March 4

Today is the birthday of Jean O’Leary, in 1943. She began training as a nun in order to make a difference in the world, but left the convent to begin a career as a lesbian rights activist. She was instrumental in the creation of National Coming Out Day, and she highlighted the intersectionality of feminism and gay rights. She died in 2005. 

It is also the birthday of T.R.M. Howard, in 1908. He was an African-American physician, civil rights leader, and businessman who mentored several prominent civil rights leaders. He was also involved in the investigation of the murder of Emmett Till. He died in 1976.

Today also marks the death, in 1941, of German peace activist Ludwig Quidde, who stood up to the megalomania of Wilhelm II. 

Today is the feast day of Saint Casimir, a young prince of Poland who died in 1484 at the age of 25 and was renowned for his piety. He remains an important figure in Poland and Lithuania. 

Reflection: 

Regarding the Treaty of Versailles, Ludwig Quidde said:

Since we are witnessing the United States dismantling the relatively stable world order that was painstakingly created after World War II, I am mindful of Quidde’s words. The hope of many diplomats and peace-workers in the last century was that the United Nations and similar international cooperation could prevent another World War. Under this administration, we seem to be rolling the clock back to 19th-century levels of inequality and domination by oligarchs and Empires.

We need more O’Learys and more Howards. I believe liberation for people within countries is the surest way to peace between countries.

Prayer: God of Justice and Equity, may right relationships in our country lead to right relationships between countries. Until there are no more countries. Amen.