Two months ago I had never heard of the publication “Towards a Quaker View of Sex”. Then I saw an announcement that Keith Wedmore, one of the authors, would be speaking at a Duke Divinity School Class on the subject.
After a google or two I found the 43 page booklet “Towards a Quaker View of Sex”, published in 1964. You can find it at this link: http://leavesofgrass.org/vos/frontcover.html
This booklet emerged out of an decade long process of discernment engaged in by the eleven authors. They met for two-hour lunches twice a month until they had reached consensus. They then published their work and other Quakers began to discuss what the booklet presented.
Significantly ahead of its time, “Towards a Quaker View of Sex” presented the position that gender and sexual orientation were not important in determining sexual ethics or appropriateness – the quality of the relationship, the consideration for an other – were the only important measures for relationships.
After 20 years of conversation, the Quaker denomination took a position affirming Gay Rights in the mid-1980’s.
Sitting in a conference room with Keith Wedmore, ten Duke Divinity Students and a couple of Quakers was inspiring and informative.
Keith was the openly bi-sexual member of the discernment group. Now in his eighties, his energetic presentation of both the process and results of his group’s efforts was inspiring.
A supportive group of people, taking their time and acting with mutual trust and concern, came up with something that, made a positive difference in the world.
Margaret Mead said, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.”
Looks like she was right.
Chris Kaman says
This is a great example of how we must take the long term view when dealing with social problems. Real change takes time, thought, planning, dedication, and sometimes sacrifice.
Gretchen Niver says
Thanks for this. It’s hard to understand how caring, thoughtful people can not agree with this position.