November Equity and Inclusion Spotlight: Interfaith
“I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it” – Voltaire.
This commitment to liberty and inclusion is the core of an interfaith community.
What does interfaith mean?
It is the act of respectful communication between people of different religious, spiritual, or ethical beliefs. An interfaith community is based on two core principles: shared ethical values and the acknowledged non-negotiable spiritual paths.
Why is it important?
Direct and open conversations avoid harmful assumptions and stereotypes. Reading about a religion from a news headline might fuel our bias and stereotypes against a group of people, but real-world engagement can transform a belief from an obscure concept into a concrete personal commitment. For example, witnessing your classmates praying for people they love or explaining the significance of candles during Hanukkah instantly brings their faith to life as a commitment that deserves respect.
Learning about other religions helps us learn ours better. When a student from a Christian background learns about the Jewish concept of Tikkun Olam (repairing the world) or the Islamic practice of Zakat (charity), they gain new perspectives to apply to their own commitments to service and social justice. Living in a society that requires unity, we need to focus on the shared goals to make the world a better home for all.
How can we build an interfaith community in Worcester Academy?
Simply ask these questions!
“What does that ritual mean to you?”
“How does your belief guide your life choices?”
“What’s your favorite quote from your religion’s sacred texts?”
“What is the biggest misunderstanding people usually have about your religion?”
The process of building an interfaith community is about identifying questions, raising questions, and solving questions together. The impact of building an interfaith community in Worcester Academy will never simply stay in 81 Providence Street. It will spread peace and respect to every community our Hilltoppers are a part of.