Graduate Theological Union schools and centers, United Religions Initiative, Zaytuna College urge solidarity
BERKELEY, CA - Challenging recent Islamophobic rhetoric, leaders from Jewish, Hindu, Buddhist, Christian, and Muslim traditions will unite for illuminating dialogue and action in solidarity with Muslim communities.
WHEN: Thursday, December 17th
WHERE: "Holy Hill," intersection of Le Conte and Scenic Avenues, Berkeley, CA
WHAT:
Graduate Theological Union Solidarity Statement and Panel Discussion, 3pm - 5pm
Pacific School of Religion Chapel, 1798 Scenic Ave., Berkeley, CA
Scholars and leaders will offer strategies and tactics to counter Islamophobia, and share solidarity statements from the schools and organizations they represent.
Panelists:
Rev. Dr. H. James Hopkins, American Baptist Seminary of the West
Dr. Munir Jiwa, Center for Islamic Studies
Dr. Naomi Seidman, Center for Jewish Studies
Imam Zaid Shakir, Zaytuna College
Dr. Rita Sherma, Center for Dharma Studies
Moderator: Jakada Imani, Ignite Institute
Welcome: Rev. Dr. David Vásquez-Levy, Pacific School of Religion
Multi-faith Prayer, Vigil, and Call to Action: Keeping the Doors of Dialogue Open, 5pm
Begin at Pacific School of Religion Chapel, 1798 Scenic Ave., Berkeley, CA
Theological schools and centers spanning faith traditions will open their doors, welcoming community members in a prayerful walk around "Holy Hill." Opening remarks by the Rev. Victor H. Kazanjian, Jr., Executive Director, United Religions Initiative.
For God's Sake: Program at Zaytuna College
2401 LeConte Ave., Berkeley
The founders of Zaytuna College, the first Muslim undergraduate institution of higher learning in the U.S., will discuss Islamic teachings on peace. Hamza Yusuf, Zaid Shakir and Hatem Bazian will speak to the following: the wars, hatred, and chauvinism polarizing many parts of the world, including our own country, are causing many to justify the wanton slaughter of “them” in the interest of protecting “us.” We can only bridge this lethal divide when we recognize that there is no “them,” there is only “us" — because God has sanctified all life.
CO-SPONSORS: The American Baptist Seminary of the West, Dominican School of Philosophy & Theology, Center for Dharma Studies, Center for Islamic Studies, Center for Jewish Studies, the Graduate Theological Union, the Ignite Institute at Pacific School of Religion, the Jesuit School of Theology of Santa Clara University, Pacific School of Religion, Starr King School for the Ministry, United Religions Initiative, and Zaytuna College
MORE INFORMATION: www.igniteatpsr.com/solidarity
PRESS CONTACTS:
Safir Ahmed, Zaytuna College, 415.595.0790, [email protected]
Erin Burns, Pacific School of Religion, 904.742.9139, [email protected]
