Quaker Updates

As we look toward the next eight decades—or even the next five years—we wonder how to remain brave and constant amid deep partisan divides, ongoing horrors of war, racism, xenophobia, and an environment in crisis. Being still during some of our most trying times has enabled us to hear, recalibrate, and think deeply, instead of being strictly reactionary.

Quakers are particularly known for a testimony to peace. But what does a peace testimony mean for individuals and Quaker communities and organizations like FCNL?

The way these conversations happen matters. Here are some suggestions for holding a conversation in your meeting, church, or other group.

In this video, Paula discusses Friends’ role in the traumas inflicted on the indigenous peoples of North America since the arrival of European colonists—particularly in the administration of boarding schools where Native children were forced to abandon their heritage and embrace the ways of White Christian culture, where they would never be truly accepted as equals.

Representing diverse backgrounds—from Egypt to Niger, Bhutan to the Democratic Republic of Congo—these organizers spent four days engaged in deep discussions, advocacy training, and meeting with Hill staff.

As the crisis in Israel and Palestine deepens, the students at RFS sent the following letter to members of Congress. In it, they urge lawmakers to prioritize a ceasefire, protect the lives of innocent children, and secure humanitarian aid. They ask: “Is it justifiable for us to endure life under occupation, live in constant fear, and be haunted by the unsettling presence of settlers in our dreams?”

In a time when war and violence appear to be on the rise across the globe, the emphasis on peacebuilding and conflict prevention is more important than ever. Read excerpts from Amelia Kegan’s rousing speech at FCNL’s 2023 Quaker Public Policy Institute & Annual Meeting.

Representative Sara Jacobs will receive FCNL’s Edward F. Snyder Award for Peace this evening during their 80th Annual Meeting, taking place through November 19.

Lauren Brownlee explains how the testimonies of peace, integrity, community, equity, and even stewardship can shape anti-racism practices for individual Friends and meetings. “It is important for us to hold on to the fact that white supremacy culture is ever-present in Quaker communities,” she tells us, “and our antidotes are right there, present alongside these aspects of white supremacy culture that we encounter.”