University celebrates 40 years of diversity

The University of Southern Queensland (USQ) will host a Multi-faith Service on Wednesday 7 March as part of the University's year-long 40th anniversary celebrations.

To mark the University's significant milestone, local religious leaders will offer prayers and give thanks for 40 years of USQ.

Child survivor of the Holocaust, Rabbi Uri Themal OAM, will represent the Queensland Jewish Community and said he was proud to be a part of USQ celebrations.

'I have been involved in the development and seen the growth of USQ's multicultural program which is one of the elements of strength of this exciting institution. It is an honour to be part of celebrating this milestone.'

Uri was involved in the formulation of the Policy of Australian Multiculturalism and is a leading Australian expert in the areas of managing diversity, multiculturalism and community relations.

'All religions have the same goal: To achieve peace and harmony. Yet Religions are frequently the cause of conflict. How do we explain this paradox?

'Conflict arises when some claim that their religion is the only right one, their message the only truth, God only wants them. In today's world this causes enormous suffering the results of which we see every day, in the extreme case through terrorism and genocide.

'The only way to oppose this is to rally those who believe that there are many ways to God and to work with the majority of people in all religions to marginalise the extremists and find the common ground we share: Our common humanity.

'As a Rabbi I have always pursued this path finding others from all different backgrounds and beliefs along the way who wanted to work towards the same goal.'

The University's music department will perform during the service which will be attended by members of the local Christian, Jewish, Buddhist, Baha'i and Muslim communities.

'The idea of giving thanks on significant occasions is traditional and appropriate. USQ, which has students and staff from all backgrounds, celebrates this event by incorporating its religious diversity into this ceremony.

'It is both a mark of respect as well as a celebration of its diversity,' said Uri.

WHAT: 40th Anniversary Multi-faith Service
WHEN: Wednesday, 7 March, 12.30- 2.00pm
WHERE: USQ Quadrangle

Media are invited to attend the University's Multi-faith Service.

Media Contact: Connie-Louise Alexander, USQ Media, +61 7 4631 2977