We are thrilled to unveil the exciting projects that will shape the upcoming season!
As an organization committed to fostering dialogue, understanding, and cultural exchange, these initiatives represent our dedication to creating meaningful connections and transformative experiences.
Global Dialogue Through Art
One of our standout projects is the UNESCO Art Camp and Dialogue: Roma 2024, supported by the Enlightened World Foundation.
Amid wars in various parts of the world and the controversial political debates on immigration and refugees, a bright candle will be lit at Temple University Rome, where 19 junior artists who have sought refuge in Europe and who represent countries such as Lebanon, Syria, Palestine, will join artists from Italy and Andorra, to share and learn from each other’s experiences and perspectives on humanity through art and oral dialogue skills that will be developed during the week-long camp. Dialogue Institute staff members will spend the week with the artists to provide dialogue training and facilitate conversations.
This program was envisioned by Dialogue Institute board member Amid Ismail and is a partnership between the Kornberg School of Dentistry, Temple University - Rome, and UNESCO.
Mapping Spaces of Meaning
Temple University’s Office of Institutional Diversity, Equity, Advocacy, and Leadership (IDEAL) has joined with us to implement the Mapping Spaces of Meaning Project, which engages Temple students in an initiative to identify sacred spaces on and near Temple’s North Philadelphia campus that speak to diverse identities and spiritual life. The project aims to foster meaningful dialogue on campus and build bridges across religious and cultural differences. Students will create a digital map and share their findings at a public event in April.
Summer Institute on Religious Diversity and Democracy in the U.S.
We are pleased to announce the continuation of our Study of the U.S. Institutes (SUSI) program on religious diversity and democracy this summer, a flagship initiative that aims to foster cross-cultural understanding and equip students for leadership in their home countries of Egypt, Lebanon, Iraq, India, and Indonesia. Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, Study of the U.S. Institutes program, SUSI Summer 2024 provides an immersive experience through interactive sessions, site visits, and networking opportunities. This program is designed to empower young leaders to make a positive impact in their communities and promote global cooperation.
Dialogue and Human Rights
On January 31st, Executive Director David Krueger delivered a presentation on human rights, democracy, and peacebuilding at the Peace Islands Institute New Jersey. Topics covered included why open conversations are vital, when they're most impactful, and the techniques to effectively employ them in peacebuilding endeavors.
Democracy and Diversity Tour for a European Delegation
Dr. Krueger led a religious diversity and democracy history tour for a group of 18 European leaders who were part of the U.S. State Department’s International Visitor Leadership Program. The World Affairs Council of Philadelphia brought the group to us, including mayors, parliament members, journalists, and other government officials from across the continent. The walking tour used the story of Philadelphia’s religious diversity during the founding period to open up a conversation about national identity, public history, and the challenges and opportunities of life in diverse democracies.
