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Last Sunday, the Rev. Fred Small gave his last sermon at First Parish Unitarian Universalist in Cambridge, Massachusetts. He is leaving his congregation to become a full-time climate change activist, launching a new interfaith nonprofit called the Creation Coalition. For years, Small has been a climate justice leader in the state. (WBUR – 9.29.15)
The Unitarian Universalists of Southern Delaware in Lewes have been leaders in their state working for climate justice as well. They were the first to join their state's Interfaith Power and Light organization and have been vocal supporters of the Pope’s position on climate change during his visit to the United States. (DelmarvaNow.com – 9.26.15)
UUs support Planned Parenthood
The Religious Institute, a group founded by Unitarian Universalist minister the Rev. Debra Haffner, is leading the national religious support for Planned Parenthood. In response to threats to defund the organization due to allegations that it profits from the sale of fetal tissue, more than 40 religious leaders signed a statement of support from the Institute, including Unitarian Universalist Association president the Rev. Peter Morales. (Christian Examiner – 9.30.15)
On Planned Parenthood’s national “Pink Out Day,” Claudia Hanes of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Bowling Green, Kentucky, stood along a busy street wearing pink and holding a sign saying, “Standing with Planned Parenthood.” Hanes is part of her congregation’s social justice action committee, and reproductive justice is an important aspect of the committee's work. (Bowling Green Daily News – 9.30.15)
More coverage:
“At the rally, they wore pink” (Alligator.org – 9.30.15)
“Local supporters back Planned Parenthood during D.C. hearing” (KHOU.com – 9.29.15)
Congregation noted for extensive support of LGBTQIA community
On the occasion of the San Marcos, Texas, Pride Parade and Festival, San Marcos Unitarian Universalist Fellowship was in the spotlight for its support of the LGBTQIA community. In addition to financially supporting the annual parade, the congregation lends its facilities for monthly meetings of Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays and donates a regular monthly offering to nonprofits such as the Bobcat Pride Scholarship Fund. (The University Star – 9.28.15)