Friends: To be a peacemaker in Russia today is to open yourself to charges of treason. Despite the mass arrests and the constant dangers of even saying that there is a war, good men and women in Russia do stand up for their beliefs. With amazing courage and sly creativity many are finding ways to say, “No to War,” and “No to Putin.”
Dear Editor: I loved the article by Julie Harlow in the March/April issue of Western Friend. She really touched my heart with her honesty, commitment, and vision for authentic Quakerism. Like Julie, I was deeply involved in Soviet-American reconciliation work in the 1980s.
Quaker Perspective on Russian Authoritarianism – a report from the Friends House Moscow Support Association, which convey both good news and bad.
Peace I ask of thee of river, Peace, Peace, Peace.
When I learn to live serenely, cares will cease.
From the hills I gather courage, vision for the day to be.
Strength to lead and faith to follow, All are given unto me.
Peace I ask of thee of river, Peace, Peace, Peace.
When I first went to the Soviet Union in 1984, I expected to meet a hospitable people, if not outgoing. The first thing I learned was that Russians never smile. They look grim. They stare. The women especially would often stare at me and then turn away abruptly. In U.S. culture, this could be interpreted as distancing, judgmental, even hostile. It was definitely uncomfortable.
A citizen diplomacy initiative in the face of nuclear brinksmanship - again
