Showing up Together: Affirming Transgender and Nonbinary Communities

January 21, 2025

As Canadian Unitarian Universalists, we are deeply concerned by recent actions in the United States that undermine the rights and dignity of transgender and nonbinary individuals. The Executive Orders issued on January 20, 2025, which limit federal recognition to only two sexes and dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, represent a significant setback for human rights and equality.

In response, we reaffirm our continued support for transgender and nonbinary people, both within our congregations and in the broader society. We recognize and honour the full spectrum of gender identities and expressions, understanding that each person’s identity is valid and deserving of respect.

Our faith calls us to uphold the inherent worth and dignity of every person. We commit to:

• Advocacy: Actively opposing policies and actions that discriminate against transgender and nonbinary individuals.
• Education: Providing resources and learning opportunities to deepen understanding of gender diversity within our communities.
• Support: Creating and maintaining safe, inclusive spaces where all individuals can express their true selves without fear of judgment or persecution.

We declare our unwavering solidarity with those affected by these regressive policies and pledge to work towards a world where every person, regardless of gender identity or expression, is treated with fairness, compassion, and respect.

This statement aligns with the principles and past actions of the CUC, including the 2019 and 2023 reaffirmation of commitment to trans and nonbinary individuals and the support shown by Canadian Unitarian Universalists in various initiatives.

In faith and love,
Canadian Unitarian Council’s National Voice Team

~ From the CUC’s National Voice Team: UU Ministers of Canada Co-Presidents Rev. Samaya Oakley & Rev. Ben Robins; CUC Board Co-Presidents Margaret Kohr & Rev. Debra Faulk, and Executive Director Vyda Ng. 

The Canadian Unitarian Council / Conseil unitarien du Canada (CUC) is the national association of Unitarian Universalist congregations across Canada. The Unitarian Universalist Ministers of Canada (UUMoC) represents over 70 active ministers who serve congregations or work in the larger community. We are a diverse religion bound by a shared commitment to equity and justice. We covenant to a set of principles that calls us to seek peace, liberty, and compassion, to search for truth and meaning, to respect the inherent worth and dignity of every person and the democratic process, and to dismantle systemic barriers to full inclusion.

Contact: communications@cuc.ca