First Annual Interfaith Symposium to be Held at IUPUI

INDIANAPOLIS – As an extension of IUPUI's dedication to civic engagement and educational partnerships, the International Interfaith Initiative (III), a collaborative effort between the Center for Urban and Multicultural Education (CUME), Peace Learning Center, Sagamore Institute for Policy Research, and members of the Indianapolis community, is announcing its first annual Interfaith Symposium to be held at the Lilly Auditorium in the University Library at IUPUI.

The Interfaith Symposium will occur on Thursday, December 7, 2006 from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m.and feature a formal introduction to the International Interfaith Initiative, an opportunity for local religious and civic organizations to dialogue, and a celebration of the accomplishments of 20 inter-religious 8th grade students from 5 local schools who participated in the a series of youth dialogues coordinated by III.

Generating a culture that fosters civil discourse through active community engagement, the International Interfaith Initiative creates an opportunity that holds great potential. Though the Interfaith Symposium is a beginning step towards these ends, such important goals will be much more effective with the continuing, dynamic support of the academic community. Those that value community partnerships, civic participation, interfaith understanding, and Indianapolis's future are invited be part of this important event.