Reprint of a letter to UU communities from UUA President Rev. Susan Frederick-Gray

You all are so much in my heart. These are heartbreaking and terrifying times. An onslaught of oppressive laws and policies are threatening the well-being of our children, young people and adults, and the very fabric of communities. I know how hard you all are working to care for your people and communities while also organizing for justice. I see you. I love you. And you inspire me in your witness and your depth of pastoral care and commitment.  I am praying especially for all our trans and nonbinary+ kids and adults, their families, and the communities supporting them. Too many trans and nonbinary+ people are living in an environment where policy makers are criminalizing their very existence.  My heart is also with all of you in frontline communities and states.  I know you are holding so much – too much.  We are in the fight to provide support and safe harbor with you, as we have been so many times throughout our history. We may not win every battle but we are in this work for the long haul. And we are digging deeper to expand our partnerships, find new ways to support people, and organize for a future where everyone can fully be who they are and flourish in their identities.  As Unitarian Universalists, we are clear and unapologetic. Our LGBTQIA+ siblings are sacred, whole, and divine. We understand the full expression of the diversity of gender and sexuality is a gift. As progressive people of faith, we know this is a fight for everyone’s humanity.  As an Association, we have shown up for trans and nonbinary+ youth and individuals through words and actions. I want to make sure you are aware of these resources for your own efforts and as additional support for members of your communities. Please visit Side With Love’s UPLIFT Action webpage to see our ongoing work and ways your congregation can participate. UPLIFT also sponsors monthly gatherings for trans and nonbinary+ people of all ages. You can also stay connected to this work, and receive pastoral messages and opportunities to take action by joining our UPLIFT newsletter and following the blog.  Also please visit the UUA’s Five Practices of Welcome Renewal for Welcoming Congregations page for ways to ensure that members of the LGBTQIA+ community can feel fully welcomed, centered, and embraced in your congregation. I am with you as we confront these devastating challenges – and hold you all close as we work to protect our loved ones, our families, our communities and neighbors.  I pray that each of you, in your own way, is doing something to care for your spirit, to lean into community and love, to tend to your own need for gentleness and care – that we might be nourished for the work that continues.  Yours in love and faith, Susan P.S. Here are some additional resources that may be helpful: From Side With LoveWebinar recordings on combatting anti-trans legislation and spokesperson trainingUpcoming training on showing up for trans justice and a Trans Day of Visibility party for trans/nonbinary families Video blessing of solidarity with trans and nonbinary people From the UUAUUA statement in response to attacks on trans, nonbinary and LGBTQIA+ communityUUA publisher Skinner House Books will release the groundbreaking book Authentic Selves in May.A visually moving celebration of trans and nonbinary+ people and their families, it can be pre-ordered at UUA’s inSpirit UU Book and Gift Shop.

Rev. Dr. Susan Frederick-Gray spends her days strengthening the thriving mission of this faith. In her spare time, she enjoys being with her family and playing with their dog, Hercules.