NCFM Minute: Escalation in Iraq

Guided by the Light of our Quaker Peace Testimony, North Columbus Friends Meeting asserts that seeking peaceful resolution through nonviolent confrontation is always superior to aggressive measures.  We make this statement in response to the recent actions taken by the United States Government, in contravention of international law, that culminated in the assassination of Iranian Gen. Qassem Soleimani. Because North Columbus Friends Meeting is committed to only non-violent resolution of conflict, we condemn this murderous hostility and the escalation of conflict.
 
As we bear witness to the futility of war and reflect on the unconscionable suffering that violence inflicts on innocent life, we appeal to our elected representatives in Congress to renounce further escalation or hostile acts and to recognize warfare's dehumanizing toll on us all.
 
Breaking cycles of violence, standing as courageous peacemakers, and focusing resolution on the root causes of conflict, is the better way to serve both our country and humanity.

The minute above was approved at the North Columbus Friends Meeting for Worship with Attention to Business on January 12, 2020.