On May 1, First Church hung a banner outside proclaiming “Siding with Love for Immigrant Justice.” Proposed by our Social Justice Community and supported by the Standing Committee (our governing board), the banner intends to add our voice to urgent current discussions and make clear the importance of social justice in our ministry.
Why immigrant justice?
As a Unitarian Universalist congregation, we have a deep history of affirming the inherent worth and dignity of every person. This commitment extends to a concern that immigrants receive humane and just treatment. As explained by our national Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA):
Just as love knows no borders, our dedication to justice reaches across boundaries and walls. We show up on the side of love with all families, regardless of citizenship status, and strive to create welcoming communities and congregations. We organize and advocate for immigration reform, for an end to detentions and deportations, and for a world where hands are extended in peace and care across borders and no one feels forced to leave home or risk death in pursuit of a decent life for their family. We affirm immigration as a moral issue and have long spoken out in support of immigrant justice.
How does First Church support Immigrant Justice?
Locally, First Church Boston has supported LUCE trainings in conjunction with Sanctuary Boston. LUCE is an Immigrant Justice Network in Massachusetts grounded in principles of justice and equity, with a deep commitment to keeping all our communities safe through grassroots organizing, information sharing, and mutual aid. Members and staff of First Church Boston have shown up for various public actions in support of immigrant justice in Boston, Minneapolis, and the Burlington ICE Detention Center. Additionally, we share our financial resources with various nonprofits who support immigrant needs, including legal aid, food, and more. As individuals and as a community, we continue to listen and learn how to engage in the ongoing work of immigrant justice.
How can you take action to support Immigrant Justice?
LUCE HOTLINE
If you think you see I.C.E. activity in your area, you can call 617-370-5023. The hotline operates from 6am – 8pm every day of the week across multiple languages. Trained volunteers respond to calls to document activity.
KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
Learn more about the rights of immigrants and help spread this information to others by posting “Know Your Rights” signs and/or distributing informational cards: here or here.
ACCOMPANIMENT and BOND SUPPORT
Join the Boston Immigration Justice Accompaniment Network (BIJAN) and/or Beyond Bond & Legal Defense Fund to support immigrant engagement with the legal processes of immigration and detention.
Further Thoughts and Conversation
If you wish to learn more about our commitment to Social Justice, Unitarian Universalism, or First Church Boston, please reach out to office@firstchurchboston.org to be connected to the Social Justice Community or a member of our ministerial staff.