Two girls light the flaming chalice, symbol of Unitarian Universalism.
Rev. William G. Sinkford, President of the Unitarian Universalist Association.
Welcome!
A Long Overdue Conversation About Race
Rev. Jeremiah Wright's recent public comments have generated increased discussion about the black church, racism and discrimination in America. There are people who dismiss Rev. Wright’s remarks as extremist rants, others who assert that he is speaking difficult truths, and many others who are not sure what to believe or how to react. This ongoing controversy raises important questions: What is the role of religion in American politics today? What difference does race make in this conversation? What are the qualities needed for leadership of our country at this pivotal time in our history?
Earlier this spring, Rev. William G. Sinkford, President of the Unitarian Universalist Association and an African American, wrote about these issues:
"A commentator on CNN ... expressed what I imagine is the feeling of many white Americans in response to Barack Obama's speech about race [this spring]: 'Why can't we just go back to being color blind?' In our hearts, most Americans will acknowledge that racism is still at work in the body politic and in our individual lives, regardless of our race or cultural identity. But most would also acknowledge that we haven't yet found a way to move forward to redress the impact of racism, or even a way to productively talk about race in our society or in our lives. We have been stuck for far too long."
Sinkford added, "Much of the conversation about race is so filled with political correctness that truth is hard to come by. Whites move so easily to denial, citing the progress that has been made in recent decades and glossing over the glaring disparities in opportunity, income, even incarceration that remain. African Americans and people of color generally, including myself.... (continued)
A Welcoming Spiritual Home
If you're searching for a spiritual home that is guided by a quest for truth and meaning, a home where such faithful conversations can occur, we invite you to discover Unitarian Universalism.
Unitarian Universalists are dedicated to living our faith and practicing what we preach. Working for civil rights and combating oppression are essential parts of our spiritual journey. Our history includes notable abolitionists from the 1700s and 1800s, members of color as early as 1785, the first ordained minister of color in the U.S., founders of the NAACP, leaders of the 1960s voting rights movement, and more.
We continue to work for justice today in ways that resonate with our Principles, from protecting our environment to advocating for full civil rights for bisexual, gay, lesbian, and transgender people. For decades our social justice statements have supported equality for all people, regardless of race, gender or sexual orientation, age, or ability.
We are a caring, open-minded faith community that encourages spiritual growth and supports you on your journey. Unitarian Universalist congregations are places where people gather to nurture their spirits and put their faith into action by helping to make our communities—and the world—a better place.
Explore our website, share the thoughts of one our esteemed pastors on the role of religion in American democracy, visit a congregation near you, and discover Unitarian Universalism.
Unitarian Universalism: Nurture Your Spirit. Help Heal Our World.
The Unitarian Universalist Association does not endorse or take any position as to the candidacy of any individual for public office.
Last updated on Monday, May 5, 2008.
