Global Citizens Pursuing a Just, Peaceable, Inclusive and Sustainable Future: An ICCGC-CoNGO Collaborative Conference

Conference Logo

The CoNGO-ICCGC Global Futures Conference, scheduled for August 26 and 27, 2024, at the Church Center for the United Nations in New York, marks a significant assembly at the nexus of religion and civil society, dedicated to charting pathways toward a globally harmonious, just, peaceable, and sustainable future for people and their communities, the planet, and the entire ecological system.

The New York Conference partners with the Interfaith Coalition Conference for Global Citizens (ICCGC) and the Conference of NGOs in Consultative Relationship with the United Nations (CoNGO) to collectively pursue peace, human security, dignity, and planetary sustainability. This collaboration emphasizes local and global cooperation and solidarity across cultures and religions, while remaining mindful of diverse and uneven economic, social, and political conditions.

This conference aims to ignite transformative dialogues and initiatives on a range of issues that are pressing both locally and globally. (Excerpt from Concept Note prepared by ICCGC)

This conference is hosted by Interfaith Coalition Conference for Global Citizens (ICCGC), Conference of NGOs in Consultative Relationship with the United Nations (CoNGO), and Won Buddhism. There are five sessions:

Session 1. Global Ethics & Global Citizens
Session 2. Towards a Global Peace
Session 3. Dialogue between Religions and Civil Society
Session 4. Youth for Climate Action
Session 5. Global Citizenship Education for Future Generation

The moderator of Session 5. Global Citizenship Education for Future Generation is Kathy R. Matsui, one of the New York UN representatives of IARF. Global citizenship education (GCED) is needed to face the challenges of the 21st Century and the challenges of the VUCA world, which is volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous. Global Citizenship education encourages global citizens to be independent, to develop global perspectives, to build harmony among people from other countries and ethnic groups, to understand diversity through cross-cultural education, to respect the Earth and all living beings, and to promote global well-being while enriching their lives.

Global citizenship education offers opportunities for youth and adults to learn to create imaginative solutions to world problems, to help solve diverse global issues, and to become active citizens to make changes in society for the good of everyone. In this session, panelists will discuss the following: how global citizenship is practiced in real life, what GCED is to the individual panelists, how GCED is implemented in their specific role and environment, and what message each panelist has for the youth and our future leaders.

The speakers of this session are:

Panelist 1: Dr. Roberto Catalano (Professor, Sophia University Institute, Italy)
Panelist 2: Dr. Janet Gerson (Education Director, International Institute on Peace Education)
Panelist 3: Dr. Russell Pearce (Professor, Fordham University)
Panelist 4: Rev. James Lynch (Representative for Rissho Kosei Kai to United Nations)

IARF Applauds Rejection of Bill to Repeal FGM Ban in The Gambia

The National Assembly of Gambia

Since our call for support of the Petition Against FGM Ban Repeal in The Gambia, which the Nala Feminist Collective started, the situation has evolved positively. The third reading of the bill was initially planned for July 24.

IARF, an organization uniting liberal religious groups from diverse faith traditions across the globe, stands firmly against human rights violations, particularly those justified under the guise of religious or cultural practices. We are pleased to report that the bill to repeal the ban on FGM was rejected on July 15, and the planned third reading on July 24 will not take place.

IARF and its member organizations congratulate Parliament Speaker Fabakary Jatta and the National Assembly of The Gambia for this wise decision. This outcome has an impact beyond The Gambia and will continue to forward the dignity and self-determination of all human beings.

We remain committed to supporting efforts that protect human rights and bodily integrity worldwide.

Context

Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C) is a practice that involves the partial or total removal of external female genitalia for non-medical reasons. It affects an estimated 200 million women and girls worldwide, with more than three-quarters of females aged between 15 and 49 in some regions having undergone the procedure. The practice can lead to severe immediate risks such as pain, shock, hemorrhage, and infections, as well as long-term consequences for sexual health and mental wellbeing.

The Gambia’s 2015 ban on FGM/C was a significant milestone in the global effort to eradicate this harmful practice. The recent attempt to repeal this ban had raised alarms among human rights organizations globally. The IARF, as part of its commitment to human rights and religious freedom, had engaged in advocacy efforts, including drafting formal communications to Gambian authorities expressing concern over the potential repeal.

The rejection of the bill to repeal the FGM/C ban not only maintains crucial protections for women and girls in The Gambia but also reinforces the country’s commitment to international human rights standards. This decision aligns with various human rights conventions ratified by The Gambia, including the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) and the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

Access to Worship at Native Hawaiian Shrine Denied

Upon returning to Hawai’i, I intended to worship at the Kanenuiakea healing shrine, Kane’aki Heiau, as per my custom according to my multiple faiths. However, access was denied, as it is now restricted to members of Mauna ‘Olu Estates. It is reported that no Hawaiian owners reside there.

Kane'aki Heiau

Access to Worship at Kahe’aki Heiau Denied
–Until Further Notice!

While the United States protects property rights, it does not recognize indigenous communal property, particularly places of worship that lack legal status under U.S. law. Kane’aki Heiau, a sacred temple and shrine, was first surrounded by a homeowners’ association and then claimed by it. The association now benefits from a tax deduction for preserving historic cultural property. Despite this, Hawaiians’ right to access is denied and enforced by State of Hawaii property rights law.

The International Association for Religious Freedom (IARF) and Religions for Peace are investigating how to effectively protest this apparent violation of U.S. and State of Hawaii constitutional rights regarding freedom of religion. Historically, the U.S. Supreme Court has interpreted freedom of religion as belief but not worship. Will colonial attitudes against indigenous worship change to support the religious freedom to pray at an acknowledged ancient temple?

Kumu Glen Kila, George and Zizi at Kane'aki Heiau

Kumu Glen Kila, George and Zizi at Kane’aki Heiau 2 years ago after climbing over locked gates. Kumu Glen is the Kahuna-nui, High Priest of Kanenuiakea, a faith with a thousand year history just on the Waianae Wahipana (west coast of Oahu).

IARF 124th Annivesary Celebrated by BV Foundation for Peace and Harmony

The BV Foundation for Peace and Harmony, a member group of IARF South India, celebrated the 124th IARF Formation Day on Saturday, May 25th, at the Gandhi Center Seminar Hall located at Dr. LB College in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, South India. Prof. Prakasa Rao, chairman of the foundation, presided over the meeting.

The celebration began with an interfaith prayer, followed by a cake-cutting ceremony. In his presidential address, Prof. Rao highlighted that the IARF was established on May 25th, 1900, in Boston to realize the vision of the World Parliament of Religion held in 1893. As the oldest interfaith organization in the world, IARF collaborates with religious communities and secular organizations committed to openness, free religious inquiry, human dignity, social responsibility, and service. The organization also works to protect religious freedom and fundamental human rights through its representatives at the United Nations.

The chief guest, Prof. V. Balamohandas, former vice-chancellor of Acharya Nagarjuna University and president of the Gandhi Center, commended IARF’s remarkable 124-year history and called for improved religious tolerance worldwide. He emphasized that while religious worship and beliefs are personal matters, the coexistence of people belonging to different religions is a tradition that IARF should continue to uphold. Prof. Balamohandas termed atrocities committed in the name of caste, color, and community as barbaric, stressing that peace is only possible when all religions coexist and live in harmony.

Other speakers who endorsed the chief guest’s statement included:

Swami Swasamvedya Nanda, secretary of Ramakrishna Mission
Syed Shamsuddin, Additional District Government Qazi
Fr. Ratna Kumar, Deputy GM of RCM schools
Smt. B.K. Rameswari, Prajapita Brahmakumari Eeswari Vidyalayam
Sushil Sekhani Jain, chairman of Mahaveer International
B. Gowtam Babu, the Buddhist Society of India

The convener, Abdul Muneer Mushhad, proposed a vote of thanks. The meeting concluded with participants taking a peace pledge and singing the Indian national anthem, “Jana Gana Mana.”

Limits of Religious Freedom and Tolerance: IARF EME Conference 2025

The International Association for Religious Freedom is pleased to announce that its Europe and Middle East (EME) region will hold its quadrennial conference in September 2025 in Frankfurt and Offenbach am Main, Germany. The conference will be hosted by several German IARF member groups, led by the Frei-religiöse Gemeinde Offenbach, which will be celebrating its 180th anniversary during this time.

Building upon the success and lessons learned from the 2023 IARF Congress, the 2025 EME Regional Conference will be the first hybrid conference, allowing members from all regions to participate and contribute. The event will consist of a Pre-Conference Tour on 9-11 September 2025, followed by the main programme on 11-14 September (please note that arrival and departure dates are one day earlier or later, respectively).

The theme for the conference, “Limits of Religious Freedom and Tolerance,” was selected through a participatory process involving all EME members. The Organising Committee is diligently working on the programme details and logistics, with registration set to open soon. Interested participants are encouraged to subscribe to the IARF newsletter for updates and to check the official website for more information as it becomes available. The committee also welcomes volunteers who wish to contribute their expertise and enthusiasm in shaping an exceptional conference program.

The upcoming conference follows in the footsteps of previous successful EME conferences, such as the 2021 online conference Does Religion set you Free?, the 2016 conference in Tetovo, Northern Macedonia, titled Religion and Conflict Prevention, and the 2012 conference in Elspeet, the Netherlands.

For those interested in contributing to the conference preparations, please contact Rev. Pascal Schilling at [email protected] or IARF Secretary Luke Liniewicz at [email protected]. The EME region looks forward to promoting growth, connection, and mutual understanding through this conference while putting liberal religion in the spotlight.

The Date

Pre-Conference Tour:
9-11 September 2025
(Arrival date: 8 September)

Conference:
11-14 September 2025
(Arrival date: 10 September
Departure date: 14 in the afternoon or 15 September)

The Hosts

A coalition of German Member Groups of the IARF led by the Frei-religiöse Gemeinde Offenbach and the EME. The congregation is founded on the principles of freedom of religion and the inherent worth of every individual. It advocates for a free belief system that embraces scientific knowledge while acknowledging the human capacity to unite reason and emotion in the religious experience. Central to its philosophy is the idea that religion fosters a sense of moral responsibility, serving as the spiritual and emotional foundation for the religious individual. The Frei-religiöse Gemeinde Offenbach welcomes all interested individuals to engage with the congregation and explore the principles of free religion.

IARF-US Launches Monthly Discussion Series

The US Chapter of the International Association for Religious Freedom is excited to announce a new monthly discussion series. On the third Wednesday of each month between April and December 2024, presenters will share their personal global spiritualities or alternately provide suggestions for how to support the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDG)—an essential element for maintaining humanity’s spiritual freedom.

The one-hour sessions will begin at 4pm (PDT) on the designated dates, and attendees are welcome to listen or participate in the discussions following each presentation.

April 17
4:00 PM PDT (UTC-7)
John Young describes his daily and weekly spirituality practices drawn from many of the world’s major religions.
May 15
4:00 PM PDT (UTC-7)
George Garland talks about the role of the US Commission on Religious Freedom.
June 19
4:00 PM PDT (UTC-7)
Professor Kunihito Terasawa discusses his combined practices of Rissho Kosei Kai Buddhism and Evangelical Lutheranism.
July 19
4:00 PM PDT (UTC-7)
George Garland addresses the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) and Planetary Boundaries – A Safe Space for Spirituality.
August 21
4:00 PM PDT (UTC-7)
Rahul Young discusses SDG #7: Affordable and Clean Energy – Electrifying America.
September 18
4:00 PM PDT (UTC-7)
Stephen Schwichow describes how he combines his Buddhist practices with his UU membership.
October 16
4:00 PM PDT (UTC-7)
Leela Stake addresses SDG #5: Gender Equality.
November 20
4:00 PM PDT (UTC-7)
Betsy Darr shares her experience of being a UU Pagan.
December 18
4:00 PM PDT (UTC-7)
John Young discusses how indigenous spiritual traditions can participate in inter-religious dialogue.

Attendees will have the opportunity to learn from speakers with varied backgrounds and experiences, fostering a rich dialogue on the intersection of spirituality and global sustainability.

To participate in this engaging series, individuals can request the Zoom link by emailing Rev. John Young at [email protected]. You can also contact Rev. Young on our Community Platform.

Watch “Levels of Dialogue: Religious Experience in an Interfaith Context”

In this session, recorded on 13 November 2023 during Inter Faith Week, the British Chapter of the International Association for Religious Freedom, in collaboration with the World Congress of Faiths, embarked on a deep exploration of interreligious dialogue’s dynamic tension between the unique characteristics of different faiths and their universal connections.

The event, held via Zoom, provided a platform for participants to engage with the complex interactions between various religious origins, developmental paths, belief systems, and spiritual practices, highlighting the potential for a familial resemblance among diverse faith traditions.

Featuring a keynote by the Reverend Canon Dr. Alan Race, Chair of the World Congress of Faiths and editor of Interreligious Insight, this recording offers invaluable insights into the challenges and opportunities presented by interfaith dialogue.

Dr. Race, a retired Anglican priest-theologian with an extensive background in the theology of religions and interreligious dialogue, shares perspectives from his latest book, My Journey as a Religious Pluralist (Wipf and Stock, 2021), enriching our understanding of how religious experiences and dialogues intersect with the broader quest for mutual understanding and respect among faiths.

Join us in this recorded session to explore the intricate landscape of interfaith dialogue, where the particularities of each religion meet the universal quest for spiritual connection and understanding.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WzH6Yo58Gxg

Commemorating the Anniversary of Professor Van Holk’s Courageous Stance

On its 83rd anniversary, we remember Professor L. van Holk’s (1893-1982) historic protest speech against the persecution of Jews at Leiden University. The International Association for Religious Freedom (IARF) commemorates Van Holk not only as a Remonstrant theologian and a revered scholar but also as its dedicated secretary, deeply committed to religious freedom and human dignity.

The Netherlands has always played a pivotal role in the IARF, with Dutch theologians being active members since its inception in 1900. Their liberal Protestant roots, shared by the Remonstrant Church, provided fertile ground for the IARF’s principles. The Dutch contribution was significant, with the first Executive Committee comprising four Dutch members and several congresses, including the momentous 1922 Congress in Leiden, being held in the Netherlands.

Professor Van Holk, a distinguished figure at Leiden University, embodied the spirit of religious freedom and moral courage. On November 26, 1940, in response to the dismissal of Jewish colleagues by the Nazi occupiers, he delivered a poignant protest speech. His words, though not recorded at the time, were captured in the memories of those present and later documented. He stated:

Ladies and gentlemen, students,

The latest domestic policy measures against our Jewish fellow citizens have deeply shocked us all. We see these measures as a smear to the university and our people, a serious damage to education and science, and a moral and religious injustice…

It fully behooves us all to first alleviate the suffering that will now arise in many families, and to faithfully seek out our Jewish friends and acquaintances to express our high regard. Secondly, as Dutch, as university people, and above all as Christians, we must remain faithful to the principles of human value, justice, and charity, rooted in and proclaimed by both the Old and New Testaments. Remember that Christ teaches us in the Holy Scriptures (John 4:22) ‘Ye worship what ye know not: we know what we worship; for salvation is of the Jews.’ May I ask you to join me in a full minute of silence in this spirit?

His speech transcended mere words; it was an act of defiance, a beacon of hope and solidarity. He continued his lecture by discussing the Jewish Dutch philosopher Spinoza, powerfully reinforcing his stand against the persecution of Jews.

Despite the risks, Van Holk’s actions exemplified the values central to the IARF. His subsequent arrest and internment in camps didn’t deter his spirit; he continued to inspire and educate, establishing a sort of “people’s university” within the camps.

After the war, Van Holk resumed his academic duties, serving the university and its ideals for two more decades. Among other things, he represented the Remonstrants and the IARF at the Second Vatican Council. His legacy, though less publicized than some of his contemporaries, remains a testament to the power of individual courage and the enduring principles of the IARF.

As we mark this anniversary, let us not only remember Professor Van Holk’s brave stance but also reflect on the ongoing need to uphold the values he so fiercely defended. His life and actions remind us that in times of darkness, voices of truth and compassion can shine the brightest, guiding us towards a more just and understanding world.

For our readers who speak Dutch – Prof. van Holk’s book De Boodschap van het Vrijzinnig Christendom (The Message of Liberal Christianity) can be read online here.

Levels of Dialogue: Religious Experience in an Interfaith Context

Join us on Zoom on 13 November

All are invited to attend this joint Event of the British Chapter of the International Association for Religious Freedom and the World Congress of Faiths to mark Inter Faith Week on 13 November 2023 from 18.30-20.00 (UK time) on Zoom. You can register for the event and obtain the Zoom link here.

The Theme

Religions have different origins, developmental pathways, belief systems, and spiritualities. Yet there remains the possibility of a family resemblance between them. This tension or ambiguity inherent in the dynamic of ‘particularity in relation to universality’ is explored, argued over, and negotiated through interreligious dialogue. This talk rehearses some of the factors involved in how the reality of religious experience might be related to the demands and outcomes of dialogue as such.

Our Speaker – Revd Canon Dr Alan Race

The Revd Canon Dr Alan Race is Chair of the World Congress of Faiths and the editor of its journal ‘Interreligious Insight’, a retired Anglican priest-theologian, and the author of books and articles on the themes of theology of religions and interreligious dialogue. His most recent book is ‘My Journey as a Religious Pluralist’ (Wipf and Stock, 2021).

IARF India Chapter’s Engagements in October: Solidarity and Discourse

By Dr. James Arputharaj Williams, India Chapter of the International Association for Religious Freedom

An Inter-Faith Journey of Solidarity to Manipur

Backdrop of the Crisis:

Manipur, a state nestled in Northeast India, recently witnessed devastating ethnic unrest. Since 3 May 2023, long-standing tensions between the Kuki tribe, primarily Christians, and the Meitei community, who are majority Hindus, erupted into violence. The conflict led to the tragic burning of over 230 churches, deaths of more than 60 Christians, and displacement of countless individuals. This surge of violence has its roots in decades of tension, but recent decisions by the Manipur government, favoring the Meitei and sidelining the Christian Kukis, acted as a catalyst for the current situation.

Against this somber backdrop, the India Chapter of the IARF is dispatching a delegation to Churachandpur on 26th October 2023. Comprising five members, both young and seasoned, including three women, the team aims to extend a hand of solidarity and support to those affected by the conflict.

Using a helicopter for transit from Imphal, the delegation’s primary mission is to spend time with survivors, listen to their stories, and offer prayers. Their endeavors are being supported logistically by the local Lutheran Church in Imphal. We request your prayers and well wishes for the safety of our team and the success of their mission in this challenging region. It is our collective hope that peace and stability will soon return to Manipur, allowing its inhabitants to reclaim their homes and livelihoods.

UN Day Inter-Collegiate Debate – 2023

In line with a tradition of over 30 years, the India Chapter of the IARF is organizing the Inter-collegiate debate to commemorate UN Day on 24th October. This year’s debate, scheduled for 14th October 2023, centers on the thought-provoking topic: “Is the UN failing or are Nations failing in maintaining peace and harmony amongst the people?”

Previously hosted at Loyola College, Chennai, last year saw the debate being conducted at Hotel Ibis, Chennai. This year, around 25 city colleges have been invited, with the anticipated attendance of former AYC associates and volunteers.

Our distinguished judges for this event are:

Mr. Sambandam, Section Director, The Hindu, Chennai
Dr. Suchismita Pattanaik, Environmentalist, CISRS, Bhubaneshwar
Dr. James Arputharaj Williams, AYC/IARF

We are also privileged to have Prof. Venkateshwar Rao from the International Association for Religious Freedom, Vishakapattinam, as our keynote speaker.

All are welcome to join these events as we strive to promote peace, understanding, and unity. Your continuous support and prayers are invaluable.

Contact: G 11/1, Natesan Nagar, Virugambakkam, Chennai – 600 092
Phone: 9871100363
Email: [email protected]