Pacific Yearly Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) supports marriage equality as a basic human right for all adult couples whether same or opposite gender. This is based on our historic testimonies on equality, community and integrity. We, therefore, oppose any and all efforts to undermine marriage equality in California, specifically the so-called California Marriage Protection Act (Proposition 8).
To quote from Pacific Yearly Meeting’s Faith and Practice: “It is consistent with Quakers’ historical faith and testimonies that Friends practice a single standard of treatment for all couples who wish to marry.” We wish to affirm love, commitment, sharing and stability in a world that is too often torn apart by war, hatred, exploitation, and greed.”
Concern was expressed about not having sufficient time to give this minute the careful consideration it deserves. One Friend noted that Monthly Meetings have minuted their support for marriage equality for many years. The Spirit is here in this meeting; let it speak.
Meeting approved the previous minute as offered, with one friend standing aside.
Pacific Yearly Meeting’s Minute Against Proposition 8
by Editor,
Published in the issue. Departments: PYM