Hope and Action: An Election Message
As Unitarian Universalists, we are called to live out our values of justice, equity, and compassion, even in times of uncertainty and anxiety. With the upcoming election, many of us may feel overwhelmed by the heightened tensions and the challenges facing our democracy. However, now more than ever, we must hold onto hope—hope that through action and commitment, we can help shape a future that reflects our values of fairness and inclusion.
A couple of weeks ago, I preached on two of the propositions that should be of interest to Unitarian Universalists. As UUs, we cannot endorse specific candidates, but we can talk about the values that we uphold, and as such, I want to say a little about Proposition 139 and Proposition 314
In Arizona, there are several critical propositions on the ballot that offer us the opportunity to get informed and make our voices heard. Two such measures, Proposition 314 and Proposition 319, will have significant impacts on our state’s future.
We urge you to vote YES on Proposition 139, which amends the Arizona Constitution to establish the fundamental right to abortion. The measure would also prohibit laws that penalize individuals for aiding or assisting someone seeking an abortion.
We urge you to vote NO on Proposition 314, which is a watered down version of the illegal SB 1070. It would give state and local police to arrest people who are suspected of crossing the border illegally. This proposition also allows for state judges to order deportations. It is already illegal for noncitizens to cross the border and this Proposition will deputize local law enforcement and is likely to lead to harassment, separation and profiling of our black and brown community members. Furthermore, this bill is disguised as an anti-fentanyl bill, although there is little connection between migrants crossing the border and the trafficking of fentanyl.
By understanding and engaging with these propositions, we exercise our civic responsibility and contribute to the building of a just society. It’s important that we not only vote, but also encourage those around us to learn about these measures and participate fully in this democratic process.
Get Involved: Canvas With UUs Coming To Phoenix
About 20 UUs are coming to Arizona from across the country to canvas voters in our community–you can join with them! Join UU the Vote, UU Justice Arizona (UUJAZ), and our local partners at Arizona for Abortion Access as we take action in key districts talking to voters about Proposition 139 in Phoenix. Our week(end) of action kicks off with a rally and training on Saturday, October 26, followed by a canvass where we’ll knock on doors and get talking to voters! On Sunday, we will attend worship together and then canvass again in the afternoon. Then for the next week and leading up to Election Day, we will continue to work with the “Yes on 139” campaign, raising voter awareness and engagement!
Nora Rasman and Rev. Ranwa Hammamy from the UUA’s Side With Love team will also be joining us for the first few days of training and canvassing, too. Sign up to be part of this critical effort!
Get Involved: Protect the Vote as a Poll Defender
One powerful way we can all get involved is by defending democracy at the polls. The Democracy Defense Front is training 150 people across Arizona to become Poll Defenders on Election Day. Poll Defenders will be equipped with de-escalation and conflict resolution skills to help ensure a safe and supportive environment for voters. This is especially crucial in a time when tensions can run high.
Poll Defenders will be paid $25/hour for their work, and stipends are available for gas, food, and lodging. Whether you’re working in your own county or elsewhere, you’ll be part of a dedicated team ensuring that Arizona voters can exercise their rights without fear. This is an opportunity to make a tangible difference in safeguarding our democracy. If you’re interested in joining, you can sign up for one of the trainings.
Why Hope Matters
Hope is not passive; it’s an active commitment to shaping the world we wish to live in. During this election season, let’s remind ourselves of the power we have to influence change—not just through our votes, but through our actions in support of democracy. Our UU principles call us to this work, and it’s through our engagement that we can create a future rooted in equity and justice for all.
Let us move forward in this election season with courage, hope, and a deep commitment to living our values in the public square.