A Word from Rev Gordon (02/01)

February Reflections on Love as Justice

February has arrived, and with it comes Black History Month—a time to honor and uplift the countless contributions of Black individuals to the tapestry of our shared humanity. This year, as we mark the second month of a dramatically different political era, it is vital for us as Unitarian Universalists to reflect on who we are and what we stand for in these tumultuous times.

At SepulvedaUU, our theme for February is “Love as Justice.” This theme challenges us to explore the transformative power of love as a force for justice, focusing on the aspects of Black excellence, leadership, artistry, theology, and the contributions of Black UUs. Love, in this context, is not merely an emotion but an active commitment to equity, inclusion, and the celebration of diversity.

This is not just a celebration of achievements, but an affirmation of the brilliance, creativity, and resilience of the African Diaspora in the face of systemic oppression. Black excellence is more than a historical record; it is a living, breathing testament to the power of love and community.

As UUs, we are uniquely positioned to engage with this theme. Ours is a covenanted community—one rooted not in creeds or dogmas, but in promises made to one another. We affirm the inherent worth and dignity of every person, and we draw on diverse sources of wisdom, making us the only interfaith religious movement in the world. This inclusivity compels us to act for justice and to bring light to those in darkness.

In this spirit, Black History Month is not merely a retrospective. It is a call to action. It asks us to examine our own complicity in systems of oppression and to recommit to dismantling them. It challenges us to center the voices of those who have been marginalized and to ensure that Black excellence is not only celebrated but nurtured within our own community.

Our mission this month—and every month—is rooted in love. Love, as the Rev Dr Martin Luther King Jr reminded us, is not a passive emotion but an active force. It seeks justice and equity. It shines a light on what is broken and works tirelessly to repair it. This is the kind of love we are called to embody as Unitarian Universalists.

As Black UU Rev Joseph Jordan once said, “The religion of the future must not only inspire us to worship but also to work.” His words remind us that our faith calls us to act—to build a world where justice prevails.

Rev Yvonne Seon, a pioneering Black UU minister, once stated, “To be a Unitarian Universalist is to embrace a faith that seeks wholeness, even when the world feels fragmented.” Her vision challenges us to weave love and justice into the fabric of our lives.

Similarly, Rev William G Sinkford has reminded us, “The call of our faith is to speak the truth in love and to live that truth with courage.”

Marjorie Bowens-Wheatley wrote, “Each of us brings a separate truth here. We bring the truth of our own life, our own story. We don’t come as empty vessels… but as full people—each with our own story and our own truth.” Her words remind us of the richness that diversity brings to our covenantal community.

And as Rev Sofia Betancourt has affirmed, “The power of love must be greater than the love of power. Only then can justice and equity truly flourish.” This is the essence of what it means to center love as justice.

In February, let us:

• Lift Up Black Excellence: Share stories of Black leaders, innovators, artists, theologians, and Black UUs who inspire us. Highlight the intersections of their work with our own UU principles.
• Recommit to Social Justice: Engage in actions that dismantle racism and promote equity, both within and beyond our congregation.
• Center Love as a Practice: Let love guide our relationships, our decision-making, and our vision for the future. Love must be at the heart of our faith, especially in a time when division and hate seek to dominate.

This month, let us be a beacon of hope and action. Let us embody our mission to bring light to those in darkness, affirming that Black lives matter, Black love is sacred, and Black excellence is a gift to us all. Let us continue the conversation—in our hearts, in our homes, and in our world.

In faith and love,
Rev Gordon Clay Bailey