In this lively conversation, Rev. Kelli Clement shares her journey from a fundamentalist upbringing to becoming a Unitarian Universalist minister deeply engaged in social justice, particularly reproductive justice. As a bonus, she turns the tables on our host and draws out Leslie's story about traveling to Phoenix to get arrested while protesting anti-immigration legislation in 2010. From the importance of relationship to the deep human need for play, Kelli emphasizes the need for action as a response to despair and a source of resilience in the work of justice. She also highlights the role of young activists and the importance of personal connection to justice issues, advocating for a covenantal approach couched in Unitarian Universalist values.

00:00 Introduction

01:39 We've Got a Live One!

04:08 Early Influences and Understanding of Justice

06:46 The Shift to Justice in Ministry

09:20 Showing Up for Reproductive Justice Work

11:10 The Importance of Engaging in Justice Work

13:58 Leveraging Institutional Strength

16:34 Getting Involved in Justice Work as a Lay Leader

20:36 Play and Art for Spiritual Resilience

22:16 The Antidote to Despair

23:35 The Importance of Choosing to Get Involved

25:07 Grounded in Religious Naturalism

30:07 Kelli Turns the Tables

41:58 Living Within Our Limits

43:47 Healing Religious Wounds

52:48 Finding Glimmers

54:11 Waking Our Hearts

Sparks of Justice is a podcast hosted by Leslie Mills with the Minnesota Unitarian Universalist Social Justice Alliance (MUUSJA). The first season consists of six episodes interviewing UU activists from Minnesota, exploring each person's path to getting involved in social justice, resources for overcoming heartbreak, and the rewards of being involved in movements for change.