Sunday, September 28, 2008
With Respect to Iran and the West: An Interface of Politics and Religion
The Oslo Center for Peace and Human Rights was created in January of 2006 by former Norwegian Prime Minister Kjell Magne Bondevik to encourage dialogue around the intersection of peace and religious practice. In 2007, the Oslo Center formalized a partnership with the Foundation for Dialogue Among Civilizations, which is headed by former president of Iran, Mohammad Khatami, to build bridges of understanding between the “Islamic World” and the “West.” The two organizations have jointly organized workshops in both Oslo and Tehran, focusing on fostering human rights, tolerance for diversity, and reducing religious extremism. Please join us at Augsburg College the evening of Sunday, September 28 for a panel discussion exploring how the nuances of cultural and religious differences affect the political relationship between Iran and the West, with the premise that informed and respectful dialog can reduce international tensions.
In addition to Mr. Bondevik, panelists include:
The Right Reverend John Bryson Chane, Eighth Bishop of Washington; Dr. William Beeman, University of Minnesota professor of Anthropology; and Imam Makram El-Amin, Masjid An-Nur Mosque.
Welcoming remarks will be made by Ambassador Walter Mondale, the discussion will be moderated by Congressman Keith Ellison and closing thoughts will be given by Janet Dolan, Oslo Center U.S. Foundation.
When: Sunday, September 28, 2008
Refreshments and social hour 4:00-5:00 p
Forum 5:00 p – 7:00 p
Where: Hoversten Chapel, Augsburg College,
2211 Riverside Avenue, Minneapolis
(for information on directions and parking, visit
www.augsburg.edu/about/map.html)
Cost: Free to participants, no preregistration necessary
Cosponsors: Augsburg College, The Oslo Center for Peace and Human Rights, The
Vesper Society of San Francisco
