As part of One World week events in Redbridge our volunteer Meenakshi saw the potential of our Community Conversations methods to bring a deeper dialogue to the interfaith events. As part of the planning group she arranged an evening on the topic of poverty that brought people from very many faiths together to explore commonalities and differences on this issue. Conflict and Change volunteers and staff facilitated the evening with Meenakshi taking the lead. The four Conversation groups looked at the question "Thinking of your values and beliefs, what does poverty mean to you, what is its impact on you?" and later "From what has been shared, what do you see as the common threads between the faiths?". There was a very rich discussion and following on from this workers from poverty charities from 5 different faiths have agreed to meet up again to see ways that their different projects can work together.
The event was recorded rap-style by Andre, one of our Truce volunteers who has joined the Community Conversations project as a facilitator.
One of several events organized by the sub-committee of 'One world week',
October 20th provided the opportunity for many Hungry For One World to meet
and have a Community Conversation with 'One World Confronting Poverty' on the menu.
South West Essex and Settlement Reform Synagogue in Newbury Park was the venue.
Participation from diverse faith and non-faith charities. C&C staff and volunteers facilitated the speaking.
With many working to alleviate poverty present it was a passion filled and motivation inspiring evening.
Everybody listened, all had their say, and though there were disagreements along the way,
it was clear to see, common ground found far outweighed opposing positions by the end of the day.
To summarize positives of the night, I'll quote what I overheard,
a Muslim and Sikh both proclaim: "High-interest Third World Debt's absurd!",
agreement of a Buddhist and Jew: "Charity for many must not fall into the hands of a greedy few!",
replies from a Christian and Hindu: "We have to raise awareness of poverty on our doorsteps too!",
"Knowledge is power!" said someone without a faith, "We must teach how to fish!"
Refreshments devoured. Moment of silence for reflection. The event was a catalyst,
reinforcing to all present, this reporter included, we have to be the change we want to see,
discuss more regularly, and act continually, to annually, get closer to one world without poverty.
André Campbell-Evans (Volunteer of Conflict and Change)
The event has been publicised on the Ilford Recorder. Please follow the link below to be directed to the website and then go to page 26.
