Keeping the faith: ‘a future built on mutual trust, respect and understanding’

Social Justice Secretary to meet with faith groups

New Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice Alex Neil will meet today with the Board of Interfaith Scotland for the first time since his appointment to discuss interfaith work and how to continue building closer relationships between all faiths.

Speaking ahead of the meeting, Mr Neil said: “The Scottish Government values all of Scotland’s diverse faith and belief communities and the vital role they play in supporting and developing cohesion among and between communities.

“These groups are essential in transforming lives, promoting social justice and supporting some of the poorest and most vulnerable people in our society.

“Like the rest of the world, I have watched with horror the events in Europe and I am clear that there is no place in Scotland for any form of anti-Semitism or religious hatred. We will not tolerate any threat to any of our citizens going about their daily lives and are committed to tackling all incidents of hate crime to ensure the safety of all our communities.

“Scotland’s diversity is a strength and we have always been highly regarded in the international interfaith community. It is my sincere hope that all communities in Scotland will continue to be part of our work to ensure a future built on mutual trust, respect and understanding.”

Interfaith Scotland provides a forum for people from different religions and beliefs to meet and discuss matters of religious, national and civic importance. The organisation runs ‘dialogue events’ for young people, women, faith communities, religious leaders, members of Interfaith Scotland and local interfaith groups as well as running interfaith workshops in schools and producing interfaith publications and resources.

Interfaith Scotland also provides ongoing support to local interfaith groups and give public presentations, seminars and training on interfaith and faith awareness.

Interfaith Scotland will be holding the National Scottish Holocaust Memorial Day event on Tuesday 27th January at Ayr Town Hall with special guest speakers Ela Weisberger and Hasan Hasanovich. 2015 marks 70 years since the liberation of the death camps and 20 years since the Srebrenica massacre. During their eight day visit to Scotland, Ela and Hasan will also speak at schools in Glasgow, Ayr and Edinburgh, Glasgow City Chambers and the Scottish Parliament.