For Unitarian Universalists, being a “Welcoming Congregation” means more than our commitment to be open and friendly to all who enter our doors.  A Unitarian Universalist congregation designated as a “Welcoming Congregation” is one that has made a specific commitment to actively reach out to include people who are gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer and more (LGBTQ+). We incorporate the experiences of LGBTQ+ persons throughout all programs, including religious education, and we offer congregational and ministerial support for union and memorial services for LGBTQ+ persons. The Unitarian Universalist Association, of which we are a member, is a leader in the struggle for the right of gays and lesbians to marry and to enjoy the same benefits and responsibilities that married heterosexuals receive.

2024 GA Resolution: “Embracing Transgender, Nonbinary, Intersex and Gender Diverse People is a Fundamental Expression of UU Religious Values”

QUUF Presence at PRIDE 2024

Welcoming Congregation Team Charter

Photos from the August 2023 Rainbow Pride Fence Painting

Pride Flags

UUA Responds to Growing Legislative Attacks Against Trans and Nonbinary

Church Trans 101 Handout, February 25, 2022.

Why Should I Put My Pronouns on My Name Tag?

What Can UUs do to support trans rights and trans people?
“The fight for trans rights is multifaceted, so support for trans people is, too. Just as important as contacting legislators, donating to trans organizations, and supporting local trans-led groups is the work we need to do in ourselves, our communities, and our congregations. I was born and raised in Unitarian Universalism, and my faith has been a source of safety and transformation for me. But it’s also been a place of deep pain and rejection. I’m not alone; 72 percent of trans UUs don’t feel fully included in their congregations. We need our churches and seminaries to go beyond bathroom signs and pronoun stickers. UUs need to confront our own cis-sexism and transphobia; examine why we struggle so much to retain trans leaders; and end the whispering and misgendering waiting in every coffee hour. If we’re going to fight for a world that reflects our principles, we first need to live them.” From UU World, March 2021 edition, by Advocate Sam Ames

For more information, read 10 ways to Be More Welcoming and Inclusive to Transpeople, assembled from the UUA.org website.

Find other Welcoming Congregations in Port Townsend WA here.

This page last updated September 29, 2024