In a time when first amendment freedoms are under attack, our goal is to invite faith communities and concerned neighbors to stand in unity with migrants and all individuals who are being unfairly and unconstitutionally targeted by this administration, sending a clear message about our shared human rights. This three week walk will be punctuated by events and demonstrations building energy and momentum towards the arrival in Washington D.C. were we will deliver a historical petition called the Flushing Remonstrance to members of congress, along with a modern update based on the input of our partners and values above. 

The 1657 Flushing Remonstrance was a plea from the earliest European settlers of Flushing, Queens to the then Governor Peter Stuyvesant saying in the strongest language that their Quaker neighbors did not deserve the persecution they were subject to under Stuyvesant’s administration. This document is considered the direct precursor to the Bill of Rights, but is distinguished by the fact that it was sent by a group of 30 freeholders, many of whom were illiterate, who were simply moved by compassion for their Quaker neighbors. Our wish is to bring it forward as an example of how much everyone –but particularly Quakers– owe our first neighbors in the New World for this early declaration of compassion and tolerance, and the perennial importance of delivering this message to those in power.

As we march together, we are sounding a call to spiritual arms for the faithful, and for all those who believe in genuine freedom and equality.  We are re-affirming that the same rights are given to all of us by God, and reminding our government of their duty to protect them in all people. We will not betray the persecuted to a hostile government, nor let our faith be silent while the innocent are jailed for their opinions or their national origins. Such vindictive political suppression is not in the character of this free nation, and it stands at odds with the faith we share as Quakers and Christians.

At our historical roots Quakers are the Religious Society of Friends of the Truth.

And we hold these truths to be self-evident.