Jacqui C. Williams
Presented Posthumously by the UUA to Jacqui C. Williams
Ms. Jacqui C. Williams has served Unitarian Universalism for many years. On August 22, 2023, our movement lost a giant, an unwavering advocate, and a friend. The UUA Board of Trustees is honored to recognize Jacqui with the 2024 Award for Distinguished Service to the Cause of Unitarian Universalism.
Jacqui was an active member of the First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany, New York, where she gave periodic sermons and served on the Inclusivity Team, Social Justice Team and the Green Sanctuary Team. Her footprint in our national Unitarian Universalist movement was noteworthy, serving on the UUA Presidential Search Committee, the General Assembly Planning Committee, the Commission on Appraisal, and as a facilitator for Beyond Categorical Thinking (BCT) for 22 years. Jacqui was a part of the Black Lives of Unitarian Universalism (BLUU) community and was an active member of DRUUMM (Diverse and Revolutionary UU Multicultural Ministries) for many years, serving on the Steering Committee as communications coordinator in 2010 and as a co-president from 2011-2013.
Ms. Jacqui dedicated her life to combating racism as an educator, trainer, and community activist. Her passion to end racism and discrimination, and bring equity for People of Color, included leadership in local organizations and community actions, including Black Lives Matter, CAAMI (Capital Area Against Mass Incarceration), and local protests against police brutality. She was a fierce advocate and was not afraid to speak publicly against bigotry or to question injustice.
One of Jacqui’s passions was the project she created, FIGAH (Filling in the Gaps in American History). As part of this work, she researched the contributions of African Americans who were left out of our history books and shared her findings in public presentations.
Jacqui was particularly proud of being honored in 2013 when she received the Capital District YMCA Black and Latino Leadership Award, and in 2014, when she received the DRUUMM Melvin A. Hoover Beloved Community Award. Another proud moment for Jacqui was in 2016, when she was interviewed in the movie Indefensible: The Wrongful Prosecution of the UAlbany Three.
Jacqui served the Association for 22 years as a volunteer trainer for Beyond Categorical Thinking (BCT). She facilitated approximately 60 workshops, most in-person. She served as a guiding light for new facilitators. Her commitment and influence in so many congregations at key points in their decision-making and transitions is remarkable.
Our movement’s gratitude to Ms. Jacqui C. Williams cannot be overstated. She demonstrated deep commitment to the Association and love of our faith. It is with great joy that we honor her for all that she has done for Unitarian Universalism over many years.