Last October, FCNL opened the Quaker Welcome Center (QWC) in an adjoining townhouse. Completely renovated as a green building, the center is a cozy event space for dialogue and the promotion of peace, justice, and environmental sustainability. It is a place where we train advocates and offer a time for silent reflection.
In June, the place bustled with many programs. The center is equipped with technology that promotes participation for our network across the country.
June 7: Peace in the Korean Peninsula
The National Council of Churches USA and FCNLhosted a one-hour worship gathering before the Singapore Summit between the U.S. and North Korea. A similar worship gathering was held in Seoul by the National Council of Churches in Korea (NCCK).
“Peace does not spring easily,” wrote Rev. Dr. Lee Hong Jung of the NCCK. “Thus, we desperately hope to overcome the barriers of ideology and distrust, and that this opportunity we have received once again may open the path of trust and peaceful coexistence flowing toward the stream of life, justice, and peace.”
June 20: Creating a More Tolerant Future
Kate Weckesser English spoke about faith and action. An award-winning public school teacher, English is also the executive director of the Educator’s Institute for Human Rights.
She spoke about her work as a Quaker and as head of EIHR, which trains teachers in countries recovering from conflict in best practices on human rights, genocide prevention, and Holocaust education.
June 26: Racism in U.S. Foreign Policy
Salih Booker, executive director of the Center for International Policy, talked about dismantling racism and other biases in U.S. foreign policy.
These institutional biases directly contribute to global inequality and conflict as the U.S. seeks to maintain its military and economic superiority. Understanding these biases is critical in achieving a more just and peaceful world.
June 27: Movie Screening: “Elder Voices”
Academy Award-winning director David Goodman screened his film, “Elder Voices: Wisdom for Our Times.” The film tells the stories of Japanese-Americans, European Jews, and conscientious objectors who came of age during the Great Depression and World War II. It addresses the political storm clouds gathering today that uncomfortably mirror those of the past.
Friend in Washington Diana Roose hosted a conversation following the screening. To learn more about the film, visit Elder Voices Film.
You Are Always Welcome
When you come to D.C., please visit the Quaker Welcome Center for our public programs, advocacy training, or our time of silent reflection. The schedule of events is available at fcnl.org/events.
If you are unable to visit, but want to virtually attend our events, you can join us through a live stream on Facebook.