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In January, in response to increasingly aggressive and ultimately deadly tactics by federal immigration agents in Minneapolis, local Unitarian Universalists banded together and with community partners. They were joined by hundreds of UUs from around the country who answered a call to show up, where in sub-zero temperature they and thousands of others marched and sang to send a powerful message: Love is greater than ICE.
At General Assembly 2026, rather than recognizing an individual or small group, Unitarian Universalist Association President Rev. Dr. Sofía Betancourt honored Minnesota UUs with the President’s Award for Volunteer Service to the UUA.
“UUs in Minnesota powerfully and faithfully manifested the faith’s values and continue to do so,” she said, adding, “May you feel the gratitude and support of our entire Association as you continue to offer ministry and support in these destabilizing times.”
The prestigious annual award, traditionally presented to an individual, organization, or small group, recognizes extraordinary and vital service to the UUA as a volunteer.
During a video showing scenes from Minneapolis, Betancourt acknowledged the twenty-six UU congregations in Minnesota, the Minnesota UU Social Justice Alliance, Black Lives of Unitarian Universalism, and “countless others who answered the call to public witness and action this spring in Minnesota.” She also expressed gratitude for the leadership of MARCH, Multifaith Antiracism, Change & Healing, and the Chicago-area congregations “who shared their experiences and learnings resisting the injustices and violations of ICE.”
“Throughout this crisis, our Minnesota congregations banded together and with community partners in defense of neighborhoods and communities, showing up powerfully in support of our values,” Betancourt said. “UUs were adaptive in meeting the moment, contributing and showing up in ways that were most needed in defense of their neighbors.”
“This award primarily acknowledges the countless, untold, and unseen actions of UUs,” Betancourt said. “Much of this resistance was anonymous by design; its successes known only to those who directly benefited from the harm that was prevented. If you think we are celebrating you—we are. If you did anything—big or small, seen or unseen—this award is for you.”