Social Justice & Environment

We have a number of social justice and environmental initiatives.  If you would like to be involved in any of these activities, please contact Reverend Peter Boullata or the UFP office.

  • Refugee Settlement

    We are members and friends of the Unitarian Fellowship of Peterborough (UFP) joining together to privately sponsor refugee families and/or individuals. Our goal is to help the refugees successfully settle and adjust to their new home in Peterborough through ongoing financial, logistical and emotional support.

  • Racial Justice Circle

    The Racial Justice Circle works with the congregation to implement the 8th Principle of the Canadian Unitarian Council, adopted in November of 2021.

     The principle reads:

    We, the member congregations of the Canadian Unitarian Council, covenant to affirm and promote:

    Individual and communal action that accountably dismantles racism and systemic barriers to full inclusion in ourselves and our institutions.

    The Racial Justice Circle helps the UFP fulfil this commitment through education, community outreach and resolving issues that arise related to racism and barriers to full inclusion.

  • Indigenous Allies Working Group

    Working for positive change, reconciliation, and justice for indigenous peoples.

Social Justice Activities

  • The Food Action Group provides nourishment through various activities such as baking cookies for One City, supporting gleaning and promoting community gardens.

  • UFP has taken part in the annual Pride Parade for many years.

  • Each December, members of the congregation bring scarves, hats, and mittens, as well as toys, clothing, gift food cards, and cash for families in need. Donations are given to Crossroads Emergency Shelter, the Youth Emergency Shelter (YES), or Niijikawendida .

  • The UFP has for many years been participating in the County of Peterborough’s Adopt-a-Road Program. This involves spring and fall roadside garbage removal. We are responsible for 3.2 km of County Road #4 starting at the corner of Parkhill and Television Road and going east.

  • Each month, congregational members and friends donate (as they are able/interested) to a chosen cause that supports a social justice initiative. The monthly cause is posted in The Flame, our weekly e-newsletter, and at Sunday services.

    Some of the causes are our own social justice initiatives, such as our Refugee Settlement Fund, and some are external organizations, usually registered charities, that provide services that are in alignment with our principles. The Unitarians Supporting Our Community Committee receives suggestions once per year.