Interfaith Forum 2024

The Humanist Association of Ireland proudly took part in the Dublin City Interfaith Forum event at the Mansion House on September 24th, marking the UN International Day of Peace. The theme, “Building Peaceful and Resilient Communities in Our Cities,” sparked discussions on the role of interfaith dialogue in preventing conflict. We explored the importance of truth-telling, reflecting on past mistakes, and the collective need to build a new, united humanity grounded in peace and understanding.

Speakers on the day

The Lord Mayor of Dublin, James Geoghegan, addressed the conference, and spoke of the need to champion integration, especially in our education system. Other speakers included His Excellency Ahmed bin Mohamed Al Jarwan, President of the Global Council for Tolerance and Peace, Dr Johnston McMasters, Irish School of Ecumenics Trinity College, Dr Naomi Green, Northern Ireland Interfaith Forum and Professor Patricia Kieran, MI Limerick.

We heard of the need to break free from the errors of the past and to build a new and common humanity. Speakers also spoke about how minority faiths as well as the non-religious can experience a sense of not belonging and we considered how we can deal with that.

The HAI looks forward to further opportunities to participate in other similar events.