General Assembly—the annual gathering of Unitarian Universalists from across our Association—is almost here! GA, as it is fondly known, is an exciting opportunity to build community, to feel the power and connection of our wider association of congregations, and to engage in learning, witness, and worship together. At GA we also conduct the business of the Association. With a special focus this year on the work of the Article II Study Commission, we’ll also explore our shared values and the theological foundations of our faith.
This year’s theme is, “Meet the Moment: Reimagining Radical Faith Community.” The pandemic has changed so much and opened up the possibility for greater innovation and creativity across our congregations and for GA. Part of our reimagining is a new way of engaging business that we hope will be far more accessible so that all of our delegates can participate. This includes an expanded and flexible multiplatform format to lower costs and increase participation. We have also provided more time for delegates to learn about and discuss business items in advance with their congregations. We will use electronic ballots this year and expand the time available to vote. This change is to create equity across in-person and virtual platforms.
Now is the time for congregations to assign and register your GA delegates!
Since April, the UUA Board of Trustees has been leading conversations online to help Unitarian Universalists prepare for GA business. The Board invites you to engage with them in discussion about the two business resolutions, bylaw amendment, and Rules of Procedure up for a vote this year.
Register to join the discussion forums that are now open online. All GA delegates are also encouraged to join our online business mini-assembly on Saturday, June 11, at 4pm ET/1pm PT. Delegates must be registered to participate. Should you want to only participate in the business of GA, we have established a new registration category that allows you access to all of the General Sessions for a donation, instead of paying a registration fee.
For many, GA is about more than just business. There are wonderful workshops available on-demand during and after GA. And worship will inspire, as always. This year we have amazing worship leaders, such as Pastor Jacqueline Duhart, Director of Spiritual Care Services at Starr King School for the Ministry, leading our Service of the Living Tradition, and the Rev. Gretchen Haley, Senior Minister of Foothills Unitarian Universalist Church, leading the Sunday Service.
For learning and inspiration we also have exciting featured guests. For the historic Ware Lecture on Saturday, I’ll lead a conversation with Ibram X. Kendi, the bestselling author, Boston University professor, and founding director of the BU Center for Antiracist Research. Additionally, pleasure activist, author, and writer-in-residence at the Emergent Strategy Ideation Institute, adrienne maree brown, will join us virtually for an online featured conversation on Thursday afternoon. Access to these events is only available to registered GA participants.
Register today and join us for our multiplatform General Assembly!
I am looking forward to being with you in person and virtually at GA. Yours, Susan P.S. Get more details on the changes to business at GA in this UU World story. P.S.S. Polls are open throughout June for the election of UUA Boards, Committees and Commissions. Learn more about candidates up for election.
Rev. Dr. Susan Frederick-Gray spends her days strengthening the thriving mission of this faith. In her spare time, she enjoys being with her family and playing with their dog, Hercules.
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