Equality Testimony

There is a principle which is pure, placed in the human mind,
which in different places and ages hath had different names. It is, however,
pure and proceeds from God. It is deep and inward, confined to no forms
of religion nor excluded from any where the heart stands in perfect sincerity.
In whomsoever this takes root and grows, or what nation soever, they become
[brothers and sisters] in the best sense.
John Woolman, "Consideration on Keeping Negroes" Works (1774)

Friends believe that all people have the capacity to bear and respond to the
Light, and that all forms of human relations should reflect this spiritual truth.
Deeply concerned that every individual, as a child of God, be respected and
afforded equal access to social opportunities, Friends believe that we are called
to work toward an end to prejudice and oppression.

Equality, the earliest social testimony of Friends, led early Friends to eliminate
any behaviors that implied one person was superior to another. These included
the use of honorific titles, the distinctions of roles in home and community, and
"that honor", removing one's hat as a sign of deference. Even plain language
was adopted to avoid the 17th-century practice of distinguishing between classes
by the use of "you" or "thee" and "thou".

In seeking to apply this testimony, Friends have often been in the forefront of social change. Recognition of inherent human equality despite individual or group differences has often caused Friends to live and act contrary accepted societal norms, rejecting  stereotyping, discrimination, and artificial barriers that separate people from one another. Equality has been the foundation of Friends' approach to each other and the world.

We believe all are equally empowered by God and encourage all to speak for
themselves, expressing their own experiences and goals. We must speak the truth
to others as it is revealed to us, and we must listen for the truth that is in them, lest
we miss it. Understanding others' perspectives can change us and inform the
actions we take to work toward equality. In our continuing spiritual search, we are
open to revising our approach to social change as new insights arise.

We seek a world where laws and customs foster human dignity. We encourage
all people to realize their full potential as human beings bearing the light of God.