UUCDC’s Anti-Racism Coalition (ARC) strives to understand the roots of racism and promotes justice and equity in our congregation, our community, and our country. 

This begins on a personal level by helping people recognize that biases are ingrained in our thoughts, words, and deeds. ARC has held anti-racism workshops and trainings. We’ve provided screenings of films and suggested readings of relevant books, which were then discussed within the congregation. We participated in civil actions, including rallies and protests, working to bring about legislative change. 

Meeting on a semi-regular basis, the core members of the ARC have moved to an ad-hoc model, where, as needed, different members have different responsibilities that fall under one of areas: 

• Anti-racist Sunday services
• Education about racism and its effects on individuals and institutions
• “Widening the Circle of Concern,” how we can engage in, enact, and embody anti-racist practices both within the congregation and community. 
• NAACP Scholarship Fund, which awards $2,000 per year for up to four years to students selected by the NAACP Chester chapter. 

New members committed to regular engagement in one of these areas are welcome, and, as needed, ARC will appeal to the larger congregation for assistance in anti-racism actions. These activities include taking part in planning or participating in a Sunday service or Social Justice Sunday activity, attending a FUSE (Fellowship of Urban Suburban Engagement) or Making a Change Group (MACG) event, or participating in a monthly Allyship and Anti-Racism Discussion Group Zoom meeting, where a variety of topics are covered. ARC updates and calls to action will be posted in Connections and in the slide show before services. 

If you would like to become involved in ARC or for more information, email us.

Recent ARC Activities

• Sign Up for Microaggressions Workshop
  The First Unitarian Universalist Church of Berks County is hosting a workshop entitled “Exploring Subtle Acts of Exclusion; How to Understand, Identify, and Stop Microaggressions,” on Sunday, April 21, from 12:15 to 3:15 p.m. Child care will be provided. For more information and to register by April 19, contact Pat Uribe-Lichty at paturli50@gmail.com. Location: 416 Franklin Street, Reading, PA 19602. The church service which begins at 10:25 a.m. will also cover these themes.
• Courageous Conversation in Chester

  Plan to join the Fellowship of Urban and Suburban Engagement (FUSE) for a “Courageous Conversation” about “Chester’s History and Lasting Effects on the Families and Culture in Our Communities.” It takes place Tuesday, February 13, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. (doors open at 6) at the Vittles Food Hall, 801 Sproul Street, Chester, PA 19013 (meal and refreshments provided). The event is free, but please register in advance to attend at here.

  FUSE’s Courageous Conversations series began 10 years ago as a way to bring people together over a shared meal in order to spark important discussion. Each Courageous Conversation centers around a different theme that helps guests understand and address social issues. Through guided discussion and an enjoyable dinner, Courageous Conversations humanizes the way we as community members talk about uncomfortable subjects. Courageous Conversations inspire friendships among people who might otherwise be strangers.

  For more information or questions contact FUSE at matt@fusedelco.com.

• Check Out Mosaic
  The Unitarian Universalist Association has a legacy of “deeds, not creeds” and their work goes in many directions. One of these pathways is through the Mosaic website, an online hub of connection, resources, and support for Unitarian Universalists dismantling racism and oppression. They have an anti-racism resource library and a newsletter. They also hold national online gatherings, with the next one being on January 22. Learn how you can be part of the solution.
• Community Safety Beyond Policing

  On Sunday, 11-19-23 from 12:30–2:30 p.m., the Anti-Racist Coalition (ARC) will host a Community Conversation, facilitated by the Nether Providence Police Accountability Committee exploring what it means for all community members, including people of color and those with mental health issues, to feel safe. Register here by 11-15-23 (put Community Conversations in the title) to join us in the Sanctuary for this important conversation. Pizza and snacks will be provided. This program is designed for ages 13+.

• 6/11

  While the work of creating and maintaining a more just and equitable society continues, the Anti-Racism Action section of Connections will be on hiatus until the new church year. In the meantime, why not attend the Delaware County Pride Festival on June 10, or the NAACP Media Youth Council’s 2nd Annual Juneteenth Celebration on Saturday, June 17, from noon to 3:00 pm at Heritage Park at 5th & Broomall Streets in Media, PA? Happy summer! (John Davies)