Religion & Community Events Survey: What Arlington Residents Told Us
Dear Arlington friends and neighbors,
Between May 26 and July 26, 2026, the Arlington Human Rights Commission asked residents about their familiarity with major religious traditions, their interest in interfaith programming, and how welcome they feel expressing their own religious or spiritual identity in town. In total, 211 residents responded, and 57 shared written comments.
Respondents reported uneven familiarity across traditions. Christianity and Judaism were the most familiar, while Hinduism, Islam, and Buddhism were the least known. Those three were also the traditions residents most wanted to learn about. Interest was broad: every topic we asked about drew more than 100 selections, with beliefs and practices leading. Cultural events and informational talks were the most popular formats. Asked what they hoped interfaith events would achieve, most respondents chose reduced prejudice and greater understanding between communities.
Responses on belonging were mixed. About half of respondents feel very or somewhat welcome expressing their religious or spiritual identity in Arlington, and about one in five feel somewhat or very unwelcome. Written comments reflected a range of views. They included concrete program ideas, concerns about bias and antisemitism, requests to include atheism and nonbelief, and some opposition to town involvement in religion-focused programming.
The full results are available in the presentation below. Thank you to everyone who took the time to share their perspective.
Arlington values equity, diversity, and inclusion. We are committed to building a community where everyone is heard, respected, and protected.
Email: ahrc@town.arlington.ma.us
Phone: 781-316-3250
By Mail: 27 Maple Street
Arlington, MA 02476
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