Racial Justice

The 8th Principle

"Journeying toward spiritual wholeness by working to build a diverse multicultural Beloved Community by our actions that accountably dismantle racism and other oppressions in ourselves and our institutions"

Racial Justice Committee Endorsement of 8th Principle

The Racial Justice Task Force was formed by the Tapestry Board in order to spearhead the effort of adopting the 8th Principle at Tapestry. In June 2024 Tapestry voted for, and adopted it as one of our guiding Principles, and the Task Force evolved into the Racial Justice Committee. Adopting the 8th Principle does not make Tapestry free of racism. Rather, adopting the 8th Principle acknowledges the magnitude of the work still to be done to recognize and dismantle the racism we have each absorbed personally, as well as the racism built into systems in our society.

As the 8th Principle was co-written and refined by anti-racist activists including BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) Unitarian Universalists, the adoption of the 8th Principle symbolizes our willingness to listen to BIPOC when they tell us what they need. With the adoption of the 8th Principle we have accepted the call to action, and are committed to change.

Solidarity Candle

As a symbol of our intention, Rev. Kent lights the Solidarity Candle each Sunday while affirming, “We Light this candle in solidarity with Black, Indigenous and other People of Color as we journey together toward spiritual wholeness. May we, as Beloved Community, work to dismantle racism and all forms of oppression in ourselves and the wider community. May we live out our principles so that justice, dignity, and equity for all prevail.”

Diversity in the Pulpit

The RJTF works with the Worship Committee to host diverse speakers on Sunday mornings, and to facilitate discussions afterward. We have been enriched by learning about the lived experiences of our guest speakers.

Gustavo Arellano discusses the 8th Principle after his sermon.

Gustavo Arellano attends a discussion with Tapestry
attendees after one of his talks in the pulpit.
Gustavo Arellano Endorses the 8th Principle

Tapestry Racial Justice Task Force Mission Statement

To promote an environment that is affirming, welcoming, inclusive and diverse in order to foster a sense of belonging at Tapestry and beyond. We will align our actions through meaningful accountability measures to ensure progress on goals related to equity, diversity and inclusion.

Racial Justice Committee Members

Liz Bear, Chair
Rev. Kent Doss
Marjorie Loring Gauley
Sheryl Hagen
Rhett Kuseski
Denise Legters
Amanda Standish Wainwright
Sophia Uehara
Hiroshi Yamaguchi

Culture Cart


The RJC has a project called the Culture Cart, which
highlights the history and contributions of different cultures
and backgrounds throughout the year.

Racial Justice Goals

As the Racial Justice Committee we continue to uphold the values of the 8th Principle, and have included several means of education within our 5-year work plan including:

  • Quarterly Culture Cart updates 
  • Field trips to sites of cultural significance
  • Implement “BIPOC Welcoming Congregation” commitment (6 days of observance, 2 worship services, 1 program, donation to racial justice cause)
  • Follow up with BIPOC members via email after 4 events to check in and invite feedback.
  • Hold 2x/year discussion sessions after the Sunday service to discuss congregational progress on racial justice goals
  • Meet with partner for accountability 2x/year to discuss progress on 5-year goals