Interfaith meeting in Wolfville postponed over U.S. border concerns
The North American Interfaith Network was eagerly anticipating their first in-person conference since the onset of COVID-19, set to take place in Wolfville, N.S. However, the event has been postponed due to concerns over crossing the U.S. border.
A recent poll conducted among potential attendees revealed that the majority were uncomfortable with the idea of traveling across the American border. Rob Hankinson, a retired United Church minister and coordinator of the conference, explained that three-quarters of respondents cited uncertainty surrounding the current political climate as the primary reason for their hesitation.
The issue stems from incidents where tourists and visa holders have faced difficulties at U.S. border crossings or have been detained at American immigration facilities. This has created a sense of unease among individuals planning to attend the event.
Drea Parker, a participant from Charlotte, N.C., expressed sympathy for her colleagues who are navigating the complexities of visas and green cards. While she personally felt confident about traveling, she understood the concerns of others and acknowledged the decision to postpone the conference.
Hankinson emphasized the importance of prioritizing the safety and well-being of attendees. He stated that the organizers did not want to put anyone in a vulnerable position and chose to respect the anxieties expressed by potential participants.
The North American Interfaith Network meeting, which originated in Wichita, Kan., in 1988, aims to bring together individuals from diverse faith backgrounds. This year’s conference was slated to focus on addressing social justice issues through best practices. It would have been the first time the event was held in Nova Scotia.
Although the in-person conference has been delayed, the network’s board of directors is exploring the possibility of transitioning the event to an online format. This decision will be discussed further in an upcoming meeting.
As the uncertainty surrounding international travel persists, the North American Interfaith Network remains committed to fostering dialogue and collaboration among individuals of different faith traditions. Despite the challenges posed by the current political climate, the spirit of unity and understanding continues to drive their efforts towards social justice and interfaith cooperation.
