Legislator Welker Honors Rev. Joanne Utley as the District 2 Champion of Diversity

Suffolk County Legislator Ann E. Welker honored the Reverend Joanne S. Utley as the District 2 Champion of Diversity at the general meeting of the Suffolk County Legislature on April 8. The recognition was part of Suffolk County’s Champions of Diversity Month, which celebrates individuals who have made significant contributions to promoting diversity, inclusion and equity in their communities.

“Reverend Utley’s passion for social justice, her leadership in building inclusive communities, and her constant advocacy make her the perfect choice for this honor,” Welker said. “Her dedication to creating a welcoming space and advocating for justice truly reflects the values we’re celebrating this month.”

Since becoming pastor of Hamptons United Methodist Church in 2020, Utley has made her church a vital resource for both her congregation and the broader community. Guided by the scripture from Micah 6:8, “To do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with your God,” she has spearheaded initiatives like providing holiday meals, offering shelter through Maureen’s Haven, and founding the Blessing Box food pantry, showing a profound commitment to serving those in need.

Her social justice advocacy extends beyond the church. Utley has led vigils for gun violence reform and Ukraine, participated in events like the Martin Luther King Jr. Day Breakfast and Juneteenth Celebration, and fostered unity and compassion in the community.

Utley is also actively engaged in advocacy through collaborations with the Rural & Migrant Ministry, the Southampton Anti-Bias Task Force, and broader efforts to advance diversity and inclusion. Her work continues to impact both her community and the wider conversation on social justice.

Before entering ministry, she had a distinguished career in journalism and graphic design, including contributing to Newsday’s Pulitzer Prize-winning spot news reporting in 1997. She also holds a Master of Divinity from Drew Theological School.