Topics of spirituality, secularism, and religion on a college campus offer an opportunity for dialogue across differences but can also be complex and challenging. In our world of ever-increasing social and religious diversity, Olympic College's commitment to equity and inclusion encompasses our students and employees of all religious or non-religious identities. 

This inclusion is evidenced by honoring spiritual and religious diversity, including the practices of OC students and employees. Examples of this include making provision for student absences for reasons of faith and conscience, providing a contemplative space on campus, and the provision of a intercultural/interfaith calendar so holidays are recognized. These efforts are a start, and we welcome insight, feedback, and participation.

If you read through the History links provided on this page it is clear that the Unites States' commitment to protecting the free exercise of religion, as guaranteed by the First Amendment to the Constitution, has sometimes been more aspirational than actual. The US is one of the most religiously diverse nations in the world and the free exercise of religion or the choice not to exercise any religion continues to be protected, for example, by Olympic College's Non Discrimination Policy. 

However, more progress is needed. People in the U.S. agree there is discrimination against Muslims, and Muslims are frequent targets of hate speech and violence. These kinds of incidences are unacceptable at OC and misconduct should be reported. However, aiming for non-discrimination is not enough. It is vital that we, as a campus community, respect and protect each others' rights to religious freedom.

Regardless of creed, all of us can support the freedoms of others, treat everyone with respect, and learn to connect with our diverse community. Olympic College offers training to help us do just that. To learn more about InterGroup Dialogue, watch our Equity Events page.

The majority of humans on our planet identify with a religion, so it is vital to recognize the role religion and religious people can play in peace-building. Founded by the US Congress over 30 years ago, the United States Institute of Peace has come to recognize the importance of religion in their mission of partnering across the globe to create a world without violent conflict.