Sunday, November 23, during coffee hours, in NJH

UUC's Social Justice Steering Committee (SJSC) met recently to begin its review of proposals for congregation-wide action discussed at last month's Social Justice REVIVAL and potluck. The event was attended by nearly 40 congregants, and generated a variety of exciting ideas as well as tasty chili dishes. Our committee will gather again next month, continue its deliberations, and perhaps return to the congregation with a proposed plan for 2026.

One idea that garnered enthusiasm at the REVIVAL was a proposal to partner with neighboring Eckstein Middle School, where a large fraction of students live in lower-income households and need material support. Attendees also expressed interest in mutual aid (rather than charity) as an organizing principle. Specifically, there seemed to be a desire to create (recreate?) a program within the church for congregants to help one another meet various needs—from transportation to clothing, from yard work to meals.

SJSC members will be at one of the Learning Stations in Nathan Johnson Hall this Sunday to hear more from congregants about how we all might engage in mutual aid at UUC.

Please stay tuned. In the meantime, you can email any questions or comments to Walter Hatch or Catherine Ruha. (See UUC Connect.)

Background: SJSC had been hearing concerns that social justice programming at UUC was flagging and/or operating within narrow silos. We met with members of social justice teams, who encouraged us to help the congregation identify projects that the church as a whole might undertake. In response, we hosted the Social Justice REVIVAL and potluck on October 11. We are still deliberating next steps, and are hosting the November 23 Learning Station during coffee hour to gather more feedback.