Together, we can be a grounding presence, whatever may come
Tonight, the final votes will be cast in this election. As we await the results, many of us feel the weight of uncertainty. This moment brings tension but also invites us to lean into the steady presence our faith calls us to embody. Now, more than ever, your strength and leadership in your communities are essential. Together, we can be a grounding presence, steady and unwavering, whatever may come.
While the outcomes of key races are yet to be decided, we remain united by a shared commitment to our core values—values held by communities of all backgrounds, rooted in the freedom to shape our futures, protect our communities, and make our voices heard. In this moment, let us stay steadfast in our commitment to one another and to the common good, keeping our eyes on our ultimate goal: the collective liberation of all people.
As we move through this day, may this blessing spark hope within you:
On this Election Day,
One of us will joyfully cast a vote, hoping we are moving closer to a just world—
This act renews our inner strength,
Challenges closed minds,
And lifts our spirit with hope.
On this Election Day,
One of us will serve as a poll worker—
Guardians of democracy who show up with patience and courage,
Ensuring every vote is counted and every voice is heard.
A sacred act of love for every person in our country.
On this Election Day,
One of us will vote with our focus on communities in need,
Disrupting cycles of oppression,
Loving our neighbors as ourselves,
And seeking to bring peace to a world marked by division.
On this Election Day,
One of us will vote with righteous anger aflame within,
Encountering barriers to our right to be heard,
To share our sacred stories,
And feel the sting of ignorance working against our dignity.
On this Election Day,
One of us will show up as our fullest self, without fear, demanding recognition and affirmation—
Trusting in the power of “we the people,”
Believing anew in the promise of democracy,
And finding courage birthed within us once again.
As we embark on this sacred work today,
Let us release that which has made us afraid,
Hold close what stirs our spirit,
And renew our faith in the strength of the Beloved Community.
For as we bless the world with our voices and votes, we, too, are blessed in return.
As we continue forward together, here are essential actions that can support your communities during this time.
Embrace Connectedness: Remain closely connected to your faith community, using this moment to check in on one another and nurture the deep relationships we’ve formed. Whether through emails, phone calls, virtual gatherings, or in-person meetings, ensure that no one in your community feels isolated during this time.
Prepare for a Range of Outcomes: While we all hope to see a peaceful transition of power, it’s important to be ready for any unrest that may arise or the spread of misinformation. Utilize the resources we’ve developed to encourage calm and critical thinking in the days ahead.
Support Our Community: We must prioritize care for those most at risk in our communities—migrants, trans and nonbinary individuals, queer communities, and Black, Indigenous, and People of Color. Take time to reach out to trusted local coalitions and offer support where possible.
Mobilize When Necessary: Whether through public demonstrations or behind-the-scenes support, remain flexible and discerning in the days ahead. Keep our organizing and accountability networks active for a coordinated, compassionate response should it become necessary. Resources on risk discernment, safety at protests and more can be found on the Community Resilience Hub.
The Unitarian Universalist Association, along with our Side With Love and Congregational Life teams, is here with you through this time of unknowns. We’ve developed a broad range of tools, resources, and events to help us move forward together, and we will continue to provide thoughtful updates and support in the days ahead with a steady commitment to our shared values.
In times like these, it is natural to feel overwhelmed. Yet we’ve prepared for this. With courage, clarity, and deep love, we will navigate this journey together—whatever the outcome.
In faith and solidarity,
Nicole, Amanda, Amarin, Audra, Brandan, Cathy, G., Jeff, Nora, Ranwa, and Rachel
the Side With Love staff Team