Insensitivity to injustice and basic human rights is a worldwide problem.  I recently reviewed a number of articles on human rights, peace, injustice, and the intolerance of diversity. One does not have to look far to see the implications from lack of love and lack of acceptance. Many people write about other countries and what they need to do to in order to achieve some sort of democracy. Yet, when I look in my own back yard, I see a startling amount of intolerance.

I am often surprised by the human spirit; its fight, its resilience, and its ability to heal after extremities. I have learned that one can prevail under the most dire circumstances. I can’t help but wonder: where does this strength come from?

 We live in a diverse world. Some of us may have lived, or currently live in towns, cities, and countries that are homogeneous; however, the world is vastly diverse. And surely everyone’s beliefs and personality are (thankfully) diverse.

According to the 2009 (last published report) United States FBI’s statistics on hate crimes, 71.9 percent were victims because of the offenders anti-Jewish bias and 8.4 percent were victims because of the offenders anti-Islamic bias. That is 80.3 percent of all hate crimes. This is occurring in a society where liberty and democracy is paramount.

Leaving the governmental interest in the mending of the two nations to the government, I wondered what society felt about bridging the gap between the Western, Jewish, and Islamic world.

Students and faculty of the University of New Haven, we need your help. We are looking for Islamic and Jewish volunteers to help us understand the social ethical issues you might be facing in America and abroad. Participate in a focus group interview right here on campus. There is a minimal time commitment, confidentiality, and convenience. Help us eradicate the intolerance to diversity.

For more information, please email Lara Thomas at [email protected].