A Letter From a Former Commissioner

AHRC
11 minutes ago
2 min read

Dear Arlington friends and neighbors,

Here is a heartfelt letter from Hira Ambreen, a former AHRC Commissioner who co-founded our Religious Acceptance Working Group:

One Greeting, Many Faiths, One Law: A Message for Arlington

Interfaith is not just a word. It is a way of living together, which articulates the matter of how we respect, listen, and learn to walk side by side with each other, even when our paths to faith are different.

But it's not that easy. As around the world, we see division and extremism, which makes us think that dialogue can feel slow, difficult, or tiring at times. And that is exactly the moment when we must keep going, because every small step toward understanding is a step toward peace and belonging.

In our town, we showcase that we are proud of our diversity and being a community where neighbors care about one another. At the Arlington Human Rights Commission’s recent “Let’s Know Our Neighbors’ Religion” event, faith leaders came forward—not to argue, not to convince, but simply to share. Residents came, asked questions, and listened. We discovered differences, yes, but also common values.

Reflecting the Holy Books’ teachings, the Jewish Torah tells us to love our neighbors. The Christian Bible says to live in peace with everyone. The Muslim Quran speaks of the dignity of all people. The Mahabharata belongs to Hindus, calling us to truth and compassion. Many traditions, many teachings, but one clear message. Respect. Compassion. Coexistence.

This is also what the rule of law promises us: No matter your religion, your race, or your background, you have the right to be treated with dignity. You have the right to practice your faith freely. You have the right to belong. Faith gives us wisdom. The law gives us protection. Together, they hold our community strong.

The Arlington Human Rights Commission has made this pledge: to continue creating space for dialogue and connection through initiatives that nurture peace and dignity. Our goal is to honor every voice — to ensure everyone is seen, heard, and valued.

So let us simply start, with a greeting. Whether it is Shalom, Namaste, Salaam, or just a “Hello,” every greeting is a little act of peace. Every greeting says, “I see you. I respect you. You belong.”

One greeting. Many faiths. One law. One Arlington.

Peace to all.

- Hira Ambreen

If you haven't already taken our Religious Acceptance Survey, please do!

Our Religious Acceptance Working Group is planning educational and community-building events for the coming year. We would like to learn what kinds of programs would be most meaningful to Arlington residents.

Please take our brief survey by July 26th. Thank you for sharing your input!

Please take our survey!

Arlington values equity, diversity, and inclusion. We are committed to building a community where everyone is heard, respected, and protected.