Japanese Influences in Unitarian Universalism

Did you know that All Souls once had a Japanese minister? Japanese influences on and contributions to Unitarian Universalism have existed since the 1800s, and have included interfaith learning, openness to syncretic practices, and ministries across language differences. Japanese people in Unitarian Universalism have also faced racism and sought justice for all. This session puts into focus the voices of Japanese people and includes photos and quotes from the 1800s to the present day of Japanese people in Unitarianism, Universalism, and Unitarian Universalism.

About the presenter: Shige Sakurai (they/them), an All Souls member, is a Unitarian Universalist with atheist, Shinto, Buddhist, and Christian heritages, and involvement in Druidry. They have presented workshops on Shinto, presented on pronouns and spirituality, and wrote Planting the Self, Growing Together: A Ceremony for Proclaiming and Affirming Name and Pronouns, published by the UUA.