Championing Inter Faith Week

Communities across Westmorland and Furness are being encouraged to come together to celebrate diversity, build dialogue, and foster mutual understanding as part of National Inter Faith Week.

The call comes from the Chair of the Westmorland and Furness Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Partnership, Cllr Guy Tirvengadum who highlighted the national initiative as a vital opportunity to celebrate the rich tapestry of faiths, beliefs, and cultures represented both locally and across the UK.

Inter Faith Week, which runs each November annually, focuses on three core aims: strengthening interfaith relations, increasing awareness of diverse faith and belief communities, and promoting understanding between people of religious and non-religious backgrounds.

Highlighting the national significance of the week, the Chair noted that the campaign provides an essential platform to challenge prejudice and reinforce shared civic values: "Across the UK, Inter Faith Week helps to strengthen relationships between people of different faiths and beliefs, increase understanding, challenge prejudice and build a society based on mutual respect and inclusion. Nationally, it provides a valuable platform for dialogue, learning and cooperation, reminding us that our differences should be a source of strength rather than division.”

At the local level across Cumbria, the Partnership sees the week as a practical vehicle for bringing residents together in shared action and dialogue. By opening doors and creating welcoming spaces for conversation, the initiative aims to build long-term resilience and community solidarity.

“Locally, in Westmorland and Furness, Inter Faith Week enables people from all backgrounds to come together, share experiences, develop friendships and work in partnership for the common good,” the Chair added. “It helps to foster a stronger sense of belonging, promotes community cohesion and demonstrates how people of faith and none can contribute positively to creating welcoming, compassionate and resilient communities for everyone.”

The Westmorland and Furness Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Partnership reaffirmed its long-standing commitment to facilitating these connections, noting that ongoing dialogue and collaboration across traditional divides remain essential for building local trust and friendship.

Local community groups, places of worship, schools, and civic organisations across the area are invited to participate, hold events, and showcase how cooperation across beliefs strengthens community life. 

You can contact the Westmorland and Furnace Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Partnership.