UW2010, Dominique: “It was a peaceful and joyful day. We were able to meet members of other faiths and learn about their traditions at open houses, see vivid examples of hospitality and partnership between different religions, stand shoulder to shoulder with others in a public show of tolerance and unity and to hear inspiring words from representatives of different religions, local, national, and international. These are the goals of the Unity Walk and it was all we had hoped for, for us and our children. We were able to, as Gandhi hoped, “be the change” we seek in this world.”
UW 2009 L.R., 13 “My favorite part of the Unity Walk was listening to Mahatma Gandhi’s grandson speaking at the Gandhi Memorial. It was really intense listening to his stories about his grandfather.”
UW 2010 N.R., 10, “I really enjoyed going to the Sikh temple, especially the martial arts demonstration”.
UW 2010, J.R., 5 “I liked going to the mosque for the first time”.
UW 2009, Mike: In addition to providing a unique opportunity for meeting people of different faiths and visit their houses of worship, it is also a way to publicly, physically demonstrate a spirit of tolerance and understanding, something so needed today. Participating in the walk, can have a real, meaningful, impact, both inwardly and outwardly to those watching. My son, Luke, and I both attended last year and were both deeply moved by the experience. The Unity Walk is both an a-political and family-friendly event and we plan on all attending this year and want to encourage all who are able to consider participating.
E.J. 16 yo, “The martial arts demo was really interesting. I was not expecting that at the Sikh place. I wasn’t expecting anything that I saw, I only thought that we would walk!”.
John, “it was fascinating to get a glimpse of the different religions and cultures within that one mile stretch of Massachusetts Avenue. The enticing aroma of cinnamon and cloves which infused the rice portion of the meal served by the Sikhs added to their reputation of being very gracious hosts. I knew almost nothing about the Sikhs before visiting their place of worship. Now I know they came mostly from the Punjab region of India, believe in God but have almost 500 names for God”.