Dawning Future

The Unitarian Universalist Association is moving its headquarters, opening up virtual and physical space for communication, inclusion and engagement. The new headquarters offers opportunities for people, staff and volunteer lay leaders, with disabilities that were not possible before.

Rob Molla, UUA Director of Human Resources contacted the UUA staff liaison for EqUUal Access Mark Bernstein a few weeks ago. Mark met with Rob and had a preliminary conversation to discuss general issues related to accessibility as outlined by the EqUUal Access Board of Directors. Following this meeting, Rob said he would be back in touch with an invitation to representatives of EqUUal Access to tour the building and make recommendations.

On Tuesday, March 12, Suzanne Fast, Vice President of EqUUal Access, Carol Agate, EqUUal Access Treasurer, and Barbara Ceconi toured the new building. They identified a list of needed accommodations, which Rob documented, distributing copies to Peter Morales, Harlan Limpert, Kay Montgomery, Tim Brennen, and Mark Bernstein. Near the end of the tour, Rob indicated that there would be ongoing consultation with EA. The building has been gutted by the current owner, and the UUA is working with an architect.

UU Congregations Needed to Field Test Certification Program

Rev. Barbara F. Meyers, Chair of Certification Program team

EqUUal Access is pleased to announce the creation of a certification program for Unitarian Universalist Congregations, with the working title of Disability / Ability Action Program. The program was developed in partnership with the Unitarian Universalist Association.

In 2011 EqUUal Access published Accessibility Guidelines for Unitarian Universalist Congregations. The Disability / Ability Action Program assists congregations in developing and implementing a plan for accessibility.

The certification program was developed as a joint program of the UUA and EqUUal Access to provide UU Congregations the opportunity to certify that they welcome, embrace, support, and integrate people with disabilities and their families into our congregations. Its sacred covenant with congregations is that they fully recognize the humanity and gifts of all people.

The program will have a two-year field test scheduled to begin in June 2013. EqUUal Access is actively seeking congregations that will take part in this field test. We will select congregations in different categories: small, large, old building, new building, renting, etc. The deadline for applying to be part of the program is April 30, 2013.