Abbotsford Young Adults Taking Initiative in Forming Real Dialogue
To help Erase Stereotypes and Discrimination in Abbotsford
A recent study by the Canadian Race Relations Foundation has found concerning statistics of young adults holding the most negative views of various cultural and religious groups. Many of us grow up filled with curiosity about the faith practices of other religions but may lack the opportunity to learn about them authentically by practicing individuals. In light of this, The Diversity Education and Resource Services program at Abbotsford Community Services has organized a Series of Café Nights for young adults, age 18-30 to provide a space to celebrate the diversity of the various traditions that shape our community and work towards greater understanding and cultural harmony.
The project has been successful in bringing young adults together to help break the silence between community members of different backgrounds. At Café Night’s we play board games, drink some coffee, and end the night with enlightening dialogue until the next month. The dialogues range from dissecting the word “respect” to individual insights on praying and how we feel about others praying for us. Café Night dialogues include a vast range of beliefs of various religious, spiritual, and secular backgrounds. Participants leave Café Night’s feeling heard and holding deeper understanding of each other.
Participants left anonymous comments in the comment box expressing how they felt after joining Café Night:
“It was an open and honest, safe, and respectful, positive dialogue”
“Enjoyed the safety of this group. It allowed me to find my voice and take part.”
“Felt like I was part of community IN ABBY!! Not something I have felt… ever. Thanks.”
Due to the high percentage of negative attitudes towards Muslims across all age group, in the month of June, there will be a worship tour hosted at the Islamic Centre Friday, June 13th. The Muslim community in Abbotsford welcome us in their space of worship, right before Ramadan begins, to observe their Friday afternoon prayer, and learn about Islam from local community members that are practicing Muslims. This worship tour is a great way to come out and support the Muslim community as well. Another worship tour of the Brahma Kumari’s will be hosted at Apollo Centre Ice in the Abbotsford Community Service space on the second floor on June 7th.
These events are a part of Project Connection, a project funded by Inspirit Foundation’s Community Impact Grant. Again, all are encouraged to participate in the worship tours! Pre-registration is preferred.
What: Project Connection Café Night (Young Adults)
When: Tuesday, June 10th, 2014, 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Where: SippChai Café Unit 11-31205 Maclure Rd. Abbotsford B.C.
What: Brahma Kumari Meditation Event
When: Saturday, June 7th, 2014, 2:00 pm -4:00 pm
Where: Abbotsford Community Service Apollo Centre Ice location (Second floor) 3600 Townline Road, Abbotsford, BC
What: Islamic Centre Worship Tour
When: Friday, June 13th, 2014, 1:30 pm – 3:00 pm
Where: Islamic Centre, 1980 Salton Road, Abbotsford, BC V2S 3W7
Further Questions Contact: Brad.Young@AbbotsfordCommunityServices.com or (604) 859-7681 ext. 270
https://www.facebook.com/diversityeducation
For more information, contact Gugan Sidhu at Gugan.Sidhu@abbotsfordcommunityservices.com
06/14/2014