At UU Saratoga, we believe that the pursuit of justice and the embrace of inclusivity are not just ideals, but essential elements of our faith and community. Our mission is rooted in the conviction that every person possesses inherent worth and dignity, and it is our collective responsibility to create a world where all individuals are treated with respect, equity, and compassion.

In a world often divided by differences, we strive to build bridges and foster understanding. Our commitment to justice compels us to confront and dismantle systems of oppression, whether they manifest as racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, ableism, or any other form of discrimination. We are dedicated to advocating for policies and practices that promote fairness, protect the vulnerable, and ensure that all voices are heard and valued.

We seek to create a welcoming space where everyone feels they belong, regardless of their background, identity, or beliefs. Our community is enriched by diversity, and we celebrate the unique perspectives and experiences that each individual brings. By cultivating an environment of radical hospitality, we affirm that everyone has a place at UU Saratoga.

Our Social Justice Team aims to create opportunities for our congregation to participate in events to serve efforts in community service, advocacy,education, and education.advocacy. The Team meets monthly on the third Wednesday from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.  

Service 

Team members act as liaisons in support of like-minded community service organizations, including:

MLK Saratoga. Through performance, dialogue, conversation, and the arts, we partner each January in promoting Dr. Martin Luther King’s vision of peace and justice for all, building civil and human rights awareness by promoting equity, inclusivity, diversity, anti-racism and social justice through our community events and offerings.

Saratoga Pride. We offer our meetinghouse and volunteer in hosting on the first Friday of every month an LGBTQA+ Teen Night. We also partner each June in the events of Pride Month. 

Saratoga Immigration Coalition.  We endorse and support this organization’s efforts in advocating for and about immigrants in Saratoga, Warren, and Washington counties.

Our monthly Give Away the Plate collection during the Sunday services supports vital local organizations, such as Sustainable Saratoga, Wellspring, and the Backstretch Employment Service Team of New York. We also support underserved groups by collecting items for Code Blue, Adopt a Senior, and personal supplies for teenagers. 

Education

Following Sunday services, we host a monthly “Feast and Films for Justice” series and participate each September in Peace Week, which commemorates the annual UN International Day of Peace (9/21) with events promoting peace at home, in the community, in the nation, and in the world. 

Recent initiatives also include a discussion series on the Israeli/Palestinian conflict and presentations regarding the Medical in Aid Dying Act proposed in New York. 

Advocacy 

Through our work with UU the Vote and the League of Women Voters of Saratoga County, we  support efforts to empower citizens and defend democracy. We support the 

Saratoga Equity Educational Network’s advocacy for an equitable environment in Saratoga Springs City School District. We also actively support the passage in New York of the Equal Rights Amendment and the Medical Aid in Dying Act.