Anti Immigrant Rhetoric

27 September 2024

Dear Racial Justice Advocates,

Today, I write with a heavy heart as we witness a rising tide of harmful and dangerous rhetoric targeting our immigrant siblings in Aurora, Colorado and Springfield, Ohio. As Unitarian Universalists, we unequivocally denounce these attacks on the dignity and humanity of our immigrant siblings – whether they are newly arrived or long-time residents. 

This rhetoric is not ‘just words.’
It is violence and hate speech that we can not sit idly by and ignore!

Aurora and Springfield are communities rich with diversity. They are home to people from every corner of the globe, people who bring their talents, cultures, and love to build and strengthen the very fabric of these cities. The anti-immigrant rhetoric being used by some in our national dialogue to vilify these neighbors is not only false and damaging, but it directly contradicts our Unitarian Universalist value of living with Love at the Center.

We know that such rhetoric seeks to divide, create fear, and build walls where bridges should stand. And we also know that love is more powerful than hate. Our faith calls us to resist fear-based narratives and instead act out of our deep commitment to justice. To dehumanize immigrants is to dehumanize all of us, for our liberation is bound together.

We remain steadfast in our solidarity with our immigrant communities in Aurora, Springfield, and beyond. We must amplify their stories, and join them in demanding policies that reflect their humanity and support their right to live, work, and thrive in safety and dignity. 

We call on all people of faith and conscience to resist these narratives of division and work toward a world where all are welcome, all are loved, and all are free. Over the coming weeks, we will be sharing ways for you to get involved. Please watch for these notices and resources.

May our love and commitment to justice guide us in this moment.

In Service, 

AJ
Pastor AJ Blackwood
Community Minister
The Mountain Top UU

Covenanting Communities