WHEREAS, the Unitarian Universalist value of Justice declares that we work to be diverse multicultural beloved communities where all thrive and covenant to disable racism and all forms of systemic oppression, support the use of inclusive democratic processes to make decisions within our congregations, our Association and society at large;

WHEREAS, democracy in the United States faces unprecedented challenges from rising authoritarianism, including efforts to undermine free and fair elections, suppress the vote, spread disinformation, erode civil liberties, and concentrate power in the hands of the few;

WHEREAS, the imposition of authoritarianism threatens the worth and dignity of all people, particularly those already marginalized by systemic racism, xenophobia, misogyny, economic injustice, and other forms of oppression;

WHEREAS, our faith calls us to act in solidarity with those defending democratic norms, institutions, and rights;

BE IT RESOLVED THAT Accotink Unitarian Universalist Church:

1. Affirms its commitment to democracy as a moral and spiritual imperative and as essential to the realization of justice, equity, and compassion in human society;
2. Condemns efforts to subvert democratic institutions, suppress voting rights, intimidate public servants, manipulate the judiciary, and spread authoritarian ideologies;
3. Commits to nonviolent action in defense of democratic values, and to active resistance against authoritarian encroachment through legal, ethical, and peaceful means;
4. Supports local, state, and national efforts to provide mutual aid to the oppressed, protect and expand voting rights, ensure election integrity, and hold leaders accountable to the rule of law;
5. Encourages education and civic engagement within and beyond the congregation, including working to counter polarization within societal groups, hosting forums, supporting nonpartisan voter registration efforts, engaging in public witness for democracy, including non-violent protests, strikes, and disruptive events (non-cooperation) as needed; and
6. Partners with other faith communities and civic organizations to build a broad-based
   movement to advocate for and uphold democratic principles and resist authoritarianism, in our
   local area, one that can help feed a national movement of similar character.

This Congregational Resolution was voted on and approved by the members of Accotink Unitarian Universalist Church, Burke VA, on February 22, 2026.