Interfaith Gathering: “A Dialogue on Hate Crimes”
Interfaith Gathering: “A Dialogue on Hate Crimes”
Thursday, October 22, 2026, 7:00 p.m.
Wesley United Methodist Church
21 E. Franklin Ave., Naperville (lower level)
Sponsored by United for Peace and the Naperville Interfaith Leaders Association (NILA).
The gathering is organized in response to the attempted attack at the Sri Venkateswara Swami (Balaji) Temple in Aurora on October 11, 2026, in Aurora. The conversation will focus on the safety concerns facing religious communities, the threat of hate crimes against people of color and members of non-Christian religious traditions, and what we can do to counter hatred in our community.
Representatives from the Hindu community, Congregation Beth Shalom, and the Islamic Center of Naperville will share their communities’ experiences with threats, fear, and the growing need for security. A Naperville police officer will address safety concerns for religious institutions, and Rev. Dr. Lynn Pries, President of NILA, will speak about the dangers of white supremacy and steps we can take to confront it.
Parking is available on the north side of the church and on the street.
Rabbi David Eber: “At a time when fear can so easily cause us to withdraw behind our own walls, I hope we will choose instead to reach toward one another.”
