A conference entitled “Migration, Faith, and Action: Shifting The Discourse,” sponsored by The Oxford Research Centre in the Humanities (TORCH) and Las Casas Institute, will take place in Oxford, England, on 8-9 May 2014.
In a time when globalization emphasizes the free flow of ideas, goods, and capital, migration appears at the forefront of political agendas in many countries around the world. Discussions on migration tend to focus on the economy, emphasizing the protection of the working class and the attraction of highly skilled migrants; on national identity, emphasizing nationalism and “us versus them” sentiments; and on national security, emphasizing protection from external threats. Economists, politicians, and media outlets primarily shape the discussions around migration, while religious and faith traditions play, at best, a marginal role in defining the discourse.
The conference will explore two themes:
• Faith: What discourses do faith traditions provide surrounding migration?
• Action: What is the role of faith communities and faith-based organizations in the complex landscape of migration?
The first day of the conference will feature a documentary screening and discussion with Norma Romero, a member of “Las Patronas”, Mexico’s 2013 National Human Rights Award winners.
The conference will be held at Mathematical Institute and the Radcliffe Humanities Building both located within the Radcliffe Observatory Quarter.
For further details, please visit the conference website.