At the Unitarian Church of Omaha, we are dedicated to promoting equity and justice. Guided by our core principles, we honor the inherent worth and dignity of every individual and stand in solidarity with those facing systemic challenges.

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The Alternatives to Violence Project in Omaha

We proudly support the Alternatives to Violence Project (AVP) in Omaha, providing space for their meetings and workshops. AVP fosters empathy and nonviolent communication, often through programs led by incarcerated individuals. Our congregation has hosted AVP speakers and actively participated in their workshops, reflecting our commitment to addressing systemic injustice and supporting restorative justice efforts.

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Book and Small Group Discussions

We are committed to ongoing education as a pathway to meaningful action. Small groups within the congregation have read and discussed books and excerpts such as White Fragility by Robin DiAngelo, which challenges readers to confront unconscious biases and engage in honest dialogue about systemic racism. These discussions provide a space for reflection, growth, and deeper understanding of the issues we seek to address.

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Reproductive Rights

First Unitarian Church of Omaha has actively committed to supporting reproductive rights through advocacy, resource mobilization, and community engagement. Following a nearly unanimous vote in favor of a resolution on September 25, 2022, the congregation has pledged to use its facilities, social networks, leadership, and financial resources to support reproductive health and justice, including abortion access. By partnering with affected communities—especially women of color—the church aims to amplify voices, provide tangible support, and advocate for policies that protect bodily autonomy and reproductive freedom in Nebraska and beyond.

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Supporting Black Lives Matter​​​​​

We proudly support the Black Lives Matter movement as part of our commitment to justice and equity. Our Black Lives Matter banner is displayed at the church, weather permitting, serving as a visible reminder of our solidarity with marginalized communities and our dedication to confronting systemic racism. This public statement reflects our ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive and equitable world.​

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Solidarity with Palestinians

The Unitarian Church of Omaha stands in solidarity with Palestinians in their pursuit of justice, peace, and dignity, while affirming our commitment to the safety and well-being of Jewish communities. Recently, we hosted a fundraiser selling olive oil from Palestinian farmers, with proceeds directly benefiting their families and communities. Through initiatives like these, we support sustainable livelihoods and seek to address systemic challenges faced in the region. We remain dedicated to advocating for peace and equitable solutions that honor the dignity and rights of all people.

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Making Space for Omaha Native Americans

The Unitarian Church of Omaha is honored to provide a gathering space for the Omaha Native American community to build connections and preserve their heritage. John Pappan has spoken at our church, raising awareness of their struggles, and our members have attended events to support their initiatives. We remain committed to ensuring their voices are heard and traditions upheld. As part of this commitment, we acknowledge the Indigenous peoples on whose land we gather, both on our website and in most of our Sunday services, recognizing their enduring presence and contributions to our community.

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Progressive Omaha Film Screenings

Our monthly Monday movie group has hosted documentaries that inspire critical discussions on social justice, such as 13th by Ava DuVernay, exploring systemic racism in the U.S. prison system, and The Mask You Live In, which examines cultural pressures on masculinity and their ties to racial injustice. These screenings foster reflection, learning, and meaningful action, providing opportunities to address systemic barriers and promote equity.​
 

Library Resources
We also maintain a small library of books on racial justice and equity, available to our members and visitors. While some titles have been borrowed and not returned, we still offer several excellent resources for those eager to deepen their understanding. These books cover topics like systemic racism, social justice, and building inclusive communities. We encourage everyone to explore these materials and continue their learning journey.

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Embracing LGBTQIA+ Individuals 

At First Unitarian Church of Omaha, we are committed to being a welcoming and affirming community for LGBTQIA+ individuals. Grounded in our values of inclusivity, dignity, and justice, we celebrate the diversity of gender identities and sexual orientations as expressions of the sacred. We strive to create a space where all people—regardless of how they identify—can feel safe, supported, and valued. Each year, we proudly participate in the Omaha Pride Parade, standing in solidarity with the LGBTQIA+ community and affirming our commitment to love, equity, and belonging in all that we do. 

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Standing in Solidarity with the Transgender Community

At First Unitarian Church of Omaha, we affirm the dignity, worth, and rights of transgender, non-binary, and gender-expansive individuals. We are committed to fostering a community where everyone can live authentically, free from discrimination and fear. As part of this commitment, we honor Transgender Day of Remembrance with a dedicated service most years, reflecting on lives lost to anti-trans violence and renewing our pledge to advocate for justice, equity, and inclusion. Through education, advocacy, and visible support, we stand in solidarity with our transgender siblings, ensuring they are seen, valued, and celebrated.

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How You Can Get Involved

• Borrow or Donate Books: Explore our racial justice library and borrow books to expand your knowledge. If you’d like to help grow this resource, consider donating books on racial justice and equity. Reach out to us for suggestions or to check if we already have certain titles.

• Engage with Films: Attend a Progressive Omaha Film Screening or suggest impactful films for the group to watch and discuss. Your recommendations can spark meaningful conversations and foster deeper understanding.

• Support Discussions: Host or participate in discussion groups on films, books, or other resources that address systemic injustice and equity. Share ideas on how we can take these conversations further into actionable change within our community and beyond

• Get Involved: The Alternatives to Violence Project (AVP) offers powerful workshops led by incarcerated individuals. You can attend these workshops to gain a deeper understanding of nonviolent communication and restorative practices or take an active role by joining AVP in organizing their impactful events. You may also get involved with our Palestinian rights group.

• Listen: You can also get inspired to make a difference by listening to some of the sermons and discussions that we've recorded and provided on this page.​