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All Souls' Social Justice team, headed by the Dismantling Racism team, has been working hard on bringing awareness, commitment, and action to our Beloved Community. 

Here are some reasons Why to adopt the 8th Principle:

  • Racism is pervasive throughout our history, contemporary society, and institutions and requires concerted action to undo;
  • ASUUC is a predominantly white institution, requiring self-examination, education, and intention in order to live up to its values of justice, equity, and interdependence; 
  • Our UU seven Principles and six Values of Article II do not commit us to specifically address racism and oppression of marginalized communities within ourselves, our community, and our society; 
  • We have no specific call to action against racism and other oppressions; and
  • Our adoption of the 8th Principle will remind us of our commitment and serve as a call to action in our striving for Beloved Community.

FAQ section:

What is the new expected administrative or financial burden associated with this change? 

None. We have been engaged with community groups and events for the last three years and acting in our congregation through education and events for over a year. Budgeting for these efforts occurs through the Social Justice Team.

What actions will be taken to hold us accountable?

The Social Justice Team is comprised of multiple groups, including the Dismantling Racism team, which has taken the lead in the adoption of the 8th Principle. Such a configuration supports an intersectional approach to actively dismantling oppression within the different areas our congregation is attending at the time. 

We will continue working with reputable community groups whose missions align with dismantling oppression, engaging in the ways they ask us, giving through the plate-sharing program, bringing speakers to educate our congregation, and holding discussion groups like those in our anti-racism and trans-affirming trainings. We will continue engaging the Board, Council, and congregation to examine our roles in much-needed change.

Why is this change being proposed now?  

Marginalized communities in El Paso County continue to lose ground in areas of healthcare, education, nutrition, housing, mental health services, incarceration, immigration, voter turnout, and wages. Any support (lobbying, financial, food assistance, voting, education, etc.) can have a direct and significant effect on marginalized community members.

For more history on why the 8th Principle was created and the timing, visit 8thprincipleuu.org.

Is this already covered in our 7 Principles and new values in Article 2?

No. Article II contains generalized value statements of equity, justice, and Beloved Community but neither recognizes oppression nor makes a call to action to address it. The same omissions are true of the seven Principles. The 8th Principle offers a way to work towards a fuller vision of a Beloved Community.

Does this matter since the adoption of the new values in Article II?

Yes. Each UU congregation determines for themselves if they will maintain the seven Principles. All Souls has not yet made any actions towards retiring the Principles.

What does this mean for individual members of All Souls?

It means stating and standing behind a principle that we, as a Beloved Community, are against oppression and are willing to take action against it. Social justice work can take on many forms, including but not limited to donations, letter-writing, volunteer work, educating others, and more.

How do I find more information on the 8th Principle vote?

  • Talk to someone on the Social Justice Team on Sundays!
  • Visit the 8th Principle website: www.8thprincipleuu.org
Dismantling Racism
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