KVMM Marriage Equality Letter

Kickapoo Valley Monthly Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) supports the action of Minnesota voters who left the door open to provide same sex couples with the sanctity and benefits of marriage.

Quakers believe that there is that of God in all people.  In witnessing the truth of God’s love to the wider community, we cannot support any action that gives freedoms, rights, privileges or power to one group while excluding another.  This is unacceptable in any form, whether it is supporting slavery and segregation or denying voting, legal or civil rights to any group.   It is unacceptable for individuals to be denied rights and privileges that are provided by marriage merely because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Kickapoo Valley Monthly Meeting joyfully recognizes the diversity of sexual orientation within our religious and broader community.  We affirm the goodness of committed, loving relationships that endure, are unselfish, and that provide mutual support and tenderness.  We have and will continue to affirm equal status in marriage for all people.  We will follow the same careful process for all couples who wish to unite in marriage under our care.

On this issue, Kickapoo Valley Monthly Meeting is in unity with public statements made by our regional Quaker association that includes local Meetings from Wisconsin, Minnesota, and parts of Michigan, Iowa, and North Dakota.  Our commitment to egalitarian treatment of all couples has remained consistent and firm over three decades of consideration.

Kickapoo Valley Monthly Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends

Approved 2-24-13