What is the Union of Black Episcopalians (U.B.E.)?

The Union of Black Episcopalians stand in the continuing tradition of more than 200 years of Black leadership fighting racism in the Episcopal Church.

• Beginning with the establishment of the African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas by Absalom Jones in 1792 in Philadelphia, PA, through the appointment and election of more than 35 Black Bishops, there has always been a strong corps of Black leaders in the Episcopal Church. People like James Holly, Henry Delaney, Alexander Crummel, Mattie Hopkins, John Walker, Tollie Caution, Charles Lawrence, Deborah Harmon Hines, and countless others have paved the way.
• Organized in 1968 as the Union of Black Clergy and laity, the Union is proud inheritor of the work of these people and earlier organizations. the Convocation of Colored Clergy, the Conference of Church Workers Among Colored People, all dedicated to justice and the ministry of Blacks in the Episcopal Church. The name was later changed to the Union of Black Episcopalians.
• The Union of Black Episcopalians fights racism by encouraging the involvement of Black people in the total life of the church – on every level and every way – mission, stewardship, evangelism, education, leadership, governance, and politics. The Union is committed to translating these words into Christian action for all Episcopalians and at all levels of the church.
•  The UBE consists of more than 55 chapters and interest groups throughout the continental United States, the Caribbean, Canada, Africa, and Latin America.
• The National UBE by-laws state you must be a member of a local chapter to be a member of the National UBE
• Membership is open to all persons of Good Faith regardless of race, language, ethnicity, or sexual orientation
• Click here to learn more about the UBE

The Bishop H. Irving Mayson Detroit Chapter of the UBE always welcomes new members to join and work for a greater presence for people of color at all decision-making levels in the church.

• Yearly membership categories and local dues:
  • Youth (under 21): $25.00
  • Retired: $50.00
  • Individual: $60.00
  • Family: $85.00
  • Life Membership: $500.00
  • Life Member (local dues): $10.00
• Memberships are due each January for the calendar year. Dues paid after September 1 are current through the next year.
• Detroit Chapter President: Ms. Juanita Woods, (313) 835-0943

Click here for a membership application

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