ICGP - Objectives/Goals

--Objectives/Goals >

We live in a diverse world with different cultures, languages, traditions, and faiths. This diversity is represented in the Pacific Northwest and in Portland where many different faiths coexist.

To promote peace and harmony we must have a better understanding of each other. Often we have questions about other religions and wish we could find answers in a friendly, casual, and civil atmosphere. There is a need for an exchange where no one feels threatened and where a true understanding is possible.

Interfaith Council of Greater Portland (ICGP) is holding a Festival of Faith 2008 with this in mind. This festival will consist of two full days of workshops, seminars, booths of various faiths and organizations, delicious foods, and other fun activities. There will be basic information presentations on various faiths, representatives of these faiths to answer questions, and a personal contact with each other to develop ongoing relationships for future interaction.

We recognize that there are many conflicts in this world. We can do something on a local level and do our part to enhance understanding, tolerance, and acceptance within the metropolitan Portland area. We urge your presence and your help to realize the vision of the true world peace by promoting the same in our local community.

Objectives

To provide basic information on the various faiths and traditions in Portland.
To dispel myths, stereotypes, and false information about various religions
To treat every religion and its adherents with respect and provide an atmosphere which will promote intelligent discussion and civil discourse.
To promote tolerance, acceptance, and peaceful coexistence.
To provide activities which make discovering about each other fun and interesting.
To make this faith festival as an ongoing tradition in the Portland metropolitan area.
To attract general public curious about the various religions.
To provide key note speakers and other speakers who are well known in promoting religious understanding.
To encourage personal contact with the various religious organizations to be a resource for the rest of the year.

Goals

Have classes providing basic “101” information about various religions.
Discuss common misconceptions about various religions and provide factual information from the standpoint of that religion.
There shall be booths of many different religious organizations to provide information to general public about their religion.
Collect suggestions to improve religious tolerance in our community.
Attract a broad cross-section of people from the Portland metropolitan area.
Invite public officials, educators and community leaders from cities in the Portland metropolitan area.
Invite diversified vendor pool to provide food for the festival.
Other activities to include various music programs of diversified nature, keynote speeches, and QA sessions.
Include activities specifically for children and youth.