TURNING WORDS INTO ACTION TO ADDRESS ANTISEMITISM | Page 17

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A coalition should be guided by values of being inclusive and respectful. Those
involved should understand the perspectives and concerns of organizations involved
in a coalition.
Coalition members should understand the history and concerns of each organisation
involved.
Coalition members should also recognize the challenges. Conflicts can occur in the
process of coalition building and sustainability can also prove to be challenging.
Sometimes it is worthwhile to reach out to organizations which the coalition
members are not comfortable with. It is, however, important to be mindful of the
challenges such involvement may create.
It is vital for coalition members to understand the nature of prejudice each community
faces. Prejudice can manifest itself in various forms such as discrimination or
violence. It is important to understand these differences.
Discrepancy of resources between the various organizations involved may lead to
tension and conflict. It is important to recognize this.
It is also important to recognize the diversity within communities and potential for
intra-communal discrimination and conflict.
It is advisable to be guided by Article 1 of the 1995 UNESCO Declaration of
Principles on Tolerance which defines tolerance as “respect, acceptance and
appreciation of the rich diversity of our world's cultures, our forms of expression and
ways of being human. It is fostered by knowledge, openness, communication and
freedom of thought, conscience and belief. Tolerance is harmony in difference. It is
not only a moral duty, it is also a political and legal requirement. Tolerance, the virtue
that makes peace possible, contributes to the replacement of the culture of war by a
culture of peace”. Moreover, “the practice of tolerance does not mean toleration of
social injustice or the abandonment or weakening of one's convict