{"id":24747,"date":"2025-05-25T18:34:29","date_gmt":"2025-05-25T18:34:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/richmondfriendsmeeting.org\/dev\/?page_id=24747"},"modified":"2026-04-06T13:27:47","modified_gmt":"2026-04-06T13:27:47","slug":"richmond-friends-meeting-social-justice-decisions-minutes","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/richmondfriendsmeeting.org\/dev\/richmond-friends-meeting-social-justice-decisions-minutes\/","title":{"rendered":"Richmond Friends Meeting Social Justice Decisions (Minutes)"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Minuted September 6, 1939 at Richmond (Virginia) Monthly Meeting.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n

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The Meeting wishes to record its feeling of deep distress and sorrow over the war which has recently started in Europe, and to give expression of its feeling of sympathy for Friends who are living in the warring countries and for all people who are suffering as a result of the death and destruction which war brings.<\/p>\n

The Mtg. then concluded to meet again Tenth Month, 4th , the Lord willing.<\/p>\n

Emmet M. Frazer clerk
L Maxie Duty asst \u201c<\/p>\n

Minuted Ninth Month (September) 6, 1939 at Richmond (Virginia) Monthly Meeting<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n

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Richmond Friends Meeting Social Justice Decisions<\/h3><\/div><\/div>\n\n

In Quaker meetings, minutes are a written record of a decision or agreed upon action to be taken by the meeting as a whole. We reach unity on decisions in a monthly Meeting for Business through a process of communal discernnment grounded in Spirit. Below are some of these minutes from recent years.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n

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Richmond Friends Meeting Joins Democracy Forward Lawsuit Against Department of Homeland Security, 2025<\/h5>

Baltimore Yearly Meeting, Philadelphia Yearly Meeting, New England Yearly Meeting and two BYM monthly meetings- Adelphi and Richmond \u2013 filed a lawsuit on January 27, 2025 against the Department of Homeland Security. The lawsuit challenges the Department\u2019s rescission of a decades-old policy to not conduct immigration enforcement at \u201csensitive locations,\u201d which include schools, hospitals, houses of worship, and public religious ceremonies like weddings and funerals. The\u00a0 new policy allows government agents to conduct enforcement operations in those locations. As a result, people of various faiths will avoid going to their houses of worship for fear of government enforcement. This hurts immigrants who will stay home. And it hurts the houses of worship and the other members who lose the ability to worship with\u00a0 others, including a number of our monthly meetings with ties to immigrants of different kinds. Learn more about the suit in the complaint filing or this Friends Journal article.<\/span><\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n

Minute to Join Lawsuit Against Department of Homeland Security, 2025<\/h5>

Clerk Roni Kingsley asked for discernment on an urgent issue in response to the new administration\u2019s intention to rescind the long-standing sensitive locations policy. This policy limits immigration raids and other enforcement\u00a0 actions in or near such locations as places of worship, schools and hospitals. Without it, Immigration and\u00a0 Customs Enforcement (ICE) can go to these locations at will and make arrests. The incoming president has said he will rescind this policy \u201con Day One.\u201d Tomorrow is inauguration day \u2013 \u201cDay One.\u201d<\/p>\n

Democracy Forward, a non-profit, non-partisan legal services organization, is the group poised to bring legal action against the US Government on behalf of houses of worship that would be affected if this policy is indeed rescinded. Sarah Gillolly, General Secretary of Baltimore Yearly Meeting has asked Richmond Friends Meeting to consider joining the lawsuit. In a recent Zoom meeting Roni, clerks of Ministry & Worship, Peace & Social Concerns, the laid down sanctuary working group, and the Trustees met with an attorney with Democracy Forward, Bradley Girard.<\/p>\n

Some of us, most likely the clerk and trustees, would be required to make statements and sign documents attesting to how the revocation of this policy would violate the tenets of our beliefs. It is unlikely any of the signees would have to appear in court.<\/p>\n

F\/friends asked many questions. The legal work would be pro-bono. The rescinding of the policy would not only affect anyone attending our meeting, but anyone in a group using the meetinghouse. We do not know if any other faith group in Richmond has been asked to participate. A Friend who is a member of a racial minority in this country said he feared being mistaken for an undocumented immigrant. Another Friend said this action would be unprecedented for our meeting, but also appropriate. We were in unity to participate in this action.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n

Minute Against Violence in Gaza, Israel, and the West Bank, 2024<\/h5>

We, the members of the Richmond (VA) Friends Meeting are heartbroken and stricken with horror and grief at the recent renewed eruption of violence in Israel, Gaza, and the West Bank. We call for an immediate ceasefire by both Israel and Hamas, the prompt release by Hamas of all hostages, and the release of all uncharged prisoners by Israel. We call on the U.S. to urge Israel to expedite the flow of humanitarian aid to relieve the tremendous suffering that has been created in Gaza with the immediate provision of food, shelter, water, and medicine. We strongly urge the United States to no longer provide Israel with weapons or funding for weapons.<\/p>\n

As Quakers, we believe that each life is sacred, and we know that the use of violence as a means of settling conflict is unacceptable and leads to further violence, which we see happening around the region.<\/p>\n

We strongly condemn Hamas\u2019 horrific deadly October attacks on Israeli civilians, the inhumane treatment of civilians, and the taking of hostages, many of whom are still being held and are in danger. We also condemn the ongoing unrestrained and violent response by Israel in its siege of Gaza, which has left tens of thousands of civilians, including elderly, women, and children, dead or wounded and caused a humanitarian crisis in Gaza. People are suffering, dying, and being displaced in Gaza as a preventable humanitarian crisis worsens. Also, Palestinians in the occupied West Bank are increasingly endangered by escalated violence by settlers and the military.<\/p>\n

We hold in our hearts and in the Light all those in Israel, Gaza, the West Bank and beyond, who grieve and mourn the deaths of their family and friends. We hold in the Light those who await the return of their loved ones who are being held by Hamas or who are held in Israeli prison without charges or trial. This ongoing violence continues to rip the hearts of those who grieve and leads to fear and hatred of the \u201cother.\u201d We condemn Antisemitism and Islamophobia and their accompanying rhetoric which dehumanizes the \u201cother.\u201d<\/p>\n

We further call for Israelis and Palestinians from Gaza and the occupied West Bank to undertake a meaningful dialogue, with the support of international powers including the US. All must use every available resource to support a diplomatic rather than military resolution to the conflict - a resolution that prioritizes safety for all Israelis and Palestinians and which accords equal human rights to the Palestinians and respect for all.<\/p>\n

We ask that Friends hold in the Light this urgent concern for peace and, if you are soled, to join us in calling for what we have set forth in this Minute.*<\/p>\n

*Thank you to Virginia Beach Monthly Meeting for the template used for this Minute.<\/p>\n

- Approved May 19, 2024<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n

Race and Racism Minute, 2024<\/h5>

As Friends, our belief that there is \u201cthat of God\u201d in everyone grounds our practice of upholding the worth of each human being. Each person is guided by an Inward Teacher toward truth; each has the capacity to experience and be transformed by Spirit. The fullness of our lives \u2013 as individuals and as a community \u2013 unfolds as we live into these spiritual truths. Just as we value each person, these core beliefs lead us to value the diversity of culture, race, and ethnicity that enrich the human family.\u00a0 Richmond Friends Meeting commits to being a faith community of deep hospitality for and inclusion of all
people.<\/p>\n

We recognize that inequality and injustice based on race are deeply rooted in our society. Richmond Friends Meeting commits to challenging and repairing racism and racial bias in ourselves as individuals, within our Meeting, and in our Meeting\u2019s relationships with the wider world.<\/p>\n

We embrace these commitments as guides for our personal lives, our life as a community, and our Meeting\u2019s engagement in the wider world. Living more fully into our commitments will require listening, humility, and a willingness to be transformed. It will require holding the creative tension between discernment and the urgency to right action. We hold this minute as a guide as the Meeting seeks to live into our commitments in these ways:<\/p>\n

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    • RFM will make it a clear, strong priority to understand and act on issues related to race and racism.<\/li>\n
    • We will be undergirded by our Quaker faith as we embark on this work, seeking to reflect and strengthen our relationship with Spirit.<\/li>\n
    • As expressions of our faith, our commitment to justice, love, and compassion \u2014and our testimonies of equality, community, peace, integrity, simplicity and stewardship \u2014 will guide our work.<\/li>\n
    • We seek to be in community among different races to provide positive
      opportunities for mutual learning and spiritual growth.<\/li>\n
    • Living with integrity means consistency between our actions and our deeply held beliefs. The actions we take will make clear RFM\u2019s stand against racism and will uphold our commitment to nurturing a community inclusive of all people.<\/li>\n
    • RFM will research and reflect on our history as a meeting in order to discern right response to any past harm and injustices, as well as to be emboldened by previous Quaker efforts at racial progress and healing.<\/li>\n
    • We will seek to understand the history \u2013 and we lament the ongoing realities \u2013 of systemic racism. This understanding will be fundamental in discerning action.<\/li>\n
    • RFM will collaborate with groups and organizations that promote racial healing and seek to dismantle some aspect of structural racism.<\/li>\n
    • We will seek to support and learn from the initiatives of people of color and those of Quaker organizations that are addressing issues of race and racism.<\/li>\n
    • We recognize that this is an ongoing process, and we will hold each other in the Light and accompany one another as we seek to learn, to be transformed, and to be of service.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

      -\u00a0Approved January 21, 2024<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n

      Minute in Response to Murder of George Floyd, 2020<\/h5>

      Richmond Friends Meeting (Virginia) mourns the death of George Floyd who was killed by a police officer in Minneapolis as he begged for his life. In keeping with our peace tradition, we oppose all violence and support ardent and peaceful protest in response to his death.\u00a0<\/p>\n

      The killings of Marcus-David Peters, George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and Rayshard Brooks are among many atrocities that have occurred in our country. Over 400 people have been killed by police across the U.S. this year, continuing the trend of about 1,000 police-involved deaths annually since 2015. These deaths fit into a broader pattern of state-sanctioned violence that disproportionally impacts African-Americans, Native Americans, and other people of color.\u00a0<\/p>\n

      The insidious nature of racism in America impacts every aspect of our society, including health care, education, employment, wealth, and environmental protection.\u00a0 A current tragic example is disproportionate infection and death by COVID-19 in African-American and Native American communities. The reality of systemic racism calls for legal, structural, social, and cultural change.<\/p>\n

      As Quakers we are committed to challenging white supremacy in ourselves, our Religious Society of Friends and in society around us.\u00a0 With this as a foundation, we join in the march towards racial justice. We stand in solidarity with victims of racism. We will continue to work actively with others in our community to further racial equality and justice. We call for an end to oppression, whether perpetrated by private citizens or public bodies.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n

      As a community, we endorse the following statement from Baltimore Yearly Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends:\u00a0<\/p>\n

      \u201cWe Friends are of many skin colors, ethnicities, socio-economic backgrounds, gender identities, sexual orientations, abilities, stages of life, and socially constructed racial identities. We are all seeking the Spirit\u2019s presence in our lives and in our life together. We recognize that some of us have experienced oppression and marginalization in ways that others have not. We aspire to live as members of the blessed community, which is one of liberation, equity, and great diversity across all differences.\u201d<\/p>\n

      --Approved June 21, 2020<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n

      Equality Minute, 2017<\/h5>

      Richmond Friends Meeting openly affirms that our spiritual community strives to be a safe nurturing place for people of all sexual orientations, gender identities and gender expressions. Our testimony of equality and the principle of continuing revelation ground our stance. Richmond Friends Meeting extends our loving care and support in welcoming individuals of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions including those who seek to share our Quaker spiritual journey and join with us in our corporate life. By affirming this minute Richmond Friends Meeting is in unity, clearly and energetically advocating for full social acceptance and full legal rights and privileges for people of all sexual orientations, gender identities and gender expressions.<\/p>\n

      - Approved June 18, 2017<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n

      Sanctuary Minute, 2017<\/h5>

      Richmond Friends Meeting has reached unity to become a member of the Central Virginia Sanctuary Congregation Network.<\/em>\u00a0 In becoming a member of this Network<\/em>, our Meeting will offer solidarity and support to our immigrant neighbors who fear being detained, deported, or profiled, many of whom have families that would be torn apart. We are led by the Spirit and our testimonies to provide love, compassion and hospitality, to work\u00a0 against injustice, and to protect these oppressed immigrants from suffering today, just as Richmond Friends were led in 1987, when we adopted the minute in support of sanctuary for Central American refugees.<\/p>\n

      -\u00a0Approved June 18, 2017<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n

      Facing the Challenge of Climate Change, 2015 <\/h5>

      RFM united with the following minute on climate change approved at Baltimore Yearly Meeting Annual Session, 2015. All BYM meetings were requested to review and approve the minute which was approved by Quaker meeting throughout the world.<\/p>\n

      \u00a0A shared statement by Quaker groups January 2015 \u201cIt would go a long way to caution and direct people in their use of the world, that they were better studied and knowing in the Creation of it. For how could [they] find the confidence to abuse it, while they should see the great Creator stare them in the face, in all and every part of it?\u201d <\/em><\/p>\n

      William Penn, 1693 <\/em><\/p>\n

      As Quakers, we are called to work for the peaceable Kingdom of God on the whole Earth, in right sharing with all peoples.1 We recognize a moral duty to cherish Creation for future generations.<\/p>\n

      We call on our leaders to make the radical decisions needed to create a fair, sufficient and effective international climate change agreement.<\/p>\n

      As Quakers, we understand anthropogenic climate change (climate change due to human activities) to be a symptom of a greater challenge: how to live sustainably and justly on this Earth.<\/p>\n

      We recognize that the current rise of greenhouse gas emissions is leading to an unprecedented rate of increase in global average surface temperature of extreme detriment to the Earth\u2019s ecosystems and species, including human beings.<\/p>\n

      We recognize that catastrophic global climate change is not inevitable if we choose to act urgently.<\/p>\n

      We recognize a personal and collective responsibility to ensure that the poorest and most vulnerable peoples now, and all our future generations, do not suffer as a consequence of our actions. We see this as a call to conscience.<\/p>\n

      We recognize the connections between climate change and global economic injustice as well as unprecedented levels of consumption, and question assumptions of unlimited material growth on a planet with limited natural resources.<\/p>\n

      We recognize that most greenhouse gas emissions are created by fossil fuel combustion. We recognize that our increasing population continues to pursue fossil fuel-dependent economic growth. We recognize that the Earth holds more fossil fuel reserves than are safe to burn, and that the vast majority of fossil fuel reserves must remain in the ground if we are to prevent the catastrophic consequences of climate change. We therefore question profoundly the continued investment in, and subsidizing of, fossil fuel extraction.<\/p>\n

      We seek to nurture a global human society that prioritizes the well-being of people over profit, and lives in right relationship with our Earth; a peaceful world with fulfilling employment, clean air and water, renewable energy, and healthy thriving communities and ecosystems.<\/p>\n

      As members of this beautiful human family, we seek meaningful commitments from our leaders and ourselves, to address climate change for our shared future, the Earth and all species, and the generations to come. We see this Earth as a stunning gift that supports life. It is our only home. Let us care for it together.<\/p>\n

      \u2013 Approved September 20, 2015<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n

      Minute on Climate Change, 2015<\/h5>

      Richmond Friends Meeting is a Quaker community of spirit dedicated to peace, justice, and right relations with all creatures and life upon the earth.\u00a0 Our place on the earth is rooted in respect, not domination.\u00a0 We submit this Minute in furtherance of that respect.<\/p>\n

      The effects of climate change have been documented by scientists who agree that human activity, specifically pouring millions of tons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, is reaching a tipping point.\u00a0 Living in harmony with the natural world has been replaced with unsustainable ways of living: reliance on fossil fuels, extreme methods of resource extraction, widespread destruction of old-growth and rain forests, and over-consumption of natural resources.\u00a0 These unsustainable practices are responsible for the Earth\u2019s degraded state and climate disruption.\u00a0 As a faith community dedicated to peace and social justice, it alarms us that the effects of climate change disproportionately impact the world\u2019s most impoverished peoples and that fossil fuel extraction and consumption has contributed to international conflict.<\/p>\n

      We recognize the urgency of this problem and support actions on all levels--individual to international -- to work toward an ecologically healthy planet.\u00a0 Developed countries must reduce carbon emissions and actively support the development of alternative energy sources. It is imperative that developed countries transfer money, expertise, and technology to support sustainable development in less developed countries.<\/p>\n

      Our commitments to peace and justice, as well as our commitment to care for the earth, compel us to restorative action.\u00a0 Restorative actions include:\u00a0 education about both climate change and sustainable living; conservation; consideration of the impact our dietary choices has on the environment.\u00a0\u00a0 We can also reduce consumption and our carbon footprints, invest in renewable energy, divest from fossil fuels and support sustainable energy development.<\/p>\n

      We are convinced that climate change is real, significant, worsening, and urgent.\u00a0 We are called to advocate for immediate attention to the climate at the local, state, national, and global levels through lobbying, community education, and peaceful protest as conscience dictates.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n

      Although the challenge posed by climate change is complex and may seem daunting, our call to action is grounded in faith and supported by community.\u00a0 We are a connected part of this earth, not separate from it.\u00a0 We invite other communities, individuals, and groups to endorse this minute and to join us in restorative actions to heal ourselves and the planet.<\/p>\n

      \u2013 Approved May 17, 2015<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n

      Marriage Equity Minute, 2014<\/h5>

      In keeping with our Quaker testimonies of integrity and equality, Richmond Friends Meeting offers the same marriage under the care of Meeting to all couples. Because civil marriage is not legally available to all in the state of Virginia, we lay down our practice of signing marriage licenses, until such time that it is available to all.<\/p>\n

      \u2013 Approved March 16, 2014<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n

      Minute on Closing the School of the Americas, 2009<\/h5>

      Richmond (VA) Monthly Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends believes deeply in the dignity and value of every human life. We support the de-funding and closing of the School of the Americas\/Western Hemisphere Institute for Security Cooperation (SOA\/WHINSEC),\u00a0 a U. S. Army military training school for Latin American military. Located in Fort Benning, Georgia. Since 1946, SOA\/WHINSEC graduates have gone on the be members of death squads, and have also committed many other human rights violations. We stand firmly opposed to torture. Because it is our belief that violence begets violence, we find it imperative to shut down the School of the Americas (SOA\/WHINSEC).<\/p>\n

      \u2013 Approved February 15, 2009<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n

      Minute on Recognition of Virginia Indian Tribes as Soverign Peoples, 2007<\/h5>

      The Richmond, Virginia Monthly Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) supports recognition by the U.S. government of the Virginia Indian tribes as sovereign peoples. We support full Congressional approval of HR1294, the Thomasina E. Jordan Indian Tribes of Virginia Recognition Act of 2007.<\/p>\n

      \u2013 Approved December 15, 2007<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n

      Minute in Opposition to the Marriage Amendment to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Virginia, 2006<\/h5>

      Richmond (VA) Monthly Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends is strongly opposed to the proposed Marshall\/Newman amendment (\"marriage\u00a0 amendment\") to Article I of the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Virginia, which will be on the ballot on November 7th, 2006.<\/p>\n

      This amendment would curtail the rights of our brothers and sisters who are gay and lesbian, as well as any unmarried couples, to receive the same recognition and legal protections in their persons, their families, and their workplaces that are afforded to all others.<\/p>\n

      In keeping with the traditions of our Meeting, we historically have embraced all loving and committed relationships and believe that this is the best way to\u00a0 strengthen marriage. Friends are urged to take action, as they are led, to oppose this amendment.<\/p>\n

      \u2013 Approved July 16, 2006<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n

      Minute on Genocide in Darfur, 2006<\/h5>

      The Richmond (Virginia) Monthly Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends unites with the Baltimore Yearly Meeting and the Statement of the Friends Committee on National Legislation on Darfur: \u201cEnding Genocide in Darfur, Promoting Peace in Sudan \u2013 FCNL Recommendation for U.S. Policy, January, 2006\u201d<\/p>\n

      \u2013 Approved November 19, 2006<\/p>\n

       <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n

      Minute Opposing the Use of Torture, 2006<\/h5>

       <\/p>\n

      The Richmond Monthly Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) deeply believes in the dignity and value of every human life. This flows from our belief that there is \u201cThat of God\u201d in every person, which is a fundamental reason for our opposition to war.<\/p>\n

      We also believe that torture is absolutely wrong. It is wrong to torture anyone, for any reason. Further, all people should be treated with dignity and respect.<\/p>\n

      We are therefore especially troubled by recent legislation passed by the U.S. Congress that legitimizes and condones forms of torture used by agent of the government.<\/p>\n

      We stand firmly opposed to torture, and ask all government leaders, especially those of our country, to stop condoning torture in any way, for any purpose. We utterly reject its use.<\/p>\n

      We join with other Friends in calling upon all people to join us in opposition to torture and to support the Quaker Initiative to end Torture, which will be held next June, 2007, at Guilford College.<\/p>\n

      \u2013 Approved November 19, 2006<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n

      RFM in relationship with Friends United Meeting (FUM), 2004<\/h5>

      Richmond Friends Meeting unites in deciding that the $300 that RFM budgeted in 2004 as a contribution to Friends United Meeting (FUM) be set aside to support an earnest effort to labor with our fellow Quakers in FUM concerning issues that currently divide us; that the same amount be allocated in the same way for 2005; and that the Ministry and Worship committee be asked to administer these funds as part of their Adult Education responsibility.<\/p>\n

      Further, Richmond Friends Meeting unites in asking the Clerk to request that Baltimore Yearly Meeting (BYM) withhold RFM\u2019s portion of BYM\u2019s annual contribution to FUM, effective immediately and until further notice, and respectfully to suggest that BYM consider redirecting such withheld funds to support enhanced communication with FUM, with a view to seeking light about our differences.<\/p>\n

      Finally, Richmond Friends Meeting requests that Ministry and Worship report to\u00a0 Meeting on these efforts on an annual basis, prior to budget formation for the ensuing year, so that decisions about continuation can be made appropriately.<\/p>\n

      \u2013 Approved December 19, 2004<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n

      Minute on the Tragedy on 9\/11\/2001, 2002<\/h5>

      Richmond Friends Meeting joins in the prayers rising up from all over the world in response to the tragic events of September 11, 2001. We hold in the Light those who were killed, injured and impacted by this tragedy and also those suffering and dying as a result of the war that has followed. We encourage all world leaders to pursue a just and compassionate response which will not encourage more violence. We seek reconciliation through understanding, compassion, and aid to promote healing.<\/p>\n

      \u2013 Approved January 20, 2002<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n

      Minute to Address Global Climate Change, 2001<\/h5>

      Protecting God\u2019s Earth and its fullness of life is of fundamental religious concern to the Society of Friends. The links between human activity, the dramatic rise in atmospheric greenhouse gas concentrations, and the rise of average global temperature are now of sufficient concern to lead us to action. Climate change is apt to affect everyone and everything: food, water, air quality, bio-diversity, forests, public health, social order and world peace. It is therefore an issue of great importance for ecological sustainability, social and economic justice, and international diplomacy.<\/p>\n

      Because the United States uses much more energy per capita than any other nation, our policies to curtail greenhouse gas emissions will be crucial. We must consider not only the kinds of fuel used directly but also the energy embodied in all material goods we use. Our nation has long set a standard for others with its high level of consumption; we must now provide an example by taking responsibility for the consequences of past and current behavior.<\/p>\n

      Involvement by religious communities in education and advocacy will be needed if policies to address global warming are to succeed in politics or in practice in the US.<\/p>\n

      We unite in urging Friends, monthly meetings, and other Friends\u2019 Organizations to seek Divine Guidance in understanding how to:<\/p>\n

      --reduce our own use of energy and resources;<\/p>\n

      --support strong international agreements for reducing greenhouse gas emissions;<\/p>\n

      --promote national policies for assuring energy and resource conservation;<\/p>\n

      --participate in a transition to less damaging technologies in our industries, agriculture, buildings and transportation.<\/p>\n

      These are essential steps to protect life on Earth as God creates and sustains it.<\/p>\n

      \u2013 Approved December 16, 2001<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n

      Affirm Support for Elimination of Virginia's 21 Day Rule, 1999<\/h5>

      Richmond Friends Meeting affirms its support for the elimination of Virginia\u2019s 21 Day Rule* in capital murder cases.<\/p>\n

      *In Virginia, a person sentenced to death had 21 days to introduce new evidence after sentencing. After 21 days, the Appeals Courts were not required to consider any new evidence of innocence. At this time, Virginia was the only state that did not waive time limits in presenting new evidence in capital murder cases. In 2021, capital punishment was abolished in Virginia and the 21 day rule was eliminated.<\/p>\n

      \u2013 Approved April 18, 1999<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n

      Celebration of Commitment Minute, 1989<\/h5>

      Richmond Friends Meeting extends its loving care and support to all individuals and couples in our Meeting community. A committed, loving relationship provides a framework within which spiritual growth can occur. Therefore, we affirm our willingness to hold a celebration of commitment under the care of the Meeting for same-gender couples at least one of whom is a member or active attender of Richmond Friends Meeting. This is evidence of our spiritual support of such a long-term relationship. The customary process for marriage outlined in Faith and Practice<\/em> will be followed.<\/p>\n

      \u2013 Approved February 19, 1989<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n

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