Dear Friends: As a Christian community, the Cleveland Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) are led by our witness of God to love everyone. All persons are equally worthy of love, respect and justice, and this includes those with whom we do not agree.
Political rhetoric has sown divisiveness, fear and distrust, some of this directed at those of the Muslim faith, the Black community, immigrants and refugees, women, the LGBTQ community, and many others among us. We also know that many have been left behind, including the unemployed, the under-employed, and abandoned veterans. We are all equally loved by our Creator. Hatred and division never lead to a just society and must be rejected. We are all neighbors united by our common humanity. We are called upon to love each other. No exceptions.
While we continue to pray that our public officials, at all levels of government and of all political persuasions, will reject racist, divisive and hateful language and policy, the President’s initial actions have been to introduce policy that puts marginalized people in danger. We believe that God requires the President and all elected leaders to speak truth at all times. We pray that the administration will change course and will recognize the value of all people within and outside our borders, and will pursue and model actions which are motivated by love and integrity.
Cleveland Friends Meeting is led by the Divine Spirit to open our doors and provide a welcoming space for all in our community, including those who are oppressed and persecuted.
On Behalf of Cleveland Meeting
Tom Nowel, Clerk
2nd Month 26, 2017