Unitarian Universalism Strongly Represented in Minneapolis: Reverend Margo

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Since ICE Operation Metro Surge began in December, Unitarian Universalists in Minneapolis have been deeply engaged in the work of caring for their neighbors and speaking out against injustice. From joining others in witnessing the minutes and days after the murders of Renee Good and Alex Pretti to coordinating rides to work and school and grocery deliveries for those afraid to go out, UU are part of protest and resistance. UU clergy represented almost one-third of the faith leaders involved in the MARCH protest.

UU minister and Vice President for Programs & Ministries, Ashley Horan, lives in Minneapolis and informs us of the powerful witness by UUs and others, “Their witness, courageous actions, and spiritual care were a blessing that fortified my city and ignited a groundswell of hope and action across the country. Ripples are still spreading out…Without the skill, strategy, and infrastructure of Unitarian Universalism’s Side with Love and the UUA, the MARCH clergy call could not have happened.”

Horan wants all Unitarian Universalists to know that the MARCH protests could not have occurred so quickly and with such organization without the UUA and Side With Love. Horan states, “UUs across the country have provided much-needed prophetic leadership to all people of goodwill over the past several weeks, and the UUA and Side With Love have been an integral component to turning ideas into action…In just six days, here are just a few of the indispensable things Side with Love and the UUA offered:

  • Secure registration systems, Zoom hosting, and back-end support to two mass “Know Before You Go” webinars for all denominations,
  • Created and served as admins to 30+ secure Signal channels for organizers and participants,
  • Vetted registrants to verify identities and legitimacy,
  • Created the Solidarity with Minnesota resource guide,
  • Led an in-person workshop for congregational organizing,
  • Provided an in-person videographer, photographer, and reporter for independent coverage,
  • Initiated quick planning of ICE Out! Action hours and phone banks.”

Side With Love is funded through the Unitarian Universalist Association and by private contributions. We are likely to hear much more from Side With Love as they continue to be involved in providing national infrastructure for witness and protest. Be assured that if a Metro Surge operation should begin in the Seattle area, Side With Love will be here in partnership with us.

For more information, visit their website HERE.