Quakers and the Law: The Annual CRQS/QSRA Quaker Studies Conference
Saturday 27 June 2026
10:00-17:00
Bristol Central Quaker Meeting House
This is the annual academic Quaker studies conference co-sponsored by the Centre for Research in Quaker Studies at Woodbrooke and the Quaker Studies Research Association. Come and hear the latest scholarship on this year’s theme, ‘Quakers and the Law’.
Throughout its history, the Religious Society of Friends has maintained a complex relationship with legal systems, grounded in their witness. From their refusal to swear oaths in court to their active participation in civil disobedience and social justice movements, Quakers have both challenged and influenced legal norms and practices. How have Quaker beliefs and practices come into conflict with or contributed to the development of legal systems? There is scope to explore a particular historical period, specific legal issues such as slavery, religious freedom, marriage, or conscientious objection and law-breaking, or broader issues such as the law of God or Gospel order. How have Quaker values shaped their interactions with the law? How have they used the legal system to promote social change? How have courts responded to Quaker legal resistance, and what legal challenges have Quakers faced?” What is ‘the law’ for Friends?
This day conference will explore a whole range of scholarly approaches to the topic.
For those attending in-person:
Refreshments will be provided but please bring a packed lunch.
Central Bristol Friends Meeting House is located within 2 minutes’ walk of the main shopping area. Tea and coffee will be available but please bring your own lunch.
For those organising to stay in Bristol the night before the conference, there will be the option of social time on the evening of 26 June.
This course will involve:
Speaker, Zoom Session
Accessibility info:
On the booking form, there is a chance for you to let us know about any accessibility or communication adjustments that will enable you to participate more fully in the course.
Automated Zoom closed captions are available for those joining by Zoom but if you feel you require more accurate closed captioning please email us directly in addition to booking.
Bristol Central meeting house, located at Champion Square, Bristol, BS2 9DB, is fully wheelchair accessible with accessible toilets. The meeting room has a hearing loop.
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