Below is a sample of what a young person might share with their meeting if they are applying to be a Conscientious Objector. This resource is part of a curriculum made for Quaker and Quaker-adjacent students who are opposed to war.

Dear Friends,

On _________ (date of your birthday), I will turn 18 years old and am required to register for the draft under the Selective Service code. On the registration form, I will indicate my status as a conscientious objector. Although the form does not ask for this information specifically, I need a record of my convictions. In this regard, I ask that two representatives of the meeting serve as witnesses to my testimony. I also request that the meeting keep a copy of this letter and my witnessed registration form as a permanent, secure record.

While my beliefs continue to crystallize, I can state the following as a basis of my current position.

  • I have a deep, firm, and fixed belief against personal participation to war in any form.
    (You should add a sentence or two explaining why.)
  • This conviction is based upon my moral, ethical and religious training and beliefs.
    (You are encouraged to add two or three sentences documenting the kind of training you received, especially within the Quaker community, meeting, and/or household.)
  • I sincerely feel . . .
    (Your claim must be sincere, not just a way to get out of the military. Write a few sentences to substantiate your sincerity, such as “I was not raised to harm others,” “No person has the right to take another’s life,” “I do not act violently towards others and am known among my friends for acting in this manner.” “I seek solutions that respect the rights of all others.”)

Please accept this letter and a copy of my Selective Service registration form as record of my convictions. I sincerely hope our country will pursue peaceful means to resolve conflict and that a military draft and war will not be necessary. In the meantime, I thank you for your willingness to stand with me in witness of my beliefs.

Sincerely,
[Name]

Last updated on December 19, 2025.

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