First UU’s social justice outreach program, instituted in 2005, provides a process by which the congregation can immmediately act on its historical commitment to ethical universalism while also developing the foundation necessary for implementing a sustainable “Church in Community” strategy. The “Church in Community” strategy is a framework for the spiritual growth of the congregation requiring community “good works” initiatives that provide significant community benefit and inform the local community of First UU’s mission of service.

Some of First UU’s Social Outreach Programs

• Interfaith Works, Community Wide Dialogue to End Racism
• Eastern Farm Workers Association – clothing and food drives
• Standing on the Side of Love – focusing on LGBTQ rights, immigration rights, and Black Lives Matter
• Syracuse Pride Festival – participation in the Pride Parade

Marching in the PRIDE parade at the NYS fair

Some of our members participating in a Black Lives Matter rally

Teen group volunteering in a community garden