In Pursuit Of Tolerance

"Tolerance is respect, acceptance and appreciation of the rich diversity of our world's cultures, our forms of expression and ways of being human." – UNESCO. Today’s world is characterized by high levels of intolerance and discrimination. We oftentimes complain about the intolerance of others; however, how many of us are tolerant of the wide ranging views within the society and space which we must navigate on a daily basis? The United Nations (UN) states that tolerance is much more than passively accepting the other. It brings obligations to act, and must be taught, nurtured and defended. Tolerance requires investment by States in people, and in the fulfillment of their full potential through education, inclusion and opportunities. This means building societies founded on respect for human rights, where fear, distrust and marginalization are supplanted by pluralism, participation and respect for differences. According to the UN, people are more connected but this does not mean there is more understanding. Societies are ever more diverse but intolerance is growing in many places. Sectarian tensions can be found at the heart of many conflicts, with the rise of violent extremism, massive human rights violations, and cultural cleansing. Undoubtedly, the biggest crisis of forced displacement since the Second World War is currently being played out as a result of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and has resulted in hatred and xenophobia against refugees and others. In 1996, the UN General Assembly invited UN Member States to observe the International Day for Tolerance on November 16, with activities directed towards both educational establishments and the wider public. The UN Declaration among other things affirms that tolerance is neither indulgence or nor indifference. It is respect and appreciation of the rich variety of our world’s culture, our forms of expression and ways of being human. Manifestations of Tolerance Tolerance recognizes the universal human rights and fundamental freedoms of others. People are naturally diverse; it is only when we are accepting of others we will ensure the continuation and survival of varied communities across the world. The principle of universality of human rights is the cornerstone of international human rights law. This means that we are all equally entitled to our human rights. The UN outlines that human rights are rights we have simply because we exist as human beings they are not granted by any state. These universal rights are inherent to us all, regardless of nationality, sex, national or ethnic origin, color, religion, language, or any other status. They range from the most fundamental - the right to life - to those that make life worth living, such as the rights to food, education, work, health, and liberty. On the International Day of Tolerance, let us turn the spotlight on ourselves to identify and reject instances of intolerance. Let us revisit the values within the society and recalibrate them if necessary in order to foster and engender a culture of tolerance and acceptance. Let us treat our neighbours in the manner in which we would wish to be treated. It is not asking too much of us to become the agents of change we wish to see in our society. Let us stop viewing others through the discriminatory lens we often wear whether consciously or unconsciously. Perhaps today is a good day to be reminded that our humanities are all intricately linked and it is only by exhibiting tolerance of others that we ourselves should expect others to be tolerant of us. Let us recognize the increasing threat posed by those who strive to divide, and let us pledge to forge a pathway defined by dialogue, social cohesion and mutual understanding. Let us join the global celebration of tolerance as we strive for a better world. Happy tolerance day. In the words of Mahatma Gandhi, tolerance is the only thing that will enable persons belonging to different religions to live as good neighbours and friends. Wayne Campbell is an educator and social commentator with an interest in development policies as they affect culture and or gender issues. waykam@yahoo.com @WayneCamo © #InternationalDayforTolerance #xenophobia #NoToHate