over the last two centuries to populations previously excluded, minority rule remains in force today.

The current escalation of minority rule undermines virtually all core UU principles. In order to save reproductive choice and preserve previous civil rights advances, we all need to recognize the need for structural change.

Take a minute to understand how the rising threat of minority rule impacts us in this recent UU World Article.

https://bit.ly/3ONSdSe


To save reproductive choice and preserve previous civil rights advances, it’s essential to recognize the need for structural change.

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UU faith is enriched by Earth-based spiritual traditions, such as the marking of Lammas, harvest of the grain, which begins today August 1st. There are many variations and beautiful tales about the origins of this great festival. Lammas is the first of three celebrations of the harvest. The next is Mabon, the harvest of the fruit, and later Samhain, the harvest of the nuts and berries.

Today marks the beginning of upcoming cycles, seasons, and the inevitability of change. Now is the time to make an inner turn as nature makes a turn of her own.

Photo: George Cole, Harvest Rest, Public Domain



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UUA Co-Moderator Rev. Meg Riley calls the review and potential revision of the portion of the UU bylaws that includes the Seven Principles, Six Sources, and statements on inclusion and freedom of belief, “the juiciest part of what is going on in our faith today.” We think so too.

Are you part of this conversation yet? Join us as we work together to reconsider our faith fundamentals in the coming year. Learn more from UU World: https://bit.ly/3zYE0xX


Attendees discussed the future of the UUA's Principles, Purposes, and Sources.

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August is #NationalBlackBusinessMonth, created in 2004 by historian John William Templeton and engineer Frederick E. Jordan Sr. to bring attention to the needs of more than two million Black-owned businesses operating across America.

Project Pneuma compiled a list of ways everyday consumers and funders can support Black-owned businesses during the month of August and beyond.

Read and learn how you can support Black Business Month:
https://bit.ly/3JqdqAK.


August is #NationalBlackBusinessMonth, created in 2004 by historian John William Templeton and engineer Frederick E. Jordan Sr. to bring attention to the needs of more than two million Black-owned businesses operating across America. Did you know Black business owners account for about 10 percent of...

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Unitarian Universalists are committed to affirming and welcoming disabled people. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to ending ableism, but disability activists spoke with Religion News Service about where religious communities can start.

Read these activists' suggestions about how to make religious places more accessible: https://bit.ly/3Qf33C1

Looking for more resources? Check out EqUUal Access, the UU affinity organization that promotes equality and access for UUs with disabilities.
https://bit.ly/3bujeg8


(RNS) — There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to ending ableism, but disability activists spoke with RNS about where religious communities can start.

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As we prepare for our children to head back to school, make time for one more summer read.

"Little Did I Know" is an inclusive and diverse anthology that includes all kinds of families: chosen and biological, extended families, single parents, divorced parents, and more—a beautiful spectrum of people reflecting on the role children and young people have played in their lives and in their larger search for meaning. "Little Did I Know" goes well beyond the sentimental to an honest reckoning with the vulnerability and beauty of parenting and caregiving.

https://bit.ly/3SmdMfJ



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"May you choose your people, and be chosen by them, again and again and again." ~Rev. Abbey Tennis

Read her full reflection and prayer from Braver Wiser: https://bit.ly/3zrCzGK


We must choose each other again and again, though conflict and through plenty.

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