1n 1997, the General Assembly voted to commit to intentionally becoming an anti-racist, anti-oppressive, multicultural institution. Yet, 25 years later, we continue to fall short of our commitments and promises. Since 2013, a group of Unitarian Universalists advocated, to more specifically address racism and oppression, for the adoption of an 8^th Principle, which states as follows:

We, the member congregations of the Unitarian Universalist Association, covenant to affirm and promote: journeying toward spiritual wholeness by working to build a diverse multicultural Beloved Community by our actions that accountably dismantle racism and other oppressions in ourselves and our institutions.

In 2017, the UU Church of Mt. Airy, of Philadelphia was the first to adopt the 8^th Principle, at its annual meeting, and today, over 200 churches have done so.   On November 20, 2022, Beacon UU Congregation proudly adopted the 8^th Principle.

The 8^th Principle is calling us to do deeper work within all areas of congregational life. It’s not a social justice project, it’s a call to think about the ways we become the beloved community we dream about.

Further information about the 8th Principle can be found on this UUA website and within this FAQ document.

In covenant,

Lynda L. Dorweiler, Board President