In October 2007, 25,000 of India's poorest people walked 340km to New Delhi, in a campaign for better land rights. The march was organised by Ekta Parishad, a community organisation based on Gandhian principles of peace and non-violent action. It was not easy: people walked barefoot on hot tarmac, and they had to collect grain for months beforehand so that their families could cope in their absence. But it worked - the Indian government listened, and is responding to their concerns.

The work continues in many parts of South Asia, with Quaker support. I wanted to highlight the links my own area has with the origins of Quakerism, with traditions of pro-poor activity, and with Gandhi himself. So for six days in late August I walked around Pendle Hill Area Meeting, covering about 100 miles and taking in key points such as the summit of Pendle Hill, the places Gandhi visited in Darwen, the original store of the Rochdale Pioneers and the Fair Trade sculpture in Bolton Meeting House garden.

It has been an unforgettable experience of the beauty of the area and the kindness and generosity of all the people who have helped and supported me.  It has also been a deep reminder of the importance of holding fast to our traditions, because the search for the right way, which sets economics in the context of spiritual truth and justice, is as important as ever.

For more information please look at the Ekta Parishad website, www.ektaparishad.org, and also the Spring edition of Quaker News, which you can read at www.quaker.org.uk/qn.

Please continue to sponsor me in support of Quaker work for peace and justice in South Asia. You can donate easily and securely on this page, or send a cheque to Friends House payable to Britain Yearly Meeting, and earmarked "Margaret Johnston - South Asia".

With thanks and best wishes,

Margaret