Unity in Diversity: A Multicultural Dialogue for Peace and HWPL Religious Peace Academy

 

 

On September 13, the “Unity in Diversity: A Multicultural Dialogue for Peace and HWPL Religious Peace Academy” event was held at The King Center in Atlanta, Georgia, USA.

This Religious Peace Academy was organized as part of “The Beloved Community International Expo” hosted by The King Center — a symbolic institution of the human rights movement in the United States. A total of 266 participants, including religious leaders, community leaders, and citizens, gathered to share messages of interfaith peace and mutual understanding. The event carried special significance with the attendance of Dr. Bernice King, daughter of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and CEO of The King Center, who highlighted the enduring values of human rights and peace.

 

 

Religious leaders representing Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, and Sikhism took part as speakers, each sharing insights on the essence of peace based on their respective scriptures.

Sudarshan Gopalakrishnan, speaker and scholar at Hindu Speakers Bureau said, “Let’s not try to look at only our differences. Everyone and everything should be treated with respect and kindness. Everyone is equal on all terms; we need to acknowledge and understand this.”

Reverend Dr. Robert Franklin Jr., Program Chair and President Senior Advisor at Emory University, stressed that “it is important for us to make efforts to understand each other. We need to treat others with regard and consideration.”

The religious leaders collectively emphasized that “diversity in faith and religion should not be a source of conflict but rather a bridge for peace.” The event served as a meaningful platform demonstrating that different religions can be the starting point for peace rather than division.