As you may have read in last week’s minister column, “In a time when so many of our values, such as promoting democracy and human dignity, are under attack, our shared social justice ministries can be a grounding and guiding force in our lives and in the world. I have heard from many of you that you want to figure out ways we can show up for our values together.”
One opportunity is happening this Saturday, in nonpartisan rallies across the country, where folks are coming together to push back against attacks on our democratic institutions and basic rights. This is an opportunity for us to publicly share our UU values that keep love at the center and call us to defend our neighbors and our democracy.
Many of you have asked how we can join these efforts as a church in an organized way. Below you will find answers about what we’re planning for Saturday and how you can get involved.
What is the rally about?
On April 5, national and local organizations, including UUs for Social Justice, are coming together across the country to organize mass demonstrations to push back against the Trump administration’s assault on our democracy, social services, and basic rights. You can find out more information here: https://handsoff2025.com/
Are we going as a group?
YES! You’re welcome to join with other First Unitarian Portland Congregants to attend.
We’ll be walking over from church as a group. Here’s our schedule.
- 10:00: Group poster making in Buchan reception. Supplies provided.
- 11:15: Jen Thomas, Danielle Garrett and Rev. Alison will be leaving from our congregation, at 12th and Salmon. We will be walking/rolling along 12th street north to Couch, and we will make a right turn to the east on Couch, and then follow that all the way to the Naito Parkway. There are crosswalks all along the way.
- 11:45: If you want to meet us closer to the destination, we will pause at Park and Couch (part of the Park Blocks), about .25 miles from our destination
- 12:00: Attend the rally together
- 4:00 (or post-rally): We will head back to church together and gather in Eliot chapel to rest, refresh and debrief our experience
Do I need to RSVP?
Although not required, it would be helpful if you’d sign up here with your name, email, cell phone number, and which rally you plan to attend: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1IhiE9EaWOvramNp4nmcFwW2-ZkijlwgQTyRh5Ll2M5E/edit. This is mostly for safety purposes so we are able to communicate through the day via text chain if necessary. We will also send people who RSVP the code to get into the building for optional poster making and the optional end of day regathering.
What will happen at the rally?
According to the organizers, “There will be speeches from 12-1pm, and a march begins at 1pm. For anyone who won’t be marching with us, volunteers will remain at the original location, with activities for all-ages, until the march returns.”
Is the event accessible?
According to the organizers, “The march will be a 2 mile loop and vetted ahead of time for mobility aid access. There will be a 1 mile march option as well, for those who can’t do the full two miles. The plaza will have a section with folding chairs and space for wheelchairs. Masks are encouraged and will be widely available. Medics and de-escalators will be available.”
What if I want to attend a rally in another location?
If you can’t make it to downtown Portland, there are events all across our area and all over the country. You can locate the closest one here: https://www.mobilize.us/handsoff/.
How can I stay safe at the rally?
The organizers are emphasizing non-violence and there will be folks on hand trained in de-escalation. Here are a few helpful resources:
- Indivisible’s guide to Safety, Security, and Digital Preparedness for a Second Trump Administration: https://indivisible.org/resource/safety-security-and-digital-preparedness-second-trump-administration
- Hands Off’s Deescalation and Safety Training Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Pgmn9QRr48
- ACLU guide to protestors’ rights: https://www.aclu.org/know-your-rights/protesters-rights
We encourage you to pay attention to your own comfort level and what feels right to you. It is within our values to prioritize your safety and the safety of your family. Don’t feel pressured to attend if you don’t feel physically able or if you have particular concerns (for example, undocumented family members, etc.). We will carry you in our hearts with us as we march and know that there are so many ways to show up for justice in these difficult times. Marching and protesting is just one way!
In faith,
Rev. Alison Miller, Danielle Garrett, and Jen Thomas