This week’s episode:

A group of Quakers sued the Department of Homeland Security. Find out why and what it could mean for faith communities everywhere. Episode details.


Welcome to Thee Quaker Podcast


Recent Episodes:

The “Quakers vs. ICE” Lawsuit

When the federal government rescinded a decades-old policy protecting houses of worship from immigration raids, a group of Quakers filed a lawsuit against the Department of Homeland Security. Their argument is uniquely Quaker: the threat of armed agents in their meeting houses creates a “chilling effect” that doesn’t just lower attendance, it fundamentally obstructs their ability to worship, a practice which requires the presence of a diverse community to hear the full expression of God. What happens when Quakers sue the government? What might be the unexpected ripple effects? And what does it mean for the future of religious freedom when standing by your principles lands you on the radar of a congressional committee?

How Trump Made Me A Quaker: Faithful Resistance with Daniel Hunter

In times of political upheaval, when institutions feel unreliable and the future uncertain, how do we resist authoritarianism without becoming what we oppose? Daniel Hunter, co-founder of “Choose Democracy” and seasoned organizer, shares how Trump’s second election unexpectedly led him to claim his Quaker identity and discover how ancient Quaker principles provide a roadmap for modern resistance. 

When Police Raid a Quaker Meeting House

A few months ago, twenty police officers smashed down the door of Westminster Quaker meetinghouse and arrested a handful of young activists as they sat eating hummus and breadsticks. This dramatic raid triggered a profound response from a faith community that hasn’t been the target of a similar action since the 17th century. When the very act of dissent is being criminalized, how do we stand up for what is right? How do we demand justice while leaving the door open for reconciliation? Can silence, solidarity, and a simple cup of tea challenge the aggression of the state?

Quaker Anger: Trans Rights and Spiritual Activism with Chloe Schwenke

Professor and activist Chloe Schwenke shares her journey as a transgender woman finding acceptance within her Quaker community while navigating increasing political attacks on trans rights. She explores the concept of “Quaker anger” as a spiritual response to injustice and calls for authentic action beyond just feeling stricken by current events. This conversation examines how faith communities can move from witnessing suffering to actively defending human dignity in times of crisis.

Beyond the Backlash: A Quaker Perspective on DEI with Niyonu Spann

As DEI Initiatives come under attack, we must move beyond surface-level diversity and allyship to embrace our fundamental interconnectedness and mutual thriving. Quakers, according to our guest Niyonu Spann, are uniquely situated to speak profound truth into this pivotal moment. Niyonu is a teacher, singer/songwriter, community activator, and the founder of Beyond Diversity 101. In this episode, she invites us to confront uncomfortable truths about power, to find harmony in dissonance like a jazz musician, and to embrace the profound Quaker practice of discernment in a world crying out for genuine connection and “fiery love.”
"Our Top 5 Episodes of the Year" - blurry images of podcast episode artwork

Our Top 5 Episodes of the Year

There were so many memorable moments in Season 2 of the podcast that we had to revisit a few for our final episode of 2024.

Thee Quaker Podcast

A Weekly Quaker Podcast for Seekers, Quakers, and Everyone in Between

Latest Comments

  1. It was an interesting story. I understand that England has different laws regarding free speech than does the US. However,…

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