Members of Intercultural Dialogue Institute Kitchener-Waterloo (IDI-KW) find it immensely satisfying to bring people together to understand each other better and break down prejudices. IDI-KW seeks to eliminate false stereotypes and unjustified fears through advancing diversity and multiculturalism in the community. They particularly encourage direct communication among people from different cultures and faiths to help to reduce misunderstandings, fostering a more inclusive and harmonious society.
IDI-KW joined the Kindred Credit Union Centre for Peace Advancement in 2015, first as an incubator participant and then as a Core Collaborator in 2018. More recently, IDI-KW moved under the umbrella of the Grand River Friendship Society (GRFS) amplifying GRFS' mission and vision to create an integrated and inclusive community that promotes cultural identity and social responsibility. Together, GRFS and IDI-KW contribute to the development of individuals and cultural groups through social activities, educational seminars, and artistic and cultural events.
The IDI-KW Women’s Platform organizes monthly book club meetings where women who enjoy reading and discussing books come together. Each year in September, they select 10 books to read and discuss throughout the year. This initiative not only promotes literacy but also fosters meaningful conversations among participants.
Cooking classes initially started online during the pandemic but have since transitioned to in-person activities. These classes are a blend of culinary education and cultural exchange. Every month, a participant demonstrates how to prepare a traditional dish from their native country. Attendees observe, learn, and then enjoy the meal together. This program has allowed people to explore cuisines from diverse cultures such as Indonesia and India, enhancing both their cooking skills and cultural understanding.
International Women's Day also holds significant importance for the organization. This event serves as a platform to empower women and highlight their roles in society. Held annually, these events strengthen inter-community relations and are much enjoyed by participants.
One of IDI-KW's most notable achievements is the annual Iftar program, which brings together approximately 250-300 individuals from diverse cultures and faiths. This program creates a space for communal sharing, where participants not only break fast together during Ramadan but also build cultural bridges and gain deeper insights into each other's traditions. These events are seen as pivotal in promoting diversity and mutual understanding within our community.
Events on the horizon include the annual GRFS-IDI picnic scheduled for late August. This event provides a valuable opportunity for families from diverse cultural, linguistic, and religious backgrounds to engage in meaningful dialogue. It will be hosted by the Turkish community and is open to all communities and faiths.
By sharing both the differences and similarities among people of all backgrounds, GRFS and IDI-KW continue to strive to build bridges of understanding that transcend cultural and religious divides. Follow GRFS (@grfsociety) on Instagram to learn more and participate in their activities.