Dear SSFS Friends and Family,

On the heels of increasingly divisive discourse at home and abroad, the recent introduction of policies and laws targeting immigrant populations, and a nationwide uptick in instances of hate crimes, the Board felt moved to re-affirm the Quaker values that are at the core of Sandy Spring Friends School in support of all members of our community. The Board's Diversity, Community, and Spiritual Life Committee worked together to develop the following minute, which was approved by the SSFS Board of Trustees on April 11, 2017:

At Sandy Spring Friends School, we recognize that at the core of Quaker values is the belief that each human being has "that of God" within; that truth-seeking and what Quakers call "continuing revelation" come from sharing multiple perspectives within a gathered community; and that we seek the peaceful resolution of conflict through a culture of respect for all. Quakers have a long history of standing firm in defense of these values and actively speaking truth to power when called upon to do so, especially in defense of the most vulnerable. It is in the spirit of our individual testimonies and the School's Quaker identity that the Sandy Spring Friends School Board of Trustees asserts that now, as ever:

At Sandy Spring Friends School, we affirm and cherish the inherent worth and dignity of each individual, and we stand in opposition to any discourse or initiative that seeks to demean and restrict others based on attributes of their personal identity. We stand in solidarity with the members of our community who are disrespected or discriminated against by any political rhetoric or policy. We actively seek a culture of respect, inclusivity, and equity, and within this culture embrace open dialogue and the celebration of diverse perspectives. In accordance with our values and the mission of the school, we will strive to promote the well-being and safety of all members of our community.

Yours in the Light,

Jodi Leeser
Clerk of the SSFS Board of Trustees