Social Justice Internship Program
The goal of the Unitarian Universaslist Association (UUA) Social Justice Internship Program is to combine service, learning, and faith development in order to produce energetic young adults with the professional skills and strength of character to be lifelong leaders in Unitarian Universalism (UUism) and working for social justice. We currently have two types of interns—Legislative Assistants and Program Associates. Interns invest their time and energy in three main areas: 1) Advocacy/Organizing; 2) Community Service; and 3) Theological Reflection.- Advocacy/Organizing
Legislative Assistant are responsible for monitoring several issue areas of federal public policy in which they track and analyze proposed legislation and represent UU positions to government officials and to coalition partners. They also engage the denomination in their area of focus by informing UU's about policy developments, mobilizing constituents in key locales, and organizing UU outreach to elected officials.
Program Associates are responsible for supporting UU congregational participation in the Congregational Study/Action Issue (CSAI) by providing organizational support and resources to congregations.
- Community Service
Social Justice Interns volunteer approximately five hours a week with a local organization in order to engage directly with the communities and individuals who are affected by the legislation in focus.
- Theological Reflection
To avoid "social justice burnout" and keep them grounded in their work, Social Justice Interns are encouraged to consider the bigger picture, the moral reasons behind their work, and the role of their Unitarian Universalist faith. Group theological discussion and reflection, individual meetings with the Minister for the Social Justice Internship Program, book readings, and the occasional field trip are all part of this holistic learning and serving experience.
Existing Internships
We currently have four internship positions:
- Legislative Assistant for Economic and Racial Justice
- Legislative Assistant for International Issues
- UUWF Clara Barton Internship/Legislative Assistant for Womens Issues
- Mary Bonner Memorial Internship/Program Associate for Peacemaking
These positions run on a two year cycle We are not currently taking applications. If you are interested in the social justice internship program, check back on this page in January of 2009 for an update on possible openings or subscribe to our Advocacy News.
Last updated on Friday, April 18, 2008.
