Dale Anderson, Board Chair, UUSJ

As we embark on a new program year, I extend heartfelt thanks to our volunteers and supporters. Your contributions sustain our mission and strengthen our Unitarian Universalist voice, which is crucial in these challenging times.

In a faith tradition that values radical inclusion and welcome, we recognize that our democracy faces unprecedented threats. Many analysts warn that we are no longer witnessing the rise of authoritarianism but living under its consolidation, as elected leaders exploit government positions and state power to silence dissent and undermine accountability.

UUSJ is working to resist this phenomenon, advocating for a vision of America where everyone thrives, free from hate and indifference. Yet, we need your continued commitment to combat this erosion of democracy. Only together can we confront and dismantle the pillars of support for authoritarianism.

Our collective action is vital. We must defy the injustices that affect federal workers, climate justice organizers, migrants and refugees, students, and even the judges who uphold the law—all the populations and professions under assault.

Achieving a common understanding and unity around moral concern is essential in our fight against authoritarianism.

This past June, Unitarian Universalists endorsed three Actions of Immediate Witness, emphasizing the inherent worth of immigrants, defending LGBTIQ freedom, and declaring the need for faithful defiance of authoritarianism. 

As part of the actions in support of those bold declarations, we urge your House of Worship to adopt a similar resolution that publicly supports democracy, fosters common understanding, promotes unity of purpose, and encourages community engagement.

We will continue to advocate for our values on Capitol Hill and in federal forums—but this moment demands more. Across our justice-making ecosystem, our response must reach further: legislative engagement, public witness, and education must be joined by grassroots organizing, mobilization, noncooperation, and a deep commitment to building systems of mutual aid and community resilience.

UUSJ is with you in this work, doing our part. Together, we can survive and then thrive. Join us, bring your authentic self to this vital work. 

Let our fellowship and covenants light the way and sustain us as we champion our shared Unitarian Universalist values.