4 things to know about World Interfaith Harmony Week
Feb. 1-7 is World Interfaith Harmony Week, an annual event proclaimed by the United Nations’ General Assembly as a way to promote harmony between all people regardless of faith. It was first proposed by King Abdullah II of Jordan at the U.N. in 2010.
“What we are proposing is a special week, during which the world’s people, in their own places of worship, could express the teachings of their own faith about tolerance, respect for the other and peace. I hope this resolution will have your support,” the king said in a speech at the 65th U.N. General Assembly in New York City.
Here are four things you should know about the week:
1. It’s not an organization. It’s an initiative with no centralized organizers. Prizes up to $25,000 are given out every year with a standing committee of judges who review reports and select the winners. The top prize is personally presented by Abdullah at a ceremony in Amman. Judges look at several key areas, including the excellence of efforts, the impact of events, scantiness of resources, and events specifically celebrating World Interfaith Harmony Week.
2. There is no annual theme. World Interfaith Harmony is the theme. However, in 2014, the program focused on “Tolerance, Reconciliation and Forgiveness.” This was in honor of the late Nelson Mandela, who led South Africa during its critical transition away from Apartheid. The week revolves around three principles that focus on “shared commandments to love God and neighbor; to love the good and neighbor.”
3. There is an anthem. During the week’s fifth anniversary in 2015, British singer and composer Sami Yusuf released “The Gift of Love.” The video was filmed in Jordan at the baptism site of Jesus and in holy sites in Jerusalem.
4. It’s more than just a week. Interfaith harmony can be celebrated every day! However, World Interfaith Harmony Week events can be hosted from the last weekend of January to the first weekend in March in order to be eligible for the prize. Some organizers around the world often host events all year long—in early January, after the March 7th report deadline for the prize, and during local interfaith observances.
How to get involved:
- Sign up using the World Interfaith Harmony Week Interest Form
- Create an account with World Interfaith Harmony Week
- Add your event to the World Interfaith Harmony Week Calendar
- Explore Resources available for Hosts
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