Elandria Williams (1979-2020)

Elandria ‘E’ Williams (1979–2020) was a highly influential Unitarian Universalist (UU) leader and activist, remembered for their fierce dedication to social justice, compassion, and the development of the Beloved Community. Serving as co-moderator of the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) from 2017 to 2020, E left an indelible mark on UU history. E was particularly passionate about centering youth and young adults within the faith, exemplified by their leadership roles with Young Religious Unitarian Universalists (YRUU) and other key UU organizations. Their impact on UU communities was profound, and their legacy continues to shape the movement today.

Beyond E’s work within the UU community, they were deeply involved in social justice initiatives and grassroots organizing, spending eleven years at the Highlander Research and Education Center, focusing on youth and intergenerational programs and later helping lead various social justice projects such as the Mapping Our Futures Curriculum. E also co-founded Black Lives of Unitarian Universalism (BLUU) and served on numerous boards, including the Southern Reparations Loan Fund and the US Solidarity Economy Network. Their influence extended to the cooperative movement, where their visionary work helped shape the Democracy at Work Institute (DAWI) and the US Federation of Worker Cooperatives.

Elandria’s passing on September 23, 2020, left a void in the many communities they impacted, but E’s contributions continue to inspire. E was a passionate advocate for justice, resilience, and the importance of cultivating cultures of care within activism. Their commitment to creating a world free from oppression was matched only by their belief in the power of people to work together toward a better future. E’s ability to make others feel empowered and connected, as well as their dedication to both personal and collective transformation, has left a lasting legacy. Elandria’s work reminds us that true justice requires not only action but also the nurturing of each other’s well-being.