At the Unitarian Universalist Church in Meriden (UUCM), we are dedicated to supporting immigrant rights through various initiatives:
Sanctuary Provision: In October 2017, UUCM offered sanctuary to Sujitno Sajuti, an Indonesian immigrant facing deportation. Mr. Sajuti resided within our church for 19 months until he was granted deferred action in May 2019, allowing him to remain in the United States.
Social Justice Council: Our Social Justice Council oversees an Immigrant Rights/Sanctuary group, focusing on advocacy and support for immigrant communities.
Community Advocacy: UUCM actively participates in local efforts to protect immigrant rights. Recently, our members urged Meriden city officials to establish policies aligned with the Connecticut Trust Act, ensuring residents are informed when Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents are present in the city.
Through these actions, UUCM strives to create a welcoming and supportive environment for immigrants, advocating for justice and equity within our community.
Fighting for immigrant rights aligns deeply with Unitarian Universalist (UU) values, which emphasize the inherent worth and dignity of every person, justice and compassion in human relations, and the goal of a world community with peace, liberty, and justice for all. UUs believe in standing with marginalized communities, advocating for fair and humane immigration policies, and offering sanctuary and support to those seeking safety and opportunity. By working for immigrant justice, we live out our commitment to equity, interdependence, and the belief that no human being is illegal.