We rejoice in the progress our country has made in protecting the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. But we are alarmed at conditions in east Africa, where Uganda’s government recently instituted punitive laws that criminalized both homosexuality and all individuals aiding LGBT Ugandans.

Although this is far from us in central Maine, we are appalled at the rise of any government-sanctioned brutality. Recent events included denying basic rights, beating, imprisoning and killing not only to LGBT people, but people who might be LGBT and their families, friends and anyone aiding them.

In harmony with the historic testimony of the Society of Friends (Quakers) supporting equality of all before God and opposing discrimination and prejudice, we are moved to support the Friends New Underground Railroad project sponsored by the Seattle Meeting of Friends. This project assists Ugandans fleeing for their lives from the cruel perils of prejudice, just as the Underground Railroad in our own country’s history helped slaves escape to freedom. As of this month, this project has conducted 1,000 Ugandans to other safe nations.

We invite all people of good will to read further and make contributions as they feel moved directly at their website: friendsnewundergroundrailroad.org.

Holly Weidner, clerk

Vassalboro Friends Meeting

Vassalboro