The best way to get to know people of different backgrounds and faiths is to interact, speak with one another, and learn about what you share. A group of Muslim, Christian, and Jewish fourth graders did just that in Chicago, coming together over poetry, arts and crafts, and conversation. Activities included discussion about ways to practice charity and the children's favorite activities, celebrities, sports, and more. According to one event organizer, "We think it's important that kids are ...
New Poll Demonstrates the Importance of Interfaith Contact
A new study by the Public Religion Research Institute (PRRI) indicates that Americans who interact with Muslims hold more positive views of Muslims. This finding suggests that interfaith contact—the ability to meet and interact with people of different faiths—is essential for breaking down stereotypes and fighting bigotry. Read more (Public Religion Research Institute) ...
How New Friendships Changed a Man’s Mind about Muslims
After the 9/11 attacks, John Dutcher of Omaha, Nebraska decided that he hated Muslims. The problem? He never actually met any. Then, six Muslim refugee families moved into his apartment building and, for the first time, he was in the position to get to know Muslims for himself. According to Dutcher, meeting his new neighbors completely changed his opinion about Muslims. "The Muslims here were all about family and they just loved everyone," Dutcher says. Now, Dutcher takes pride in helping the ...
“To Islam, with Love”
More than 150 adults and children showed up to take part in "To Islam, with Love," an interfaith event in which attendees made Valentine's Day cards for their Muslim friends and neighbors to send the message that Muslims are a welcome part of the community. The handmade cards will be delivered to the Islamic Society of Boston Cultural Center in Roxbury around Valentine's Day. According Lisa Ballew, whose two children took part in the event, "I don't think they're ever too young to teach empathy ...
NYC Subway Passengers Work Together to Remove Hateful Graffiti
When riders on the 1 train in Manhattan discovered anti-Semitic messages scrawled across the train's windows and glass advertisement cases, they worked together to erase the hateful words. According to Gregory Locke, who was on the train and part of the group who helped erase the graffiti, "I've never seen so many people simultaneously reach into their bags and pockets looking for tissues and Purel. Within about two minutes, all the Nazi symbolism was gone." Read more (New York Magazine) ...
