Raihaana Adira
Director of Outreach and Allyship

In a moment where campuses across the world have become battlegrounds for political and ideological divides, on November 14th, a group of students from diverse religious backgrounds came together to create a space for dialogue, understanding, and solidarity at Concordia University. A Jew, a Christian, a Muslim, a Jain, and a Hindu walked into a bar—not to tell a joke, but to share their personal experiences on a campus grappling with division.
On this particular evening, which was organized by Drew Silver, a political science student at Concordia University in partnership with Allied Voices for Israel, students from different walks of life gathered in the spirit of unity, determined to bridge the gaps that have widened over time. The discussion was framed by the events of October 7th, a pivotal moment that transcended religious boundaries, marking a turning point for many students regardless of their faith. The shockwaves of that day reverberated throughout campus, and while each student’s perspective was shaped by their own background, the collective realization was that the need for unity was more urgent than ever.
The atmosphere in the room was filled with an infectious sense of hope, as voices from various faiths found common ground. There was a collective recognition that, despite their differences, these students were part of something bigger than themselves. They were united by a shared desire for a more harmonious, inclusive community at Montreal Universities — where all students feel safe, respected, and heard.
At the heart of the conversation was a call for action—suggestions ranged from creating a symbol or a color that could represent solidarity to championing systemic change on campus. The idea was not just to address surface-level issues, but to create a lasting impact through individual and collective action. By fostering dialogue, listening to one another, and understanding the experiences of others, the participants believed that they could begin to effect the changes needed for a more united community.
The consensus was clear: solidarity begins with each of us. The panelists stressed that true change comes from being the difference we wish to see in the world. It’s not just about top-down reforms, but about fostering an environment where empathy and understanding can thrive—where systemic issues are tackled not only by policy changes but through personal commitment and action.
The evening closed with a sense of optimism, and talks of doing it again soon. The hope is that this initial conversation will spark a larger movement, one that transcends differences and cultivates an atmosphere of support, respect, and shared humanity. By coming together in solidarity, these students exemplified the power of dialogue and the importance of building bridges in times of division.
Campuses everywhere can benefit from these kinds of conversations, where people from all backgrounds come together not just to debate but to listen, learn, and grow. This dialogue marks a turning point, a reminder that even in the midst of uncertainty, there is always hope for a better, more unified future.
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