UPCOMING EVENTS - NFM MINISTRY ON RACISM

August 2, 11am CT  AFSC Action Hour for a Cease Fire in Gaza.  There will be a special guest.  Link here:  AFSC Action Hour for Ceasefire – registration required

August 3,  7pm, Misseo Dei Church, 931 W Wilson.  Palestinian Christian leader Rev. Dr. Munther Issac, a teacher and pastor in Bethlehem and leading voice in Palestinian liberation theology, the Sabeel center, nonviolent resistance, reconciliation and criticism of  "Christian Zionism"

Sunday August 11, 12pm: Second Hour: March on the DNC Information and Art Session - Join Ministry on Racism Committee for an information and art session during Second Hour following Meeting for Worship! Make signs and posters while learning about the upcoming March for Palestine. You'll learn details about participating, hear Friends' personal stories, and have a chance to spend time in community together. All are welcome. 

August 12,  7:00 - 8:00pm   Monthly Meeting for Worship with a Concern for Healing in Israel & Palestine.   Location:  Downers Grove Virtual Meeting House    Sponsored by: Illinois Yearly Meeting Peace Resources and Racial Equity and Education Committee

August 15, 7pm.    ILYM Anti-Racism Cafe,   There will be an opportunity to view together the heartrending documentary  The Night Won't End.  The film shows the devastating shows the devastating stories of three Palestinian families during the U.S. and Israel's ongoing genocide.      Anti-Racism Cafe Zoom link; Meeting ID: 827 0319 9934, Passcode: 161204.

August 19, 12pm - March for Palestine on the DNC (Day 1). Union Park 1501 W. Randolph St
August 22, 5pm - March for Palestine on the DNC (Day 4). Union Park 1501 W. Randolph St

September 9, 6:30-8:00pm CT.  Stephen G. Cary Memorial Lecture 2024:  Light Within and Light Without--The Personal and Political in the Formation of a Palestinian-American Quaker Identity.  Steve Tamari, Emeritus Professor of Middle East and Islamic History at So Illinois University Edwardsville.  Free and open to the public, registration required. In-person registration is limited.  Pendle Hill's annual Stephen G. Cary Memorial Lecture will be streamed live and available as a recording on our YouTube channel, Pendle Hill USA.  Register at Pendle Hill website to receive the Zoom link. 

September 15, 7pm  ILYM Anti-Racism Cafe.  Presentation:  "Finding Our Footing: A Teach-in On Anti-Zionism, Anti-Semitism and Collective Liberation"  Presented by Jewish Voice for Peace.  This presentation will provide historically informed definitions on Zionism, Anti-Semitism, and Philo-Semitism, as well as the un-definability of Jewishness. The goal is to show how these terms constrain and instrumentalize Jewishness towards destructive ends, synergizing in the Israeli nation-state project. As Zionism depends on blurry definitions on Jewishness and Anti-Semitism, we aim to disambiguate this confusion to empower allies to take action.   Anti-Racism Cafe Zoom link; Meeting ID: 827 0319 9934, Passcode: 161204.

September 16th 6pm CT.   Quaker Earthcare Witness.  Tom Kunesh.  “Pushing Universalism--decentering humanity, centering nature and expanding our ideas of personhood.”  Register at Quakerearthcare.org/event/pushing-universalism

JUSTICE & SERVICE UPDATE

Updates and opportunities to join in Northside’s social witness and community service activities:

American Friends Service Committee (AFSC)

Every Fri 11:00 am:  Action Hour for a Ceasefire Now.  Online.

Join AFSC staff to hear weekly updates from Gaza. Then, take action together to contact our elected officials and call for an immediate cease-fire and humanitarian access to Gaza. Pre-registration required. Additional resources and action steps available at the link below.

To register: https://afsc.org/events/action-hour-cease-fire-now

Friends Committee on National Legislation (FCNL)

Tue 6/11: How We Can Engage in the 2024 Elections. Online

Join FCNL’s General Secretary Bridget Moix as she hosts a candid conversation with Dr. Barbara Williams Skinner about the valuable work of Faiths United to Save Democracy. LaVida Davis, FCNL’s Director of Strategic Advocacy, will share ways to plug in this election season.

To register: https://act.fcnl.org/survey/national-elections-call-6-11-24/

Thu 6/20: Intro to Advocacy. Online.

Join FCNL staff for an engaging and informative session on how you can effectively advocate for the issues that matter most to you. FCNL believes in the power of grassroots advocacy to bring about positive change, and is excited to share valuable insights and strategies.

More information: https://www.fcnl.org/events/may-intro-advocacy-fcnl

Illinois Yearly Meeting

Sat 6/15 7 pm:  Illinois Yearly Meeting Anti-Racism Cafe.  Online.

"Are you interested in connecting with other Friends in Illinois Yearly Meeting on anti-racism work? Then join in at the Anti-Racism Café. Each month the ILYM Ad Hoc Anti-Racism Committee will provide space both for Friends who want to share ideas for anti-racist activism, and for Friends who want to focus on the inward work of becoming anti-racist. This is an opportunity to learn about the experiences of Friends in other meetings, to share resources, and to come together in worship and fellowship to build a wider Quaker community."
More information:  https://ilym.org/ilym/anti-racism-cafe/ or contact Eva Hare.

JUSTICE AND SERVICE UPDATE

Updates and opportunities to join in Northside’s social witness and community service activities:

American Friends Service Committee (AFSC)

Every Fri 11:00 am:  Action Hour for a Creasefire Now.  Online.

Join AFSC staff to hear weekly updates from Gaza. Then, take action together to contact our elected officials and call for an immediate cease-fire and humanitarian access to Gaza. Pre-registration required.

To register: https://afsc.org/events/action-hour-cease-fire-now

Pendle Hill

Mon, 2/5, 6:30 pm:  Truth and Justice: The BlackQuaker Project Challenges Quakerism in the 21st Century. Online.

“If Quakers were so active in the Abolitionist movement, then why are there so few African American Friends today?” Dr. Harold D. Weaver Jr. (Hal), Founding Director of the BlackQuaker Project (BQP), seeks to answer this puzzling question and others pertaining to the Religious Society of Friends in relation to Friends of Color worldwide in the 21st century. He will utilize some of his ministry’s major activities to suggest a path forward for the Religious Society of Friends: putting the Quaker testimony of Justice at the forefront of modern Quakerism, healing historical injustices through a new model for Quakers, and responding to a new understanding of systemic violence through anti-violence, not merely non-violence. 

To register: https://pendlehill.org/learn/workshops-courses-events/event-registration-february-first-monday-lecture-02-05-24/

Illinois Yearly Meeting (ILYM)

Thu 2/15 7 pm:  Illinois Yearly Meeting Anti-Racism Cafe.  Online.

"Are you interested in connecting with other Friends in Illinois Yearly Meeting on anti-racism work? Then join in at the Anti-Racism Café. Each month the ILYM Ad Hoc Anti-Racism Committee will provide space both for Friends who want to share ideas for anti-racist activism, and for Friends who want to focus on the inward work of becoming anti-racist. This is an opportunity to learn about the experiences of Friends in other meetings, to share resources, and to come together in worship and fellowship to build a wider Quaker community."
More information:  https://ilym.org/ilym/anti-racism-cafe/ or contact Eva Hare.

Japanese American Service Committee

All month:  Request for moving volunteers.  4427 N Clark Street.

JASC is looking for volunteers to help with their impending move. Volunteer tasks include packing, sorting, organizing, dropping off items to donations, and moving support. JASC will work around your schedule and appreciates any support! They will also be accepting donations of cardboard boxes. 

More information: operations@jasc-chicago.org or call Tricia at 773-275-0097 x225. Sign up form is here.

Fri 2/23 6 pm:  Soup and Rice.  4427 N Clark Street.

February's Soup & Rice event will be the last one at Clark Street! Delicious soup made by volunteers, rice made by JASC staff, and a community meal with contributions at the door going to a neighborhood social service provider. Soup makers and setup volunteers sign up online by clicking here.

More information: Contact Jenn at JASC at 773-275-0097, ext. 228 or email her at jtrautvetter@jasc-chicago.org 

Friends Committee on National Legislation (FCNL)

Fri 3/1 - Registration Deadline for Spring Lobby Weekend. Washington DC,

Spring Lobby Weekend (3/16-19, 2024) is FCNL's four-day young adult conference that brings hundreds of people to Washington D.C. every year. The focus of the 2024 event will be urging Congress to pass legislation to establish a Truth and Healing Commission on Indian Boarding Schools (S.1723). This legislation marks a crucial step in addressing the harms caused to generations of Native families by the forced assimilation and family separation that occurred because of these boarding schools. 

More information: https://web.cvent.com/event/3ebcd4c3-1476-45b8-a447-c5002ac713bb/summary

JUSTICE AND SERVICE UPDATE

Updates and opportunities to join in NFM’s social witness and community service activities:

Pendle Hill

Mon 1/8 6:30 pm:  Addressing Patterns of Racial Wounding and Racial Justice in Quaker Communities.  Online.

Members of the Steering Committee of the Quaker Coalition for Uprooting Racism believed they had a responsibility to name the pain from patterns of white supremacy culture and racism that they have experienced, witnessed, and heard throughout the Religious Society of Friends and associated organizations. To that end, they created a guide with examples of harm and interventions towards racial justice. This guide, inspired by the work of Tema Okun and several Quaker institutions, points to the ways that they see white supremacy culture weaving its way into Quaker culture and suggests methods to disrupt it. In this lecture, Lauren Brownlee and Zenaida Peterson will share ways that the guide has been and can be used in Quaker communities.

To register: https://pendlehill.org/event-registration-january-first-monday-lecture-01-08-24/.

NFM Ministry on Racism Committee

Tue 1/9 7 pm:  Book Group Discussion.  Online.

NFM’s Ministry on Racism Committee has started a book group to read There There by Tommy Orange. The novel is this year's One Book, One Chicago title and the first book by a Native American author in the program's 22-year history. Login at the weekly NFM worship zoom link.

More information: Contact Erica Dix or Beth Burbank.

Friends General Conference (FGC)

Thu 1/11 7-8:30 pm.  God Is Within Her: Quakers Experience The Color Purple. Online. 

A powerful cultural touchstone of modern American literature, The Color Purple depicts the lives of African American women in early-twentieth-century rural Georgia. Friends General Conference has heard the call of The Color Purple once more and is offering a unique, interdisciplinary way of investigating the novel's themes as one community in many places.  In January's event, nova george will interview the original film’s Margaret Avery (Shug). Rashid Darden will then moderate a discussion about the novel’s themes, followed by a conversation about the reimagined musical film.

For more information: https://www.tfaforms.com/5094073

Illinois Yearly Meeting (ILYM)

Mon 1/15 7 pm:  Illinois Yearly Meeting Anti-Racism Cafe.  Online.

"Are you interested in connecting with other Friends in Illinois Yearly Meeting on anti-racism work? Then join in at the Anti-Racism Café. Each month the ILYM Ad Hoc Anti-Racism Committee will provide space both for Friends who want to share ideas for anti-racist activism, and for Friends who want to focus on the inward work of becoming anti-racist. This is an opportunity to learn about the experiences of Friends in other meetings, to share resources, and to come together in worship and fellowship to build a wider Quaker community."
More information:  https://ilym.org/ilym/anti-racism-cafe/ or contact Eva Hare.

Japanese American Service Committee

Fri 1/19 6 pm:  Soup and Rice.  4427 N Clark Street.

The first Soup & Rice of 2024 will support the Ravenswood Community Services’ work assisting those facing food insecurity. Delicious soup made by volunteers, rice made by JASC staff, and a community meal for a good cause. What a great way to start the New Year! Soup makers and setup volunteers sign up online by clicking here.

More information: Contact Jenn at JASC at 773-275-0097, ext. 228 or email her at jtrautvetter@jasc-chicago.org

JUSTICE AND SERVICE UPDATE

Updates and opportunities to join in Northside Friends’ social witness and community service activities:

Friends Committee on National Legislation (FCNL)

Thu 12/7 7-8 pm CT - Intro to Advocacy.  Online.

Join FCNL for an interactive training session where staff will share inspiring stories from their grassroots network, conduct a short skills training, and answer participants’ questions. 

For more information and to register: https://www.fcnl.org/introtoadvocacy

Wed 12/13 5:30-6:30 CT - Quakers Uprooting Racism. Online.

Members of the Quaker Coalition for Uprooting Racism will share information about the coalition, their vision of a transforming Religious Society of Friends, and plans for the 2024 cohort of Quakers Uprooting Racism.

For more information and to register: https://www.fcnl.org/events/quakers-uprooting-racism

Tue 1/2/24 - Application Deadline for Program Assistant Fellowship. Washington DC,

Chosen applicants will work as full-time staff members of FCNL from September 2024 through July 2025, collaborating with key staff members to build expertise in advocacy from a public interest perspective. Benefits include salary, health care, paid vacation, and sick leave.

For more information: https://apply.workable.com/friendscommittee/j/D421C3F078/

Friends General Conference (FGC)

Thu 12/14 7-8:30 pm.  God Is Within Her: Quakers Experience The Color Purple. Online. 

A powerful cultural touchstone of modern American literature, The Color Purple depicts the lives of African American women in early-twentieth-century rural Georgia. Friends General Conference is offering a unique, interdisciplinary way of investigating the novel's themes as one community in many places.  In December's event, theologian and FGC staffmember nova george will lead a conversation about themes raised in the novel and film.

For more information: https://www.fgcquaker.org/event/the-color-purple-with-nova/

Illinois Yearly Meeting (ILYM)

Fri 12/15 7 pm - Illinois Yearly Meeting Anti-Racism Cafe.  Online.

In December, Friends will discuss the 1st 100 pages of Tommy Orange’s book There There.
"Are you interested in connecting with other Friends in Illinois Yearly Meeting on anti-racism work? Then join in at the Anti-Racism Café. Each month the ILYM Ad Hoc Anti-Racism Committee will provide space both for Friends who want to share ideas for anti-racist activism, and for Friends who want to focus on the inward work of becoming anti-racist. This is an opportunity to learn about the experiences of Friends in other meetings, to share resources, and to come together in worship and fellowship to build a wider Quaker community."

More information:  https://ilym.org/ilym/anti-racism-cafe/ or contact Eva Hare.

NFM Ministry on Racism Committee

Fri 12/15 7 pm:  Book Group Discussion.  Online.

NFM’s Ministry on Racism Committee has started a book group to read There There by Tommy Orange. The novel is this year's One Book, One Chicago title and the first book by a Native American author in the program's 22-year history. See login details above.

GREETINGS FROM YOUR NEW CLERK

Hello! I wanted to provide an update on my clerkship as well as a little about myself. I realize that although I am a very open person I am also a very quiet person and thought it would be helpful to write a little bit about myself and my journey as I come into the clerking role. Writing is my best form of self-expression!

I’ll start with the most recent update: The meeting has graciously enabled me to travel to Pendle Hill for a clerking workshop on the weekend of November 17th, which I am sure will be immensely helpful to me. I hope I will learn to slow things down to let spirit lead the way, which can be a challenge for me as my brain is always moving a mile a minute.

My journey with Northside Friends began in 2017. I was fresh out of college and looking for a community that aligned with my values, and I found that more easily than I could have ever anticipated when I walked in the door at Northside. I appreciated the spirit-led business meetings and worship sharing at second hours the most, and quickly became involved in Second Hour Committee, which was my first experience with Committee work as well as clerking. I was also part of several long pieces of work around the creation of a new website and a new “Who We Are” statement for the meeting.

I became a member of the meeting somewhere in the haze of the pandemic. My clearness committee for membership was one of the final in-person events that I did before everything shut down. Although I was challenged by online worship, as were many Friends, I stayed closely connected through committee work.

I grew up in Naperville, a west suburb of Chicago, with three younger siblings with whom I am still close. I was raised Catholic and have always connected with the mystical aspects of the faith. When I left the Catholic Church and was searching for a new spiritual home, I took an online quiz to determine what religious organization aligns with my beliefs and who I am as a person, and that quiz result led me to visit Northside. From the first time I came to Meeting for Worship, I knew it was the right place for me.

Somehow, it has already been 10 years since I moved to Chicago. I live in Edgewater with my husband, Dylan, whose support in my spiritual journey and personal growth has been invaluable. We were married in March of 2023, which coincides with both of our birthdays. In my free time I write fiction, play video games and tabletop games, and ride my bike. I also have a variety of birds, including a cockatiel, a parakeet, and a number of button quail, all of whom keep me busy and entertained.

As I have grown in my Quaker life, I have long been attracted to clerking. I love Meeting for Worship with Attention to Business and feel called to be involved in those meetings in a regular way. After a busy few years with grad school and wedding planning, life has finally calmed down enough for me to come to clearness around this calling. I am very grateful to Friends for entrusting me with this role.

Faithfully,

ERICA DIX CHENG

JUSTICE & SERVICE UPDATE

Updates and opportunities to join in NFM’s social witness and community service activities:

Illinois Yearly Meeting (ILYM)

Thu 11/2, 7-8:30 pm:  ILYM & FCNL Advocacy Teams Info & Action Session. Online.

Join FCNL’s fast-growing national network of advocates taking collective action to advance peace in federal policy. Advocacy Teams Organizer Mwandeyi Kamwendo will discuss the power of constituent lobbying and how FCNL Advocacy Teams are bringing the conversation to Congress along with Regional Anchor Pamela Minden and Quaker Engagement Program Manager Bobby Trice. Are you ready to learn how you can drive change in Congress? Come discover how you can join or start your own local team with FCNL support, learn what Quaker advocates in your region are doing, and join the movement.

RSVP/register: https://act.fcnl.org/event/info-session-fcnl-advocacy-teams/3214/

Wed 11/15 6 or 7 pm:  Illinois Yearly Meeting Anti-Racism Cafe.  Online.

Starting at 6 pm, we’ll watch the “One Book, One Chicago” Keynote Event with Tommy Orange, author of There There. The Chicago Public Library is hosting the keynote author event live on CPL’s YouTube channel and CPL’s Facebook page. At 7 pm, following the public event, Friends can join our regular Anti-Racism Café Zoom for further discussion:
"Are you interested in connecting with other Friends in Illinois Yearly Meeting on anti-racism work? Then join in at the Anti-Racism Café. Each month the ILYM Ad Hoc Anti-Racism Committee will provide space both for Friends who want to share ideas for anti-racist activism, and for Friends who want to focus on the inward work of becoming anti-racist. This is an opportunity to learn about the experiences of Friends in other meetings, to share resources, and to come together in worship and fellowship to build a wider Quaker community."
More information:  https://ilym.org/ilym/anti-racism-cafe/

Friends General Conference (FGC)

Thu 11/9 7-8:30 pm.  God Is Within Her: Quakers Experience The Color Purple. Online. 

A powerful cultural touchstone of modern American literature, Alice Walker’s novel The Color Purple depicts the lives of African American women in early-twentieth-century rural Georgia. Friends General Conference has heard the call of The Color Purple once more and is offering a unique, interdisciplinary way of investigating the novel's themes as one community in many places.  In a kickoff event, Quaker and novelist Rashid Darden will convene a discussion of the themes of The Color Purple and its relevance to spirituality. In addition, FGC’s website now features God Is Within Her: Quakers Experience The Color Purple, explaining the relevance of the book, the origins of the theme of the project, and special events and resources to help Friends navigate the text.  From The Color Purple syllabus to a list of selected Black women writers, FGC is proud to help Friends deepen their spirituality while building capacity for anti-racist practice.

For more information: https://www.fgcquaker.org/fgcresources/the-color-purple/

Japanese American Service Committee (JASC)

Sat 11/11 10 am - 4 pm:  Volunteer Opportunity - Holiday Delight & Komodo Matsui.  JASC, 4427 N Clark St.

Volunteers are requested to help the JASC community celebrate in the Clark Street building for one last time before they move to their new location. Unique vendors, cultural performances, and food favorites. 

For more information & to volunteer:  Sign up to volunteer here.

Fri 11/17 6-8 pm: Soup & Rice. JASC, 4427 N. Clark St.

Based on the idea of Soup & Bread community meals, JASC hosts a series of monthly gatherings each winter. Volunteer soup makers bring a crock pot of their favorite soup to share. JASC provides rice, bowls and spoons. Soup eaters donate, and all funds raised are given to a local nonprofit organization. November’s event will support Night Ministry.

To bring soup or to volunteer:  Contact Jenn Trautvetter, 773-275-0097, ext. 228 or jtrautvetter@jasc-chicago.org. You can fill out an online form to let Jenn know what you plan to bring or to volunteer by clicking here.

NFM Ministry on Racism Committee

Wed 11/15 6 pm:  Tommy Orange Event and Book Group Formation.  Online.

Ministry on Racism will be starting a fall book group to read There There by Tommy Orange. The novel is this year's One Book, One Chicago title and the first book by a Native American author in the program's 22-year history. We'll kick off the book group on November 15 at 6PM during a special session of ILYM's Anti-Racism Café where we'll share the livestream of Tommy Orange's keynote address for One Book, One Chicago (see ILYM item above). After the address, there will be time for discussion and planning for the book group. If you are interested in participating in book group, please get a copy of the book (and consider reading a few pages to get the flavor) by November 15.

For more information:  Contact Eva Hare

Action Request: Truth and Healing Commission on Indian Boarding Schools Policies Act.

Friends are asked to contact their US Senators and Representatives to pass the Truth and Healing Commission on Indian Boarding School Policies Act. The act would establish a federal commission that would conduct a full inquiry into the assimilative polices of U.S. Indian boarding schools. The bill currently (as of 9/29/2023) has passed out of committee in the Senate. The House version of the bill is waiting to be introduced. 

To learn more and take action: https://boardingschoolhealing.org/truthcommission/ and https://fcnl.quorum.us/campaign/44488/

Friends Committee on National Legislation (FCNL)

Wed-Sun 11/15-19:  FCNL Annual Meeting and Quaker Public Policy Institute.  Washington DC & Online.

At FCNL’s Annual Meeting, Friends from across the country will join in fellowship and worship to seek unity on important matters that affect us all. FCNL’s General Committee makes decisions about organizational priorities, bylaws, and budget for the coming year. Through the Quaker Public Policy Institute, hundreds of advocates will lobby their federal officials to advance just public policies. Friends can participate in the annual meeting virtually or in-person; lobbying visits are for in-person attendees only. Travel support is available from NFM.

For more information and to register: https://www.fcnl.org/events/annual-meeting-and-quaker-public-policy-institute

JUSTICE & SERVICE UPDATE

Updates and opportunities to join in Northside Friends’ social witness and community service activities:

Illinois Yearly Meeting (ILYM)
Sat 10/7, 9:30 am - 5 pm:  Illinois Yearly Meeting Workday.  McNabb, IL.

Work day will be held rain or shine. All are welcome! There will be a potluck lunch at Clear Creek House. Please bring some food and drink to share. There will be lots of work to do and many hands make light work, and also get all of it done. Tasks include grounds work, trimming bushes, cutting up branches of fallen trees, moving deadfall to the burn pile, painting the meetinghouse exterior doors and dining room walls, finishing repairs to the ramp, and floor repairs at the HS Bunkhouse. Bring tools, chain saws, trimmers and cloppers, painting gear, painting clothes, work gloves, etc.

RSVP requested but not required:  https://ilym.org/ilym/contact/

Sat 10/21, 9 am - 5 pm:  Illinois Yearly Meeting Continuing Committee.  Chicago Friends School, 1246 W Thorndale.

Northside Friends are hosting the fall sessions of ILYM Coordinating Committee, where the work of the Yearly Meeting will be conducted. Volunteers are needed in advance of the event and all day to support hospitality for visitors from 21 monthly meetings across 4 states.

For more information and to volunteer:  Contact Eva Hare

NFM Ministry on Racism Committee

Mon 10/16, 7-9 pm:  Quaker Indigenous Boarding Schools - A  Call for Research, Accountability and Healing.  Online.

As Fit for Freedom, Not for Friendship has been a wake-up call among Friends to explore our history and embeddedness in white supremacy culture, this Illinois Yearly Meeting (ILYM) Racial Equity and Education Committee workshop is an opportunity to look at Friends' history of participation in the genocidal policies of our country towards the First Nations peoples who lived on this land as we colonized it. NFM’s Ministry on Racism Committee encourages Northsiders to attend this important virtual workshop offered by Paula Palmer for members and attenders of ILYM Meetings. Paula is one of the coordinators of Toward Right Relationship with Native Peoples (a program of Friends Peace Teams).  Pre-registration not necessary.

Zoom link at ILYM website:  https://ilym.org/ilym/events/indigenous-boarding-school-workshop/
*There will ne no ILYM Anti-Racism Cafe in October; regular programming resumes in November*

Sun 10/29, 12:30-1:30 pm:  Reflections on Quaker Indigenous Boarding Schools.  Hybrid.

Northside Friends will gather for a Second Hour to reflect on the Religious Society of Friends’ participation in our government’s genocidal policies.  This is important work as Friends explore and acknowledge our history of participation and think about what our responsibility is now. 

For more information: Contact NFM Ministry on Racism Committee

Friends Committee on National Legislation (FCNL)

Sun-Tue 10/15-17:  Friends Place Fly-In on Migration Justice. Washington DC.

Illinois Friends are particularly invited to participate in this opportunity to expand their skills in community building, organizing, and leadership, learn about congressional advocacy, and impact federal migration policy. With support from FCNL’s policy experts, participants will lobby Congress to invest in a just migration response, strategize with fellow attendees on future campaign planning, and leave with tangible next steps for continuing organizing in their home communities. Programming and overnight lodging will be provided at Friends Place on Capitol Hill. Travel support is available from NFM.

For more information and to register: https://www.fcnl.org/events/friends-place-fly

Wed-Sun 11/15-19:  FCNL Annual Meeting and Quaker Public Policy Institute.  Washington DC & Online.

At FCNL’s Annual Meeting, Friends from across the country will join in fellowship and worship to seek unity on important matters that affect us all. FCNL’s General Committee makes decisions about organizational priorities, bylaws, and budget for the coming year. Through the Quaker Public Policy Institute, hundreds of advocates will lobby their federal officials to advance just public policies. Friends can participate in the annual meeting virtually or in-person; lobbying visits are for in-person attendees only. Travel support is available from NFM.

For more information and to register: https://www.fcnl.org/events/annual-meeting-and-quaker-public-policy-institute

Japanese American Service Committee (JASC)

Fri 10/20 6-8 pm: Soup & Rice. JASC, 4427 N. Clark St.

Based on the idea of Soup & Bread community meals, JASC hosts a series of monthly gatherings each winter. Volunteer soup makers bring a crock pot of their favorite soup to share. JASC provides rice, bowls and spoons. Soup eaters donate, and all funds raised are given to a local nonprofit organization. October’s event will support Nourishing Hope.

To bring soup or to volunteer:  Contact Jenn Trautvetter, 773-275-0097, ext. 228 or jtrautvetter@jasc-chicago.org. You can fill out an online form to let Jenn know what you plan to bring or to volunteer by clicking here.

Sat 11/11 10 am - 4 pm:  Volunteer Opportunity - Holiday Delight & Komodo Matsui.  JASC, 4427 N Clark St.

Volunteers are requested to help the JASC community celebrate in the Clark Street building for one last time before they moves to their new location. Unique vendors, cultural performances, and food favorites. 

For more information & to volunteer:  Email Jenn (events@jasc-chicago.org) your name and contact information or call her at the JASC office (773) 275-0097 et. 228.

JUSTICE & SERVICE UPDATES

Updates and opportunities to join in NFM’s social witness and community service activities:

Illinois Yearly Meeting (ILYM)

Fri 9/15:  Illinois Yearly Meeting Anti-Racism Cafe.  Online.

This online discussion takes place on the 15th of each month from 7-8:30 pm.
"Are you interested in connecting with other Friends in Illinois Yearly Meeting on anti-racism work? Then join in at the Anti-Racism Café. Each month the ILYM Ad Hoc Anti-Racism Committee will provide space both for Friends who want to share ideas for anti-racist activism, and for Friends who want to focus on the inward work of becoming anti-racist. This is an opportunity to learn about the experiences of Friends in other meetings, to share resources, and to come together in worship and fellowship to build a wider Quaker community."
More information:  https://ilym.org/ilym/anti-racism-cafe/

Friends Committee on National Legislation (FCNL)

Thu 9/7, 7 pm CT:  Intro to Advocacy with FCNL.  Online.

Join FCNL for an engaging and informative session on how you can effectively advocate for the issues that matter most to you. FCNL believes in the power of grassroots advocacy to bring about positive change, and will share their insights and strategies.

For more information and to register: https://act.fcnl.org/event/intro_to_advocacy/3208

Sun-Tue 10/15-17:  Friends Place Fly-In on Migration Justice. Washington DC.

Illinois Friends are particularly invited to participate in this opportunity to expand their skills in community building, organizing, and leadership, learn about congressional advocacy, and impact federal migration policy. With support from FCNL’s policy experts, participants will lobby Congress to invest in a just migration response, strategize with fellow attendees on future campaign planning, and leave with tangible next steps for continuing organizing in their home communities. Programming and overnight lodging will be provided at Friends Place on Capitol Hill. Travel support is available from NFM.

For more information and to register: https://www.fcnl.org/events/friends-place-fly

Wed-Sun 11/15-19:  FCNL Annual Meeting and Quaker Public Policy Institute.  Washington DC & Online.

At FCNL’s Annual Meeting, Friends from across the country will join in fellowship and worship to seek unity on important matters that affect us all. FCNL’s General Committee makes decisions about organizational priorities, bylaws, and budget for the coming year. Through the Quaker Public Policy Institute, hundreds of advocates will lobby their federal officials to advance just public policies. Friends can participate in the annual meeting virtually or in-person; lobbying visits are for in-person attendees only. Travel support is available from NFM.

For more information and to register: https://www.fcnl.org/events/annual-meeting-and-quaker-public-policy-institute

JUSTICE & SERVICE UPDATES

Updates and opportunities to join in NFM’s social witness and community service activities:

Friends Committee on National Legislation (FCNL)

Tue 8/1, 7 pm CT:  Strategy Call on Advocacy During August Recess.  Online.

Every member of Congress will be home for August recess. FCNL invites Friends to join a call "to talk strategy and connect with other people who are engaging in advocacy during the August Congressional recess. We will be joined by a special guest speaker, Philip Kim, senior advisor for the White House Office of Public Engagement. Philip will share how advocacy, especially from a faith perspective, can have a real impact in advancing change in Washington, D.C."

For more information and to register: https://act.fcnl.org/event/congressional-recess-events/3177

Northside Friends Meeting Ministry on Racism Committee

Thu 8/3, 6 pm:  Youth theater production on Bessie Coleman.  South Shore Cultural Center, 7059 S South Shore Dr.  Free.

Bessie Coleman was an early American civil aviator. She was the first African-American woman and first Native American to hold a pilot license. This free theater production is part of South Shore Cultural Center’s summer youth program, and will be performed for one night only. This is the second in a series of "community-building immersion events” that NFM Ministry on Racism Committee is covening, a "chance to spend time together this summer and get us collectively exploring parts of our Uptown and Chicago communities that not all of us are familiar with." 

More information or to RSVP:  Contact Beth Burbank

Illinois Yearly Meeting (ILYM)

Tue 8/15:  Illinois Yearly Meeting Anti-Racism Cafe.  Online.

This online discussion takes place on the 15th of each month from 7-8:30 pm.
"Are you interested in connecting with other Friends in Illinois Yearly Meeting on anti-racism work? Then join in at the Anti-Racism Café. Each month the ILYM Ad Hoc Anti-Racism Committee will provide space both for Friends who want to share ideas for anti-racist activism, and for Friends who want to focus on the inward work of becoming anti-racist. This is an opportunity to learn about the experiences of Friends in other meetings, to share resources, and to come together in worship and fellowship to build a wider Quaker community."

More information:  https://ilym.org/ilym/anti-racism-cafe/

Friends General Conference (FGC)

Community of Practice Program: Quaker Coalition for Uprooting Racism.  Hybrid.

>>2024 Cohort Application Deadline 8/30<<

This collaborative effort by FGC, FCNL, Pendle Hill, the American Friends Service Committee, Friends Council on Education, Quaker Voluntary Service, and individual Friends is intended to "move the Religious Society of Friends forward in becoming a fully transforming, co-creative community which understands that dismantling white supremacy and creating beloved community is an elemental aspect of our faith.” The next community cohort will take place January-September 2024.

More information:  https://www.fgcquaker.org/fgcprograms/ministry-on-racism/qcur/

JUSTICE & SERVICE UPDATES

Updates and opportunities to join in NFM’s social witness and community service activities:

Illinois Yearly Meeting (ILYM)

Sat 6/15:  Illinois Yearly Meeting Anti-Racism Cafe.  Online.

This online discussion takes place on the 15th of each month from 7-8:30 pm.
"Are you interested in connecting with other Friends in Illinois Yearly Meeting on anti-racism work? Then join in at the Anti-Racism Café. Each month the ILYM Ad Hoc Anti-Racism Committee will provide space both for Friends who want to share ideas for anti-racist activism, and for Friends who want to focus on the inward work of becoming anti-racist. This is an opportunity to learn about the experiences of Friends in other meetings, to share resources, and to come together in worship and fellowship to build a wider Quaker community."

More information:  https://ilym.org/ilym/anti-racism-cafe/

Friends Committee on National Legislation (FCNL)

Action Alert on Gun Violence.  Online.

FCNL urges Friends to encourage their representatives in Congress to dedicate funding to violence interruption programs to address gun violence: "Traditionally, cities have responded to community-level violence by increasing the presence of a militarized police force. This solution has repeatedly failed, with sometimes fatal consequences. Violence interrupters work within their communities to de-escalate violence before it happens, reducing the need for police intervention. These evidence-based programs are tailored to the unique needs of the neighborhoods they serve and lay the groundwork for lasting communal change."

More information: https://fcnl.quorum.us/campaign/44195/

Friends General Conference (FGC)

Community of Practice Program: Quaker Coalition for Uprooting Racism.  Hybrid.

This collaborative effort by FGC, FCNL, Pendle Hill, the American Friends Service Committee, Friends Council on Education, Quaker Voluntary Service, and individual Friends is intended to "move the Religious Society of Friends forward in becoming a fully transforming, co-creative community which understands that dismantling white supremacy and creating beloved community is an elemental aspect of our faith.” The next community cohort will take place January-September 2024; see link below to sign up for updates.

More information:  https://www.fgcquaker.org/fgcprograms/ministry-on-racism/qcur/

Justice & Service Updates

Updates and opportunities to join in Northside Friends’ social witness and community service activities:

Pendle Hill

Fri-Tue 6/2-6 4-6 pm: Young Friends (18-35) Conference - Continuing Revolution.  In-person in Wallingford PA or online; $20 for online registration.
"Join young adult Friends and seekers (ages 18-35) gathering both online and at Pendle Hill to build community with others exploring abolition of police and policing. Building on themes and feedback from Continuing Revolution
2022: Experiments in Spiritually Grounded Abolition, we will focus this year on the relationship between individual and structural transformation. We will explore together definitions and practices of structural change, building skills for positioning ourselves in that work in our respective communities. Workshops will feature folks from Freedom Side School, the Youth Art & Self-empowerment Project, AFSC, and more. K. Melchor Quick Hall will be presenting a keynote address on the evening of June 5th, which will also be available to watch as June's First Monday Lecture." 
Register here: https://pendlehill.org/events/continuing-revolution-2023-nurturing-experiments-in-spiritually-grounded-abolition/?bblinkid=269779115&bbemailid=47707589&bbejrid=-1588875325


Illinois Yearly Meeting (ILYM)

Thu 6/15:  Illinois Yearly Meeting Anti-Racism Cafe.  Online.
This online discussion takes place on the 15th of each month from 7-8:30 pm.
"Are you interested in connecting with other Friends in Illinois Yearly Meeting on anti-racism work? Then join in at the Anti-Racism Café. Each month the ILYM Ad Hoc Anti-Racism Committee will provide space both for Friends who want to share ideas for anti-racist activism, and for Friends who want to focus on the inward work of becoming anti-racist. This is an opportunity to learn about the experiences of Friends in other meetings, to share resources, and to come together in worship and fellowship to build a wider Quaker community."
More information:  https://ilym.org/ilym/anti-racism-cafe/

Sat-Wed 6/17-21 and Sun 6/25: Site Prep and Clean Up for ILYM Annual Sessions.  ILYM Campus, McNabb, IL
Site Prep begins Saturday, June 17, and concludes after lunch on Wednesday, June 21 (you can arrive in the evening of Friday, June 16). On Sunday, June 25, after the conclusion of the sessions, please plan to stay an hour or two after lunch and help with clean up.  

If you plan to attend, please contact Steve Tamari at steve.tamari@gmail.com. Please let Steve know your expected days of attendance, your housing plans (tent, cabin, hotel, or Clear Creek House), first and last meals, and any dietary restrictions.

Wed-Sun 6/21-25: Annual Session AV Volunteers. ILYM Campus, McNabb, IL. 
To enable a well-functioning hybrid Annual Sessions (June 21-25), people are needed during morning worship, business sessions, and evening programs to:
* Run the microphones - take a microphone to someone in the meetingroom who has been recognized to speak. Brief information will be give beforehand on what to do, no special background or experience needed.
* Serve as an A/V controller - switches between camera views, zooms the camera, and adjusts microphone volume levels. Brief training and detailed instructions sheet for reference while doing will be provided. Modest skills needed to turn amplifier volume knobs and to operate a joystick to move and zoom the cameras. Eye-hand coordination helpful.
* Also there is a need for a couple of people to assist with equipment take down during clean-up at the end of Annual Sessions. Single shifts or multiple shifts can be done. 

You can sign up for these positions at Continuing Committee or any time BEFORE Annual Sessions by emailing clerk@ilym.org—the sooner the better.

JUSTICE & SERVICE UPDATES

Updates and opportunities to join in Northside FM’s social witness and community service activities:

Japanese American Service Committee

Thu 5/4 4-6 pm: Educator Event - Teaching the Japanese American WWII Experience.  Midwest Buddhist Temple, 435 W Menomonee St. Free.

JASC and other community co-sponsors invite teachers, administrators, and stakeholders to learn about the Japanese American WWII camp and military experience. There will be a panel of Japanese Americans who were children in the WRA incarceration sites, as well as a presentation of lessons, activities, and resources for classroom use. 

Register here; https://docs.google.com/forms/d/101DzohSrPuvA4mmkB_0_QJ0VJbyQMLZ-oijNJ7yc7CM/viewform?edit_requested=true

American Friends Service Committee

Thu 5/4, 5/11, 5/18, 5/25 7 pm:  Webinar series - Think Twice Before Calling the Police. Online. 

Many people have an understanding that police violence targets certain communities and want to avoid calling the police but don’t know what to do in case of an emergency.  This 4-part series will offer concrete skills and strategies to avoid calling law enforcement unless it is absolutely necessary. Register for all 4 sessions, and attend as many as you can. Recordings of all sessions will be available on the AFSC's website.

More information:  https://afsc.org/events/webinar-series-think-twice-calling-police and https://secure.afsc.org/a/take-our-think-twice-pledge

AFSC Petition Signatures Requested - Stop the Construction of Another Illinois Youth Prison.

The Final 5 Campaign is dedicated to the closure of the final five youth prisons in Illinois. The Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice (IDJJ) spends over $100 million per year to lock up youth rather than investing in their communities, and now the state plans to expand the youth prison system with the construction of a sixth youth prison (or “Illinois Youth Center” aka IYC)  in Lincoln, IL. The Final 5 Campaign demands that the state cease construction of IYC Lincoln and take steps to close all youth prisons in the state.  

More information: https://secure.afsc.org/a/stoplincoln

Illinois Yearly Meeting (ILYM)

Mon 5/15:  Illinois Yearly Meeting Anti-Racism Cafe.  Online.

This online discussion takes place on the 15th of each month from 7-8:30 pm.

"Are you interested in connecting with other Friends in Illinois Yearly Meeting on anti-racism work? Then join in at the Anti-Racism Café. Each month the ILYM Ad Hoc Anti-Racism Committee will provide space both for Friends who want to share ideas for anti-racist activism, and for Friends who want to focus on the inward work of becoming anti-racist. This is an opportunity to learn about the experiences of Friends in other meetings, to share resources, and to come together in worship and fellowship to build a wider Quaker community."

More information:  https://ilym.org/ilym/anti-racism-cafe/