Registration is now open for the 2024 National Fall Conference of Mosaic: Fostering Belonging and Liberation!

Mosaic is a hub of connection, resources, and support for Unitarian Universalists dismantling racism and oppression. This multigenerational National Fall Conference is a dynamic, multi-platform gathering for congregational teams and individuals engaged in the work of building multicultural communities. Running from October 17-20th this event will bring together congregational leaders dedicated to building multicultural communities with love at their center.

Over two and a half days, participants will share in collaborative conversations, cutting-edge workshops, and gain invaluable insights from community leaders within Unitarian Universalism and beyond. Participants will depart from the convening with renewed hearts and spirits, with new Mosaic tools in hand, ready to support and inspire others to foster belonging and liberation.

Location

Cedar Lane Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Bethesda, MD - 9601 Cedar Ln, Bethesda, MD 20814 (directions)

Agenda

• Thursday, October 17 (Reception at Hilton Garden Inn) | 6:30pm - 8:00pm ET
  • Light reception at the Hilton Garden Inn in Bethesda, MD with h'ordeuvres and (non-alcoholic) drinks and a few opening words from UUA president Rev. Dr. Sofía Betancourt. Note: This is “pre-programming,” it is open to all who might be in town for Mosaic the night before. The conference will begin on Friday, October 18th. Information about the reception will be included in the registration.
• Friday, October 18th (Programing at Cedar Lane) | 10:00am - 4:30pm ET
  • Welcome and centering, Opening remarks with Dr. Janice Marie Johnson, Director of Ministries and Faith Development and others.
  • LUNCH 
  • Workshops Block 1 - 2:15p-3:15p

    • Lifespan Anti-Racism Curriculum Workshop in the Sanctuary 
      Led by Rev. Marisol Caballero, Faith Innovation Specialist in the UUA's Faith Development Office
      Join Rev. Marisol Caballero for an engaging workshop focused on the Lifespan Anti-Racism Curriculum. This comprehensive curriculum is designed to equip participants of all ages, stages, and identities with the knowledge and tools needed to engage in meaningful anti-racist learning and growth. Rev. Caballero will guide attendees through the flexible, multimedia resources available, offering practical strategies for implementing the curriculum in congregational settings. Discover how to foster a culture of inclusivity and justice within your community, and leave with actionable insights to inspire transformative change.

    • Mosaic Congregations Workshop in the Chapel
      Led by Rev. Ranwa Hammamy, Congregational Justice Organizer on the Organizing Strategy Team, UUA
      Join Rev. Ranwa Hammamy for a workshop on the concept of Mosaic Congregations, how we can come together to create vibrant and supportive communities. In this session, Rev. Hammamy will explore the development of the idea of Mosaic Congregations. Participants will engage in discussions about their own congregational contexts, sharing strategies for creating an inclusive environment that reflects the rich tapestry of identities and experiences within our communities.

    • Learning and Practice Communities in the Room 32/34 Downstairs 
      Led by Dr. Melissa James Congregational Life Field Staff in the Pacific Western Region
      Join Dr. Melissa James for an interactive workshop on the Learning and Practice Communities, a vital resource for congregations committed to advancing anti-racism work. This session will explore the framework and goals of the Learning and Practice Community, designed to support ongoing dialogue, reflection, and skill-building among participants. Learn about how these communities are fostering connection and collective growth and strengthening their communities' commitment to racial justice and equity.

  • Workshops Block 2 - 3:30p-4:30p

    • Faith in Action: Combating Authoritarianism Together in the Sanctuary 
      Featuring Rev. Naomi Washington-Leapheart, Rev. Ranwa Hammamy, Congregational Justice Organizer, on the Organizing Strategy Team at the UUA, Lisa Schilansky, Ministerial Resident, UUCWC, Rev. Hannah Capaldi, Minister of the USG, Rev. Rob Keithan, Minister of Social Justice at All Souls Church Unitarian in DC and panel moderator Rev. Ali KC Bell, Minister of Congregational Life and Engagement at CLUUC 
      Join us for an impactful panel discussion featuring Rev. Naomi Washington-Leapheart and Unitarian Universalist leaders. Rev. Naomi, a Black-queer preacher, educator, and activist, is the first Strategic Partnerships Director at Political Research Associates and the founder of Salt | Yeast | Light. With her extensive background in social justice and faith-rooted advocacy, she brings a powerful perspective on the rising threats of authoritarianism and extremist ideologies in our society.
      This session will examine the critical role that faith communities can play in resisting these forces. Panelists will share their experiences and strategies for fostering resilience, solidarity, and action within our congregations and beyond. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with the panelists, explore practical approaches to advocacy and activism, and learn how to mobilize their communities to stand firmly against fascism. Together, we can reaffirm our commitment to justice and inclusion in these challenging times.

    • Conflict, Behavior, and the Antidotes to White Supremacy Culture in the Chapel 
      Led by Rev. Sunshine Wolfe, UUA Pacific Western Regional Lead, and Rev. Sarah Gibb Millspaugh, UUA Pacific Western Regional Staff
      As UUA staff, Revs. Sarah and Sunshine are familiar with some of the all-too-painful ways that conflict and destructive behavior can hamper congregations’ anti-racist transformation. The Antidotes to the Characteristics of White Supremacy Culture, as articulated by Tema Okun in 2021, provide a powerful framework to transform some of our default UU ways of addressing conflict and destructive behavior. They invite all of us, of all identities, to imagine new ways of living with integrity, accountability, and covenant. They invite us to rethink how we seek justice and repair when harms happen. They invite us to discern, as communities, how we change both our norms of relationship and our default conflict styles to be more centered in UU shared values and grounded in our anti-racist commitments. Join us to explore how to make them come alive in your congregation!

    • Navigating the Journey: Challenges, Hopes, and Strategies for Advancing Anti-Racism in Congregations in the Room 32/34 Downstairs
      Led by Rev. Dayna Edwards, Minister of Faith Formation, CLUUC. Featuring Sabrina Jones, Member of Paint Branch UU Church, Ken Ambrose, Member of UU Congregation of Rockville, and Tony Harrell, Member of First Unitarian Church of Philadelphia
      This panel led by UU lay leaders will explore the multifaceted journey of anti-racism work within congregational settings. Panelists will share their experiences and insights on the common challenges faced, from resistance and burnout to limited resources and differing priorities. They will also discuss their hopes for transformative change and practical strategies for overcoming obstacles. The session will focus on how congregations can move forward with renewed commitment and effective approaches to foster a more inclusive and equitable community. Attendees will leave with actionable strategies and inspiration to advance their own anti-racism efforts.

• Friday, October 18, 2024 - 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm in Fellowship Hall & Chapel 

  • Apartheid-Free Communities - Supporting Palestinian Liberation in Our Anti-Racism Ministries

  • Evening workshop hosted by DRUUMM, Cedar Lane UU Congregation and the American Friends Service Committee:  RSVP: Both in-person & online options available.

    • Onsite Dinner at 5:30 - in Fellowship Hall

    • Workshop: 6pm - in the Chapel

    • All are welcome for this free event, a light dinner will be provided.

• Saturday, October 19 (Programing at Cedar Lane) | 10:00am - 4:30pm ET
  • Welcome and centering, Keynote Address with Nicole Pressley, Director of Organizing Strategy Team for the UUA.
  • Workshops Block 3 - 2:15p-3:15p

    • Mosaic Congregations Workshop in the Sanctuary 
      Led by Rev. Ranwa Hammamy, Congregational Justice Organizer on the Organizing Strategy Team, UUA
      Join Rev. Ranwa Hammamy for an insightful workshop on the concept of Mosaic Congregations, where diversity, equity, and inclusion come together to create vibrant, supportive communities. In this session, Rev. Hammamy will explore the development of the idea of Mosaic Congregations. Participants will engage in discussions about their own congregational contexts, sharing strategies for creating an inclusive environment that reflects the rich tapestry of identities and experiences within their communities. Attendees will leave with actionable ideas and inspiration to cultivate a more equitable and loving congregation, committed to the work of dismantling oppression and building belonging for all.

    • Learning and Practice Communities in the Chapel 
      Led by Dr. Melissa James Congregational Life Field Staff in the Pacific Western Region. 
      Join Dr. Melissa James for an interactive workshop on the Learning and Practice Communities, a vital resource for congregations committed to advancing anti-racism work. This session will explore the framework and goals of the Learning and Practice Community, designed to support ongoing dialogue, reflection, and skill-building among participants. Learn about how these communities are fostering connection and collective growth and strengthening their communities' commitment to racial justice and equity.

    • Lifespan Anti-Racism Curriculum Workshop in the Room 32/34 Downstairs 
      Led by Rev. Marisol Caballero, Faith Innovation Specialist in the UUA's Faith Development Office
      Join Rev. Marisol Caballero for an engaging workshop focused on the Lifespan Anti-Racism Curriculum. This comprehensive curriculum is designed to equip participants of all ages, stages, and identities with the knowledge and tools needed to engage in meaningful anti-racist learning and growth. Rev. Caballero will guide attendees through the flexible, multimedia resources available, offering practical strategies for implementing the curriculum in congregational settings. Discover how to foster a culture of inclusivity and justice within your community, and leave with actionable insights to inspire transformative change.

  • Workshops Block 2 - 3:30p-4:30p

    • Honoring History, Forging Change: A Journey Toward Justice - Closing Plenary in the Sanctuary 
      Featuring Rev. Sherman Logan, Senior Minister at the First UU Church of Richmond VA, Rev. Abhi Janamanchi, Senior Minister, Cedar Lane UU Congregation, Rev. Bill Sinkford former President and Interim President of the UUA, Paula Cole Jones, Founder of ADORE and Management Consultant/Diversity Strategist, and Taquiena Boston, Co-Host of the Historical Drama of the Boston Sisters podcast and former Director of Multicultural Growth and Witness at the UUA.
      Join us for an inspiring Plenary Panel on Saturday, featuring a diverse group of UU leaders who are at the forefront of advancing anti-racism and social justice within Unitarian Universalism and beyond. This session will highlight the collective wisdom and experiences of our panelists, including Rev. Sherman Logan, Rev. Bill Sinkford, Rev. Abhi Janamanchi, Paula Cole Jones, and Taquiena Boston. Together, they will discuss the critical challenges we face as a faith community, share hopeful visions for the future, and explore actionable strategies for fostering meaningful change. This is a unique opportunity to engage with thought leaders, ask questions, and gather insights that can empower your congregation and community to take bold steps toward justice and inclusion. Don’t miss this closing plenary and chance to connect, reflect, and be inspired!

• Sunday, October 20th (Closing at Cedar Lane) | 10:30am - 12:00pm ET
  • Everyone is invited to the Sunday Worship at Cedar Lane at 10:30am, we will gather and reflect on our weekend together after the service. Self organized trips in DC will also happen on Sunday.

All of the main programing will be live-streamed note this does not the workshops.

Mosaic is a vibrant hub for Unitarian Universalists, providing connection, resources, and support in dismantling racism and oppression. Don't miss out—come be a part of making building a beloved community at the Mosaic Conference!

Register Online! Registration for in-person participation closes on Friday, October 11th.

Youth Service Project and Learning Track on Friday

Youth ages 14-18 are invited to join our youth track on Friday, October 18th, from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.! Here’s what the day looks like:

• 11:00 a.m. - Workshop (1.5 hours): Dive into protest democracy, get out the vote, and learn how to tell your story to protect democracy. Explore why these actions matter and how they can impact change.
• 12:30 p.m. - Lunch
• 1:00 p.m. - Service Project (2 hours): Engage in hands-on activities like letter and postcard writing targeting swing state voters, and putting together trail mix packets for those in need.
• 3:00 p.m. - Reflection Time (30 mins): What did we learn? What would we do differently?

Register for Youth Track

Registration for youth is free, but please use the separate registration form to sign up youth. Join us and be part of this transformative experience. Together, we can build a future rooted in love, inclusion, and justice.

Registration Fee

Registering as an individuals: When you register select 'registering as an individual to see the registration fees are on a sliding scale, based on your assessment of your ability to pay. Those who pay at the highest level are making a donation to help those in financial need for this event. Please remember that for a sliding scale to work, we need the same number of people with means to generously pay more to balance the needs of those who can afford less. Sliding scale for in-person attendance: $200-$180-$160-$140. Your registration fee includes: Thursday night reception, catered lunch Fri. & Sat., workshops, and the opportunity to meet other folks working in this space.

Registering as a team in person: We are hopeful that congregations will send a team of leaders to the Mosaic Conference. We ask that EACH team member register on their own. Please have them choose the option- Register as a Congregational Team Member and we will invoice your congregation in early October.

Attending online: You have two options for attending online. You can attend as an individual from home by selecting the ‘individual’ option under the “this registration is for a/an:” question then selecting ‘online’ when asked how you will be attending. Or you can watch it together in person at your congregation kind of like a watch party. To go with this option, you will need to select ‘congregation team member’ under the “this registration is for a/an:” question then select the ‘congregational watch party option’. To attend as an individual it's $25 and to attend as a congregation is $100.

Hotel Information for in Person Attendance

• Please secure your reservation in one of the conference hotels below. These reservations are from Thu, Oct 17 – Sat, Oct 19, 2024:
  • Hilton Garden Inn Bethesda Downtown 7301 Waverly Street,Bethesda, MD 20814 - $149/nt (+ tax). Note, you have until September 23 to book a room at this rate. This hotel is closest to the event venue.
  • Bethesda Marriott 5151 Pooks Hill Road Bethesda, Maryland 20814 - $179/nt (+ tax). Note, you have until Sept 19th to book a room at this rate. Note, this is not the downtown location.

Covenant

Please review the Mosaic: Fostering Belonging and Liberation Fall Conference Covenant before registering. You will be asked on the registration to confirm you've read it.

COVID

This will be a masked event except during meal breaks time. To maximize the safety of the participants, presenters, and their friends and families...

• Participants and presenters are required to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19.
• Participants are required to always wear a mask over mouth and nose during the training. Masks must be multi-layer - no neck gaiters or valves. We will provide surgical masks for participants who need a mask.
  Staff are asked to rapid test before traveling.
• Masks remain required for group settings when we are together, and the default for all shared spaces.
• Eating should be in limited spaces away from the main gathering space
• We recognize that in smaller groups people may choose the level of safety that all can consent to – e.g. eating lunch together or having a small conversation without masks.

Cancelation/Refunds

General Cancellation Policy

• All  cancellation requests for any paid congregational life event or training (i.e. OWL or Renaissance module) must be submitted in writing using this refund request form.

Refunds

• Refund requests made before the event registration deadline will be eligible for a refund, minus a $5 administrative  fee.
• Refund requests made after the registration deadline, but before the event date will be eligible for a 50% refund of the registration fee.
• For refund requests made within one week of the event due to illness or emergencies, full refunds will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
• Refunds will not be provided after the event for no-shows. Note, if you registered for an event only to receive the event recording and resources you will still receive all these resources.
• There is no penalty for finding someone to replace you if you cannot attend. Please inform the program staff of the replacement attendee's details.

Copy the iCalendar (ICS) link address to subscribe to this event (or download the file to import it) in a program which supports the iCal format.