A Historic Year for Animals and Unitarian Universalism

2024 has been a transformative year for UUAM and for the role of animals within the Unitarian Universalist faith. At the 2024 UUAM General Assembly, delegates voted to include in the new UUAM Principles:

“As Unitarian Universalists … we are accountable to one another for doing the work of living our shared values … We covenant to protect … all beings from exploitation.”

This unprecedented commitment is the result of many years of work, and is a testament to your dedication, UUAM’s organizing efforts, and decades of leadership by our community.

To turn this bold statement into meaningful action, UUAM is now developing religious education resources for adults and children. This work would not be possible without your support.

Other 2024 Highlights: Building Justice and Compassion

Inspiring Education and Advocacy
UUAM delivered a year of rich programming in response to your call for more education and action on animal-related issues. Highlights include:

• “Planting for Pollinators” and “Love Stories”—programs that deepened connections with nature and animals.

• “Animal Advocacy in the Tapestry of Faith” and “Getting Political for Animals”—providing tools to advocate for systemic change.

• Conversations with the authors of Our Kindred Creatures (NYT-reviewed, 2024) and powerful talks by Dr. Sailesh Rao, a Guardian-recognized Climate Hero.

Compassionate Worship

• Our annual Celebration and Blessing of the Animals brought UUs across the continent together to honor nonhuman lives.

• Lorna Steele’s winning sermon “Article II and the Care of All Beings” inspired reflection on empathy, care, and interconnectedness.

Strengthening Local Chapters

• In 2024, thanks to your support, we awarded grants to UUAM Chapters for: 

• Plant-based food celebrations

• Community and pet memorial gardens

• Local film screenings promoting animal justice

• And more!

• We supported 40+ UUAM Chapters through monthly leader meetings, through resources, and with one-on-one guidance.

Nurturing Connection and Healing

• UUAM’s Chaplain Rev. Dr. Russell Elleven hosted monthly grief gatherings for those mourning or anticipating the loss of companion animals.

• UUAM launched the Honor and Memorial Wall for supporters to post tributes to beloved beings.

Growing Capacity for the Future

• We increased the Executive Director’s hours to meet the growing needs of UUAM’s expanding work.

• We welcomed two new part-time staff members to enhance program delivery and support.

Sharing Stories and Resources
Our newsletter, expertly edited by Ken and Sandy Nelson, delivered thought-provoking content, including:

• Stories on animals in war, the USDA and plant-based milks, and the emerging role of AI in animal issues.

• Recurring features like “Featured Wildlife,” “What Article II Means to Me,” and legislative updates.

Your Support Makes This Work Possible

The progress we made in 2024 is because of you—our supporters, advocates, and community members.

Together, we are creating a more just and compassionate world for all beings.

Thanks to all who support our work. You can be part of building a better world for humans and the more-than-human world by donating to UUAM today. Thank you!