The article reflects on the author's emotional return to a Quaker meeting and the sense of refuge it provides. It discusses the complicated relationship many queer individuals have with organized religion, especially within a historical context that includes both social justice efforts and oppressive actions. Focused on current events, the piece highlights Quakers' response to Trump's deportation policies, detailing a lawsuit against ICE's intrusion into worship spaces, underscoring the tension between religious freedoms and immigration practices.
Allowing armed government agents wearing ICE-emblazoned jackets to park outside a religious service and monitor who enters or to interrupt the service and drag a congregant out during the middle of worship is anathema to Quaker religious exercise.
The lawsuit noted that attending services is part of the Constitutionally protected right of religious freedom, but the threat of ICE raids deters congregants from attending services, especially members of immigrant communities.
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