Fostering Hope in a Divided World

On the Politics of Belonging

Abstract

Moderated by Dr. Christopher Adams, Rector of St. Paul’s College, University of Manitoba, three panelists Dr. Sami Helewa, SJ (President, Campion College, University of Regina), Ms. Tanya Brothers, JD (Vice-Chair, St. Paul’s College Foundation Inc.), and Ms. Joanne Seiff (Author and Educator), raise the problem of belonging and share their personal stories of what it means to belong in a polarizing and divided world. While acknowledging that today’s political environment is far from ideal and not a source of much hope, they courageously act as if there is the possibility of hope. Hope for what? For claiming their voice and rightful place in our divided world. They refuse to accept that their belonging cannot be a reality. Tanya Brothers’ selection of Dr. Martin Luther Kings’ quote captures the imagination and hope of all panelists: I refuse to accept the view that mankind is so tragically bound to the starless midnight of racism and war that the bright daybreak of peace and brotherhood can never become a reality…. I believe that unarmed truth and unconditional love will have the final word.