We are called by our Unitarian Universalist faith to respond to the pain of injustice made manifest in the riots and protests in our cities. We call out with cries of anguish at the extreme injustices we see in the news. 

We mourn for the murders of George Floyd, Tony McDade, Breonna Taylor and Ahrmaud Arbery. And for all of our siblings killed by the hands of hatred and racism. We cry for the inequity of our systems which have made the victims of the pandemic overwhelmingly people of color and the poor.

Through our policy of taking stands as a congregation, one year ago, on May 29, 2019 we, through a congregational vote committed ourselves to take action on racial justice and dismantle white supremacy. 

We urge each of you to participate in acts of social justice and share with others what you have done to influence more people to act.

Here is a list of  “75 Things White People Can Do for Racial Justice.”  We want to share some actions for right now as well as highlight some activities from the list.  Recognizing the power of collective action, we know we make a difference. 

• Post “Black Lives Matter” signs in your window. Or your front yard.
• Email or write letters (e.g., to your city’s police department – do they use body cams regularly and provide de-escalation training for officers; legislators – prison and criminal justice reform; Twitter – thanking them for their policy condemning the promotion of violence.)
• Give money. Start with the list above and consider Washington Immigration Solidarity Network (based in Snohomish County), Coalition of Communities of Color and the Poor People’s Campaign: A National Call for Moral Revival.  
• Now is a good time to read books on racial justice, Black history, white supremacy, and the history of other marginalized groups. Here’s a list of books we’ve read and recommend at EUUC. 
• The Racial Justice Committee hosts on-line reading circles. Watch for announcements in our weekly newsletter.
• Learn more about the Unitarian Universalist Association adopting the Eighth Principle.

If you feel called to go to a mass gathering or protest, please do so as safely as possible – wear a mask, bring your own signs, and practice social distancing. Be sure to find out who is sponsoring the event; we recommend events sponsored by those who are trusted organizations and leaders. 

Even in challenging times such as these, we can work for a better world. We must work for a better world. We will work for a better world. 

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