Social Action Committee of the UU Congregation of Phoenix
Bennett Award for Congregational Action on Human Justice and Social Action
The Unitarian Universalist (UU) Congregation of Phoenix is the 2009 recipient of the Bennett Award for Congregational Action on Human Justice and Social Action.
In response to persecution of immigrants, Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Phoenix partnered with immigrant rights groups and joined a successful effort for a federal investigation of Sheriff Arpaio of Phoenix, AZ. Rev. Frederick-Gray and fifty members joined thousands in a protest march. Their work includes immigration reform advocacy, support of day laborers, and witnessing against human rights violations.
Rev. Susan Frederick-Gray wrote: "In Phoenix in particular, crime associated with human and drug trafficking across the border is a reality. Gang activity, assault, murder, robbery and rape are all effects of illegal trafficking across the border and they are serious problems. Unfortunately, Sheriff Arpaio's raids neglect the far more difficult and dangerous work of addressing these criminal elements. Rather, his tactics target people whose only crime is being in this country without papers. He is going after people with few rights, while turning a blind eye to dangerous criminals."
As a denomination that believes we should 'Stand on the Side of Love', the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Phoenix has demonstrated our commitment to this promise.
Rev. Frederick-Gray will be speaking at a workshop at General Assembly, Welcoming Our Neighbors: The Path to Immigration Reform, about what her congregation has done and has others can replicate their efforts.
The Bennett Award for Congregational Action on Human Justice and Social Action, instituted in 1999 by James Bennett to honor the congregation that has done exemplary work in social justice, is accompanied by a $500 cash award that is presented at General Assembly. Dr. James R. Bennett is professor emeritus of the University of Arkansas and he is the former director of the Gustavus Meyers Center of Human Rights in North America, founded in 1984. Dr. Bennett is a member of the UU Fellowship of Fayetteville, AR. Read about past recipients.
Nominations for 2010 are due March 1st, 2010 and should include:
- a 1-4 page report on the social justice action or program,
- a testimonial from partner organizations or community members where applicable, and
- any relevant documentation and media generated about the effort.
Send entries to:
Unitarian Universalist Association
Office for Congregational Advocacy & Witness
25 Beacon Street
Boston MA 02108
For more information contact socialjustice@uua.org.
Last updated on Monday, May 4, 2009.
