Swindon’s faith leaders come together to reaffirm shared community values

At a time when people across the country are becoming increasingly concerned and anxious about division in the world, the leaders reaffirmed the common values and community spirit that continues to thrive in Swindon.

Swindon Mayor, Councillor Fay Howard, and Councillor Emma Bushell, Deputy Leader of Swindon Borough Council, invited local faith leaders to yesterday’s (12 Nov) meeting in Euclid Street, to talk about bringing down barriers and celebrating what all residents have in common.

The meeting, which was chaired by the Council’s Chief Executive, Sam Mowbray, discussed Swindon’s history of welcoming people from across the world that has built the town’s success and strength, where people of many faiths and cultures live side by side.

Leaders discussed how best to promote the good work that is taking place within Swindon, and by different faith groups, and how they could bring different faith communities together in the future.

Highlighting the enduring strength and capacity of Swindon communities to unite around the common good, the leaders urged residents to keep faith in the timeless values of respect, kindness and helping others.

Councillor Emma Bushell, Deputy Leader of Swindon Borough Council, said: “I was hugely grateful for the chance to meet with our faith leaders, who work all year round to build good relationships and working partnerships between people of different faiths and beliefs.

“Now, more than ever, we need to lean into our shared values to build bridges not walls. Swindon has a proud history of being a warm and welcoming place and this year’s Inter Faith Week is a good opportunity to showcase the diverse faiths we have in Swindon and to celebrate the role they play in making our communities so special.”

Pradeep Bhardwaj, former High Sheriff of Wiltshire, who established the first Hindu Temple in Swindon and Wiltshire and attended yesterday’s Interfaith meeting, said: “In these uncertain times of division and polarisation, events like yesterday are fundamental to fostering peace and harmony in society.

“There can be no peace in society without peace among religions, and there can be no peace among religions without a dialogue between religions. I commend the local authority and all the stakeholders, and genuinely hope that we continue with this culture of dialogue beyond the Interfaith week that we are celebrating this week.

“Together, as faith leaders, community leaders, political leaders, corporate leaders, let us make Swindon a beacon of social cohesion and showcase the benefits of a diverse society.”