Sarah N. and Pip F. two of the Aston Park defendants, will speak about what it means to have community support and they will speak about recent, escalating anti-homeless information.
AN INVITATION FROM OUR FRIENDS AT CAROLINA JEWS FOR JUSTICE According to Mazon, a Jewish response to hunger, 1 in 6 children in North Carolina go hungry every day. This is a disgrace. Our Jewish traditions compel us to honor the dignity of every person, especially those who are vulnerable.
North Carolina advocates and community leaders are urging the North Carolina legislature to expand school meals this year so that every student can access free, nutritious breakfast and lunch in North Carolina’s public schools. School Meals for All NC would promote academic achievement and developmental well-being, eliminate meal debt and lunch shaming, and ensure that every child can succeed. It is a necessary step towards ending hunger in North Carolina.
Call to Action – Tell your State Senator and General Assembly Leadership – Thank you for reaching a Medicaid Expansion deal but DON’T connect it to the budget.
Call your State Senator & General Assembly Leadership
Hi, my name is ________, I live in _________ and I am a person of faith.
I am calling to express my excitement over the Medicaid Expansion deal that has been reached by Speaker Moore and Senate Leader Berger. This will change the lives of over 600,000 of our neighbors North Carolina and will have a transformative impact on our state’s economy.
But I also want to voice my deep concern that Medicaid Expansion is being tied to the state budget. I urge ______ to consider the impact that this delay will have on the people of our state.
Every day that goes by is another cancer diagnosis missed, another family that falls deeper into debt, another addiction that goes untreated.
Moreover, we are approaching the end of the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency, which could cause an estimated 100,000 North Carolinians to lose their healthcare coverage on July 1st who would be eligible for continued coverage if we expand Medicaid today. Let’s make sure that they do not experience a gap in their coverage.
If the General Assembly agrees that this is the right thing to do, then do it now. Medicaid Expansion cannot wait for the passage of the state budget.
Call to Action – Tell your State Senator & Representative – Abortion Access is a Social and Moral Good. An Anti-Abortion Bill is expected to be introduced in the North Carolina General Assembly this week. Now is the time to activate our UU network to preserve abortion access in our state. UU Justice NC is inviting UUs across the state to write personal letters that will be hand delivered to your elected officials in Raleigh by a fellow Unitarian Universalist. This easy toolkit provides all the guidance, information and talking points you will need to take action.
Film & Conversation: Leaving Afghanistan, a one hour documentary about one family’s resettlement journey from Kabul to Canada. When? Friday, March 3, at 5:30 p.m., at the East Asheville Library (3 Avon Road) community room. Why? To connect with volunteers and supporters of the Afghan refugees who have been in the Asheville area for over a year. UU Asheville is one of the congregations that has sponsored an Afghan Family. Tea and cookies will be served. Please RSVP to
What are the NEXT STEPS BEYOND LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT of the Indigenous Peoples who lived on and cared for this land before us?
Several members of the Black Mountain UU congregation attended the powerful and moving online workshop “Roots of Injustice, Seeds of Change” in February, and they highly recommend attending one of the online sessions coming up soon.
Sessions are available on these dates:
Sunday March 12, 4:00 to 6:00 pm ET or
Saturday April 15, 4:00 to 6:00 pm ET
Created by the national project, Toward Right Relationship with Native Peoples (TRR), this interactive workshop will help us to:
Learn the real history of our country through the voices of Native peoples, European colonists, and historians
Understand why this history matters to all Americans today
Interact and experience this history as you never have before
Learn to respect Native Americans’ rights, culture, and presence
Registration is limited to 60 participants, on a sliding scale from $20 to $50, minimum $5. Please register at: https://friendspeaceteams.org/trr
Please also let Rev. Claudia Jiménez know if you have registered for one of these sessions so we can plan a follow up conversation with the Black Mountain UU congregation.
Taking Action: Democracy NC and other groups are asking people to share their concerns about House Bill 40. They and others believe it will criminalize protesting on many levels. Get details and a way to take action here.
SAVE THE DATE…
Feb 25 – “Stand with Ukraine Peace Rally and Vigil”,2 – 8 pm,Pack Square. Get details from this flyer.
Feb 28 – Moms Demand Action Asheville holds its in-person meeting at First Baptist Church, 7 pm. Get details and sign up here.
March 2 – Screening of an important film on the death penalty, “Racist Roots”, 7 pm.Get details here for this free event held at the Mullen & James Humanities Hall on the UNCA campus.
May 6 – BeLoved Asheville is holding its second “Raise Another Home” Auction on May 6th. Get details for this event and how you can support it in this open letter to the community.
Urgent Call to Action – NC’s Don’t Say Gay BillSB49 the so called “Parents Bill of Rights” would ban curriculum on gender identity, sexual activity or sexuality in grades K- 4 and would require that school staff out children to their parents. This bill is moving VERY quickly through the General Assembly. Please call your State Senator and Representatives today and tell them to Vote NO on “The Parents Bill of Rights.” You can find their contact info here: https://ncleg.gov/FindYourLegislators
The Dismantling White Supremacy Support Group meets the 1st and 3rd Friday of each month from 10 AM-Noon, via Zoom. Visit our event calendar for details. Next meeting is February 17 at 10am. Zoom
The foundational covenant of our denomination is changing. The Article II Report explains why and includes the revised covenant. Join the Revs to share your thoughts Feb 16 noon bagged lunch discussion, Sandburg Hall. New to UU Asheville? Learn about our on-going Anti-Racism Initiative
UUSJ Event with UUA President Rev. Susan Fredrick-Gray on Thursday, February 2nd at 8:00 PM ET. Rev. Frederick-Gray will offer her reflections on the 118th Session of Congress and will then take questions from UUs across the country. At the start of this new congress, it is time to renew our commitment to engaging at a federal level. This event is a fundraiser to support the incredible federal legislative leadership of our friends at UUSJ. Tickets are $25, but free tickets are available upon request. Register Here
If you are interested in racial justice and equity, the Western North Carolina Racial Equity Collective is hosting several virtual REI (Racial Equity Institute) workshops heading into the new year. Go to the following links to register and/or express interest: REI Phase 1 Workshop- Friday & Saturday, Feb. 3 – 4, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm Three additional REI Phase 1 Workshops are being planned. Get details and express your interest by completing this form.
The Racial Justice Coalition has created a new webpage on its website that highlights two of its projects. Go here for an overview, but for specifics for each, go to the links for Every Black Voice and the Government Accountability Project. Each is open for people to support and join.
For nearly three years, our partners at UU Justice Ministry of NC have offered weekly Action Hours on Friday mornings. These hours address social justice issues impacting our state and country. Along the way, they have deepened relationships, grown as social justice organizers, and had a lot of fun! The organizer, Rev. Lisa Garcia-Sampson, offers a Friday Action Hour Weekly Email that includes a promo of the week’s actions, the Zoom link and the link to their Actions Google Doc. For those interested, click here to sign up!
Learning Corner: Listen to Rev. Dr. King’s Letter from a Birmingham Jail
NC House Speaker Tim Moore wants to make House Rules Change to Override Vetoes without notice. The NC House rules have previously required advance notice that votes will take place to ensure all representatives are on the floor for crucial decisions. Speaker Moore wants to eliminate this window so that he can override Governor Cooper’s vetoes swiftly and without a democratic process. If Moore gets his way, crucial issues on personal freedoms and individual rights could be voted on without every representative present. (Action talking points created by DownHome NC)
– Hi my name is _____, I live in ____ and I am a person of faith.
– I am calling to express my deep anger and disappointment that Speaker Moore is attempting to change the NC House rules so that he can unilaterally and without warning call a veto override vote.
– This rule change undermines the functionality of our legislature and is a disservice to the people of our state. It is both juvenile and unethical that he is seeking the power to call a vote when a representative goes to the bathroom, is sick, or has a family emergency.
– North Carolinians deserve a transparent and accountable legislature where all of our representatives have a fair chance to represent us.
30 Days of Love 2023! Side with Love’s annual month of spiritual nourishment, political grounding, and shared practices of faith and justice, 30 Days of Love will go from Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (January 16) through Valentine’s Day (February 14). This year’s 30 Days of Love is a love letter to our whole beloved community – families, religious professionals, partners and communities that embody our values and work for justice and liberation year round. Each week will feature a spiritual theme overlapping with one of Side With Love’s intersectional justice priorities, and we’ll share an array of offerings to help nourish your spirit and give gratitude and affirmation. Learn More Here
BONUS DAYS (February 13-14) Blessings :: Liberatory Intersections
“Love Thy Neighbor” Expand Medicaid Postcard Campaign. In 2022, NC lawmakers came closer than ever to Expanding Medicaid to over a half a million people in North Carolina. In early 2023, The NC Justice Center needs our help to get this lifesaving legislation over the finish line! They are inviting us to send postcards to members of the NC General Assembly. When you sign up, you will receive a packet of pre-addressed postcards and stamps that you can mail directly to lawmakers, along with some talking points to get you started. You can expect your packet in late January. Sign Up Here.DEADLINE Sunday, January 15th.
“Love Thy Neighbor” Expand Medicaid Postcard Campaign. In 2022, NC lawmakers came closer than ever to Expanding Medicaid to over a half a million North Carolinians. In early 2023, The NC Justice Center needs our help to get this lifesaving legislation over the finish line! They are inviting us to send postcards to members of the NC General Assembly. When you sign up, you will receive a packet of pre-addressed postcards and stamps that you can mail directly to lawmakers, along with some talking points to get you started. You can expect your packet in late January. Sign Up Here.
UU Justice NC Friday Action Hour – This Friday, December 23, 11 AM and Save the Date: Year End Celebration – Friday, December 30th at 11 AM. Join UU Justice NC for this End of Year Celebration of all the work UUs have done this year to contribute to the movement for justice and liberation. Rev. Lisa will offer a detailed review of the major local, state, and national issues that our state network worked on in 2022. She will also give a preview of what we anticipate happening in early 2023. Join via Zoom:https://zoom.us/j/91029655107 and don’t forget to sign up for the reminder email by clicking here.
8th Principle Reflection Circles Schedule Come explore not only why the 8th principle matters but how it can transform our congregation. Below is the schedule for Reflection Circles that will be facilitated by members of the 8th Principle Team and the Anti-Racism Immigration Justice Action Group. Please RSVP to Rev. Claudia at faithdev@uuasheville.org
Jan 15 (MLK Service); Feb 5, and March 19: In person: 9:30 AM; 12:30 PM
Jan 19; Feb 8, and March 23 Zoom: 7 PM
Reproductive Justice Connection Carolina Jews for Justice (CJJ) is doing important work to support access to abortion healthcare in our state. Is this an issue you care about? CJJ has invited us their meetings. Rev. Claudia would like to recruit an attendee who can share ways our congregation can partner with CJJ and other organizations who support abortion access. The goals of the monthly meetings are below:
Build trust and relationships within the group
Learn and collaborate with other organizations also mobilizing in this work
Share information gathered
Mobilize for action
The next meeting is via Zoom, Thurs, Jan 12, 7:00PM. If you can attend please contact Rev. Claudia faithdev@uuasheville.org
CELEBRATING OUR WORK: Calling for Pictures – On Friday December 30th, our partner UU Justice Ministry NC will be celebrating the work of UUs across the state in 2022 during Friday Action Hour. (I hope you’ll consider coming if you don’t work at that time!) As part of that gathering, there will be an end of year slideshow showcasing the work of UU congregations across the state. If you have any pictures that you would like to contribute to that slideshow, please send them to Rev. Lisa Garcia-Sampson lisa@uujusticenc.org
Gathering in Sandburg Hall, September 9, 2022 to hear Rev. Garcia Sampson talk about UU Justice Ministry NC and UU the Vote. She inspired us to send out and additional 2000 postcards before the midterm elections.
The Reparations Stakeholders Authority of Asheville has created the RSAA Reparations Fund. Here is information on how people can learn and support this effort organized by the Tzedek Social Justice Fund.
HOMELESSNESS: Winter Safe Shelter is a collaborative effort of Trinity United Methodist, Grace Covenant Presbyterian, Grace Episcopal, and Counterflow Asheville. They are seeking to serve and partner with our neighbors experiencing homelessness. The shelter is prioritizing intact families, BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color), and LGBTQ individuals. They currently have raised roughly half the budget needed to staff the shelter through the winter and are seeking donations from the community. You can find more information about the shelter as well as a place to donate here.
EDUCATION: Every Child NC continues to offer an opportunity for faith communities and others to host a free docu-series titled “All Together” that is focused on education equity. Help educate voters about the Leandro Plan and North Carolina’s obligation to meet student needs. Get details and a way to register here.
IMMIGRATION: “Creating a pathway to citizenship has never been more urgent. Just over a month ago, a federal court ruled that DACA is unlawful, compounding the uncertainty that immigrant youth have been forced to live with for years.” The National Immigration Law Center is asking people to sign this petitionasking both NC senators to find a permanent solution for immigrant youth.
HOMELESSNESS: Winter Safe Shelter is a collaborative effort of Trinity United Methodist, Grace Covenant Presbyterian, Grace Episcopal, and Counterflow Asheville. They are seeking to serve and partner with our neighbors experiencing homelessness. The shelter is prioritizing intact families, BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color), and LGBTQ individuals. They currently have raised roughly half the budget needed to staff the shelter through the winter and are seeking donations from the community. You can find more information about the shelter as well as a place to donate here.
REPARATIONS: The Reparations Stakeholders Authority of Asheville has created the RSAA Reparations Fund. Here is information on how people can learn and support this effort organized by the Tzedek Social Justice Fund.
ELECTIONS: Common Cause NC is asking people to express their thanks to all the election workers and volunteers that came forward to administer the midterm elections. You can sign on here.
What has been happening with the recommendations from the Racial Justice Advisory Council – RJAC? They are not collecting electronic dust! The board has approved the recommendations and identified stakeholders responsible for making each of them happen. The Justice Ministry Council has been charged to be an accountability partner so that the recommendations are fulfilled. Currently, the top recommendations being worked on are
1. Education about the 8th Principle in preparation for the vote to adopt the 8th Principle at the June 2023 Congregational Meeting.
Stakeholder: 8th Principle Team and congregation. Please participate in the 8th Principle Learning Circles being offered by the various groups and committees of the congregation. Of course, that means lay leaders have said “yes” to hosting them. We need all of us to make this happen!
2. Identifying a consultant to provide an Equity Audit of our policies, procedures and governance model. This will apparently be the first time a UU congregation has such an audit. Yeah, UU Asheville!
Stakeholder: The board has asked board member Mary Alm and Rev. Claudia Jiménez, Justice Ministry lead, to identify, interview and recommend consultants who will provide proposals for board consideration.
Racial Justice Advisory Council (RJAC) Report: What’s that?
We strive to become a radically inclusive and welcoming congregation as we are called to do if UUism is to be the liberatory faith it can be. This work started with an internal assessment led by a board-appointed small team of congregants working in partnership with our Minister of Faith Development, Rev. Claudia Jiménez. Their learnings and recommendations known as the RJAC Report were shared with the congregation and the board. One of the top recommendations was to engage the congregation in learning about the proposed 8th Principle which aligns with the work of liberation. The 8th Principle Team was formed and is actively hosting Learning Circles, tabling on Sundays and exploring other ways to prepare the congregation to vote in the June congregational meeting to adopt the 8th Principle. They are creating space for all to discuss hope, fears and dreams as we consider this important vote.
The Proposed 8th Principle:
“We, the member congregations of the Unitarian Universalist Association, 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.”
WHAT IS BELOVED COMMUNITY?
Beloved Community happens when people of diverse racial, ethnic, educational, class, gender, abilities, sexual orientation backgrounds/identities come together in an interdependent relationship of love, mutual respect, and care that seeks to realize justice within the community and in the broader world.
What has been happening with the recommendations from the Racial Justice Advisory Council – RJAC? They are not collecting electronic dust! The board has approved the recommendations and identified stakeholders responsible for making each of them happen. The Justice Ministry Council has been charged to be an accountability partner so that the recommendations are fulfilled. Currently, the top recommendations being worked on are
1. Education about the 8th Principle in preparation for the vote to adopt the 8th Principle at the June 2023 Congregational Meeting.
Stakeholder: 8th Principle Team and congregation. Please participate in the 8th Principle Learning Circles being offered by the various groups and committees of the congregation. Of course, that means lay leaders have said “yes” to hosting them. We need all of us to make this happen!
2. Identifying a consultant to provide an Equity Audit of our policies, procedures and governance model. This will apparently be the first time a UU congregation has such an audit. Yeah, UU Asheville!
Stakeholder: The board has asked board member Mary Alm and Rev. Claudia Jiménez, Justice Ministry lead, to identify, interview and recommend consultants who will provide proposals for board consideration.
Racial Justice Advisory Council (RJAC) Report: What’s that?
We strive to become a radically inclusive and welcoming congregation as we are called to do if UUism is to be the liberatory faith it can be. This work started with an internal assessment led by a board-appointed small team of congregants working in partnership with our Minister of Faith Development, Rev. Claudia Jiménez. Their learnings and recommendations known as the RJAC Report were shared with the congregation and the board. One of the top recommendations was to engage the congregation in learning about the proposed 8th Principle which aligns with the work of liberation. The 8th Principle Team was formed and is actively hosting Learning Circles, tabling on Sundays and exploring other ways to prepare the congregation to vote in the June congregational meeting to adopt the 8th Principle. They are creating space for all to discuss hope, fears and dreams as we consider this important vote.
The Proposed 8th Principle:
“We, the member congregations of the Unitarian Universalist Association, 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.”
WHAT IS BELOVED COMMUNITY?
Beloved Community happens when people of diverse racial, ethnic, educational, class, gender, abilities, sexual orientation backgrounds/identities come together in an interdependent relationship of love, mutual respect, and care that seeks to realize justice within the community and in the broader world.
We need your voice! Join us onDecember 5th, at 6pm ESTasUU the Vote Calls Georgiafor thefinal timebefore the Georgia Runoff Election Day. If you have never phone banked before, we will train you! The phone banking system is easy to use and you’ll have a great time calling with fellow UUs. Sign up below!
“It Ain’t Over!” UU the Vote Runoff Update Thursday, November 17, 2022 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM ET What is going on in Georgia? How can I get involved? What in the world is a runoff anyway? What about our Good Trouble Congregations? Sign up to hear the answers to these questions and more! Register Here
Racial Justice Advisory Council (RJAC) Report: What’s that? We strive to become a radically inclusive and welcoming congregation as we are called to do if UUism is to be the liberatory faith it can be. This work started with an internal assessment led by a small team of congregants and our Minister of Faith Development, Rev. Claudia Jiménez. Their learnings and recommendations known as the RJAC Report were shared with the congregation and the board. One of the top recommendations was to engage the congregation in learning about the proposed 8th Principal which aligns with the work of liberation. An 8th Principle Team is actively hosting Learning Circles, tabling on Sundays and exploring other ways to prepare the congregation to vote in the June congregational meeting to adopt the 8th Principle. They are creating space for all to discuss hope, fears and dreams as we consider this important vote.
The Proposed 8th Principle:
“We, the member congregations of the Unitarian Universalist Association, 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.”
WHAT IS BELOVED COMMUNITY?
Beloved Community happens when people of diverse racial, ethnic, educational, class, gender, abilities, sexual orientation backgrounds/identities come together in an interdependent relationship of love, mutual respect, and care that seeks to realize justice within the community and in the broader world.
Change is coming to our denominational documents. The section that houses our UU Principles, sources, purposes and statements of belief and inclusion is being revised. Check out this document which explains the process and has a link to the proposed changes. As you read, I invite you to reflect on these questions: How does it make you feel? What do think about the recommended changes? What feedback do you have? There are opportunities to share your feedback via a a Google form. The form closes Nov. 28. I will be hosting a bagged lunch discussion to discuss the proposal in person Sunday, Nov. 27 (not Nov 30) at 12:30 in person and at 7 PM via Zoom. Details will be in the e-news. Please consider attending.
8th Principal Reflection Circle, TONIGHT November 9 Join members of the 8th Principal Team and Rev. Claudia for a conversation about the 8th Principle. Zoom link in the e-News or contact Rev. Claudia. We will address the following questions: What is it? Why now? What is exciting about the 8th Principle? What fears arise about adopting the Principle? How will we be changed in 5 or 10 years because we have adopted it?
Racial Justice Advisory Council (RJAC) Report: What’s that? We strive to become a radically inclusive and welcoming congregation as we are called to do if UUism is to be the liberatory faith it can be. This work started with an internal assessment led by a small team of congregants and our Minister of Faith Development, Rev. Claudia Jiménez. Their learnings and recommendations known as the RJAC Report were shared with the congregation and the board. One of the top recommendations was to engage the congregation in learning about the proposed 8th Principal which aligns with the work of liberation. An 8th Principle Team is actively hosting Learning Circles, tabling on Sundays and exploring other ways to prepare the congregation to vote in the June congregational meeting to adopt the 8th Principle. They are creating space for all to discuss hope, fears and dreams as we consider this important vote.
The Proposed 8th Principle:
“We, the member congregations of the Unitarian Universalist Association, 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.”
WHAT IS BELOVED COMMUNITY?
Beloved Community happens when people of diverse racial, ethnic, educational, class, gender, abilities, sexual orientation backgrounds/identities come together in an interdependent relationship of love, mutual respect, and care that seeks to realize justice within the community and in the broader world.
8th Principal Reflection Circle, November 9 Join members of the 8th Principal Team and Rev. Claudia for a conversation about the 8th Principle. Zoom link in the e-News or contact Rev. Claudia. We will address the following questions: What is it? Why now? What is exciting about the 8th Principle? What fears arise about adopting the Principle? How will we be changed in 5 or 10 years because we have adopted it?
Racial Justice Advisory Council (RJAC) Report: What’s that? We strive to become a radically inclusive and welcoming congregation as we are called to do if UUism is to be the liberatory faith it can be. This work started with an internal assessment led by a small team of congregants and our Minister of Faith Development, Rev. Claudia Jiménez. Their learnings and recommendations known as the RJAC Report were shared with the congregation and the board. One of the top recommendations was to engage the congregation in learning about the proposed 8th Principal which aligns with the work of liberation. An 8th Principle Team is actively hosting Learning Circles, tabling on Sundays and exploring other ways to prepare the congregation to vote in the June congregational meeting to adopt the 8th Principle. They are creating space for all to discuss hope, fears and dreams as we consider this important vote.
The Proposed 8th Principle:
“We, the member congregations of the Unitarian Universalist Association, 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.”
WHAT IS BELOVED COMMUNITY?
Beloved Community happens when people of diverse racial, ethnic, educational, class, gender, abilities, sexual orientation backgrounds/identities come together in an interdependent relationship of love, mutual respect, and care that seeks to realize justice within the community and in the broader world.
ON SUNDAY NOVEMBER 6 bring your donations to the service at 11am to support the UU Asheville/BeLoved Pantry. What we need are unexpired & non-perishable pop-top meals in a can!
For more information on BeLoved and to sign up as a volunteer, contact Jim Gamble.
If you would like to know more about the Pantry Project, contact Anita Feldman.
Racial Justice Advisory Council (RJAC) Report: What’s that? We strive to become a radically inclusive and welcoming congregation as we are called to do if UUism is to be the liberatory faith it can be. This work started with an internal assessment led by a small team of congregants and our Minister of Faith Development, Rev. Claudia Jiménez. Their learnings and recommendations known as the RJAC Report were shared with the congregation and the board. One of the top recommendations was to engage the congregation in learning about the proposed 8th Principal which aligns with the work of liberation. An 8th Principle Team is actively hosting Learning Circles, tabling on Sundays and exploring other ways to prepare the congregation to vote in the June congregational meeting to adopt the 8th Principle. They are creating space for all to discuss hope, fears and dreams as we consider this important vote.
The Proposed 8th Principle:
“We, the member congregations of the Unitarian Universalist Association, 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.”
WHAT IS BELOVED COMMUNITY?
Beloved Community happens when people of diverse racial, ethnic, educational, class, gender, abilities, sexual orientation backgrounds/identities come together in an interdependent relationship of love, mutual respect, and care that seeks to realize justice within the community and in the broader world.
Reaching Out to Those Affected by Hurricane Ian: Donate to the UUA’s Disaster Relief Fund Reminders & Opportunities for Action Reminder #1: Make sure all your post cards are in the process of being ready for mailing. THANK YOU to all who are helping us reach our 2000 postcard goal!
Reminder #2: As we get closer to the election here is some language about staying non-partisan in our faith spaces. “We live into our UU values as prophetic, but not partisan advocates for issues and specific legislation that creates more equity, and affirms the worth and dignity of all people. (Example – advocating for Medicaid Expansion, fighting voter suppression, etc.). We work to hold elected officials accountable but never endorse political candidates. This is consistent with the work of our larger denomination. For more information see: https://www.uuthevote.org/prophetic-not-partisan-irs-rules-for-non-profits/
OPPORTUNITIES FOR ACTION from our partner UU Justice Ministry NC How will you contribute to safety, joy and fairness at the polls?
Become a Vote Protector with Democracy NC Vote Protectors serve as our “eyes and ears on the ground” at voting sites across North Carolina. They help voters who encounter problems at the polls and ensure that every polling place is running as it should — sounding the alarm when something isn’t right. On November 4th and November 5th (Last days of early voting) and November 8th (Election Day) Vote Protectors will monitor polling places in their communities flagging: long lines, problems with curbside voting or accessibility, voter confusion, misinformation and voter suppression. And as a vote protector, you will attend an online training, and receive a vote protector t-shirt, sign, and other materials. Sign up to become a Vote Protector Today
Become a Voting Rights Ambassador with You Can Vote! Voting Rights Ambassadors will assist You Can Vote staff with vote tripling and voter education at early voting sites around the state. Once you complete a VRA volunteer training, you can sign up for volunteer shifts at a You Can Vote Help Desk at an early voting site near you. Trainings will take place on October 22 from 10-11am and October 27 from 6-7pm and you can register here.
Carolina Jews & UUs Faith in Action Phonebank in Partnership with the New North Carolina Project Foundation. Thursdays from 6:30 – 8:30 from now through November 3rd. UU Justice NC is teaming up with Carolina Jews for Justice to co-host this weekly Get Out the Vote phonebank in the run up to the midterm elections. We’ll be calling voters of color across North Carolina empowering and equipping them to vote their values this fall! Register Here
OTHER EVENTS & OPPORTUNITIES: Concerned about education in NC? Watch this timely video produced August 29, and consider if this is an area of advocacy and engagement for you. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t2ihL90I5GE
Racial Justice Advisory Council (RJAC) Report: What’s that? We strive to become a radically inclusive and welcoming congregation as we are called to do if UUism is to be the liberatory faith it can be. This work started with an internal assessment led by a small team of congregants and our Minister of Faith Development, Rev. Claudia Jiménez. Their learnings and recommendations known as the RJAC Report were shared with the congregation and the board. One of the top recommendations was to engage the congregation in learning about the proposed 8th Principal which aligns with the work of liberation. An 8th Principle Team is actively hosting Learning Circles, tabling on Sundays and exploring other ways to prepare the congregation to vote in the June congregational meeting to adopt the 8th Principle. They are creating space for all to discuss hope, fears and dreams as we consider this important vote.
The Proposed 8th Principle:
“We, the member congregations of the Unitarian Universalist Association, 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.”
WHAT IS BELOVED COMMUNITY?
Beloved Community happens when people of diverse racial, ethnic, educational, class, gender, abilities, sexual orientation backgrounds/identities come together in an interdependent relationship of love, mutual respect, and care that seeks to realize justice within the community and in the broader world.
Reaching Out to Those Affected by Hurricane Ian: Donate to the UUA’s Disaster Relief Fund Reminders & Opportunities for Action Reminder #1: 20 Days until the election ONE day to the start of Early Voting. Make sure all your post cards are in the process of being ready for mailing. THANK YOU to all who are helping us reach our 2000 postcard goal!
Reminder #2: As we get closer to the election here is some language about staying non-partisan in our faith spaces. “We live into our UU values as prophetic, but not partisan advocates for issues and specific legislation that creates more equity, and affirms the worth and dignity of all people. (Example – advocating for Medicaid Expansion, fighting voter suppression, etc.). We work to hold elected officials accountable but never endorse political candidates. This is consistent with the work of our larger denomination. For more information see: https://www.uuthevote.org/prophetic-not-partisan-irs-rules-for-non-profits/
OPPORTUNITIES FOR ACTION from our partner UU Justice Ministry NC How will you contribute to safety, joy and fairness at the polls?
Become a Vote Protector with Democracy NC Vote Protectors serve as our “eyes and ears on the ground” at voting sites across North Carolina. They help voters who encounter problems at the polls and ensure that every polling place is running as it should — sounding the alarm when something isn’t right. On November 4th and November 5th (Last days of early voting) and November 8th (Election Day) Vote Protectors will monitor polling places in their communities flagging: long lines, problems with curbside voting or accessibility, voter confusion, misinformation and voter suppression. And as a vote protector, you will attend an online training, and receive a vote protector t-shirt, sign, and other materials. Sign up to become a Vote Protector Today
Become a Voting Rights Ambassador with You Can Vote! Voting Rights Ambassadors will assist You Can Vote staff with vote tripling and voter education at early voting sites around the state. Once you complete a VRA volunteer training, you can sign up for volunteer shifts at a You Can Vote Help Desk at an early voting site near you. Trainings will take place on October 22 from 10-11am and October 27 from 6-7pm and you can register here.
Carolina Jews & UUs Faith in Action Phonebank in Partnership with the New North Carolina Project Foundation. Thursdays from 6:30 – 8:30 from now through November 3rd. UU Justice NC is teaming up with Carolina Jews for Justice to co-host this weekly Get Out the Vote phonebank in the run up to the midterm elections. We’ll be calling voters of color across North Carolina empowering and equipping them to vote their values this fall! Register Here
OTHER EVENTS & OPPORTUNITIES: Concerned about education in NC? Watch this timely video produced August 29, and consider if this is an area of advocacy and engagement for you. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t2ihL90I5GE
As part of our congregation’s ongoing support of BeLoved Asheville— a local nonprofit focused on lifting up fellow community members most in need — we are providing UU volunteer opportunities to help BeLoved build small homes for our neighbors who otherwise cannot afford “affordable housing.” The BeLoved Village project is an innovative way to enable people earning approximately 30% of area median income (AMI) afford a home while building equity and community—so needed here in the Asheville area where rental rates are the highest in the state. Regardless of skills or experience, there are ways for everyone—adults and youth—to contribute their time and energy to this vital community project. For more information and to sign up as a volunteer, contact Jim Gamble.
Another project UU has initiated with BeLoved is the Pantry Project. UU congregants and friends have been supplying and filling our pantry on Charlotte Street every day since December. If you would like to know more, contact Anita Feldman.
From Our Partners UU Justice Ministry NC FRIDAY ACTION HOUR: October 14, 11am Moore vs. Harper Presentation with Common Cause NC – The next major challenge to American democracy comes from North Carolina. Experts say an extreme interpretation of the Constitution by the Supreme Court in North Carolina’s Moore v. Harper redistricting case would make it even easier for state legislatures to suppress the vote, draw gerrymandered election districts, and subvert election results, among other concerns. This Friday, UU Justice NC is thrilled to welcome Bob Phillips, Executive Director of Common Cause NC to Friday Action Hour. As a lead plaintiff in the case, he will provide an in-depth look at what’s being argued by Republican lawmakers in December, its potential impacts on our elections, and what North Carolinians can do to fight back. Join us via this Zoom link: https://zoom.us/j/91029655107
Check Out the New UUJusticeNC.org! Our state-wide Justice Ministry – UU Justice NC is excited to announce the launch of their brand new website! There you will find the most up-to-date information about their current justice work and how you can get involved. You will also find information about the great work happening in UU congregations across the state. Visit the new site here!
COMMUNITY PLATE PARTNER BeLoved Asheville created the first homeless/formerly homeless street medic team in the nation to help improve health and prevent premature death of the most vulnerable people in our community. Trained by local medical professionals, team members learn how to perform health assessments and respond to emergency situations. See how medic teams and health fairs provide hope and healing to those living on the streets of Asheville by clicking this link. BeLoved Asheville
REPRODUCTIVE JUSTICE OPPORTUNITIES Support the Carolina Abortion Fund which offers a confidential, toll free hotline providing financial, practical, and emotional support to callers in North and South Carolina trying to access abortion care.
MIDTERM ELECTIONS – OPPORTUNITIES FOR ACTION Carolina Jews & UUs Faith in Action Phonebank in Partnership with the New North Carolina Project Foundation.Thursdays from 6:30 – 8:30 from September 15th through November 3rd. UU Justice NC is teaming up with Carolina Jews for Justice to co-host this weekly Get Out the Vote phone bank in the run up to the midterm elections. We’ll be calling voters of the Global Majority across North Carolina empowering and equipping them to Vote Love and Defeat Hate. Register Here
OTHER EVENTS & OPPORTUNITIES:
Concerned about education in NC? Watch this timely video produced August 29, and consider if this is an area of advocacy and engagement for you. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t2ihL90I5GE
COMMUNITY PLATE PARTNER BeLoved Asheville created the first homeless/formerly homeless street medic team in the nation to help improve health and prevent premature death of the most vulnerable people in our community. Trained by local medical professionals, team members learn how to perform health assessments and respond to emergency situations. See how medic teams and health fairs provide hope and healing to those living on the streets of Asheville by clicking this link. BeLoved Asheville
REPRODUCTIVE JUSTICE EVENTS AND OPPORTUNITIES Support the Carolina Abortion Fund which offers a confidential, toll free hotline providing financial, practical, and emotional support to callers in North and South Carolina trying to access abortion care.
At UUCAvl Program – Reproductive Justice: Expanding Our Social Justice Calling. Facilitators: Jane Bramham, Neal Jones, Rev. Claudia Initially scheduled for the Fall, we decided encouraging engagement with UU the Vote this fall is the best way to support reproductive justice and access to abortion healthcare in NC for women and our trans and nonbinary siblings. The RJ program will be offered in January 2023.
MIDTERM ELECTIONS – OPPORTUNITIES FOR ACTION Carolina Jews & UUs Faith in Action Phonebank in Partnership with the New North Carolina Project Foundation.Thursdays from 6:30 – 8:30 from September 15th through November 3rd. UU Justice NC is teaming up with Carolina Jews for Justice to co-host this weekly Get Out the Vote phone bank in the run up to the midterm elections. We’ll be calling voters of the Global Majority across North Carolina empowering and equipping them to Vote Love and Defeat Hate. Register Here
OTHER EVENTS & OPPORTUNITIES:
Do you know about the Moore v. Harper Supreme Court Case?
The next major challenge to American democracy comes from North Carolina. Experts say an extreme interpretation of the Constitution by the Supreme Court in North Carolina’s Moore v. Harper redistricting case would make it even easier for state legislatures to suppress the vote, draw gerrymandered election districts, and subvert election results, among other concerns. You may not know that the “Harper” in the case isBecky Harper, a UU from Raleigh! Below are opportunities to learn more about this important case directly from Common Cause NC, a lead plaintiff in the case. Learn more…Friday, October 14th at 11:00am at UU Justice NC’s Friday Action Hour. Zoom Link.
Concerned about education in NC? Watch this timely video produced August 29, and consider if this is an area of advocacy and engagement for you. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t2ihL90I5GE
The Asheville “Freedom for All: Rally for Reproductive Justice and Abortion Access” rally that was postponed in August due to inclement weather has been rescheduled to Mon., October 3.
Where? The Orange Peel; 101 Biltmore Ave., Asheville Doors open at 5:30pm; Program 6:00pm – 7:30pm
Why? To hear from candidates, abortion providers, and activists on how you can get involved to protect our rights in this midterm election. We are one bad election from losing access to abortion in NC and this is going to take an all-hands-on-deck effort to get out the vote this November.
Another Opportunity Support the Carolina Abortion Fund which offers a confidential, toll free hotline providing financial, practical, and emotional support to callers in North and South Carolina trying to access abortion healthcare.
At UUCAvl
Reproductive Justice (RJ): Expanding Our Social Justice Calling. Facilitators: Jane Bramham, Neal Jones, Rev. Claudia Initially scheduled for the Fall, we decided encouraging engagement with UU the Vote this fall is the best way to support reproductive justice and access to abortion healthcare in NC for women and our trans and nonbinary siblings. The RJ program will be offered in January 2023.
UU the Vote: We are part of a network of 22 UU congregations across the state who have come together to write 27,000 postcards to voters of the Global Majority in Cabarrus County in partnership with Reclaim our Vote. Cabarrus is one the three counties whose vote for candidates supporting access to abortion healthcare will be crucial in maintaining access to abortion in NC. On Sunday,October 9 at 9:30am we will have another big post carding push! Join us!
Animals touch our lives in many ways, and care and concern for animals can deepen one’s UU faith and connect with similarly interested Unitarian Universalists.
There are chapters of UU Animal Ministry at more than 33 congregations (check out the website at uuam.org). Is there interest in forming a chapter at UUC-Asheville and having monthly events like visiting an animal sanctuary, discussing articles, books or films, having vegetarian and vegan potlucks, offer support for loss of animal companions, help with the Blessing of the Animal’s service at UUC-Asheville, and other possible ideas?
In you are interested in exploring the possibility of having a chapter of UU Animal Ministry at UUC-Asheville, please be in touch with Jeff Jones at jeffjonesuu@aol.com by September 25.
