History of Quakerism:

The Religious Society of Friends, also known as Quakers was founded in England in the 17th Century by George Fox (1624-1690). The early Quakers were prosecuted for the concept that there is “Something of God” in all people. Believing that there is “that of God” in everyone, early Quakers sought to treat all people with equal dignity, including women, people of color, the poor, and beyond. Quakers traveled throughout the world and came to the new World in the mid-17th century. Pennsylvania was founded in 1682 by William Penn, who was an early follower of the Quaker faith and based the state of Pennsylvania on Quaker principles found in the faith.

How many Quakers are there and where?

Quakerism has spread across the world with an estimate of 400,000 Quakers throughout Europe, Africa, North and South America, Asia, and Australia.

Quaker Activism:

At the beginning of their religion, Quakers have been guided by their beliefs known as -” testimonies”- of peace, equality, integrity, and simplicity. The belief that everyone is equal has put them at the forefront of social justice initiatives, such as the abolition movement, the women’s rights movement, to make education and healthcare available to all, prison reform, and more.

Today, Quakers and groups founded by Quakers, continue to work for social, political, economic, and environmental change as much as their ancestors did. Some of these groups include Earth Quaker Action Team, American Friends Service Committee, Friends Rehabilitation Program, and more!

To learn more about Quaker Activism, visit Arch Street Meeting House and view the exhibit “Outstanding Quakers: Then and Now” to discover how the Quaker tradition of social change is reflected in today’s Quaker community.