Unitarian Universalist Shared Values

August 5, 2024

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.

Use and Attribution of the Shared Values Flower Image

The graphic of the Shared Values flower is available for Unitarian Universalist congregations to use, without fee or special permission from the artist, as long as the following requirements are met by the congregation:

The graphic shall be attributed to the artist, Tanya Webster (chalicedays.org), when it is used in printed paper materials (such as books, pamphlets, brochures, handouts, etc.), online, or projected on a screen (such as during worship or a workshop). Credit is not required on items that feature the graphic (such as t-shirts or water bottles), but should be included in any print and online content describing or promoting these items.
No modifications shall be made without the artist's permission.
The graphic may be distributed by Unitarian Universalists to wider communities in a Unitarian Universalist context (such as a flyer about the congregation or a fundraiser), but written permission from the artist for use of the graphic outside of a Unitarian Universalist context (such as for profit or fundraising for an individual or for a non-Unitarian Universalist group) is required. Permission requests should be sent to uu.rising@gmail.com.

A Brief History of Recent Changes

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.