Published on Wed Jun 24 2026 06:00:00 GMT+0600 (Omsk Standard Time) by 8th Principle UU

Welcome to our second email update dedicated to the 8th Principle of Unitarian Universalism. In this issue, we celebrate the growing momentum across our faith as more individuals and communities embrace the call to dismantle racism and systemic oppression. We share updates on recent events, new resources, and actionable ways to deepen your engagement. Whether you are new to this work or a seasoned advocate, there is something here for you.

What's New Since Our Last Update

Since our first update, the energy around the 8th Principle has continued to build. We're heartened to see a steady increase in congregations formally adopting the principle, and many more engaging in study and dialogue. In the past few weeks alone, several new online discussion groups have formed, and regional gatherings have drawn participants eager to connect and share strategies. If you missed our first email update, you can catch up on the foundation of this work.

Among the highlights:

• New congregations adopting the 8th Principle: At least ten more UU congregations have voted to adopt the principle, bringing the tot across the United States and Canada.
• Expanded resource library: We've added new study guides, sermon collections, and multimedia resources to support individual and congregational learning.
• Increased collaboration: We've partnered with several UU organizations to offer joint programming and amplify marginalized voices within our movement.

These developments reflect a deepening commitment to building a faith that truly honors the inherent worth and dignity of every person.

A Closer Look: The 8th Principle in Action

The 8th Principle calls us to "accountably dismantle racism and other oppressions in ourselves and our institutions." But what does that look like in practice? Across our communities, we're seeing inspiring examples of individuals and congregations translating this commitment into concrete action. From revising hiring practices to creating brave spaces for difficult conversations, the work is both challenging and transformative.

One congregation shared their journey of integrating the 8th Principle into their covenant. After months of education and reflection, they rewrote their covenant to explicitly name their commitment to anti-racism and anti-oppression. A member of their leadership team reflected:

"This process was not easy. It required us to confront uncomfortable truths about our history and our present. But the grace and honesty we found in each other gave us the courage to move forward. We are now a community that not only espouses our values but actively works to embody them."

These stories remind us that the 8th Principle is not a destination but a continuous journey of learning, unlearning, and action. Each step we take, no matter how small, contributes to a more just and equitable world.

Resources to Support Your Journey

To aid you in your exploration and practice of the 8th Principle, we've curated a selection of resources that offer diverse perspectives and practical tools. Whether you're looking for foundational texts, personal narratives, or facilitation guides, these materials can deepen your understanding and equip you for the work ahead.

Here are a few recommendations to get you started:

• "Widening the Circle of Concern" – This report from the UUA's Commission on Institutional Change offers a comprehensive analysis of systemic racism within Unitarian Universalism and provides recommendations for transformation.
• "Me and White Supremacy" by Layla F. Saad – A powerful workbook that guides readers through a 28-day process of examining and dismantling internalized white supremacy.
• "How to Be an Antiracist" by Ibram X. Kendi – A groundbreaking book that challenges readers to think about racism in new ways and offers a path toward actively opposing it.
• UU 8th Principle Study Guide – A free downloadable resource designed for small groups, featuring discussion questions, activities, and suggested readings.

We encourage you to explore these resources individually or with your congregation. Many are available through your local library or can be purchased from independent booksellers.

Upcoming Opportunities

Engaging with others is a vital part of this work. In the coming months, there are numerous opportunities to learn, connect, and act. We hope you'll join us for one or more of these events:

• Monthly Webinar Series: Join us on the second Tuesday of each month for a webinar featuring guest speakers, panel discussions, and Q&A sessions on topics related to the 8th Principle. These webinars are free and open to all.
• Regional Workshops: We are partnering with UU districts to offer in-person workshops focused on anti-racism skill-building and congregational transformation. Check with your district for dates and locations.
• Virtual Small Group Ministry: A new online small group will begin in the spring, using the 8th Principle Study Guide as its core text. Registration is limited, so sign up early.

These gatherings provide a supportive environment for learning and growth. We encourage you to invite friends and fellow congregants to participate alongside you.

Calls to Action: What Can You Do Now?

While education and reflection are essential, the 8th Principle ultimately calls us to action. Here are several concrete steps you can take today to advance this work in your own life and community:

• Talk to your congregation's leadership about adopting the 8th Principle if they haven't already. Offer to help organize a study group or lead a discussion.
• Examine your own biases and behaviors. Commit to ongoing self-education and seek feedback from others.
• Advocate for policy changes within your congregation and wider community that promote equity and inclusion.
• Support BIPOC-led organizations and initiatives through donations, volunteering, or amplifying their voices.
• Hold yourself and others accountable in loving and constructive ways when you witness racism or oppression.

Remember, every action counts. Even small steps can create ripples of change.

Reflection and Commitment

As we continue on this journey, let us pause to reflect on our individuh Principle invites us to be courageous, humble, and persistent. It asks us to listen deeply, speak truthfully, and act justly. May we support one another in this sacred work.

We invite you to consider this question: How am I being called to embody the 8th Principle in my daily life? Share your thoughts with us on social media or in your local community. Together, we can build a faith that truly reflects our highest values.

Thank you for your dedication and engagement. We look forward to walking this path with you.

Written by 8th Principle UU