About Social Justice Committee

Social Justice Committee Article, The Flaming Chalice, Winter 2022-23, Co-chairs: Mary Kane and Debbie Mattson

The Social Justice Committee has multiple focuses; some of them are distinct for this church year, most of them are on-going.

1. 8th Principle: We want to acquaint the congregation with the 8th Principle—the meaning of it and the on-going action it requires of us. The 8th Principle has not been adopted by the UUA although it has been adopted by many UU churches. It is a Principle about “Beloved Community” and the need to undo racist practices and other practices that marginalize people and are barriers to a truly inclusive community. If the congregation begins to embrace the 8th Principle, we will ask the congregation to adopt it.

2. Involvement in Social Justice: We will continue to help both the congregation and individuals become involved in social justice activities. We will explore links that already exist between individuals in the congregation and social justice movements as a method to help other people become involved. Current members of the Social Justice Committee are involved in the Maine Unitarian Universalist State Advocacy Network, Capital Area New Mainers Project, Kennebec Advocacy Team, Meals on Wheels, UU the Vote, and various other actions.

3. Share the Plate: Each month an offering plate is circulated during the Sunday service for a specific organization that promotes social justice through their actions.

4. Reverend Carie Johnsen Social Justice Fund: Each year the Social Justice Committee chooses an organization to receive $1,000 from the Rev. Carie Johnsen Social Justice Fund. The Social Justice Committee is active in growing the fund. It is now self-sustaining; but as the funds grow, we will have the capacity to financially assist with more social justice work.

5. Social Justice Responsiveness: We will respond, to our capacity, as need and as opportunities present themselves.

6. Collaborate with the Overnight Warming Shelter: We are seeking opportunities to assist the South Parish Congregational Church in their ministry to unhoused adults. They are able to provide overnight shelter 7 nights per week. Help is needed with food, clothing and outer wear, bedding, and cleaning chores. The shelter is closed from 7 AM to 7 PM; and although there are day services, there are gaps in the services. We are exploring ways we may help fill some of the gaps.

7. Grow the Social Committee: We hope more people will join the Social Justice Committee.

Note: Please see article in the Flaming Chalice, Winter 2022-2023, p.14, "Day in the Life of Overnight Shelter Guests"

 

SOCIAL JUSTICE COMMITTEE (Posted December 30,2021)  The Social Justice Committee promotes social justice, equity and compassion through words and actions. The committee uses the time, resources, and leadership of members to forge connections with and provide service to our community and the wider world. The Social Justice Committee Responsibilities and Activities:

1. Provide forums, study groups, presentations, youth activities, etc. for UUCC members to learn about social issues;
2. Maintain resources for UUCC members seeking information;
3. Identify and provide leadership for projects and actions that further its purpose;
4. Work with other organizations with similar goals;
5. Select organization for the Annual Award from the Rev. Carie Johnsen Social Justice Fund (attached is considerations for selection);
6. Solicit the UUCC congregation and wider community each year for contributions to the Rev. Carie Johnsen Social Justice Fund; and
7. Recommend appropriate public releases concerning social issues for Board of Trustees approval.