Dismantling Barriers: What Does It Mean, and Why Are We Doing It?
The 8th Principle calls on us to acknowledge racism and all barriers to full inclusion within ourselves and our congregations. But what does this mean in practice? For the Canadian Unitarian Council (CUC), this commitment is rooted in our shared values of justice, equity, and compassion. It challenges us to engage in the ongoing work of unlearning and relearning, expanding our understanding of the world and our place within it.
Barriers to inclusion are pervasive, shaped by the colonial and capitalist frameworks that have historically structured North American society. These systems impact all of us, though not equally. While some communities bear a disproportionate burden, the truth is that these barriers limit everyone. Dismantling them is a moral imperative and a path toward collective liberation—a future where all can thrive.
This work is sociopolitical and deeply spiritual. It invites us to look beyond ourselves, connect, and envision a more just and inclusive world. Success in this work is measured by the tools we use, the policies we change, the relationships we build, and the communities we transform. As the CUC, we are committed to supporting this journey in meaningful and sustainable ways.
Camellia Jahanshahi is the Dismantling Barriers Lead. Her role is to foster spaces for learning, connection, and growth. This work can be challenging, even uncomfortable, as it requires confronting deeply ingrained systems and beliefs. However, discomfort is not the same as being unsafe. Together, we can navigate these complexities with care, ensuring that our congregations remain places of support and belonging.
The goal of this work is collective liberation—a world where joy, equity, and justice are not just ideals but lived realities. This vision requires us to work within ourselves and our institutions. It calls us to remember that collective thinking and action have always been part of our human story, offering pathways forward that we might not yet see.
As the Dismantling Barriers Lead, the focus is not on prescribing solutions but on creating opportunities for expansive learning and community engagement. This role is not about speaking for marginalized or vulnerable communities but supporting, advocating, and uplifting wherever possible. We can move closer to a world where barriers are dismantled and all welcome.
This version reflects the CUC’s collective voice, emphasizing shared values, institutional commitment, and a focus on community-driven action. Let me know if you’d like further adjustments! Please contact the CUC’s Dismanting Barriers Lead at camellia.jahanshahi@cuc.ca
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