The Immigration Justice Team (IJT) was founded in August 2024 to address the increasingly strict immigration policy changes at the state and federal level.
Mission
The team works to promote the just and compassionate treatment of immigrants and refugees through direct action, education, and advocacy.
Responsibilities
- Support immigrants and refugees in our community based on the UU principles of justice, equity, and compassion in human relations
- Engage in civic action and advocacy to address immigration injustices
- Build awareness of the significance, complexity, and impact of immigration issues
- Connect and share resources with the wider UU community, other faith communities, and social action organizations that focus on immigration justice
Recent Accomplishments
Since its founding, IJT has helped turn its goals into concrete action by:
- Providing needed clothing, food, and shelter for migrant families
- Helping new immigrants enroll in local ESL programs and conversation classes
- Providing transportation (for medical appointments, immigration hearings, and school meetings)
- Helping new immigrants navigate the immigration process and scheduling appointments
- Coaching adults on how to find a job
- Assisting immigrants in applying for emergency shelter and more permanent housing
- Working with local officials to ensure local immigrant children can attend school
- Advocating for more affordable emergency housing with other local congregations and social justice organizations
Interested in Getting Involved?
New volunteers on the IJT are always welcome. If you’re interested in learning more, please contact the IJT chair by emailing the church office at office@uubedford.org.
IJT members (2025–2026): Cecile Mercado (Chair), Christine Dudley-Marling, Debbie Flannery, Tom Flannery, Sabrina McClain, Luana Read, Ellen Scheiner, Anne Schmalz, Ginni Spencer, Rev. Jamie Hinson-Rieger
Donating
Donations to support IJT’s work are always appreciated:
- To donate via check, send a check to the First Parish office (75 Great Road, Bedford, MA 01730) payable to “First Parish in Bedford” with “Immigration Emergency Housing Fund” in the memo line.
- To donate online, visit the online portal and select “Immigration Emergency Housing Support and Action Fund” in the drop-down list.