Dear Family,

It seems a lifetime ago since I wrote my February newsletter column.  In the past 30 days people in North Africa wanting freedom, political choice and economic opportunities have peacefully revolted and forced oppressive political leaders out of power.  As I write this column, I am watching Al Jazeera English and the unfolding rebellion in Libya.  And in my home state of Wisconsin, public employees and their allies have been protesting against legislation that would weaken union membership and their power.

The change that is happening in this country and other parts of the world is scary and can tap into the deepest part of our fears.  I was once told that the only thing in life I can count on is change.  I find that on some days I embrace change with open hands and heart.  While on other days, I fear change and resist it with the all the energy I have.  How do you deal with change?  What goes through your mind when you realize change is in your life?  How much do you fear change?

I think the following poem by Sara Moores Campbell will be helpful during the changing and fearful times we live in.

Love Casts Out Fear

            In fear we isolate ourselves.

            In love, we connect with others.

            In fear, we become immobilized.

            In love, we are empowered to act.

            In fear, we judge others.

            In love, we seek justice.

            In fear, we distrust.

            In love, we trust.

            In fear, we seek punishment.

            In love, we seek mercy and forgiveness.

            In fear, we see death.

            In love, we see life.

            In fear, we retreat.

            In love, we reach out.

Let us reach out in love and support one another through change and fear.

As always, I would love to hear from you.  You can message me on Facebook at Monica Cummings, email me or leave a comment for me on the YaYA of Color blog, "UU Living Mosaic."   

Living My Faith,

Rev. Monica

Visit the Unitarian Universalist Mosaic Project Facebook Group Page!   

What:  Legislation passed by the Arizona Legislature and signed by Govenor Jan Brewer mandating an attempt to determine the immigration status of a person during any legitimate contact made by an official or agency of the state or a county, city, town or political subdivision if reasonable suspicion exists that the person is an alien who is unlawfully present in the U.S.

Why it matters:  This legislation attacks the first and second Unitarian Universalist Principles of the inherent worth and dignity of every person, and  justice, equity and compassion in human relations.  It promotes racism and discourages individuals from seeking access to police protection, medical care and education resources.
Where we are:  Still waiting on 9th Circuit Federal Appeals Court opinion.  It is widely expected the case will ultimately be heard by the United States Supreme Court.  Governor Jan Brewer has become the subject of a recall movement.  

+:  Standing on the Side of Love stood against SB1070 when the case was heard by the 9th Circuit.  

PROP 8    

What it is:  A voter approved ballot issue eliminating the right of same-sex couples to marry, making same-sex marriage illegal in California, creating a new amendment to the California Constitution which says, "only marriage between a man and a woman is valid or recognized in California."  Before it passed, same-sex marriage was a constitutionally-protected right in California; a majority of the justices of the California Supreme Court affirmed this understanding of the constitution in May 2008.

Why it matters:  Marriage equality affirms Unitarian Universalist Principles One, Two, and Three - the inherent worth and dignity of every person; justice, equity and compassion in human relations; and acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations.
Where we are:  There is currently a stay on allowing same-sex marriage in California pending outcome of the court challenge to Prop. 8 and California Attorney General Kamala Harris asked the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to lift the stay striking down Prop. 8 last year.  In unusually emotional language for a state's "top cop," Harris's court filing reads, in part:  "For 846 days Proposition 8 has denied equality under law to gay and lesbian couples. Each and every one of those days, same-sex couples have been denied their right to convene loved ones and friends to celebrate marriages sanctioned and protected by California law. Each one of those days, loved ones have been lost, moments have been missed, and justice has been denied. The preconditions for a stay are lacking on this record. The stay should be vacated." The California State Supreme Court voted unanimously to hear the case on an expedited schedule in September 2011.  Some analysts think the bill could be repealed by voters before the court issues an opinion.

+:  The KQED blog covering developments in the case.  

WISCONSIN

What it is:  The "Budget Repair Bill" ends the right to collective bargaining for public sector (state, county and municipal) workers with the exception of police and firefighters.  Several other states are taking action to end or limit the rights of workers to collective bargaining.  

Why it matters:  The employee right of collective bargaining with an employer enhances the human dignity, liberty and autonomy of workers by giving them the opportunity to influence the establishment of workplace rules and thereby gain some control over a major aspect of their lives, namely their work... Collective bargaining is not simply an instrument for pursuing external ends...rather [it] is intrinsically valuable as an experience in self-government... Collective bargaining permits workers to achieve a form of workplace democracy and to ensure the rule of law in the workplace. Workers gain a voice to influence the establishment of rules that control a major aspect of their lives.  ·  The right to bargain collectively with employers is recognized through international human rights conventions and is supported by Principles Five and Six of Unitarian Universalism:  The right of conscience and the use of democratic process within our congregations and society at large; (and) the goal of world community with peace, liberty, and justice for all.  ·  Article 23 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights identifies the ability to organize trade unions as a fundamental human right.  Item 2(a) of the International Labour Organization's Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work defines the "freedom of association and the effective recognition of the right to collective bargaining" as an essential right of workers.

Where we are:  The Wisconsin legislature used questionable tactics to pass the part of the Budget Repair Bill ending collective bargaining.  A legal challenge of the legislature's tactics and protests are planned.

+:  Follow the story.