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. Under the National Defense Authorization Act, as of December 2026, I will be automatically registered for the draft. I have spent time in discernment with ______ (list methods of discernment, such as a clearness committee or discussions with parents). Having decided that I want to register as a conscientious objector.
I am asking for two representatives of the meeting to serve as witnesses to my testimony. I also want the meeting to keep a copy of this letter 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.
(Add a sentence or two explaining why.) - This conviction is based upon my moral, ethical and religious training and beliefs.
(Add two or three sentences documenting the kind of training you received, including any discussions at First Day School or within the Quaker community.) - 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 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.
(If you have a request for the meeting, such as connecting to someone who is not your parents who can support you on this journey, or a request for prayer, this is a good place to add it.)
Sincerely,
[Name]
Last updated on June 10, 2026.