Beloveds,
After a turbulent and exhausting election season, I know that many in our communities feel a deep sense of apprehension, anger, and uncertainty. This moment raises important questions about the future of our country, the safety of those targeted for oppression because of their identities, and the resilience of our collective democracy. We find ourselves pulled both outward, to the actions we hope will make a difference, and inward, toward the relationships of communal care from which such actions must arise.
In challenging times like these, our faith calls us to find strength in each other. As I have said in recent weeks, we are a sanctuary people; a people who aim to create safety for both body and soul within our communal spaces. We are also a faithful people – drawn to communal care not just by our ethics, but by our historic religious tradition. Our congregations and communities are rare places where people can be vulnerable enough to build trust and capacity for resistance. And this is why, as Unitarian Universalists, we are called to build and sustain community; it is the greatest tool we have for resilience.
History reminds us that people of faith and conscience have been essential to every movement safeguarding equity and human dignity. Now, it is our sacred duty to be in solidarity with communities most affected by systemic barriers—trans and nonbinary beloveds, migrants, LGBTQIA+ communities, people with disabilities, and Black, Indigenous, and People of Color. Though the path ahead may be daunting, we give one another strength and courage through our collective resolve.
In the days and weeks to come, even before the fullness of our organizing priorities takes shape, here are ways we can continue this sacred work together:
Cultivate Community Resilience
Faith in each other is a source of great strength. Every controlling regime works to destabilize us and convince us of our powerlessness by separating us from one another. Instead, turn toward each other and nurture the bonds within your communities, providing care and upholding our commitment to equity and inclusion by centering those most directly impacted by violence and oppression.
Now is the time for hyper-local action that will fuel the movement of larger waves of change and resistance. Whenever possible, link up with community organizations. Don't re-do or re-invent what partner organizations are doing. This can be a time to hold space, build relationships and thicken the bonds of those committed to doing the work together. Indeed, the building of accountable relationships is itself one of the greatest actions we can take in these moments.
Show Up for Those Most Impacted
Engage with local allies and support structures that protect the rights of those most vulnerable among us. Your congregation’s role as a sanctuary for justice and compassion is your most vital ministry in this time. When we show up, let us show up ready to listen and learn new truths rather than with an eagerness to declare what is true. Let us lead and follow, each in turn, and always with the guidance of frontline communities.
Engage in Advocacy
Remember that change is always possible, and our collective voice is powerful. For most of our history, Unitarians and Universalists have had a disproportionate impact on the public discourse, given our size relative to other religious denominations. Grounded in community, connected to the local, following and leading, let us continue to support one another constructively as we work toward a long-term vision of a more just world.
Please know that your UUA, Side With Love, and Congregational Life teams are here with you. In the weeks ahead, we will provide resources and guidance to help you and your community remain resilient, faithful, and impactful in this next chapter of our shared history. Together, we will navigate the challenges ahead, rooting ourselves in our Shared Values and always centering love.
As we move forward, remember to care for yourselves and each other. Thank you for your unwavering commitment to justice and to communal care, which strengthens our faith and our nation. We remain in this sacred work together.
Faithfully,
Sofía
Rev. Dr. Sofía Betancourt is the 10th UUA President, elected at General Assembly in June 2023 for a six year term. Rev. Dr. Betancourt has served Unitarian Universalism for more than twenty years in many roles.