that each person in creation shares equal value and standing.
Quakers have long affirmed what the laws of our country have explicitly ruled - that none of the categories that make us distinctive as individuals shall stand in the way of our realizing our lives fully and freely. Women and men are equal. All races are equal. All people are free to choose whatever religion speaks to their needs. No one person shall be subject to another, nor in regard to spirit does any person hold rank above another. Because we believe that the Light shines in the early years of life and in the last, we value and respect youth and age equally with other stages of life.IMYM Faith and Practice page 53