‘Respect, equality, goodwill to all’ – Welsh Quakers make stand against extremists

Quakers in Swansea and Newport speak out for respect and diversity

by Alan Thomas 29th October 2009

Hearing that the so-called ‘Welsh Defence League’ (WDL) was going to hold an anti-Muslim protest on Saturday 17 October, Swansea Quakers got together with Swansea City of Sanctuary steering group and called for a silent vigil on the theme of ‘Respect, Equality, Goodwill to All’. We wanted to show that Swansea is a welcoming city where we celebrate the part played by everyone, including those of all religions and none. Swansea’s Meeting house is quite central and almost opposite the mosque, so we could provide a visible symbol of community support for freedom of religion and for Swansea’s Muslim community as a welcome part of our vibrant city.