Meeting for worship (MFW) is not only a core part of Quakerism but also an essential role in emphasizing the values at Sidwell Friends. As described by Upper School chemistry teacher Dr. Laura Barrosse-Antle, “MFW is one of the spaces where we live out our testimony of equality, and all the adults and students are equal in their silence and in their messages.” Since late 2023, most messages spoken by students and teachers during MFW have been focused on current events, particularly controversial topics such as the Israel-Palestine conflict and other events in the Middle East. Meetings have increasingly developed into debates and space for sharing political opinions among both students and teachers.
Friends are welcome to stand and share ideas, thoughts or concerns when they feel moved to speak, usually related to the query. The meaning of being “called to speak” is questionable, as there is a fine line between listening to your mind and your heart. It is difficult to distinguish between thoughts coming from your mind versus your heart, especially as your mind usually tries to overtake or control your heart’s emotions and connection to your inner self. It is necessary, specifically during MFW, to engage with what your heart is attempting to communicate with you.
It is only natural that with everything going on in the world, students and faculty have questions and comments about what is appropriate to share during meetings. MFW is meant to be a time that brings together our community in shared silence, where everyone knows that they can reflect in a judgment-free zone. With this in mind, for some people, MFW is the most secure place to express the chaos or confusion going on in their minds. However, exploiting MFW’s original purpose of letting one’s light speak can completely change what the space means and its overall environment, further emphasizing the fact that political discussions should not breach these safe spaces of equality.
As political statements continue to be shared during MFW, there is a clear need for the Sidwell leadership team to provide an alternative space for students to speak their mind, express their political opinions and ask questions outside of MFW, as these controversial topics are triggering to some in the Sidwell community. Therefore, Sidwell faces a difficult choice. Either change MFW with secured non-controversial debates, or keep the essence of the school and find another space for these brave conversations to take place.
