With the rise of authoritarianism in the US, attacks on queer and trans beloveds both through legislation and right-wing protesters at drag shows, anti-immigrant policies and rhetoric, as well as the censoring of books and school curricula, we are seeing an increase in the targeting of sacred spaces for violence. Across religious traditions, we are seeing online threats, pride and Black Lives Matter banners torn down, hate speech graffiti-ed on synagogues, violent actors appearing at sanctuaries and disrupting services, and more.
So, how can congregations be prepared? Why is this violence escalating, and what community safety practices can we engage in now that also help us build the world we long for? Join us for a 2-part training series for faith communities of all traditions, in which we’ll explore the current context of authoritarianism in the US, why faith communities are being targeted, and practical tools and skills your congregation can build and practice together. The training series will be led by Christian, Jewish, and UUA SURJ-Faith leaders.
Register below! We will be referencing SURJ-Faith’s Community Safety for All toolkit, so sign up for that now!
There will be participant support, live captioning, and ASL available.
Sessions will be recorded and made available for future use.
Hungry for more training on how We Keep Each Other Safe? Check out SURJ’s Get Ready, Stay Ready series, August-November 2023. We will focus on skill-building and practical moves that give your group, your actions, and your community more choices, especially when up against far right actors and state agencies.
August 23, 2023 5:00 to 7:00 PM Pacific time
October 18, 2023 5:00 to 7:00 PM Pacific time