More than a decade ago, Quakers in New England, individually and in groups, began a series of conversations with Indigenous people about the history of interactions between the Original inhabitants and European settlers, the current conditions among Native people, and the possibility of more just relations. These conversations, with the Abenaki in Maine and Vermont, and with the Wampanoag, in Massachusetts have been difficult but productive. The Gatherings: Reimagining Indigenous-Settler Relations, by Shirley Hager and Mawopiyane (Toronto: UTP, 2021) tells of one such effort with the Abenaki and Maliseet people of the Gulf of Maine.

In 2020, New England Yearly Meeting recognized the need for more focused and intentional work among the Quaker Meetings of the region to work towards right relationships with Indigenous people. The Right Relations Resource Group of the Yearly Meeting presented a draft Letter of Apology to Native Americans that was considered, amended, and sent to the member Monthly Meetings and Worship Groups.

The Apology to Native Americans was approved by the Yearly Meeting in August, 2021. New England Friends are in discussions with Native groups in the area about the most respectful and productive way to share the Apology with Indigenous people.