The Social Action Committee encourages individuals to participate in activities in our local and global communities which promote social justice and opportunity for all people. Monthly meetings are open to all who are interested. Weekly displays at the Sunday morning worship services give individuals an opportunity to learn more about a variety of issues, both local and global.
| A Welcoming Congregation |
In July 2012 UUCNC was named a Welcoming Congregation, recognizing our efforts to become more inclusive toward lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people! Alex Kapitan, LGBTQ and Multicultural Programs Administrator in the Office of Multicultural Ministries at the UUA (Unitarian Universalist Association) sent congratulations on our taking this powerful step, doing collective work to educate ourselves on LGBTQ issues, and committing ourselves to vital ongoing work in this area. Alex praised our dedication to increasing our welcome of people with marginalized sexual orientations and/or gender identities. |
| Social Action Ministries |
The Social Action Committee had a very good turn out for our Big Day of Sharing and Caring in November 2012 to develop Social Action Ministry (SAM) teams. Twenty-seven people showed up to discuss ideas and set the course for action in the following areas:
If you would like to join a SAM team, speak with SAC chair Audrey Dowling. Watch for information from each SAM group about meetings and activities. |
| Share the Plate |
UUCNC started Share the Plate Sunday in 2009 as a way to demonstrate our commitment to nonprofit organizations whose actions are consistent with our principles and living traditions. The idea grew out of a Board Retreat in Summer 2009. The purpose is two-fold: to inform the congregation of the work of the organization – usually by inviting a representative of the organization to speak briefly, to display literature and to answer questions during social hour – and to make a financial contribution in the name of UUCNC. The non-pledge money received on each Share the Plate Sunday is divided equally between UUCNC’s operating budget and the chosen agency. Please make your check payable to UUCNC and indicate “Share the Plate” on the memo line. Of course, your cash contribution is also welcome for Share the Plate! Among the organizations we have “Shared the Plate” with are:
In addition, special collections at the May 22, 2011, Installation Service for the Reverend Theresa Kime supported these causes: |
| Fair Trade Products |
Fair-trade coffee, tea and chocolate from Equal Exchange are sold every Sunday following the service. This international program empowers farmers and consumers, supports small farmer co-ops, and uses sustainable farming methods. Proceeds from purchases by individuals provide the coffee served during social hours and at congregational events. |
| UU Social Justice Statements and Study-Action Process |
At the annual General Assembly of the Unitarian Universalist Assocation (UUA) of congregations, delegates from across the nation determine denominational statements on social justice. Learn about the study/action process that leads to these statements using the link on the heading of this paragraph. Proposed Congregational Study/Action Issues (CSAIs) for 2012-2016:
Current CSAI (2010-2014):
Recent Past CSAIs, now Statements of Conscience:
|
| Neighborhood Revitalization Project |
Report on progress of “The Main Thing: This Block Matters” Neighborhood Revitalization Project in Dunkirk In Spring/Summer 2012, $100 from Social Action Committee funds were used in several ways to advance this project, including repair of the vandalized project sign, ordering thank you notes with the project logo to acknowledge a multitude of donations,and purchasing planting materials for window boxes at two designated rental properties. Judi Lutz-Woods was influential in obtaining a carload of donated geraniums and begonias from local nurseries to go with some hostas from Ann Bingham to create five gardens in a new park at the corner of Main and Sixth Street. Funds from The Center for Peace and Justice also went toward this community garden. Our leadership helped neighbors advocate for a new streetlight to fight crime, an increased police presence, a corporate offer to “adopt the block” for litter pick up, petition of the city to limit commercial traffic on this residential block and encourage home improvements for at least one third of the block so far. The neighborhood has also been awarded a $1500 grant for new trees. SUNY Fredonia students will assist block residents and social action members plant the trees on Sat. Sept. 22, 2012, as part of the university’s Inaugural Day of Service in recognition of the new presidency of Ginny Horvath. |