Unitarian Universalists of Rossmoor
We are dedicated to nurturing spiritual growth, fostering inclusive fellowship, and promoting compassion, justice, and lifelong learning. We meet the second Friday of every month in the Vista Room of the Hillside Complex.
Friday, November 14, 2025
Doors open at 11:15 with the program to begin at 11:30.
Rossmoor Advocates for Diversity
Our November program will focus on the important work of Rossmoor Advocates for Diversity (RAD), an organization dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusivity in our community. Aki Rasmussen, one of the co-founders of RAD, and Joe Easley, its current co-president, will be sharing their story with us.
Aki will take us through the journey that led to the creation of RAD, from 2019 when incidents of harassment against people of color in Rossmoor began to surface, to the formation of the organization in 2020. She will also share some of the early challenges faced by the group and show a short video showcasing images from that first tumultuous year.
Joe Easley will follow with an update on RAD’s programming and emphases over the past four years. He will discuss recent events sponsored by RAD, ongoing activities, advocacy work, and exciting plans for the next year.
Speakers
Aki Rasmussen
Aki Rasmussen moved to Rossmoor in 2015 with her husband, Jon. After harassment incidents in 2018-2019, she co-founded RAD to make the community more inclusive. Aki, a UCLA graduate, has worked in Social Security and healthcare management. She enjoys photography, music, acting, and protesting against injustice. Aki is engaged in diversity and social justice work in Rossmoor and the greater community.
Joe Easley
Joe Easley, a 40-year United Methodist pastor, relocated to Rossmoor with his wife, Patti, in June 2021 to be near their sons and their families. A lifelong advocate for racial unity and ethnic diversity, Joe joined Rossmoor Advocates for Diversity (RAD) shortly after arrival. He became involved in various capacities, including as Diversity Festival Committee member, RAD board member, and Co-President of RAD since January 2025.