Unitarian Universalist Association
History
The Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) is a liberal religious association of Unitarian Universalist congregations. It was formed in 1961 by the consolidation of the American Unitarian Association and the Universalist Church of America. Both of these denominations, in their early histories, had roots in the Christian tradition. However, modern Unitarian Universalism has evolved to be a separate, distinctive faith that encourages spiritual exploration and questioning.
Beliefs and Practices
Unitarian Universalism (UU) does not have a central creed or set of beliefs that members must adhere to. Instead, UU congregations affirm and promote seven Principles, which members hold as strong values and moral guides. These principles include the inherent worth and dignity of every person; justice, equity and compassion in human relations; acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth in congregations; a free and responsible search for truth and meaning; the right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within congregations and in society at large; the goal of world community with peace, liberty, and justice for all; and respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part.
Governance
The UUA is a member organization. All members of a UUA congregation are automatically members of the UUA. The UUA is governed by a Board of Trustees elected by the member congregations. The Board of Trustees is responsible for setting the policies of the UUA and overseeing its administration.
Social Justice
The UUA has a long history of social justice activism. It has been involved in many social justice movements, including the Civil Rights Movement, the LGBT rights movement, and the Environmental movement. The UUA also has an Office of Social Justice, which works to promote justice, equity, and compassion in human relations.