June Update from the Immigration Action Team

By Sally Hartman

Yoel and Carmen, the Cuban couple sponsored by UUS, are settling into their new life in Iowa City these past three weeks. 

Yoel and Carmen are eager to learn English, find jobs, and become familiar with Iowa City.  Their love of music and dancing brought them to the Saturday night Salsa dancing on the Iowa City Ped mall.  They even tried their hand at square dancing at the American Legion.

Yoel is a wiz at mastering the Iowa City bus system!  Carmen found some bargains at the local thrift shops.  Volunteers for grocery shopping trips and tutoring are needed.  Please contact Peg Bouska if you are interested in volunteering with this friendly and kindly couple (peg-bouska@uiowa.edu).

IUUWAN, our State Action Network

Fifteen years ago, several UUs thought how great it would be if all Iowa UUs could connect with one another.  That is how the Iowa UU Witness Advocacy Network came about! 

The IUUWAN Faithify fundraiser project this past year involved distributing funds for LGBTQ+ projects.  These projects included the Iowa Trans Festival that was held several months ago in Des Moines, a partnership with a trans support organization in Waterloo, and a keynote speaker for a Davenport LGBTQ+ event.

The Environmental Justice Team has networked with six congregations to supply postcards for writing the Iowa Utilities Board and the Department of Natural Resources.  While the past year the group has focused on pipeline and water issues, they are now pivoting to getting out the vote.  A subgroup has formed to perform street theatre at local fairs and festivals to draw attention to voting and the environment.  Should you be interested in such theatrics, contact Sally (sallyahartman@hotmail.com).

Check out their website: https://iuuwan.com/