Current Actions

• Support In-State Tuition for All Colorado Graduates

  In 1982, the U.S. Supreme court ruled that K-12 schools must educate all children regardless of their legal status. Yet only 13 states across the country allow undocumented students that graduate from those K-12 schools to attend public colleges and universities at in-state tuition rates. The out of state tuition rates that our undocumented students must pay are prohibitively high and prevent most of those students from furthering their education. 

  In-state tuition bills have been introduced in Colorado many times but have never been successfully passed into law. The Colorado ASSET (Advancing Students for a Stronger Economy Tomorrow) bill has been reintroduced for the 2012 legislative session. You can learn more about Colorado ASSET by visiting www.ColoradoASSET.com.

  Please use the form below to send a message to your state legislators and pass it along to others so we can demonstrate the importance of in-state tuition and Colorado ASSET to our elected leaders. Let's make this the year that higher education finally becomes more affordable for all of our Colorado graduates.

• Tell Congress: Use Your Power to Help Our Indonesian Christian Neighbors

  In the late 1990s, large numbers of Indonesian Christians came to the United States on tourist visas to escape religious persecution by some extremists in their majority-Muslim home country. Nearly 500 Christian churches were burned between 1998 and 2004 alone. For over a decade, these asylum seekers have been living, working, and paying taxes in the United States and many have American citizen children. 

  Now, dozens of these refugees in New Jersey and New Hampshire have received deportation orders. Though all have legally filed for asylum, their cases were closed simply because they missed the one-year filing deadline due to a lack of understanding of the complex process. Massive deportation has already broken up over 100 Indonesian Christian refugee families and now immigration officials will separate more parents from their children and send these individuals back into harm's way in Indonesia.

  Fortunately, Representatives Carolyn Maloney (D-NY) and Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) have submitted a bill, the Indonesian Family Refugee Protection Act, which would allow the Indonesian Christians to reopen their asylum claims and grant them the opportunity to remain legally in the United States as refugees. As Rep. Maloney said, “The United States has long sought to protect refugees fleeing persecution and provide a process to fairly consider their claims. These individuals came to this country, seeking relief from extreme violence and persecution for their religious beliefs, and deserve a chance at asylum. This bill does not, in itself, grant asylum, but merely removes a procedural barrier, keeping these families from being ripped apart.”

  Please ask your representatives to keep these families together and safe. Ask them to co-sponsor the Indonesian Family Refugee Protection Act.

• Support the HELP Separated Children Act

  As our government continues to escalate its enforcement-only tactics, one of the biggest casualties is children. ICE rounds up and detains undocumented immigrants without thought to whether they have children who are then left to fend for themselves. The Humane Enforcement and Legal Protections (HELP) for Separated Children Act would identify such kids, inform state and local services, and help prioritize the release of parents so that they can take care of their children. This legislation is much needed if we are a nation that values families and children. The HELP Separated Children Act was reintroduced on July 21, 2011 by Senator Franken (D-MN) and Representative Woolsey (D-CA-6), with strong support from Sens Durbin (D-IL), Gillibrand (D-NY), and Klobuchar (D-MN).

  Please urge your Members of Congress to support the HELP Separated Children Act and keep our families together.

• Stop Sheriff Joe Arpaio’s Reign of Terror and Curtail Human Rights Abuses in Maricopa County, Arizona

  Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio thrives on dehumanization of migrants, raids on barrios, and an ongoing campaign of terror in Arizona. His actions have been under investigation by the Department of Justice for some time, with no resolution, and no action taken against him. The Department of Justice investigation has been a slow process, and justice delayed is justice denied. There are approximately 8,000 inmates in Sheriff Arpaio's jail cells, many of whom have been victims of cruel policies that have been deemed unconstitutional.

  Unfortunately, as his abuses have gone unchecked, more and more of America is looking like Sheriff Arpaio’s Maricopa County. Major religious denominations and human rights organizations have urged the Department of Homeland Security to end policies like the frightening “Secure Communities” program that “Arizonify” local law police by requiring them to enforce unjust federal immigration laws. These programs criminalize immigrant communities and tear apart families. Sheriff Arpaio represents these programs at their worst. Unfortunately, Secretary Janet Napolitano continues to replicate and expand policies born in Arizona; and in the process, DHS has made the entire federal government -- and potentially all of us -- into accomplices for Joe Arpaio’s crimes.

  Please ask Attorney General Eric Holder to complete the Department of Justice investigation into abuses by the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office and bring Sheriff Arpaio to justice. In addition, urge Secretary Napolitano to take action today and immediately sever Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio's access to immigration programs like 287(g) and Secure Communities. Todos somos Arizona – We are All Arizona.

• Tell Congress to Support the DREAM Act!

  The Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors (DREAM) Act would create a path to citizenship for undocumented young adults who have lived in the US for 5 years, have a high school diploma or GED, and good moral character. DREAM would require participants to either complete two years of college or serve two years in the military.

  Standing on the Side of Love, along with hundreds of other organizations, are urging you to contact your congresspersons NOW and ask them to support passage of the DREAM Act. The DREAM Act would provide a path to legalization for the more than 65,000 undocumented young people who graduate from high school in the United States each year. We should not punish young people for being products of an inhumane and broken immigration system.

  Email your Members of Congress!

• Urge Your Representative to Oppose Mandatory E-Verify
  
  

  The House of Representatives is currently considering a bill that if passed would force all businesses, even those who only have one employee, to check the immigration status of all employees via an online system called "e-verify." The e-verify system has been fraught with errors. Over 50% of undocumented workers pass through undetected while on the other hand thousands of workers who are in the U.S. legally have been erroneously flagged. Mandatory e-verify puts an unnecessary burden on small businesses and encourages them to hire "off the books" thereby causing the loss of millions of dollars in tax revenues.

  E-verify will not reduce the number of undocumented immigrants in the U.S. What it will do is hurt U.S. workers, small businesses, and our economy. Moreover, it will make it virtually impossible for undocumented immigrants to work in the U.S., unless they do so in the "shadow economy" where they are subject to abuse and wage theft. The only thing that enforcement-only policies have served to accomplish is to cause human misery. We need real, humane immigration reform that keeps families together and provides a pathway to legal status. Tell your Representative, "No more enforcement until we get real immigration reform!"

• President Obama, Leadership Takes More Than Words

  In the face of Congressional opposition, President Obama can use his administrative powers to put an end to inhumane immigration laws and policies that separate children from their parents and remove promising students from the only country they have known.

  Ask Pres. Obama to use his administrative powers to end some these immoral abuses.

• State-level Test
• Join 22 Senators in Urging Obama to Grant Deferred Action to DREAMers
  
  Last December, the Senate fell just a few votes short of passing the DREAM Act, a heartbreaking loss for DREAM students who had come from all over the country to advocate for it. On Wednesday, April 13th, 22 Senators delivered a signed letter to President Obama calling on him to grant "deferred action" to all DREAM Act-eligible students. "Deferred action" would allow these young women and men to study, work and travel without fear of deportation until their immigration status can be resolved. The President has the power to grant deferred action, and doing so would not only help DREAM students, but would also direct the resources of the Department of Homeland Security towards people who actually pose a threat to our nation.
  
  If your senator(s) was one of the 22, please take a moment to thank them for calling on our president and our nation to do what is right. If your senator(s) was not on the list, please encourage them to join their voices now with their 22 colleagues. Finally, add your own voice to call on President Obama to grant deferred action to DREAM eligible students. (You will automatically be directed to an appropriate letter for your senators and President Obama.)
  
  

• Petition to Leaders of Our Nation’s Public Universities

  In October 2010, the Georgia Board of Regents explicitly barred undocumented youth from admission to many public universities in the state. South Carolina, North Carolina, Alabama and several other states have explicit bans preventing undocumented immigrants from attending public universities. This is wrong.

  Can you join with Standing on the Side of Love and DREAM students everywhere to make sure that undocumented students have the opportunity to go to college?

• Urge Your Member of Congress to Support the Uniting American Families Act
  
  

  In April, 2011, Rep. Nadler (D-NY) and Sen. Leahy (D-VT) reintroduced the Uniting American Families Act (UAFA) into the House and Senate respectively. The Uniting American Families Act would allow LGBT Americans to sponsor their foreign-born spouses/partners and children for residency in the United States. Passage of this bill would prevent more LGBT families from being torn apart or forced into exile to stay together. UAFA would end immigration discrimination against all LGBT families, regardless of whether they live in the United States or abroad, and regardless of whether their local or state government recognizes their marriage.

  Tell Congress that they must act to stop LGBT families from being torn apart by unfair immigration laws!

  When you send your letter, add your testimonials, personal experiences and points of view - they are an extremely powerful way to let Congress know how critical passage of UAFA is to LGBT families. Enter your zip code to send a letter to your U.S. Rep and/or Senator urging them to cosponsor the Uniting American Families Act when it is introduced in the upcoming weeks!

• Our nation needs our message.

  Tell your members of Congress to stand on the side of love with marginalized communities by denouncing vitriolic language in the public discourse.

  America is a nation looking for answers, in search of something better from our society.

  As the Washington Post reported last January, “Across the ideological spectrum, officials and activists agreed after Saturday's Tucson killings that it was time to soften the harsh edges of America's raucous national dialogue. But by Monday, a bitter debate had erupted over how to do it - and on whose terms.”

  None of us has all of the answers. What we do have is our hearts. When we stand on the side of love, we allow our hearts to be our guide, and we ask others to do the same.

  At this crucial moment in time, when our country is divided over how to move forward on key issues like immigrant rights, LGBT rights, and religious freedom, you can use your voice to ask your members of Congress to stand on the side of love by denouncing vitriolic language in the public discourse and committing to a more respectful, bipartisan climate.

  Please ask your leaders to work with us for something better.

• Thank Your Representative for Opposing anti-Muslim Hearings
  
  Rep. Peter King (R-NY) held the first of a series of hearings last Thursday that singled out Muslim Americans for scrutiny with respect to home-grown terrorism, ignoring the fact that the majority of domestic terrorism cases are unrelated to Muslims. 57 Representatives signed a letter opposing the hearings. If your Representative is one of the 57, please thank them for standing on the side of love and against religious discrimination.
  
  

• Congress Targets American Muslims

  This Thursday, congressional hearings begin that have the potential to stoke the fires of fear and bigotry against American Muslims - further marginalizing a community already struggling against a tide of hostility.

  We need a Congress that stands on the side of love by working to build bridges of trust between all religions, not holding divisive hearings.

  Send the letter below to tell Congress: These hearings promote hatred and stereotyping of the entire American Muslim community. Please call them off.

• Urge Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer to Stop the Silencing of Immigrant Rights Advocates

  Salvador Reza and Rev. Susan Frederick-Gray

  Salvador Reza is the leader of Puente Arizona and a partner of the Standing on the Side of Love campaign. He is deeply committed to ensuring that our laws respect the inherent worth and dignity of immigrants. Reza was arrested last week because Arizona Senate President Russell Pearce, who disagreed with him, told the police to keep people like him out of the Arizona Senate.

  Please join us in urging Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer to condemn and reverse the actions of Senator Russell Pearce. Your letter will be faxed directly to the Governor's office.

• Stop The Deportation of Jose Raul Cardenas Gonzalez

  Unlike most married couples, Raul and Judy Cardenas live with the looming fact that their family will soon be torn apart. In April 2011, Raul is scheduled to be deported by the Department of Homeland Security. Together, we may be able to stop his deportation.

  Raul and Judy need your help! Please watch this video to hear their story, then call Homeland Security today at 1.202.282.8495 to ask that Raul’s deportation be halted.

  Tell them: Jose Raul Cardenas Gonzalez of Denver is scheduled for deportation in April. He is a father, a husband, and a member of my community, and I ask that his deportation be reconsidered.

  It’s that simple – pick up the phone today, and make a real difference.

  You can also send a fax to the DHS offices by scrolling down on this page.

  You can make a difference! Raul is a member of our community who needs our help. Similar efforts to halt deportations have been successful. Please call the Department of Homeland Security comment line now: 1.202.282.8495.

  And, enter your information below to send a fax to Secretary Napolitano's office.

• Urge Gov. Lincoln Chafee to Oppose S-Comm

  On January 6th, his first day in office, Governor Lincoln Chafee of Rhode Island signed an Executive Order revoking the controversial “287(g)” agreement that the previous governor had made with federal immigration officials. In doing so he immediately fulfilled one of the campaign promises for which he had been elected. Unfortunately, the ink hadn’t even dried yet when RI Attorney General Peter Kilmartin announced that he would be signing a memorandum of agreement with Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) to enroll the state in their “Secure Communities” (S-Comm) program.

  ICE claims that it prioritizes the detention and deportation of criminal offenders, largely leaving other undocumented immigrants alone, but studies show that programs such as 287(g) and S-Comm lead to racial profiling, deportation of peaceful immigrants, and fear of law enforcement officials within immigrant communities. The state of Rhode Island is currently at a crossroads as to which direction we will go. Governor Chafee needs to hear from residents who want our state to be a place of civility and safety where both immigrants and U.S. born citizens can prosper together.

• Our nation needs our message.

  Tell your members of Congress to stand on the side of love by denouncing vitriolic language in the public discourse.

  
  

  After Tucson, we are a nation in pain, looking for answers, in search of something better from our society.

  The Washington Post reported Tuesday, “Across the ideological spectrum, officials and activists agreed after Saturday's Tucson killings that it was time to soften the harsh edges of America's raucous national dialogue. But by Monday, a bitter debate had erupted over how to do it - and on whose terms.”

  None of us has all of the answers. What we do have is our hearts. When we stand on the side of love, we allow our hearts to be our guide, and we ask others to do the same.

  At this crucial moment in time, use your voice to ask your members of Congress to stand on the side of love by denouncing vitriolic language in the public discourse and committing to a more respectful, bipartisan climate.

  There is no way to make sense of the senseless, but we can use this opportunity to ask our leaders to work with us for something better.

• URGENT: Act Now to End Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell!

  Tell Your Senators to Make Repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell (DADT) a Priority for the Lame Duck Session of Congress.

  With a federal judge ruling DADT unconstitutional, one might assume that the law’s life span is time-limited. But the Obama Administration continues to defend this law in court. In addition, the Senate has failed to vote on the merits of repealing DADT, which has been attached as a provision of passage of the defense authorization bill. Unfortunately, Republican Senator John McCain has led efforts to prevent a vote on the measure, which has the support of a majority of Senate members. Sen. McCain is now seeking to strip the provision for repeal of DADT out of the defense authorization bill altogether, and many are worried that Democratic leaders will buckle under the pressure.

  The odds of repealing this law in the new, more conservative Congress look bleak. Tell your senators that the Senate must do the work of putting an end to this shameful law once and for all, before it’s too late!

• Tell President Obama to Halt "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" Discharges

  With the U.S. Senate unwilling and unable to act to put an end to the unjust "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" (DADT) policy that bars openly gay men and women from serving in the U.S. military, President Obama must act to fulfill his promise to put an end to this unjust law.

  Please use the tool below to send a letter to President Obama and Attorney General Holder to stop discharging soldiers and honor the recent district court ruling that found DADT unconstitutional.

• SENATORS: VOTE “YES” TO REPEAL DON’T ASK DON’T TELL AND ENACT THE DREAM ACT

  We stand at a critical moment in history to overturn Don’t Ask Don’t Tell, a discriminatory, unconstitutional policy which has been responsible for 13,500 discharges of American service members.  Next week, the Senate will debate and vote on legislation that would allow for repeal of this anti-gay policy.  

  The Senate will also debate and vote on the Development, Relief and Education for Alien Minors (DREAM) Act, which would allow undocumented students to earn their citizenship. These students have worked hard for years to either go to college and continue their education or to join the armed services and serve the country they love. But our broken immigration system makes it impossible.

  Please use the tool below to send a letter to your senators letting them know that you support all troops serving openly, with honesty and integrity, and all young people having a chance at the American Dream.

  Please remember to sign your name at the bottom of the letter.

• Support Religious Freedom!
  Send a letter to President Obama urging him to continue to fight anti-Muslim hysteria and advocate for religious freedom.

• Ask Congress to Repeal DOMA

  Same-sex couples now have equal marriage rights in New Hampshire, Iowa, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, Washington, D.C, and New York. A handful of other states have agreed to honor these marriages. Yet the federal government still denies that these legal marriages are a fact of law, and withholds more than 1,000 federal rights, protections, benefits, and responsibilities.
  
  In February, the Obama administration said it will no longer defend the constitutionality of a federal law banning recognition of same-sex marriage. Unfortunately, Republican House Speaker Boehner indicated the House of Representatives will continue to defend DOMA in court.
  
  While the law has already been found unconstitutional by a federal judge, it could be years before there is a ruling by the Supreme Court. Meanwhile, we must persist in speaking out against this unjust law, which demeans LGBT people, keeps crucial protections out of reach from loving couples, and is blatantly un-American.
  
  In July, the Respect for Marriage Act, which would repeal a provision of DOMA that denies federal recognition to married same-sex couples, had its first ever hearing.
  
  Please tell your members of Congress to support this crucial legislation that would repeal the so-called Defense of Marriage Act.
  
  It’s time for the federal government to stand on the side of love, not exclusion!
  
  

• Stop Tearing Apart Communities

  
  

• Faith Leaders Letter to President Obama: Halt all ICE ACCESS programs

  
  By enlisting our local police to enforce federal immigration laws, we threaten our wholeness as a nation by criminalizing immigrant communities; separating families; fostering the profiling of immigrant, Latino, and indigenous communities; and contributing to vigilantism that threatens the safety of everyone.
  
  Please join leaders from several denominations in asking that President Obama issue an executive order to halt all programs that enlist localities and states in the enforcement of federal immigration law.
  
  

  Scroll down to see Judicatory Leaders who have signed the letter.

• No Anti-Immigrant Law in My State

  On April 23rd, Arizona Governor Jan Brewer signed SB1070 into law. Among other repressive measures, the law requires local law enforcement officials to demand proof of citizenship from anyone whom they suspect of being in the country illegally. Failure to produce adequate identification will result in detention. While Judge Susan Bolton issued an injunction on July 28th that temporarily postpones the implementation of some of these measures, the legal and legislative battle is by no means over.

  
  Currently, there are at least seven other states considering similar legislation. We must not let what happened in Arizona happen any where else in the United States.

  Tell your governor to stand on the side of love with immigrant families by pledging not to sign any anti-immigrant legislation.

• Tell Senator Schumer to Include LGBT Families in Comprehensive Immigration Reform
  
  Please email Senator Charles Schumer and ask him to Stand on the Side of Love by including the Uniting American Families Act, S. 424 (UAFA) in his comprehensive immigration reform bill.
  
  If passed, UAFA would allow gay and lesbian Americans to sponsor their life partners for immigration to the United States. Including UAFA in comprehensive immigration reform is the most effective way to keep loving families together.
  
  Sen. Schumer is the leader on immigration reform in the Senate, and your letter will contribute greatly to ending immigration discrimination against gay and lesbian families.
  
  

• Tell Gov. Jan Brewer to Veto SB 1070!

  SB 1070, the draconian enforcement-focused bill currently on the Governor’s desk, represents one of the worst possible ways to deal with the economic and humanitarian crisis caused by our nation’s broken immigration system. It encourages civil rights abuses and racial profiling, promotes suspicion and fear, and utterly fails to show compassion and respect for the worth and dignity of immigrant families. Worst of all, if the law passes other states may follow suit!

  Governor Brewer has until 5:00 PM on Saturday to veto the bill so there’s only a short window of time to act.

  Email Gov. Jan Brewer now!
  
  

• Halt the Deportations of Students

  The walkers on the Trail of Dreams are asking that President Obama institute an executive action that will stop detentions and deportations of undocumented students for a period of two years, and halt removal proceedings for undocumented individuals with immediate family members who are U.S. citizens. They hope to meet with Obama at the end of the month and ask him in person, but he needs to hear this request from thousands of other people before then. Please take a moment to send the message below to the President.

• Tell Congress to Support the DREAM Act!

  The Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors (DREAM) Act would create a path to citizenship for undocumented young adults who have lived in the US for 5 years, have a high school diploma or GED, and good moral character. DREAM would require participants to either complete two years of college or serve two years in the military.

  Congress is expected to take a vote on the bill during the lame duck session. This is our last chance before the new, more conservative Congress starts to make help thousands of promising young people to realize their dreams.

  That's why Standing on the Side of Love, along with hundreds of other organizations, are urging you to contact your congresspersons NOW and ask them to support passage of the DREAM Act. The DREAM Act would provide a path to legalization for the more than 65,000 undocumented young people who graduate from high school in the United States each year. We should not punish young people for being products of an inhumane and broken immigration system.

  Email your Members of Congress!

• Repeal Don't Ask Don't Tell in 2010

  
  

  Current military policy bans bisexual, gay and lesbian people from serving openly.

  The President has expressed his commitment to repealing this harmful policy, and the military is already preparing to end it, but Congress must act swiftly and decisively. The next 24 hours are a crucial time for all who support DADT repeal to raise our voices!

  Please call your members of Congress and ask them to stand on the side of love by repealing, "Don't Ask, Don't Tell".

  It's as simple as entering your zip code below, dialing the numbers displayed next to your representatives' pictures and using the text as a call script.

• Tell Congress to Support Comprehensive Immigration Reform ASAP!

  Without comprehensive reform, the nation's broken immigration system will continue to exploit immigrant families and undermine efforts to repair the US economy. Although immigrants are suffering the most, the problems caused by our broken immigration system affect us all. We need a solution that recognizes the valuable role and rights of immigrants while promoting security and economic recovery.

  That's why the Unitarian Universalist Association of Congregations, along with hundreds of other organizations, supports Rep. Gutierrez's Comprehensive Immigration Reform for America's Security and Prosperity Act of 2009 (CIR-ASAP), H.R. 4321. The CIR ASAP Act would provide effective, responsible solutions to both the human rights and the economic problems caused by the current immigration system.

  Email your Members of Congress!

• Repeal Don't Ask Don't Tell

  Current military policy bans bisexual, gay and lesbian people from serving openly in the military.

  The President has expressed his commitment to repeal this harmful policy, and the military is already preparing to end it, but Congress must act swiftly and decisively. The next 24 hours are a crucial time for all who support DADT repeal to raise our voices!

  Please call your members of Congress now and ask them to repeal, "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" in 2010.

  Just enter your zip code below, dial the numbers you see and use the text displayed as a call script.

• Repeal "Don't Ask, Don't Tell"

  Current military policy bans bisexual, gay and lesbian people from serving openly in the military, and right now, President Obama holds the key to repealing this harmful policy.

  The President is expected to submit his defense budget to Congress next week.
  Please email the White House, and ask him to keep his promise and include repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" in his defense budget.

• Help Us Thank The DC City Council

  The Council of the District of Columbia has taken an historic stand for love. By an 11-2 margin, council members voted to legalize marriage for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender citizens.
  
  Please take a moment to send a note of gratitude to the 11 council members who voted yes. We encourage you to personalize the note below to let the council members know what this victory means for you.
  
  
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  Salsa Staff Test

• Immigration Postcards Show Love to Congress

  Immigration legislation will be considered by Congress in early 2010. When this happens, we believe that our message of love will be needed more than ever. The fear and misinformation surrounding immigration already results in verbal and physical attacks on immigrants everyday. We only expect this to get worse in the year ahead. As a result, we are collecting virtual postcard signatures to support immigrant families when they will be most in need. We will collect all of your signatures, print them on actual postcards, bring them to the capitol building, and spell "LOVE" with them for the world to see. After we visually show this message to Congress, we will then deliver the cards to your Senators. Please sign the virtual postcard below and help bring love back into the public square.
  
  
  Download printable postcards in English and en Espanol.
• Moral Imperative to Act on Climate Change

  The Clean Energy Jobs and American Power Act has been introduced in the Senate, and you have the power to shape it if you let your voice be heard before the bill is marked up in early November!

  A stronger, more equitable bill is needed to adequately protect our environment, economy, public health, and national security. As Unitarian Universalists, our faith calls us to promote justice, equity, and compassion for all people, as well as responsible stewardship for the earth. The cost of real change may be high, but the cost of failing to make change is much, much higher!

  Please ask for support for three provisions in particular: a stronger reduction in emissions to match the latest science on what is sustainable, a transition to a clean energy economy, and funding for international adaptation.

  The Senate climate bill falls short of what is moral and just, and we urge you to strengthen it before it comes to the senate floor.

• Help Pass the Employment Non Discrimination Act!

  Each day, countless bisexual, gay, lesbian and transgender (BGLT) people go to work and leave a part of themselves behind. No one should have to fear losing a job, being overlooked for promotions, or facing harassment because of their identity.

  In 29 states, it remains legal to discriminate on the basis of sexual orientation and in 38 states to do so based on gender identity or expression. The Employment Non-Discrimination Act would provide basic workplace protections to BGLT Amercians.

  No one should face workplace discrimination because of who they are or who they love.

  We must act now! Write and call your Members of Congress and ask them to pass the Employment Non-Discrimination Act!

• Petition for Full Equality

  Standing on the Side of Love is deeply committed to achieving full and equal protection under the law for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. We want to be able to say to lawmakers that we know, with certainty, that thousands of Americans share our passion for full equality. This petition will give us that certainty. Download a PDF version to get signed in your communities here.
• The Untold Stories of Health Insurance Reform
  There are millions of people who need health insurance, but are denied coverage just because of who they are. Because of their sexual orientation, disability, immigrant status or mental illness, health insurance companies refuse coverage, or offer plans that are so expensive they are inaccessible. If you, or someone you love, have been excluded from health insurance coverage because of your identities, then email your Representatives and tell them your story.
  
  We encourage you to personalize the letter below so it tells your story.
  
  
• Keep Comprehensive Women's Heath Care in Reform Bill

  Getting a Comprehensive Health Care Reform bill through the House of Representatives was a victory with too high a price: the loss of reproductive choices for millions of women.

  The health care bill that passed on November 7th includes a ban on private abortion coverage that women already have and would prohibit it in the 'public option'.

  Furthermore, Sen. Nelson's addition to the Senate health bill creates unacceptable obstacles for women seeking secure abortion coverage and could result in millions of women losing coverage that they have today.

  As Unitarian Universalists, we believe strongly that all people have the right to comprehensive, high quality health care and that women should be able to make reproductive health decisions based on their own values.

  Please take a moment to tell the your House Representatives and Senators to protect women's health care as the final health care bill emerges.

• Support the Gulf Coast Civic Works Act, H.R. 2269
  H.R. 2269, The Gulf Coast Civic Works Act, will create green jobs rebuilding vital Gulf Coast infrastructure and fill funding gaps for home repair so people can afford to move home to recovered neighborhoods.

• End Funding for Abstinence-Only Programs

  The Senate Finance Committee recently passed an amendment as part of Health Care Reform that would restore $50 million dollars in funding to abstinence-only programs.

  President Obama and the House of Representatives have eliminated funding for these harmful and ineffective programs in their budget proposals. Now is a critical time to act!

  We are too close to ending federal funding for failed abstinence-only programs to give up!

  Ask your Senators to stop these failed programs and strip the Hatch Amendment from Health Care Reform.

  Send the letter below, and then CALL your Senators to tell them them why ending abstinence-only programs is important to you and your community.

• Help Pass the Hate Crimes Prevention Act

  Bias-fueled violence is one of the most dire problems facing bisexual, gay, lesbian and transgender communities. The UUA supports the Matthew Shepard Hate Crimes Prevention Act, which broadens the definition of federal hate crimes to include disability, gender, gender identity, and sexual orientation.

  In July 2009, the Hate Crimes Prevention Act passed the Senate as part of the Department of Defense (DOD) Authorization Bill, but opponents to the bill successfully included an amendment making some federal Hate Crimes offenses punishable by death.

  Now the bill will come before a conference committee with members from both houses of Congress. Help us ensure that the Hate Crimes Amendment stays in the final DOD bill without the death penalty amendment.

• Support the Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act
  Bias-fueled violence is one of the most dire problems facing bisexual, gay, lesbian and/or transgender communities. The UUA supports the Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act, (HR 1913) which would help facilitate investigation and prosecution of hate crimes against these communities. Currently, violent crimes which occur because of the victim's gender identity, gender, sexual orientation and/or disability are not covered by federal hate crimes laws. The Hate Crimes Prevention Act will broaden the definition of hate crimes to include these categories and will makes grants available to state and local communities to combat violent crimes committed by juveniles, train law enforcement officers, or to assist in state and local investigations and prosecutions of bias motivated crimes. Please email or fax your members of Congress and ask them to vote for or co-sponsor or thank them for their support of the Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act.
• Support the Gulf Coast Civic Works Act, H.R. 2269
  H.R. 2269, The Gulf Coast Civic Works Act, will create green jobs rebuilding vital Gulf Coast infrastructure and fill funding gaps for home repair so people can afford to move home to recovered neighborhoods.

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• Support the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009

  The Waxman-Markey bill, formally known as the "American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009," will be voted on as early as this week. This comprehensive bill would create millions of jobs, set energy efficiency standards, reduce our dependence on foreign oil, restrict greenhouse gas emissions that cause global climate change. However, the bill does not go far enough in most of these much needed areas.

  Now is our best change to enact climate change legislation that is both effective and just. President Obama has indicated that he wants to be able to sign climate change legislation into law this year. And next year's midterm elections could potentially make legislators more cautious and susceptible to industry lobbyists. At the same time, we want legislation that is effective and just. Urge your representative to both strengthen and support the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009.

  Take action below, and then invite members of your congregation to do the same. Download the PDF version of this action and bring a printed copy to church with you. Get your fellow congregants to sign the form, and enter their information on this page. The site will automatically send emails to your congregation's Representative on behalf of the signatories. And of course, let us know about it! (environment@uua.org)

• Prevent Another Tennessee Coal Sludge Disaster

  Urge Congress to take swift action to protect the environment and vulnerable communities by supporting H.R. 493, the Coal Ash Reclamation and Environmental Safety Act of 2009. The bill, which is moving through Congress now, would establish federal safety regulations on the design, engineering, and performance of coal ash disposal. Had such standards been in place last December, the Tennessee Valley Authority’s coal-fired power plant might not have contaminated the Emory River or stranded families in six feet of toxic sludge.

  Our long term goal is to convert from fossil fuel dependency to life-affirming renewable energy sources, but in the mean time we must act to protect the environment and the people living near these coal-fired plants. Urge your Representative to support H.R.493.

  
  
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• Ask President-Elect Barack Obama to Support BGLT Rights!

  Our first principle, the inherent worth and dignity of every person calls on us as Unitarian Universalists to support bisexual, gay, lesbian and transgender (BGLT) rights.

  Let President Barack Obama know how you feel about BGLT rights and what you think he should do to safeguard equality.

• Be A Voice for Darfur
  Please take a moment to send the following message to President Obama.
• Diplomacy with Iran
  The letter below calls for the two presidential candidates to end the war in Iraq and to adopt foreign policy positions based on multilateral diplomatic engagement. Please review the letter and edit it to fit your needs. Consider adding a personal statement about your beliefs or your experiences.
• Call for a Green Economy
  Two of the major challenges facing us today are global climate change and the failing economy, sending more and more people into poverty. A green economy has the potential to address both of these issues simultaneously. Yet, while president-elect Obama has mentioned green jobs, he has yet to make it the cornerstone of his economic recovery plan. The letter below calls for president-elect Obama to affirm his commitment to a green economy, one that protects the needs of both earth and people. Please review the letter and edit it to fit your needs. Consider adding a personal statement about your beliefs or your experiences.
• Support Comprehensive Sexuality Education
  The Responsible Education About Life (REAL) Act will provide $206 million annually in grants to states to provide medically accurate, age appropriate, comprehensive sexuality education. Sex education programs funded by the grants will address both abstinence and contraception, and incorporate values and public health perspectives. The REAL Act would create the first federal funding stream for comprehensive sexuality education programs, an important step towards ensuring that young people across the country have the information they need to make responsible, informed decisions about their sexuality and their lives.
  
  
• Repeal "Don't Ask, Don't Tell"

  Current military policy bans bisexual, gay and lesbian people from serving openly in the military.

  The President has expressed his commitment to repeal this harmful policy, but it's up to Congress to act swiftly and decisively. As the Armed Services Committee is holding hearings, it is critical that we show Congress the immense public pressure on this issue.

  Please call and write your members of Congress and ask them to repeal, "Don't Ask, Don't Tell"

• Tell Congress to Get REAL!

  On June 19th the House appropriations subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services voted to continue funding for the Community Based Abstinence Education (CBAE) program. CBAE is the largest of the three abstinence-only funding streams and bypasses states to give funding directly to abstinence-only education programs that emphasize all eight points of the abstinence-only definition.

  Now is the perfect time to speak up for change! With the action alert below, you can send your Members of Congress two important messages: STOP funding inaccurate, ineffective abstinence-only programs, and START funding medically accurate, age appropriate, comprehensive sexuality education by supporting the Responsible Education About Life (REAL) Act! It’s time to Get REAL: Fund Effectiveness-Only, Not Abstinence-Only!