Since our founding in 2004, Interfaith Philadelphia has challenged Philadelphians to dare to understand one another. Our work with congregations, schools, neighborhoods, and workplaces celebrates the diversity of Philadelphia and demonstrates the vibrancy of a religiously diverse democracy. In response to recent acts of hate that have occurred both in Philadelphia and throughout the country, and with generous seed funding from Pew Charitable Trusts, Interfaith Philadelphia has launched the Dare to Understand Public Arts Initiative.

​

In partnership with Mural Arts Philadelphia, Interfaith Philadelphia is creating a mural series engaging various creative perspectives on what it means to dare to understand.  In 2017, following the desecration of Mt. Carmel Cemetery, Mural Arts, Interfaith Philadelphia, and the Wissinoming community came together to create the mural titled Cultivate Respect (seen below), linking botanical imagery with the values of respect. 

 

The second mural in this series is located at the Aquinas Center in South Philadelphia and is dedicated in honor of S.A. Ibrahim, former CEO of Radian Group, through the generosity of the Board of Radian.  We will continue to offer opportunities for events and programming at the Aquinas Center, furthering Interfaith Philadelphia's goal to use public art to create spaces for education, public conversation, and the celebration of diversity.