Berrien Unitarian Universalist Fellowship
We are outraged and saddened by the tragic attack that occurred in Orlando, FL at the Pulse nightclub on June 12, 2016. We mourn the loss of our brothers and sisters that were killed that day. We offer our condolences to the family and friends whose lives are forever changed by this senseless act of violence. We pray for healing for all who were hurt physically, emotionally and spiritually. We offer our love and support. As Unitarian Universalists we will always choose to Stand on the Side of Love!
Berrien Unitarian Universalist Fellowship (BUUF) encourages its members and friends to do what you can to speak of the transforming power of love for all people and to offer support financially or through your presence to programs in Orlando or locally who serve our LGBTQ brothers and sisters.
Rev. Kathy Schmitz of the First Unitarian Church of Orlando suggests supporting two Go Fund Me drives being overseen by Equality Florida (https://www.gofundme.com/PulseVictimsFund) and The Center (https://www.gofundme.com/29bubytq).
Rev. Schmitz states that “both of these are quality organizations doing incredible work to support the community at this time.”
Equality Florida is the largest civil rights organization dedicated to securing full equality for Florida’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community. Through education, grassroots organizing, coalition building, and lobbying, we are changing Florida so that no one suffers harassment or discrimination on the basis of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
The Center‘s Mission & Values are to promote and empower the LGBT Community and its allies through information, education, advocacy and support. We look to transform our community by inspiring and connecting people and organizations, promoting acceptance and inclusion, empowering them to achieve their potential.
BUUF would also recommend our local OutCenter (132 Water St, Benton Harbor, MI (269-925-8330 | info@outcenter.org). The mission of the OutCenter is to provide LGBT people and their families support and advocacy. They work to establish respect, understanding and non-discrimination of LGBT people in Southwest Michigan. They fulfill that mission through direct services, as well as change-oriented initiatives.
The OutCenter envisions Southwest Michigan as a fully integrated community in which lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender persons and their families are welcome, respected, valued, understood, and afforded the same rights and responsibilities as everyone else.
Berrien UU Fellowship mourns with you Orlando, we love and support you and pray for healing in your city as well as around the world.
Statement from our UUA President, Rev. Peter Morales
Image by Jessica Ferguson of www.onetinyelephant.com
