Shared Values

Unitarian Universalism is a living tradition that has changed in many ways from the original Christian roots of its Universalist and Unitarian heritages, and it continues to evolve today. Most recently, this evolution has taken the form of adopting new language to describe who we are as UUs. At General Assembly in June 2024, UUs voted to replace existing Seven Principles and Six Sources language in our bylaws with language describing Unitarian Universalism through these shared values:

  • Interdependence: We honor the interdependent web of all existence and acknowledge our place in it.
  • Pluralism: We are all sacred beings, diverse in culture, experience, and theology.
  • Justice: We work to be diverse multicultural Beloved Communities where all feel welcome and can thrive.
  • Transformation: We adapt to the changing world.
  • Generosity: We cultivate a spirit of gratitude and hope.
  • Equity: We declare that every person is inherently worthy and has the right to flourish with dignity, love, and compassion.

We arrived at this description of Unitarian Universalism after a multi-year process of discernment and discussion, writing and revision, and eventually a final democratic vote. The process of review and revision is mandated by UUA bylaws to happen every 15 years, and the language describing Unitarian Universalist faith has changed multiple times over the course of our history. We encourage you to review the final adopted language of Article II (PDF, 3 pages), which includes our Shared Values.

Additional Resources

  • The Rev. Dr. Sheri Prud'homme offers a theological reflection on each of the Shared Values. In doing so, she expressed her hope that this would be only the beginning "of many quilts of theological reflection and discussion" on the Shared Values adopted through the Article II revision process.
  • There are now two images of the Shared Values, in a flower form and in an atom form, that are available for Unitarian Universalist congregations to use. Additional image designs are welcomed; artists can send their designs to Kiana Nwaobia at knwaobia@uua.org for a cross-staff team to consider.
  • The pamphlet, "Our Shared Unitarian Universalist Values," is available for free download in an easy-to-print 8.5 x 11" format. Learn more about ordering this in pamphlet format from our inSpirit UU Book & Gift Shop.
  • A poster version of the atom-style Shared Values image is also available for free download. It is set up to be printed at 20w x 16h by a vendor of your choosing.

A Brief History of the Adoption of Shared Values Language

The change to Shared Values language began in 2020, with the creation of an Article II Study Commission made up of Unitarian Universalists from diverse backgrounds who were charged with the task of reviewing Article II* of the UUA’s bylaws and proposing revisions that would enable the Association and member congregations to be a relevant and powerful force for spiritual and moral growth, healing, and justice.

After receiving input from thousands of Unitarian Universalists, the Commission submitted a final proposal for new language for Article II, moving away from language of principles and sources and toward a description of shared values. At General Assembly 2023, Unitarian Universalists voted to support this shift while continuing to work for the next year on the final language. The final language, outlining the shared values described above, was adopted by a more-than-two-thirds majority vote at General Assembly 2024.

*Unlike other religious traditions, Unitarian Universalism’s mission and purpose is housed in its Association’s bylaws. Article II of UUA Bylaws holds the language that describes Unitarian Universalist faith and outlines the UUA’s purpose as an organization.

Further Reading

The following stories from UU World magazine offer an historical overview of changes to Article II of UUA Bylaws:

Learn more about the Article II Study Commission and their work and explore our collection of curated religious education resources on these shared values.

This image is of a chalice with an overlay of the word Love over the flame, with six outstretched arms that create a circle around each of the core values and form a six-petal flower shape. Each arm is a different color, and clockwise they are: Interdependence (Orange), Equity (Red), Transformation (Purple), Pluralism (Blue), Generosity (Green), and Justice (Yellow).

Shared Values Curricula, Activities, Games and Stories

From Shared Values

This collection of faith development materials for all ages can help your congregation engage with the Shared Values of our Unitarian Universalist faith

Shared Values Curricula, Activities, Games and Stories

On a dark blue background, there are a series of small red circles forming a repeated circle pattern, moving toward the center of the cover. The book's title is in the center in white text, "Love at the Center: Unitarian Universalist Theologies" and "Sofia Betancourt, editor"

Love at the Center is available in ebook format now and you can pre-order a printed copy of the book that will be available in fall 2024 through inSpirit UU Book and Gift Shop.

Pre-order Your Copy