International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence based on Religion or Belief 2023

On August 22^nd this year it’s the International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence based on Religion or Belief. If, like The Growth Company, your employees come from a wide range of backgrounds, it is a meaningful way to promote tolerance, understanding, and empathy among your employees, clients and service users.

This year, we’re also encouraging others to mark the day with their own events.

Here are some ideas on how you can acknowledge this day within your workplace:

Educational Workshops or Seminars

Organise workshops or seminars that educate your employees about the importance of religious and belief-based tolerance. Invite experts or speakers to share their insights and experiences, encouraging open discussions and questions.

Awareness Campaigns

Launch an awareness campaign leading up to the day, using posters, emails, and social media to share information about the significance of the day and promote messages of respect and understanding.

Moment of Silence

Start the workday with a moment of silence to honour the victims of violence based on religion or belief. This can help create a solemn and respectful atmosphere, fostering a sense of unity among your employees.

Guest Speakers

Invite individuals from diverse religious backgrounds to share their personal stories and experiences. This can help your employees gain a better understanding of the challenges some people face due to their beliefs.

Cultural Exchange

Encourage employees to share their own cultural and religious backgrounds with each other through presentations, food tastings, or cultural displays. This can help build bridges of understanding among team members.

Interactive Workshops

Host interactive workshops that simulate scenarios where individuals might face discrimination based on their religion or beliefs. These exercises can help employees develop empathy and problem-solving skills.

Art and Expression

Organise an art or creative expression event where employees can contribute artwork, poetry, or other forms of expression that promote peace, understanding, and respect for diverse beliefs.

Diversity and Inclusion Training

Provide training that emphasises the importance of diversity and inclusion within the workplace. This can help create a more welcoming environment for employees of all backgrounds.

Charitable Activities

Collaborate with local charities or organisations that work towards religious tolerance and provide support for victims of religious-based violence. You may be an organisation who offers volunteering days to staff members. Perhaps this is a way to build relationships and foster goodwill amongst your local community?

Employee Stories

Encourage employees to share personal stories about their experiences with religious or belief-based discrimination. This can create a safe space for dialogue and understanding.

Policy Review

Take this opportunity to review your company's policies and ensure they promote a diverse and inclusive workplace. Make any necessary updates to reflect your commitment to tolerance and respect.

Open Discussions

Arrange moderated panel discussions or Q&A sessions where employees can openly discuss their perspectives and ask questions about different religions and beliefs.

Remember that the goal is to create an environment where employees feel comfortable expressing their beliefs and learning about others'. Keep the activities respectful, inclusive, and focused on fostering understanding and empathy. We hope that this article has given you a few ideas on how you can show your colleagues they belong and can be confident they can bring their whole selves to work.

If you would like support to become more inclusive during your recruitment process, please contact Adrian Bird on 07503620816 or via Adrian.bird@gcemployment.uk.