Letters to the Editor

Thanks to Lanny Jay for highlighting how six prominent Quakers had the chance to discuss peace and disarmament directly with President Kennedy during a crucial time in his presidency, as described in his narrative about JFK and the Unspeakable. Their timely discussion seemed to have influenced Kennedy’s approach to nuclear weapons and disarmament leading up to the Limited Test Ban Treaty of 1963.

This meeting between the Quakers and President Kennedy serves as a powerful reminder of how individuals committed to peace can help shape the course of history. Their willingness to engage in difficult conversations, rooted in faith and conscience, demonstrates the lasting impact that thoughtful dialogue can have on policy and international relations.

Marge Gianelli is a member of La Jolla Monthly Meeting in San Diego, California and Treasurer of the Western Friend Board of Directors.

I'm very concerned about the "historical note" at the end of the article about President Kennedy. It refers to a belief that people in the CIA were somehow involved in the president's assassination. That's accusing them of a serious crime. I would like to see a lot of evidence to support that allegation. Friends of goodwill will disagree about the assassination of John Kennedy. I find the CIA theory hard to believe.

Emelyn Buskirk is a member of Live Oak Meeting in Salinas, CA