We are an open, affirming, and Welcoming Congregation.
We embrace Two-Spirit, gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans, queer, asexual, intersex, and questioning (2SLGBTQ+) people into our spiritual community. We work to promote acceptance, inclusion, understanding, and equity for 2SLGBTQ+ people and families in Ottawa and society at large. We fight homophobia, transphobia, biphobia and other forms of hatred and oppression.
Our Embracing Diversity Committee works to promote equity, inclusion and diversity within the congregation. Previously the committee has supported fundraisers for community organizations (e.g. the Ten Oaks Project in Ottawa), organized workshops for congregants about power, privilege and unconscious bias, coordinated the congregation's participation in Pride events, and hosted speakers and film screenings. To find out about our Embracing Diversity Committee, email Tara Paterson at tarajpaterson@gmail.com."
Our Embracing Diversity Committee works to promote equity, inclusion and diversity within the congregation. Previously the committee has supported fundraisers for community organizations (e.g. the Ten Oaks Project in Ottawa), organized workshops for congregants about power, privilege and unconscious bias, coordinated the congregation's participation in Pride events, and hosted speakers and film screenings. To find out about our Embracing Diversity Committee, email Tara Paterson at tarajpaterson@gmail.com."
Capital Pride, 2020
During the 2020 Capital Pride Week, Rev. Pat moderated an interfaith dialogue between religious leaders of three LGBTQ2S+ welcoming and affirming congregations in Ottawa: Rabbi Elizabeth Bolton of Or Haneshemah, Rev. Brian Cornelius of First United Church, and Fauzya Talib of Ottawa Valley Unity Mosque. This was a lively and intriguing conversation and a proud moment for FirstU to be able to bring this conversation to the wider public.
"...justice, equity and compassion for all" -second UU principle
