On this International Day of Peace, I ask you and your communities to reflect on those values as we listen to the heartbreaking accounts of the crisis unfolding for over 2 million Palestinians across the Middle East.
We are witnessing one of the worst humanitarian crises in the world as the Israeli government continues to restrict the access of food, fuel, and aid to Gaza. We reiterate our call for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in the region, echoed by Friends from across the nation.
But more needs to be done to bring peace. Today, urge your representative to act to restore funding for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees in the Near East (UNWRA). This UN agency has provided lifesaving aid since 1949 to Palestinian refugees. It serves not only refugees in Gaza, but also millions of Palestinians in Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, and the West Bank.
The U.S. is currently the only country withholding funding following the October 7 attacks in Israel. Just this week, Representatives Andre Carson (IN-7), Pramila Jayapal (WA-7), and Jan Schakowsky (IL-9) introduced legislation to reinstate UNWRA funding. This money would go directly to food, medicine, and other critical needs in Gaza right now.
As your community gathers for worship this weekend, please share this urgent call for congressional support and funding for UNWRA.
Thank you for your commitment to peace and justice. Together, we can make a difference.
 | In peace,Micah MacColl Nicholson Program Associate Quaker Engagement |
| This digital newsletter connects FCNL’s advocacy with the Quaker faith and practice that underpins all our work. We share resources and opportunities that individuals and communities can use to live their faith through action. Is your meeting or church receiving this newsletter? Please forward this email to your community or subscribe here. |
Actions and Opportunities for Friends
- Support a permanent ceasefire in Gaza using the Calling for a Ceasefire: Advocacy Toolkit.
- Join FCNL online every Wednesday at 5 p.m. ET for a period of silent worship and reflection. Register here or join at fcnl.org/ww-stream.
- Make sure you and the people you know are registered to vote!
Act with Your Friends Community
- Register now for FCNL’s Annual Meeting and Quaker Public Policy Institute on November 13 – 17
- Talk with Friends Place on Capitol Hill staff on October 1, 4-5:15 pm EDT about leading a trip to Washington D.C.
- Learn more about Nonviolence International’s Global Days of Remembrance and Action
FCNL and the Wider Quaker World
- Read Bridget Moix’s reflection on the International Day of Peace
- Learn more about UNWRA, the claims that stopped U.S. funding, and what the facts are
- Attend the discussion, Pacifism & Just War: Pathways to Peace, on September 25 by the Worldview Forum and William Penn University
unflinching 