A statement from the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities and co-signed by 90+ institutions and individuals from across Virginia; First Unitarian Universalist Richmond is one of the signatories:

We represent a diverse mix of backgrounds and identities across Virginia, united in our shared commitment to care for our neighbors. Our values and religious teachings all emphasize looking out for the vulnerable, caring for those in need, and building a just world.

In recent months, we have been increasingly concerned about the rise in politically-motivated violence across our nation, the targeting and scapegoating of immigrants and refugees, acts of antisemitism, Islamophobia, and other forms of religious bigotry, marginalization of members of the LGBTQ+ community, and heated and divisive rhetoric from people in positions of leadership.

As 2026 begins, we the undersigned institutions and individuals make the following resolutions to support our Commonwealth:

– We resolve to actively build relationships with our neighbors of all backgrounds.
– We resolve to speak out whenever we encounter bias or bigotry.
– We resolve to seek out opportunities to deeply listen to and learn about the experiences of people who do not share our identities or experiences.
– We resolve to be discerning about the news sources we access and to check the accuracy of information before sharing it with others.
– We resolve to pursue productive opportunities for dialogue, including those with whom we initially disagree.
– We resolve to learn about the history of this nation and resist efforts to erase the true telling of the past.
– We resolve to oppose unjust policies and actions that harm people solely based on who they are.
– We resolve to work in solidarity with members of groups who are being targeted.
– We resolve to support causes and organizations working to foster understanding, build community, and advance justice.
– We resolve to stay consistent in these efforts, even when progress feels slow or overwhelming.

We invite all residents of Virginia to join us in these resolutions, united in a commitment to act in ways that advance a more inclusive, respectful, and just society.