“Even as fear abounds and reverberates, may I notice the life-saving, persistent presence of Love. May I be that love for others.”
— Manish Mishra-Marzetti
As the flame of our chalice was lit, it reminded us that even in a time of escalating injustice and fear, love continues to show up. Love shows up in our actions, in our presence, and in our relentless pursuit of justice. That love is Healing Justice.
Strength in Community and Mission
We began with heartfelt check-ins, grounding ourselves in shared purpose. A reminder was shared about UUFBR’s Mission and Vision meeting on June 29th after the service. This is a vital opportunity to align our collective energy toward the values we uphold—justice, equity, and compassion.
Immigration Justice: A Rapidly Shifting Landscape
Amanda shared key updates from the frontlines of immigration justice:
- FIU: Dedicated advocacy is ongoing to end a 287(g) agreement on the campus – a 287(g) agreement allows local law enforcement to act as ICE agents. This work is providing a model for other campuses.
- Concerns at FAU: While no official agreement has surfaced, rumors of a shadow deal are troubling. Student leaders are drafting a resolution for the fall and looking for support—including for a rapid response protest team.
- New 287(g) Agreements: Unfortunately, Palm Beach County Sheriff and the city of Miami have recently signed on.
- Amanda, trained as a legal observer, is active with the RAISE coalition, which responds in real time to ICE activity. If you want to support this essential work, reach out—there’s room for you.
UUFBR Healing Justice is considering signing onto a Community Action with Indivisible South PBC to oppose these harmful 287(g) agreements. Keep an eye out for an email to join this effort.
Take Action: Kill the Bill Rally
Make your voice heard at the Kill The Bill Rally
📍 Saturday, June 28th, 8:00–9:30 AM at Boca City Hall
This is a peaceful protest against the big ugly budget bill.
Reproductive Justice: Packing Compassion
Thanks to the generosity and nimbleness of our volunteers (especially Amanda!), our Packing Party was a huge success:
- 🧡 24 EMA abortion care packages created
- ❤️ Over 50 period packs assembled
- 💛 Extra supplies donated to Palm Beach Meals on Wheels
We’re staying alert and ready to act. For ongoing updates, check out: Florida Repro Freedom
Racial Justice:
We had so much fun participating in the City of Boca’s Juneteenth Celebration! Our booth featured a sparkle and glitter station and a shaker making activity and the kids loved it! Thanks to the City of Boca and D.I.S.C. of Pearl City for a wonderful event!
Watching, Reading, and Reflecting Together: We’re engaging deeply with racial justice through both education and conversation.
📽️ Film Series: “Race: The Power of an Illusion”
Join us in partnership with UUs across South Florida.
🗓️ Sundays at 3:00 PM (In-Person): Aug 3, 17, 31 | Sept 14, 28 | Oct 12
📘 Book Discussion: “Widening the Circle of Concern”
These Zoom sessions tackle institutional racism within UU spaces and beyond.
Next Session: Thursday, June 26 at 6:30 PM
💻 Get the book or RSVP here
Rev. Edith reminded us that while race is a social construct, it has real and painful consequences. Facing these truths with courage is part of our spiritual work.
LGBTQ+ Justice: Pride, Presence, and Play
We had a wonderful presence at Delray Pride, where genuine conversations led to new connections—some even joined us for Sunday service!
🎉 Don’t miss Pride Music Bingo this Saturday. It’ll be relaxed, fun, and a great way to connect.
Peace Focus:
The next meeting/event is on Monday, July 28, PEACE Planning Meeting, from 10 am to 4pm. Lunch served.
Location St Andrews Episcopal Church, 100 N Palm Way, Lake Worth Beach, FL 33460 John and Betty have room in their car for two more.
Looking Ahead: Let’s Dream Together
🗓️ July’s meeting (July 22 at 7:00 PM) will be a strategic one: planning our focus areas for the next year. If you want to shape the path ahead, this is your moment to show up.
More Opportunities to Show Up
- Palm Beach County School Board Meeting
🗓️ July 17, 5:00–7:30 PM
Speak out against efforts to remove DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) policies. Call the school board to sign up to speak. - JAM and ALL Interfaith event – “Leading with Love”
💻 Zoom Meeting: Monday, June 30 at 7:30 PM
Contact Linda Prior to sign up. - League of Women Voters Partnership
Let’s explore collaboration! Jennifer suggested a share the plate offering to benefit the League’s Education Fund.
Final Reflections
As we ended with our closing check-ins, the spirit in the room was one of solidarity, resilience, and readiness. We are facing difficult times, but we are not facing them alone. Every packed kit, every protest, every thoughtful conversation brings more light into the world.
Healing Justice is more than a committee—it’s a call. A movement. A love letter to the future we’re fighting for.
Stay bold. Stay kind. Stay lit from within.
💜 Written by Karen E. Matroni, with love and justice