Published on 25 Aug, 2022
In 2019, the UN General Assembly designated 22 August as the “International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief” strongly condemning continuing violence and acts of terrorism targeting individuals, including persons belonging to religious minorities, based on or in the name of religion or belief.
To commemorate this important day, ADF India and allied partners recently organized a webinar titled #SayNoToViolence: Remembering Victims Targeted for their Faith. At the webinar, socio-political experts Prof. Apoorvanand Jha and Dr. Lenin Raghuvanshi shared their expertise and understanding on social harmony and the importance of communities to stand with the victims of religion-based violence in the context of the current scenario.
This online event reaffirmed unwavering support for the victims and raised awareness on continuing violence and acts of terrorism targeting individuals based on religion and belief. It was attended by leaders of different faith communities, social activists, lawyers, and members of civil society organisations from across India.
Speaking at the webinar, Prof. Apoorvanand Jha said, "We not only remember those who have fallen victim but also the loved ones they have left behind. As we remain committed to their memory, we should also be committed to securing them justice and committed to stop making (more) victims!"
During the webinar, stories of resilience and courage of individuals who have been targeted for their faith were featured. The webinar also unveiled the winning photographs from the nationwide Faith, Peace & Freedom Photography Contest 2022 launched to commemorate India’s 75th year of Independence.
You can also access below last year's webinar featuring Dr. Fernand de Varennes, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Minority Issues, and Prof. Faizan Mustafa, Vice-Chancellor, NALSAR University of Law.
