Social Justice

At Metro East Unitarian Universalist Congregation, social justice is a fundamental part of our identity and spiritual practice. Our commitment to social justice stems from our belief that working to create a more equitable and compassionate world is essential to who we are as Unitarian Universalists.

While we cherish the right to individual belief, we recognize that collective social justice work is crucial for our religious community. By balancing individual freedom with our shared responsibility, we strive to embody our principles in meaningful action.

Historical Roots and Ongoing Activism

The Unitarian Universalist tradition has a long history of social justice activism. Before the merger of Unitarians and Universalists, our forebears were involved in abolition, women’s suffrage, prison reform, and other causes aimed at improving the human condition. This legacy of activism continued after the merger, with involvement in the civil rights movement, LGBTQIA+ liberation, environmental justice, and more. Our congregations have often been at the forefront of social change, offering sanctuary, organizing protests, and advocating for human rights.

James Luther Adams, a prominent Unitarian theologian, emphasized the importance of social justice to our faith. He argued that liberal religion is not merely about maintaining open-minded attitudes but about engaging in institutional struggles to change social structures. This perspective highlights the need for our beliefs to be embodied in social institutions and actions.

Diverse Approaches to Social Justice

Social justice work within our congregation takes many forms, reflecting the diverse concerns and passions of our members.

Some of our key areas of focus include:

Taking Action

Our social justice initiatives are driven by the passion and dedication of our members. Here are some ways we take action:

Educational Programs

We offer workshops and seminars to raise awareness about social justice issues and provide tools for effective advocacy.

Advocacy and Activism

We participate in local, state, and national advocacy efforts, attending rallies, writing letters to elected officials, and joining coalitions to influence policy and create positive change.

Community Partnerships

We collaborate with community organizations that share our commitment to justice, amplifying our impact and supporting broader efforts.

Service Projects

Our members engage in hands-on service projects, such as food drives, building affordable housing, and other activities that provide tangible support to those in need.

Involvement and Impact

Social justice work is central to the vitality and growth of our congregation. Many people are drawn to our community because of our liberal voice on important social issues. By taking public stands and engaging in collective action, we make it clear that we are a religious home where all are welcome, regardless of society’s perceptions. This commitment not only reflects our values but also helps us grow as a community.

We understand that social justice work can sometimes lead to conflict within congregations. However, we believe that addressing these issues is essential for living out our faith. Rather than avoiding conflict, we strive to create respectful decision-making processes that honor the diversity of opinions within our community.

We invite you to join us in our social justice efforts. There are many ways to get involved, whether you have a few hours to spare or are looking for a more regular commitment. Your participation can make a significant difference in our collective work for justice.

Check our church newsletter and website for upcoming social justice events and opportunities to get involved. We also encourage you to join our social justice committee, where you can help plan and coordinate our efforts.

Social Justice

Historical Roots and Ongoing Activism

Diverse Approaches to Social Justice

Taking Action

Involvement and Impact

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