February Focus: Justice Action Ministry
I dwell in Possibility-
Emily Dickinson
Justice Action Ministries, or the JAM teams, are groups of UU members and friends who participate in JAMs to live out their values by promoting social justice. JAMs often cooperate to support each other and recognize the interdependence of their work. JAMs host inspirational events, educational opportunities, and promote ways to participate in our larger community. These groups are ongoing but also welcome participation in special short-term projects.
Justice Action Ministry Facilitators – consists of members and leaders from each JAM and those who want to help support the creation of new JAMs, and larger support of the justice ministries of the Fellowship, one example of their activities is sponsoring the Justice Tool Belt series.
Essentials: Food and Shelter for All – works to ensure adequate food and shelter in the Fox Valley and beyond; addresses obstacles that stand in the way of people being able to meet these needs for themselves; an example of their activities is preparing and serving meals at homeless shelters in Appleton.
Green Sanctuary - accredited Green Sanctuary by the UUA, works on issues of climate change and environmental justice; an example of their activities is hosting film viewings, book discussions, and other events to collaborate and promote sustainable practices that provide resilience to the effects of climate change.
Partner Church - educate and connect the Fellowship congregation and youth with the congregations of Deva and Banaybanay.
Gender Equality – increase awareness of gender rights concerns, educate and advocate for the rights of LGBTQIA+ members of our community. New this fall, sponsoring Sailing the AllyShip
ESTHER – an interfaith community organizing group of which the Fellowship is a member that works to educate and advocate for rights regarding affordable housing in the Fox Valley, establish a fair and equitable immigration policy, and work to transform our justice system
Immigration Justice - providing assistance and support to individuals and families seeking asylum in our country
Each of these groups focuses on one or more of the UU Principles. Their work impacts the community locally, nationally, and globally. The Fellowship provides guidance and financial assistance to support the JAMs in their groundbreaking, uplifting, and impactful projects that promote social justice. For the Fellowship to act courageously for justice, people are needed and money is required to get the job done. There is a place for everyone. Give serious consideration to how you can move the Fellowship forward in building a better world.