by Dr. Kristina “Tina” Campbell 

Few would argue that we are living in a time when we long for symbols of hope in our weary and conflicted world. Several congregations and the Southwest Conference of the United Church of Christ have found hope in supporting the work of Centro de Esperanza in Sonoyta, Mexico. 

The Department of Labor now wants to know whether the public supports its proposal to phase out the Section 14(c) program and stop allowing employers to pay workers with disabilities less than the minimum wage.
 
As Christians, we know that all human beings are created equal in view of God’s loving kindness, no matter what differences their bodies and minds may exhibit. To properly follow Jesus Christ’s call to love all, we must ensure every worker, including those with disabilities, receives a fair wage that enables them to live with dignity. We have a chance to support this critically needed proposal from the Biden administration—and let the incoming Trump administration know how important it is to make sure this rule goes into effect. 

That is why the UCC DC Office of Public Policy & Advocacy, as part of the Interfaith Disability Advocacy Coalition, sent a letter signed by multiple faith denominations and organizations to the Department of Labor in support of this critical rule. Now YOU have a chance to submit your comment by January 17th, for consideration by the Department. 

It’s time to eliminate this discriminatory policy and implement stronger, fairer protections for all workers. Send your comment today! 

On Monday, January 20th, Arizonans and New Mexicans will join in the national celebration of the birthday of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Arizona Faith Network shared notable celebrations in their recent newsletter; we've added some New Mexico events as well.

Wednesday, February 12, 8:30 am - 2:00 pm
Wesley Bolin Memorial Plaza
1700 W Washington St, Phoenix, AZ 85007

Join with the Sierra Club, Chispa Arizona, Coalition for Sonoran Desert Protection, AZ Youth Climate Coalition, AFN and many other groups for the annual lobby day at the Arizona Capitol. Meet with your legislators, hear from great speakers, and connect with others who are doing advocacy work both inside and outside the Arizona Legislature. RSVP so that there will be enough materials & food, and so that you can be added to a team for legislative meetings. A bus transportation option is available for those from Tucson.

RSVP here

From the national setting and Global H.O.P.E.:

When disaster strikes, the United Church of Christ responds. Together, we can show God’s love in action.

Thank you for standing with California’s communities during this time of unreal hardship. Your generosity will make a difference as 100% of your donation will go directly to disaster relief efforts.

The fires destroyed the buildings of Altadena Community Church, United Church of Christ. See the update on their Facebook page. Please keep them in your prayers as well as their 15 members and close associates who have lost their homes.

To support the long-term recovery of those affected by the California Wildfires, click here.

Or use our SWC portal.

You can also mail a check payable to the Southwest Conference United Church of Christ, PO Box 44968, Phoenix AZ 85064-4968. Please be sure to note "California Wildfires 2025" in the memo section of your check. Our EIN: 86-0200170

100% of your donation will go directly to disaster relief efforts. Every gift matters. Please give today.

Take five minutes to fill out our audience survey so the DC Office can learn more about the issues you care about most, the communities you’re a part of, and how we can collaborate deeper with our network.

As we enter a year of critical importance in the struggle for climate justice, the UCC is holding a Climate Action Commissioning Service. Gather with us as we faithfully prepare ourselves to take action in the coming year. The theme for this service and for the UCC's 2025 Climate Hope Campaign is "Planting Seeds of Hope." Our preacher will be the Rev. Michael Malcom, the Executive Director for Alabama Interfaith Power & Light and the People's Justice Council. Register to join us!

In the fight for justice and equality, creativity is a powerful tool. Art is more than beauty—it’s a voice, a protest, and a way to inspire change. This Martin Luther King Jr. Day, let’s come together to honor Dr. King’s legacy through reflection, creativity, and connection.

🎉 Join Rev. Derek for the FREE Virtual Paint for Peace Party!
🗓️ Date: January 20, 2025 Noon-1:30pm ET
💻 Where: Online via Zoom (link emailed to registrants on Jan 19) Click here to Register! 
🎨 Cost: FREE and open to all ages!

Media in our society can have a decisive influence on everything from elections to the quality of the very air we breathe. It can shape and inform the demands of a public and the political will of those in office. In short, a toxic media can lead to a toxic government and, literally, a toxic environment. This is evident in the influence that media conglomerates can have on matters as vital as the climate crisis.

In this webinar, our guest panelists will help us to understand our current media landscape, how it impacts the climate crisis, and what we can do about it. Our three panelists will include Allison Fisher from Media Matters for America, Elyse Martin from the Environmental Defense Fund, and Cheryl A. Leanza from UCC Media Justice.

Even if you cannot make the webinar at its scheduled time, still sign-up, and we will send you a link to a recording of it. Register today!