Forum for Intercultural Dialogue launches the “Egypt Brings Us Together” initiative in Assiut under the slogan “You and I… not ‘me or you’”
Translation (professional):
The Forum for Intercultural Dialogue at the Coptic Evangelical Organization for Social Services (CEOSS) has launched the first day of activities for the “Egypt Brings Us Together” initiative in Assiut, under the slogan “You and I… not ‘me or you’.” The initiative aims to foster effective communication among community members, strengthen social cohesion based on mutual respect, embrace difference, and reject all forms of intolerance.
The initiative was implemented in partnership and coordination with the Egyptian Family House, Ma‘an for Development Association, the Union of Youth for Development Association, and the Governorate’s Human Rights Unit.
This phase targeted 70 young men and women from schools, Al-Azhar institutes, and universities, representing wide social and cultural diversity from villages and cities across the northern, central, and southern districts of Assiut.
The program featured a range of interactive activities that provided a safe space for dialogue. Discussions reflected positive shifts in participants’ ideas and attitudes, expressed by youth through messages such as:
“Women’s work is neither shameful nor forbidden.”
“As a man, I now accept sharing household responsibilities with women.”
“I have no objection to my wife being the manager.”
The initiative concluded with several recommendations, including:
The importance of documenting and publicizing inspiring success stories.
Developing critical thinking among students.
Strengthening the role of the media in countering violence and intolerance and promoting the values of peace and understanding.
It is worth noting that “Egypt Brings Us Together” is being implemented in six governorates: Assiut, Aswan, Luxor, Cairo, Minya, and Alexandria.
