Unitarian Universalist Congregation of DeKalb Issues Public Statement of Support for Jewish and Muslim Neighbors

The Unitarian Universalist Congregation of DeKalb has issued a public statement of support for Jewish and Muslim neighbors amid the ongoing conflict in Israel and Palestine. The congregation expressed deep sorrow over the violence and suffering experienced by both Israelis and Palestinians, emphasizing the shared pain and fear felt by communities in the region.

The statement acknowledges the broader impact of the conflict on local Muslim and Jewish neighbors. It cites the Anti-Defamation League’s report of a 400% increase in antisemitic incidents in the U.S. since October 7. Additionally, it references a violent attack in Plainfield, where a Palestinian-American mother and her six-year-old son were attacked and stabbed, resulting in the child’s death.

UUCD reaffirms its commitment to safety and belonging for all faiths. The congregation aligns its actions with its mission to “stop oppression, while offering love and hope for all.” It calls on elected officials to advocate for humanitarian pauses in the war, noting that over 10,000 Palestinian civilians, including more than 4,000 children, have been killed. The congregation also urges the release of all hostages.

As Unitarian Universalists, the congregation pledges to oppose anti-Semitism and Islamophobia, standing firmly on the side of love. Rev. Sofia Betancourt, Ph.D., President of the Unitarian Universalist Association, emphasized the importance of justice and peace, stating, “We are one global family living tenuously on the same human-impacted Earth.”

The congregation underscores its role as a faith community to uphold values of safety and wellbeing. It commits to supporting those closest to the violence and advocating for peace globally. UUs, with over 1,000 congregations worldwide, covenant to promote peace, liberty, and justice for all. They affirm mutual humanity and interdependence, joining interfaith and human rights groups in calling for respect of international law and protection of civilians.

The statement concludes by noting that within UU communities, members come from Jewish and Muslim traditions, reflecting the diversity and shared values of the faith.

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