Unitarian Universalist FaithAction NJ
A UU voice for justice, equity and compassion in NJ
By Jami Thall, Reproductive Justice Task Force Co-Chair
As we all know, the only thing we know about reproductive justice, and in particular abortion access, in 2023 is that it is constantly changing at a mind-boggling pace. We, and probably you too, are getting a lot of information all the time. We hope you find the news, information and resources below helpful as you work with your individual reproductive justice committees and others.
The UU FaithAction NJ Reparations Task Force is pleased to announce the common read of The 1619 Project, edited by Nikole Hannah-Jones, Caitlin Roper, Ilena Silverman and Jake Silverstein.
The schedule will consist of five Wednesday evening meetings from 7:00 to 8:30 PM, all sessions via Zoom.
January 22nd, 2023 marked the 50th anniversary of the historic Roe v. Wade decision. As we mourn the loss of nearly 50 years of constitutional protections, we RALLY and MOBILIZE for abortion access and justice. Our movement is bigger than Roe!
Bill A3444/S3140, to establish an Organic Farming Board in the NJ Department of Agriculture, has been signed into law. The bipartisan legislation passed unanimously in both houses.
“As Unitarian Universalists we have a long and proud history of leadership in promoting comprehensive sexuality education for people of all ages. Beginning with About Your Sexuality (AYS), and then with the development & implementation of the Our Whole Lives curriculum, our UU children and youth have benefited greatly from sexuality education that is fact based, non-judgemental, and life affirming.
By Jane Gaertner, Criminal Justice Reform Task Force member
In the latter half of 2022, the New Jersey Legislature advanced multiple bills which will affect the recent achievements to make our state more equitable for all. “One step forward, two steps back.” Long-time activists know the slog.
A Conversation with Carol Loscalzo and Jami Thall, Co-Chairs of the Reproductive Justice Task Force
With the sudden reversal of Roe v. Wade brought on by the Supreme Court’s Dobb’s decision, UU FaithAction NJ’s Reproductive Justice Task Force has been engaged in protecting and expanding abortion access in New Jersey.
New Jersey, which leads the nation in percentage of people of immigrant heritage, has a long history of welcoming immigrants, refugees, and those seeking asylum from unthinkable dangers and oppression. UU FaithAction NJ, through the work of its Immigration Justice Task Force, has sought to educate the public on immigration issues and advocate for legislation that accounts for the dignity and civil rights of immigrants.
UU FaithAction NJ is fortunate to have two passionate new leaders of the Criminal Justice Reform Task Force: first-time Co-Chair Claudia Sanders, and former Board Member, long-time volunteer, and Chair, Tom Moran. Both are drawn to the work because the safety and humane treatment of those incarcerated can positively change lives and impact society as whole, and they enjoy working with a robust coalition of partner organizations.
When asked about their priorities, Moran says, “Being a presence in the regulatory space, making sure laws passed are being implemented, is one way we can make a difference.”
Do you envision a more just, equitable and compassionate New Jersey? This #GivingTuesday consider a gift that will ensure UU values are represented in critical policy issues facing our state with a donation to UU FaithAction NJ’s #GivingTuesday campaign.