Welcoming Congregation
As the first UU congregation to adopt the philosophy and programs of the Welcoming Congregation, the mission of this Task Force is to address the ongoing need to reinforce and expand the human rights and visibility of those identifying as part of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) community. Activities are focused on promoting an intentionally welcoming sacred space which supports the LGBTQ community and promotes allyship within First Parish and the local population. Activities include educational programs focused on issues central to LGBTQ identities, advocacy to counter actions by some state legislatures and media organizations to misinform the public and take away human rights of LGBTQ persons; and action researching and financially contributing to organizations that support elements of our mission, with funds raised (e.g., annual Gayla Ball) and received by the Task Force (e.g., the Cochran Foundation).
Leadership Team: Rick Koonce, Maureen Osborne, Nancy Douttiel, Joanne Hush, Bob Spencer Finn Allen