Dana Buhl, Director of Social Justice
The war in Israel and Palestine is personal to many in our circles. Family and loved ones killed, displaced, taken hostage, or living in terror are especially in the minds and nervous systems of people in the Jewish and Palestinian … read more.
On Sunday, February 26, more than 400 people gathered at First Unitarian for the Leaven Community Land & Housing Coalition’s Mass Assembly. Stories of grief and hope were shared and the fundamental question was asked, “Who Gets to Thrive in Oregon?” During the assembly, the … read more.
This is the question that Byrd posed to Descendants and Survivors of the Emanuel Hospital expansion forced displacement. She recently came across a closet-sized collection of children’s outfits from the early 1970s, and her admiration of the “fly” clothing of the era crashed into her … read more.
To write the voter engagement letters through our UU the Vote efforts, each writer needed to answer the prompt, “I vote because…” It’s a simple, yet profound question that had me delve into the core of my values and the Eight Principles that guide … read more.
I’ve struggled with what to write today. I have too many thoughts to organize, and too few words to express all that is swirling in my heart and mind. How can I make meaning of the broken-heartedness I feel — for my cousin whose 26 … read more.
Climate crisis is real.
We are experiencing and witnessing increasingly devastating climate disasters, here in the Pacific NW, across this continent and across the globe. This church year, our weekly shared offering will focus on climate justice initiatives, from disaster recovery and mitigation to innovative solutions that center the … read more.
Dana Buhl, Director of Social Justice
September 5, 2021
Like many of you, my mind, gut and heart keep traveling to Texas in rage, in despair, in fear, and back again to rage. Abortion has essentially been made illegal in Texas. Vigilantes have been released on women, … read more.
If you are reading this, you are alive. Let’s celebrate that! Take a full breath. Let your face find the shape of a soft smile of contentment. Inhale another breath of celebration: “I am alive.” Exhale with gratitude.
How does that feel? What possibilities does connecting … read more.
Dear Members and Friends,
This week Director of Social Justice, Dana Buhl, offers a reflection:
Last weekend, I completed the Jubilee 3 weekend anti-racism workshop, along with nine other congregants from First Unitarian Church. I’m both tired and inspired at the late hour. I was touched by … read more.
At the heart of First Unitarian’s mission is to be a beacon of hope and to act for social justice. Our 11 Social Justice Action Groups (SJAGs) live out this mission through their advocacy and education in relationships with community organizations … read more.
