From the UUA’s press release on January 8, 2021: As a religious institution, we live faithfully our role as a part of the critical fabric of our country’s moral conscience. And as Unitarian Universalists, we hold democracy as a central principle for our faith. … This is a time for true accountability and courageous action in pursuit of a more just, equitable, multiracial and pluralistic democracy.
I have to say that reading these words from our religious organization’s national leadership continues to give me hope and keeps me grounded in a faithful and loving determination. Without this faith, I fear that despair may be so overwhelming that I would allow myself to sit back in my privilege and choose to not care enough to engage in the work of change.
That brings me to my two main points here: 1. What exactly do I do? What does it look like when I/we are living our role and acting courageously? 2. How do we offer the hope of our faith to others who need it?
As Brandon mentioned on Sunday (and published in this newsletter), the UUA has a 30 days of love program that started on MLK day. The resources are particularly engaging this year. I found something within them (in the youth section but it’s definitely geared towards adults) that I think you may all find particularly useful when trying to discern what your role in social change may be. It also can help you to realize your unique and important role in the “critical fabric of our country’s moral conscience” when you question the fruitfulness of your actions. Here is the direct link to a resource called “Mapping Our Roles in Social Change Ecosystems” by Deepa Iyer, SolidarityIs and Building Movement Project:
I am interested in using this resource in a group, perhaps during a Wednesday night program. Please let me know if you are interested!
Second, how do we share the hope that this faith offers, particularly in a time of such great need? Throughout my history at UUCL, I have found that some of us are particularly shy about letting other people know what church we attend and what it means to be a UU. Hmmmm…seems as though that’s a good place to start! Unitarian Universalism isn’t something to keep a secret. No matter what your spiritual path may be, what this faith offers is hope through love and affirmation! People really need that right now. Don’t be shy! Don’t be afraid to uplift your progressive values! Let us use this time (especially since it’s our annual pledge drive) to work together to find all the ways our community can connect with others in Polk County that need us! How can you apply your time, talents, and treasures to this endeavor? How do we connect, love, and transform the moral fabric of our community with courageous action?