By Bip Hakimzadah
During my time at UWE, I’ve struggled with interpersonal challenges. Whether it be personal, social, academic or anything and everything in between. Faith has always kept me grounded, I think religion is an interesting thing. It’s obviously not for everyone, I’ve seen the struggle of people being hurt by religion and this is by no means to discredit those experiences. In the wrong hands it’s hurtful, but in the right hands I’ve seen it be a truly powerful thing.
In my opinion/experience, faith can provide a sense of hope, a community, a guiding path regardless of exact religion or sect and I think there’s so much divide and polarisation in the world that there’s never been more of a need for individuals to support one another and be allies to each other in this very diverse and interfaith world.
So what can be done to be supportive of one another?
Simply listen – be respectful!
Whether you’re religious or non-religious, hearing people out on why they believe what they do is a big thing. It’s important to not attack their beliefs or belittle them, especially if they’re a different faith than yours. To impose your beliefs or lack thereof on somebody can feel like an attack if not treated with extreme care and understanding. There’s a reason they believe what they do, opposing beliefs doesn’t mean they’re inherently wrong.
Learn!
There’s a beautifully diverse world of religion that every corner of the world has, they’re not only simply groups of beliefs but insight into history, how countries believed what they did fundamentally shaped how they would evolve over time. If you’ve ever been curious about different religions, ask friends, religious groups or just peruse the library. The Frenchay library especially is a goldmine when it comes to different books on religions for the very beginners to those that have been practicing for their whole lives.
Difference is okay!
People have different backgrounds, some religious and some not. For all sorts of reasons people might be atheist, agnostic, or identify with a religion. It’s equally important for everyone to respectful of each other.
Find community, or religious support.
Bristol is a beautifully interfaith hub where I’ve personally seen and spoke to many religious groups, if you’re a part of a faith and you’re new to Bristol – you’ll find no shortage of community. Reach out to them if you can!
Within the university as well, there’s many societies for religious groups, as well as the wonderful Chaplaincy Team that I’ve had the pleasure of using their services. They’re open to everyone, regardless of faith or lack thereof. There’s a place for everyone here in UWE and Bristol. Whether religious, agnostic or atheist. Everyone has their place, and quite frankly the world is a more interesting place with such an interfaith and diverse community