Social justice work is an integral part of what it means to be a Unitarian Universalist.

We are Unitarian and we believe in the interconnectedness of all creation and the oneness of the holy.

We are Universalist and we believe in the underlying principle of universal love.

We serve, we advocate, we educate and we donate – this is what meaningful membership at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Asheville is all about.

One way that our congregation participates in outreach and social justice work is that once a month on a Sunday designated in advance we donate half of all the cash we collect during our offering as well as any checks identified for “Share the Plate” to an agency or project that serves the community or the cause of social justice. A committee of our Social Justice Council recommends the agencies or projects. Click "Share the Plate" to view upcoming and past recipients.

We have three teams comprising the Social Justice Council to make it easier than ever for you to join forces with like-minded members and friends. If you are ready to put your Values into Action, send an email to SocialJusticeCouncil@UUAsheville.org with the team of interest to you and your contact information.

If you would like to sign up for "The Flame", our periodic Social Justice Newsletter, please email SJC Newsletter@UUAsheville.org.

Economic Justice (Christine Grant)
We promote the inherent worth and dignity of all people. Projects include participating in the Interfaith Room in the Inn program (a shelter for homeless women) and funding and constructing the Habitat for Humanity Interfaith home. Additional projects will be added as the group assesses the needs in our community.

Human Rights (Helen Bell and Alex Cury)
We are dedicated to an awareness of how we are in relationship with others. The Human Rights Team advocates international human rights, criminal justice and civil liberties. Projects include People of Faith Against the Death Penalty, monthly lunches for Women at Risk, an alternative sentencing program, as well as work in the areas of restorative justice, jail and prison conditions, equal marriage rights, the reproductive rights of women, the separation of church and state,and end-of-life choices.

Peace and Environmental Justice Team (Melissa Davis and Dave Williams)
We believe in the interconnectedness of all creation. Projects include sponsorship of the Western North Carolina Peace Coalition and addressing specific threats to peace as they arise. Ongoing activities include peaceful protests against the war in Iraq and educating for the creation of an equitable and sustainable future.

We promote respect for the interdependent web of all creation of which we are a part. Projects include support for becoming a certified Green Sanctuary and promoting GreenPower. Ongoing work includes building a connection between spiritual practice and environmental consciousness, generating commitment for personal lifestyle changes, and advocating for a sustainable community.