By Pam Shadzik for the Congregational Engagement Ministry
In 2018, UUCWC adopted the 8th Principle by congregational vote:
“We covenant to affirm and promote: Journeying toward spiritual wholeness by working to build a diverse multicultural Beloved Community by our actions that accountably dismantle racism and other oppressions in ourselves and our institutions.”
Our Racial Justice Ministry helps us live this principle on a daily, weekly, and yearly basis.
Why Participate in Racial Justice?
Participating in the Racial Justice Ministry helps you engage with our church mission to Change the World by working to eliminate systemic racism. This is powerful work: As you challenge yourself to grow in pursuit of racial justice and openness to diversity, you may find your participation expanding into a profound spiritual practice.
How Can You Participate?
There are many ways to participate in this work, either by joining a ministry or by working on an individual project. Projects might include bringing Excel, accounting, or other business skills to the Trenton Microloan collaborative; participating in book discussions; engaging with Trenton partner organizations, such as Trenton Eat Local, or with First Friday events; advocating to the legislature on reparations; or helping UUCWC committees and ministries weave the anti-racism covenant into their work.
Importantly, each person is on their own anti-racism journey. Regardless of where you are on that journey, you are welcome to join the ministry’s work if you are committed to anti-racism.
More About Racial Justice Ministry
The group is currently experimenting with a leadership structure where the leadership of individual meetings rotates. At present, there are 12 members. The work centers on education and advocacy. Consider exploring the ministry’s growing library collection on the third Sunday of each month. Borrow a book or two and expand your appreciation for the importance of racial justice in each of our lives.
For more information, contact Racialjustice@uucwc.org.