QUAKERS and EQUALITY
Seeking Social Justice
from American Friends Service Committee "An Introduction to Quaker Testimonies"
Friends hold that all people are equal in the eyes of God and have equal access to the “inner Light.” This profound sense of equality leads Friends to treat each person with respect, looking for “that of God” in everyone.
This testimony was reflected in the practice of early Quakers, who granted equal spiritual authority to women, refused to use forms of address that recognized social distinctions, supported religious freedom, and worked to abolish slavery. We support the development of societies and structures that recognize the dignity of every person. We seek to work with all people in pursuit of justice—the economically impoverished and the materially comfortable, the disenfranchised and the powerful—inviting the Spirit to move among all these groups, making great change possible.
"One has to fight for justice for all. If I do not fight bigotry wherever it is, bigotry is strengthened."
– Bayard Rustin, Quaker Civil Rights Activist
We reject all forms of discrimination, whether based on race, ethnicity, nationality, religion, immigration status, class, gender, age, ability, or sexual orientation. We work to change the beliefs, practices and institutions that perpetuate prejudice, and we support affected communities in seeking their own liberation and equality. We continually examine our own biases and privileges and strive to achieve greater equality in our Meeting, in our communities and in our society.
Read the pamphlet in its entirety here.