Quakers Speak Out: Accompaniment and Testimony in a Time of Adversity

The following excerpt shows some of what goes on with Quakers. See the more complete report at Epistle from Quaker Trans Day of Visibility Gathering – Apr 23, 2026.

Epistle from Quaker Trans Day of Visibility Gathering

Accompaniment in a Time of Adversity

An Epistle from the Trans Day of Visibility Gathering at Swarthmore Friends Meeting and Swarthmore College in Pennsylvania and online on March 29, 2026, co-hosted by: Philadelphia Yearly Meeting, Baltimore Yearly Meeting, Swarthmore Friends Meeting, Swarthmore College Peace & Conflict Studies Department, Friends Journal, and Pendle Hill…

Our Testimony

From our beginnings, the Religious Society of Friends has known that there is the Light of God in every person. This truth calls us to live authentically, to see one another wholly, and to resist all that denies the Divine within. We, including transgender, nonbinary, genderfluid, and intersex Friends, carry this Light together and share it with the whole body. This witness, shared within our community, testifies to integrity and authenticity: living undivided in a world that demands conformity.

Many within our community face rejection, violence, and laws that deny dignity and safety, and all are diminished when any member is harmed. We are told that some of our lives are a controversy rather than a testimony. We reject this falsehood. These lives are not up for debate. When the Spirit moves, it often leads beyond what the world is ready to accept. Generations of Friends have known this. We knew and were faithful to it when Friends led on the role of women in faith communities. We are called to know it again. This work is our testimony.

“Hold fast the Hope that anchors the soul, which is sure and steadfast, that you may float above the world’s sea.”

H ol d f ast t h e H o pe t h at anch ors t h e s oul , wh i ch i s sure and
st ead f ast , t h at you ma y fl o at ab ove t h e worl d ’ s sea.”
– George Fox, Quaker

Dr. Jo Ann Lordahl is a lifelong author, poet, novelist, and speaker whose work explores empowerment, aging with grace, and the deep questions that define our lives. Her books and reflections — from historical fiction to meditations on creative living — encourage resilience, reflection, and positive transformation.

If this post stirs questions about moral courage, shared humanity, or the work of healing in hard times, consider exploring Dr. Lordahl’s writing — especially her essays and books on reflection and personal transformation. Her voice reminds us that even in upheaval, there is a path toward patience, insight, and compassionate action.