Interfaith and Belonging

Interfaith is a vital part of our country’s history—a refuge for communities fleeing religious persecution and the world’s first religiously diverse democracy. Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion will be partnering with Interfaith America (IA), a Chicago-based non-profit that supports American colleges and universities’ efforts to engage religious diversity and promote interfaith cooperation as a campus-wide priority.

For many people, faith practices are an important part of the human experience—shaping their values and behaviors and affecting the communities they feel connected to. At the University of Utah, we believe in the importance of creating wider tables where everyone has a seat—and where we are all participating in fostering a sense of belonging for everyone.

“Institutions of higher education … have both the opportunity and the responsibility to provide curricular and cocurricular learning experiences that offer practice in speaking across religious, political, and social differences, embracing diversity as an essential component of educational excellence.”
Lynn Pasquerella, President
Association of American Colleges & Universities

To live up to our commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, we must make room for those of diverse faith practices as well as those who do not observe or practice as a personal choice. Interfaith Alliance explains that “the Free Exercise Clause of the First Amendment guarantees every American the ability to make their own decisions about religion—to affirm, embrace, and practice the religion of their choice or refrain from participation as a matter of conscience and conviction.” This freedom to choose and practice remains one of our most important liberties.

Interfaith + Athletics

The role of faith is unmistakable in American sport. From pregame prayers and player fellowship groups to post-game remarks where players and coaches often talk about their faith lives or give thanks to a higher power, religion often plays a visible role in sporting contests. But how else might faith play a part in athletic pursuits? Why do athletes so often turn to their faith in both moments of triumph and challenge? And how can we ensure that the intersection of religion and sport don’t lead to exclusion but create spaces where a multitude of faith lives can participate and feel welcome?

Interfaith + Immigration

Immigration has always been a complicated political issue in our country—and leaders have often struggled to balance compassion with pragmatism (along with fear from their constituents). From the Jews escaping Nazi Europe in the 1940s to the Rohingya, Muslim, and Sikh refugees fleeing religious persecution more recently, religion has regularly played an outsized role in the history of immigration. How can interfaith practices ensure we are creating ample space for those fleeing persecution and seeking community and refuge in Utah?

Interfaith + Well-being

Spirituality can involve a range of experiences and practices—from dialogue with others; to self-reflection, meditation, or prayer; to the study of religious texts; to experiences of nature; to activities and rituals as part of a religious organization or community. It is less important where we find support for our spiritual side, than it is to find a practice that supports our needs. For those who choose to participate in a worship practice, the benefit to mental health can include help coping with trauma; reduced anxiety, stress, anger and depression; enhanced quality of life; and increased feelings of inner peace and hope.

How can interfaith practices support students in choosing their spiritual wellness journey? Will taking part in a spiritual or religious practice be comforting or stressful during my academic career? And which tools and resources on campus can allow me to explore and learn about various forms of spiritual practice, religious or otherwise, if I want to explore?

Interfaith + Community

In the record of human history, religion has often played a tremendous part in helping foment community, stimulating social cohesion. Joined by a common set of beliefs, shared values, and a collective faith practice, diverse groups of people have come together for rituals and ceremonies that foster a sense of belonging and connection. Faith still plays this role today—and EDI welcomes the opportunity to support the creation of inclusive spaces to ensure our campus is welcoming and that everyone feels a sense of belonging. The decision to weave interfaith principles into the work of EDI provides opportunities for the university to expand its reach and welcome members of the campus community with various beliefs to celebrate their full selves.

Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion

Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion

Centers & Offices