The Unitarian Universalist Church of Canton is seeking nominations for individuals who make a difference in the community through grassroots efforts in pursuit of social justice, change, and a better community.

The award was established in 1990 in memory of Rachel Somers Grant to honor those who work, as Rachel did, to make our community more humane and progressive. Rachel was a teacher and activist who lived in Canton from 1977 until her death in 1990. Each year since her passing the Unitarian Universalist Church of Canton has recognized an individual who is making a difference in the North Country.

Recent past year recipients of the award include Kathleen Stein for her nonpartisan work organizing the St. Lawrence League of Women Voters; Ginger Story-Welch for her environmental commitments in leading NC360, and Eileen Raymond for her work with the Church of Larger Fellowship, and her educational leadership in South Africa, and political work on the local and national levels.

The award states, Rachel believed grassroots movements were an effective means of achieving change. She challenged the lack of responsiveness of elected officials on issues important to her community, and she was a strong advocate for causes affecting the welfare of women, families, and the environment. She had a gift for organizing diverse groups and a talent for gaining the respect of supporters and opponents alike.

Nominations for the 2024 Rachel Somers Grant Social Award should explain how the nominee exemplifies some of the following criteria:

•   Promotes local grassroots efforts as a means of achieving social change
•   Advocates on behalf of social justice, especially for those who are marginalized in some way
•   Is actively involved in a variety of local groups working for a better community
•   Provides leadership in promoting social justice and change
•   Organizes and supports community members in pursuit of social justice.

"The Rachel Somers Grant Social Action Award aligns with our Unitarian Universalist values. As a pragmatic faith we're committed to working to change economic and social systems with a goal of equitable outcomes of life, dignity, and well-being experienced by all," said Reverend James Galasinski, Minister of the Church. He added, "Our beliefs entail not only the right and responsibility to come to our own theological understanding-a freedom of belief-but that freedom of belief also calls us, compels us, to participate in social justice work locally and globally as a moral imperative."

Since 1990, 30 people have been recognized for the award. For additional details visit: http://www.uucantonny.org/social-justice/rachel-somers-grant-social-action-award/.

“It was Rachel’s work that led to my involvement with social action at the UU Church of Canton’, said Patricia Alden, UU Church of Canton and community volunteer. “I’ve known almost all the recipients of this award. It makes me proud to have this award recognize the fine but often under recognized people who are making our community stronger.”

Community members may submit their nominations to The Social Action Committee. The nominations should explain how the individual contributes to the work of social justice based on the award criteria. 

 Nominations are due no later than April 26, 2024, and may be sent by email to: socialaction@uucantonny.org, or by mail to: Social Action Committee, Unitarian Universalist Church of Canton, 3 ½ East Main St., Canton NY 13617.

The Unitarian Universalist Church of Canton is located at 3 1/2 E. Main Street, Canton. All are welcome to attend Sunday services. Worship and religious education for children and youth is offered Sunday mornings at 10:30 am. For additional information about Unitarian Universalism, the church, and its programs, visit www.uucantonny.org or call 315-386-2498.