Responding to Authoritarianism

As the landscape of U.S. politics and activism rapidly transformed in 2025, the UUA’s Organizing Strategy Team started intensive work developing a toolkit to help UUs become more engaged, effective, and safe in the struggle for justice: “Grounded, Resilient, and Responsible: Responding and Organizing in Authoritarian Times.” This concise toolkit is designed for ready reference. It includes handy checklists of Dos and Don’ts on topics including social media, protests, security, forming partnerships, spiritual care, funding vital work, and more. Rather than being fixed in time, it is a living document that OST updates periodically to reflect recent shifts, obstacles, and opportunities. The “Grounded, Resilient, and Responsible” toolkit empowers people to combat the hopelessness that authoritarianism causes. It is rooted in the belief that UUs will rise to meet the moment and make faith-based leadership visible nationwide. Nicole Pressley, director of the Organizing Strategy Team, summed up her faith in UUs and her goals for the toolkit: “I want people to know that they’re both capable and responsible for the work required to get us through the enormous challenges we face.” Read About the Toolkit and Download a Dos & Don’ts for Sustaining Yourself While Striving Toward Justice Poster