June Religious Exploration Schedule & Update

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framed board with a slogan on a yellow wall
  • June 8: Spanish basic greetings and introductions – Understanding our Latino communities
  • June 15: Sangha
  • June 22: Spanish family vocabulary – Immigration stories
  • June 29: Intergenerational Service
  • July 6: Expressions of solidarity in Spanish – Taking action

Dear Beloved Community,

In a time when anti-immigrant rhetoric and policies continue to harm our neighbors, we are called to respond with love, solidarity, and action. This summer, High Street is proud to launch a Spanish immersion during selected Sundays in June and July. More than a language program this will is a celebration of diversity, a stand against xenophobia, and an affirmation that all belong here.
The current administration’s harsh immigration policies—family separations, border militarization, and hostile rhetoric—have left deep scars on immigrant communities. As Unitarian Universalists, we believe in the inherent worth and dignity of every person, and we reject fear-based politics that divide us.
We stand with our immigrant siblings. By teaching children Spanish through music, art, and play, we foster connection, empathy, and cultural appreciation.

June 8: Basic Greetings and Introductions – Understanding Our Communities
* Social Justice: Discuss the diversity within the students’ community. Talk about where their families come from. Introduce the concept that everyone has a story and a place of origin.
* ICE Response: Explain, in an age-appropriate way, what ICE is and its role in deportations. Discuss how ICE affects communities, causing fear and separation.

June 15: Sangha
June 22: Family Vocabulary and Immigration Stories
* Social Justice: Share stories (real or fictional) of immigrant families who have been affected by ICE. Focus on the importance of family unity and the challenges faced by those separated.
* ICE Response: Discuss the rights that people have, regardless of immigration status. Talk about the importance of knowing your rights and seeking help if ICE is encountered.

June 29: Intergenerational Service

July 6: Expressing Solidarity and Taking Action

* Social Justice: Discuss ways to support immigrant communities and fight against injustice. Brainstorm actions that students can take, such as writing letters, donating to organizations, or raising awareness.
* ICE Response: Learn about organizations that provide legal assistance and support to immigrants. Discuss the importance of advocating for humane immigration policies.

How You Can Help
• Spread the word! Share this with families, schools, and community groups.
• Volunteer: Help with teaching, snacks, or setup (Spanish fluency not required!).

A Message of Hope
In the face of policies that seek to exclude, we choose to welcome. In the face of fear, we choose joy. Together, we can nurture a generation that values diversity, justice, and compassion.
“Love is the spirit of this church, and service is its prayer.”

Summer Pals Program Update:
We have enough adult pals; therefore, we can start enrolling our children. Please contact me if you child will like become part of the Summer Pals Program and they will start receiving mail soon!
Special thanks to our adult pals volunteers: Autumn Jackson, Marie Holiday, Hazel Hazlett, and Vanessa Scott

With Gratitude,
Paula Del Rio
dre@hsuuc.org