The History, Present, and Future of LGBTQIA+ People in Quakerism
2 April - 7 May 2025, Online
What led Quakers to solidarity with lesbian, gay, and bisexual people ahead of other religious groups in the twentieth century? Explore the history of Quaker support for gay rights and look at the present and future of Quaker acceptance of LGBTQ+ people.
Quakers in the liberal unprogrammed tradition historically made many extraordinary contributions to the advancement of rights and legal protections for lesbian, gay, and bisexual people. Many Quaker communities have developed a culture that extends welcome, acceptance, and a sense of belonging for lesbian, gay, and bisexual people. And yet, Quaker communities have struggled for decades and continue to struggle with widening the canopy of inclusion and acceptance for the widest spectrum of gender and sexual minorities. For example, conversations among Friends about the inclusion and dignity of transgender and non-binary persons in Quaker congregations have been particularly painful for Friends in the U.S. and the U.K. in recent years.
Starting with history, and yet also involving an examination of Quaker theology, practice, and culture, this course will explore the fascinating history of Quaker commitments to LGBTQ+ justice and the limits of Quaker acceptance of LGBTQ+ people that persist into the present.
The live Zoom sessions take place every Wednesday at 19:00-20:30 (UK time).
More information
For more information contact:
Woodbrooke
Telephone: 0121 7282360