Speak Out
Friends are known for valuing silence, but speaking out on issues of concern is an important part of living our testimonies and modeling right relationship with Earth and with each other. A big part of QEW’s work involves working in harmony with other Quaker organizations, raising our voice on current ecological issues. We work with Quaker United Nations Office (QUNO) and use our accreditation to United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and the Commission for Sustainable Development (CSD) to bring a Quaker voice and witness to international forums such as the United Nations.
In this Section
In this section of our site, you can find out more about ways in which QEW speaks out on behalf of the Earth and learn how you add your own voice through our website, social media, forums, meetings, and publications. In this section of our site, you can find out more about ways in which QEW speaks out on behalf of the Earth and learn how you add your own voice through our website, social media, forums, meetings, and publications.
The Bare Minimum
THE AIM OF THE DECEMBER climate change conference in Poland, known as the Conference of Parties 24 (or COP24), was to define an implementation ‘Rulebook’ for the Paris Agreement. After two weeks of exhausting, if not ‘fierce’ negotiations, how did it all go? It depends on whom you talk to.
A Quaker Youth’s Journey in Climate Activism
AS A 15-YEAR OLD QUAKER, I am accustomed to silence. I understand it is not empty; it can hold profound power. I have felt my spirit resonate in the silence of my Quaker community, but silence has recently taken me outside the meetinghouse to the steps of the Maryland State House. This time, I am hoping my silence will open the way for spirit to move others, specifically the legislators who will be considering the Healthy Green Amendment to the Maryland State Constitution.
The Global Climate Action Summit From the Row behind the VIP Section
“OUR PLANET IS NOT for sale! Our air and water are not for sale! Our land is not for sale!” This chant rose from the audience as Michael Bloomberg took the stage at the Global Climate Action Summit (GCAS) held in San Francisco, September 13 & 14, 2018. Behind him was a colorful moving background, music and an announcer’s voice characteristic of the Academy Award show. Bloomberg, a co-chair of the GCAS, watched as several people raised a large banner and started the chant.