After many years of inconsistent work in the UUA regarding anti-racism, the realization that one can “live into” our existing 7 principles without thinking about or dealing with racism has become more apparent. In order to more fully live into the potential of our existing principles, over 150 UU congregations have already adopted the 8th Principle.

In our white-centered dominant culture it is all too easy to ignore racism and just regard ourselves as “not racist”, insisting that we treat everyone the same because we “don’t see color.” Although this is well-intended, this leads less to equality and more to erasure. It is all too easy not to think too deeply about the culture we live in, what it’s based on, who created it, who holds the power, and who benefits the most from its rules, norms and structures. This indifference is a key factor that keeps the system of racism alive and well in our society. The claim of “not racist” is a passive state and a claim to neutrality that can turn out to be a mask for racism. The opposite of “racist” isn’t “not racist”. The opposite of “racist” is “anti-racist,” a stance that calls us to action in confronting racial bias and inequities in ourselves and our institutions.

Our exiting 7 principles do not hold us accountable for addressing racism and other oppressions directly, especially at the systemic level. The 8th Principle calls us, as people of faith, to be accountable to each other and more importantly focuses us on continuing our evolution into being a diverse, multicultural Beloved Community that is a natural extension of our traditions and an outcome of living our current principles. 

 

8th Principle Recent Posts

So Where Do We Go From Here?

At our recent Annual Congregational Meeting our UUCOD members voted strongly to adopt the 8th Principle as one of our own.

But more importantly, and closer to home, what does passing the 8th Principle mean to us at UUCOD? Where do we go from here since adopting this principle is just the beginning of a journey that we will create and make together.

Are we proposing this principle because we are doing something wrong?

This is one of the thought provoking questions we have been asked over the past several months related to the proposed 8th Principle. The simple answer is, No. However, this does not mean we cannot do more that is right. Remember, we are attempting to Widen the Circle of Concern and to become as welcoming and inclusive as possible so that ALL truly feel that they belong here. 

What does “white supremacy culture” mean?

At its most basic, white supremacy culture is based on the ideology that people with white skin are superior to people with dark skin, intellectually, morally, and physically, and therefore should dominate society, typically to the exclusion or detriment of other...

What is meant by “white privilege?

White privilege is “having greater access to power and resources than people of color, in the same situation, do."  from Diversity in the Classroom and Understanding White Privilege: Creating Pathways to Authentic Relationships Across Race" by Francis E. Kendallin ....

The 8th Principle – Let’s Examine What It Really Means

As we journey towards adopting the 8th Principle, throughout March we will present various words and phrases both within the 8th Principle language itself and those related to the work of anti-racism. We will begin to explore what they mean and invite your responses....

The 8th Principle – Can we change the wording?

At this stage in the process, congregations need to adopt the proposed principle as it is written. The wording of the 8th Principle will be substantially debated on the floor of the UUA General Assembly and will likely be changed as a result. By voting to approve it...

The 8th Principle – Learn More About It!

Rev. Ian introduced this proposed 8th Principle in depth and in the context of our covenantal relationships during our January 16 Sunday Service. If you missed this very important service or wish to listen to it again, it is posted on the UUCOD Facebook page Over the...

The 8th Principle – Why is UUCOD wanting to adopt this?

The 8th Principle is a natural extension of our UU values and faith development. Unlike our other 7 Principles, it calls us to action, to not only be not-racist but to actively engage in anti-racist behaviors as individuals and as a faith community. And it calls us to...