The Primary Function of a Religious Society
“[Bayard Rustin] confronted not only the oppressor on the outside but also the waffler on the inside. When word reached him on the road that his Quaker meeting in Manhattan was considering a proposal to provide hospitality and services to American military personnel, he fired back a firm response:
‘The primary function of a religious society is to “speak truth to power.” The truth is that war is wrong. It is then our duty to make war impossible first in us and then in society. To cooperate with government in building morale seems inconsistent with all we profess to believe… The greatest service that we can render the men in the armed forces is to maintain our peace testimony.'”
— John D’Emilio, 2003
Professor of history and gender studies
Bayard Rustin, 1942
Quaker civil rights activist
Today’s Invitation
Have courage to confront the oppressor on the outside as well as the waffler on the inside.
This Week’s Query
When have you spoken truth to power?
Were you following your inner guide? What were the consequences?
Banner image: Zan Lombardo
Read the source of today’s quote
