2022 Bennett Award: First Parish in Portland, Unitarian Universalist, in Portland, Maine & Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of La Crosse, Wisconsin

This year the Bennett Award Panel chose two recipients!

First Parish in Portland, Maine

This congregation's ministry with the Wabanaki peoples and several of their community organizations is a powerful example of how UU communities can engage in both the internal and external work to support indigenous liberation and sovereignty. The depth of their relationship that is enhanced by the honest self-learning and acknowledgment of historical harms caused by the congregation, has contributed to an ongoing truth-telling and healing process that creates an accountable and shared foundation for mutual liberation. In addition, their model of learning and engagement is one that has been shared with their state action network, and successfully replicated among other congregations in Maine.

Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of La Crosse, Wisconsin

UU La Crosse's Eligible Voter Engagement Project is a shining example of what community-rooted electoral organizing looks like when built with existing relationships and racial justice in mind. Their previous relationships in educating and challenging the La Crosse community to imagine and create more equitable systems makes them a known and trusted entity in the community. In partnering with both BIPOC and women-led community groups, La Crosse's EVEP is clearly designed to increase voter access among people who are regularly denied that power. Their project also has clearly stated goals and strong messaging tactics that are critical during a midterm election cycle.

Honorable Mentions

  1. Long Island Area Council of Congregations - We commend this council for generating community and collaboration across multiple congregations in their justice ministries. This is no small feat - and the contributions to congregational learning and public advocacy among Long Island UUs is deeply appreciated.
  2. Unitarian Universalist Church of Brunswick ME - This congregation's justice ministry is robust with strong community partnerships in the various efforts of the Working for Justice Steering Group. We appreciate the breadth of their ministries.
  3. All People's Congregation, Louisville KY- This congregation's work to seed the Kentucky UU Justice Action Network – KUUJAN is incredibly important, and a strong demonstration of the ways in which a congregation can be an effective starting point for broader UU organizing.