Meeting of Friends in Wales
Quakers recognise the equal worth and unique nature of every person. This means working to change the systems that cause injustice and hinder true community. It also means working with people who are suffering from injustice, such as prisoners and asylum seekers.
QuakerA member of the Society of Friends, a Christian denomination whose central belief is that every human being contains a reflection of the image of God. (Quakers) is a pacifistSomeone who is completely opposed to any kind of violence and will not participate in any aspect of war. group with its roots in Christianity, that has worked for peace since its creation in the 17th century. Quakers usually refer to themselves as 'Friends' and they believe that there is something sacred in everyone and that violence should always be avoided.
Friends' opposition to all forms of violence imposes on them the responsibility to seek alternative responses to conflict and injustice.
Friends have historically refused to take part in wars. In World Wars One and Two, they became conscientious objectorA person who refuses to fight in wars because of strong personal beliefs against war.. In 1947, Friends in Britain and the US won the Nobel Peace PrizePrestigious international award given yearly for an outstanding contribution to peace. for their work helping victims of conflict in Germany, Europe and Asia after World War Two. They provided food aidFood given to those who are suffering due to natural disasters, war or poverty. and helped to rebuild areas that had been badly damaged in the War.
Some examples of the work that Friends do today include:
- campaigning and encouraging countries to get rid of nuclear weaponAn explosive device used as a weapon. The most deadly and destructive weapon developed by humankind. and other lethal weapons
- training groups around the world in non-violent methods of conflict resolution
- protesting against wars and violent actions in their own countries
- sending volunteerA person who offers their time or skills without being financially rewarded. to areas of conflict to support local peace activistSomeone who is proactive in working for peace.
- keeping offices at the United NationsThe successor to the League of Nations, the United Nations was established in 1945 as an international organisation designed to keep peace, uphold international law and set standards in human rights. which brings different nations together to discuss issues such as nuclear weapons and peace