A collective of DRUUMM (Diverse Revolutionary Unitarian Universalist Multicultural Ministries) members in the Central East Region have been organizing a wonderful day long program on the theme of "Embracing the Flow" at the historic Universalist Murray Grove retreat center in Lanoka Harbor, New Jersey to be held in September.

What is DRUUMM?

DRUUMM is the oldest and largest Unitarian Universalist People of Color ministry and anti-racist community organization based in North America. They are supported by DRUUMM Members — individuals who self-identify as People of Color and affirm our Unitarian Universalist mission and values. DRUUMM traces its lineage to Black and African American Unitarian and Universalist communities, Latino/a UU Networking Association, ministers and religious professionals of color, and youth and young adults of color who have organized to resist racism, nurture our faith formation, and build the beloved community.

DRUUMM leadership encourages people who self-identify as White to seek membership and organize with their close partner UU Allies for Racial Equity.

DRUUMM Gathering at Murray Grove, Friday, September 15th to Sunday, September 17th

Drawing inspiration from the coming together of our communities at the beginning of the church year, we are reflecting on water as a symbol of flow and change. In these times of transition and uncertainty, we can find strength in the resilience and ways water moves. Our theme, "Embracing the Flow,"centers on the preparation and practice we cultivate as Unitarian Universalist People of Color that enable us to thrive. What drives us and sustains us in our spiritual journey? What valuable lessons can we draw from our ancestors, who endured hardships, and from each other, as we endeavor to build our faith community? Our intention is to reflect on our experiences of worship, connection, and faith, exploring the positive, negative, and intriguing forces in our lives.

What to expect from this gathering:

• Family-friendly event open to Black, Indigenous, People of Color, and Multiracial Families.
• Multicultural program for children running concurrently with BIPOC and White Antiracist programs.
• Food, family, and fun!

DRUUMM invites Black, Indigenous & People of Color (BIPOC) friends for a day-long program at the picturesque shores of the historic Universalist center at Murray Grove in central New Jersey. We warmly invite you to participate in our family-friendly retreat, featuring engaging activities such as field games and multicultural worship. This retreat aims to provide an intentional and faithful space for BIPOC individuals to come together, forge new friendships, and foster mentorship opportunities. It is also an occasion to cultivate deeper connections within our vibrant community of People of Color.

UU Allies for Racial Equity will be hosting a concurrent program for White Allies on-site. This simultaneous program offers a valuable opportunity for White Allies to engage in meaningful discussions, workshops, and activities aimed at advancing racial equity and justice within Unitarian Universalist spaces. Through intentional dialogue, shared experiences, and mutual support, we aim to create an environment that uplifts and empowers BIPOC individuals and fosters authentic allyship. Together may we build our larger multiracial and intergenerational community.

• Learn more and register at the DRUUMM website.
• Participants have the option to stay overnight in one of the shared rooms at Murray Grove on Friday and/or Saturday night.
• To ensure smooth planning of activities and cater to your needs, we kindly request you to register by August 15th. During registration, you can also indicate if you require childcare, are bringing school age children or youth, and/or if you would like to request overnight accommodations. While registration will remain open until September 10th, please note that we cannot guarantee accommodations and programs for families registering after August 15th.
• Payment may be made at anytime up until September 15th. However, day drop-ins are welcome, and we will make every effort to accommodate your family's needs.

For more information, please contact Marianne at mxj@windstream.net.