Thread by @Womans_Place_UK

We are sorry @NorwichQuakers are being criticised for hosting #WPUKNorwich last night. This statement from @BritishQuakers clearly supports the facilitation of dialogue and the exchange of diverse views. We applaud them. lookaside.fbsbx.com/file/qlcc-gend…

Here are some key extracts: "We affirm the right of women’s organisations to critique and explore the nature of gender identification and respect their right to freedom of speech..."

"... We recognise that some Friends will find such organisations supportive and of comfort and respect their right to make their case. We do not accept that the critique of transgender identities in the political sphere is necessarily transphobic..."

"...We affirm our welcome to such organisations to meet publicly or privately on Quaker premises. We will work with all such organisations to address any potential uses of hurtful language..."

"We affirm the right of organisations that support transgender individuals, and all exploring their gender identity, to all such activities in pursuit of this, and respect their right to freedom of speech..."

We recognise that some Friends will find such organisations supportive and of comfort and respect their right to make their case. We affirm our welcome to such organisations to meet publicly or privately on Quaker premises..."

"We will work with all such orgs to address any potential uses of hurtful language. As a Quaker community, we respect & uphold the self-expression of all members of and visitors to our community. We commit to using & respecting individuals’ current names & pronouns..."

"...We note that shared spaces such as toilets, changing and sleeping areas can cause anxieties and concerns for people. We believe that no-one should have to use shared spaces which do not feel comfortable to them..."

"In a context of systemic male violence, particularly towards women, we are especially minded to examine the potential adverse impact of any policy on women and girls and to make efforts to remedy this..."

"All Quaker premises and events ought to provide facilities which everyone feels safe and comfortable using. The usage of these facilities must be clearly defined and communicated and must offer choice for the individual."

We think this principled commitment to fostering democratic, respectful dialogue should be celebrated and adopted by all organisations who believe in equality and justice.