The delegation of European National Interreligious Bodies represented by Prof. Genti Kruja, President of ENIB, Dr. Marcel Israel, Vice President of ENIB, and Cinde Lee, Secretary of ENIB after participation in #UNGA79 SDGs Conference in New York (September 2024), they visited some interfaith and education institutions in Washington DC area.

ENIB, RfP Europe was a co-partner in the organizing of the #UNGA79 SDGs Conference and after this conference, ENIB delegation also visited organisations working with faith leaders, fellow organisations, other faith actors, the media, and the congregations and grassroots. The richness of their vision and the strength of their dedication give life force to the peace movement that shows the common will for harmonious coexistence.

The Executive Director of the Interfaith Council of Metropolitan Washington Dr. Sousan Abadian hosted a meaningful exchange of views and projects which was most beneficial for European faith actors. She shared project experience and inner-city concerns for extremism on the rise. The IFC envisions a community strengthened by its diversity, where people of all faiths and cultures are welcomed and appreciated. Most of their projects are aimed at advancing understanding and cooperation across diverse faith traditions and cultures in the US capital for the betterment of all.

Rabbi Esther Lederman, Vice President of the Union for Reform Judaism shared with high delegation of ENIB the Shoulder-to-Shoulder Campaign which is a joint multi-faith commitment to counter anti-Muslim and anti-Semitism in the country. Like other metropolitan areas, Washington DC is also impacted by intolerance, discrimination and violence. ENIB delegation learns from their work on the ground with the support of over 30 faith organisations and share the vision of equipping, connecting and mobilising leaders and congregations alike to promote peaceful coexistence and interfaith cooperation.

Mr. Ibrahim Anli is the Executive Director of Rumi Forum in Washington DC. His kind invitation of ENIB delegates to visit the American Turkish Friendship Association in the Fairfax County, VA was most eye opening. The building complex houses an academy which runs pre-school to high school levels with a 100% college entrance rate, many organisations use the centre for arts, cultural, educational and spiritual events and activities, and the variety of programmes provide community support for many who are drawn to a harmonious coexistence.