President’s Message 



Interfaith relations around the world and here in our community are being tested due to the fighting and violence in Israel and Gaza, initiated by an attack by Hamas and met with a declaration of war by Israel. The news stories are devastating and represent lived experiences for many here in CNY. As people await news of loved ones caught in a war that is not of their creation, our heart goes out to all who are suffering because of this conflict.  

While at InterFaith Works we do not focus on international policy, but rather on local issues and human service, we do experience the effects of war every day. Through our commitment to interfaith work and our dedication to resettlement and support of people displaced by terrorism, violence, and war, we see that families are affected in devastating ways, long after the shooting stops. I am reminded of the saying of the Kikuyu people of Kenya: “When the elephants fight, it is the grass that suffers.” We ask that all in our community pray for peace and for the children, women, and men who are suffering. 



I am especially grateful to our Jewish and Muslim faith leaders, and to all the faith leaders who are part of InterFaith Works’ Round Table of Faith Leaders. They have laid important groundwork over years of working together. These leaders help our community have courageous, though often painful, conversations that result in continued openness and commitment to do common work on critical community issues. After 9/11, the faith communities launched a broad-based program to combat Islamophobia which continues today. As hate crimes and anti-Semitic hate speech directed at Jews rise, InterFaith Works has undertaken educational efforts to address Jewish hate.  

We believe that only in community together can we break down stereotypes that have been fueled by narratives based on our identities. Often people hold these stereotypes and refuse to have intentional relationships with those of other identities. The result is that we see the other person as less than human. Stereotypes are harmful and can only be corrected by acknowledging our common humanity. Our agency is founded on the belief that we can find common ground to stand on so we can work together to resolve conflicts, and that the road to this is through honest and brave dialogue. 

I pray that behind-the-scenes diplomacy begins to de-escalate the war, and that citizen diplomacy throughout the world brings us closer to a long-lasting peace. 

Syracuse University’s Chancellor Kent Syverud exhorted his campus community with these words, which apply to our whole community: “These uncertain times may leave some feeling powerless. What we do control is how we treat and engage one another. Please, extend kindness, respect, and compassion to those who are suffering and grieving.” 

We add, “so that the dignity and humanity of each person is affirmed.”