And this just in:  The next UU Common Read has just been announced! It is Defund Fear:  Safety without Policing, Prisons, and Punishment by Zach Norris (Beacon Press, 2021).

Rather than the usual automatic reactions promoting punishment and fear, Mr. Norris, an attorney, community organizer, and the Executive Director of the Ella Baker Center for Human Rights, in Oakland, CA, focuses on the importance of actual support for families and communities. Instead of being traumatized by a system of repression and racism that, unfortunately, has been frequently used by police, Mr. Norris shows that while those who have committed crimes need to be held accountable for their actions, it is equally important for them to be held with care by their community. Reading this book will be an opportunity for all of us to look deeply at law enforcement and how we are affected by it and learn about ways we can create lasting change and healing that will lead to true public safety.

SEEJ has purchased ten (10) copies of the UUA Common Read book, Defund Fear: Safety Without Policing, Prisons, or Punishment by Zack Norris. The books are in the church office, waiting to be signed out and read so we can discuss the book in April. The March 20th date is canceled. It will either be entirely on Zoom or will be a hybrid discussion ~  i.e. with some people in-person in Smith Hall (with the respectful request that they are vaccinated, boosted, and remain masked and socially distanced throughout) and others on Zoom. The date will be determined closer to the event and a way to access a link in order to participate online will be made available. There is a copy of information from the UUA or you go to their website: https://www.uua.org/read regarding guidance to the reader which includes questions to keep in mind while reading. Along with the questions, you’ll also find a link to a video of a conversation between four UU religious professionals regarding the subject and the book. We realize that with all the time you’ve been spending on Zoom recently, another hour watching a video is something that might not be on your bucket list. However, I promise you ~ it’s one of the most important and valuable conversations I’ve heard in years about how we can accomplish the goals of our UU faith.

If all the copies have been borrowed and you’re waiting for one, please leave your name and number on the list. Please return the book to the Library when you are done.