Quakers in Britain Launch Online Diaries Highlighting Courage and Conscience During World War I

The Quakers in Britain have launched *The White Feather Diaries*, an online storytelling project that explores the courage of individuals who followed their conscience during World War I. The initiative, available from Monday, 26 October, features daily posts highlighting five Quakers whose lives were shaped by the horrors of the war and their commitment to peace. The project draws from original writings, photographs, and records to bring these stories to life.

Set in late 1915, the diaries reflect a time of growing threat from conscription and increasing censorship of opposition to war. Behind the scenes, Quakers worked tirelessly to advocate for the recognition of individual conscientious objection. The stories reveal the personal and moral struggles of those who chose peace over violence, even at great personal cost.

One of the featured figures is Hilda Clark, a doctor who cared for refugees in France and later established the Friends War Victims Relief Committee. Another is Howard Marten, who was sentenced to death for his beliefs. Laurence Cadbury, son of George Cadbury, ran ambulances near Ypres, saving lives without taking them. His brother, however, chose to enlist, illustrating the divided loyalties within families during the war.

The project takes its name from the white feathers handed to those who refused to enlist. Quakers were among the conscientious objectors, some of whom served in non-combat roles, others were imprisoned, tortured, ridiculed, or forced to become child soldiers. Many demonstrated that pacifism is not passive, but a courageous stance in the face of violence and injustice.

The storytelling project includes an interactive element, posing questions for readers to reflect on the dilemmas faced by the diarists. These questions draw parallels between the past and present, linking the experiences of World War I to modern concerns about peace and justice. The initiative underscores the ongoing commitment of Quakers to bring peace to volatile regions and within their own communities.

Today, Quakers continue their work in promoting peace, both globally and locally. *The White Feather Diaries* serves as a reminder of the moral courage required to stand for peace, even when it means facing persecution or personal sacrifice. The project highlights the enduring relevance of Quaker principles in a world still grappling with conflict and injustice.

Source: Read the original report