Dear Friend,
As the summer is winding down, we are looking forward to hosting the Quaker Call to Action next month. Our country’s promise of democracy has never been fulfilled, but today it’s facing a moment of crisis. We must work to stop voter suppression, protect the integrity of our elections, and oppose violence in all its forms.
We invite Friends and like-minded individuals to join us on Oct. 13, 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT for our national call. We’ll discuss the urgent state of our democracy and opportunities for action.
Here are some ways you can engage with AFSC, plus a few updates on our work:
AFSC seeks Corporation/Board Clerk: Do you know someone who might make an excellent clerk (or co-clerk) of the AFSC Corporation and Board? Please submit suggested names by completing the AFSC Clerk Nomination Form for each nominee. The deadline to apply is Oct. 31, 2022. Do not hesitate to nominate yourself, if you are interested and qualified.
Join us: Meeting for Worship, Witness and Solidarity: Early this year, AFSC invited F/friends around the world to gather in meetings for worship, witness, and solidarity. On Nov. 15, 11:00 a.m. ET / 8:00 a.m. PT, and January 12, 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT, we are continuing that series for all who wish to come together with others from our community – people who are lifting up a better way forward, working for justice to foster peace.
Sign up: Community Safety Beyond Policing Restorative Justice webinar (Sept. 20, at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT): Restorative justice is based on the philosophy that we are all interconnected, that we live in relationship with one another, and that our actions impact each other. AFSC is offering a final webinar to help participants develop an understanding of restorative justice and how to strengthen your community through accountability. Watch the first two webinars here and join us next week for the final segment.
California passes bill to address racial bias in courts: In a major win propelled by AFSC and partners, the California State Legislature has passed the Racial Justice Act for All. “Black, Brown, and Indigenous communities have been plagued by racist policies and overrepresented in our prisons and courts for far too long,” said Fatimeh Khan of AFSC. “For those incarcerated due to racial bias, the Racial Justice Act for All provides a path forward to fight the systemic racism that has contaminated our legal system.” Please sign this petition urging Gov. Gavin Newsom to sign the bill into law.
Join us for two in-person fall fundraising events:
AFSC New Mexico hosts its first annual Harvest for Justice reception (Oct. 23, 2 p.m. MT). We’ll honor the historic, land-based farming communities accompanied by the AFSC-New Mexico program. Tapas and refreshments sourced by local farmers will be served.
AFSC New Hampshire hosts its Annual Celebration (Oct. 22, 5 p.m. ET) at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Concord, New Hampshire. The gathering will including food, fellowship, and a marvelous program of talent sharing and fun. There will also be an option to join the celebration remotely.
Helping the Oregon Relief Fund reach Indigenous communities: The Oregon Relief Fund will begin again in October to support undocumented workers without access to the economic stimulus, says AFSC’s Pedro Sosa. AFSC will help reach Indigenous communities impacted by COVID-19 by conducting virtual community forums through Facebook in Indigenous languages. In its first year, the fund distributed over $60 million to more than 37,000 people. Stay connected with AFSC’s work on Facebook.
Thank you for your continued support of AFSC’s work and all that you do in working for a more just and peaceful world!
Blessings,
Sofia Di Pietro
Quaker Engagement Coordinator
P.S. You can find more ways to get involved at our Friends Engage page. And as always, feel free to contact me with questions or comments at friends@afsc.org.