2022 Year in Review – Tennessee United for Human Rights

 2022 showed resilience and innovation to shift from virtual back to in person safely. Tennessee United for Human Rights carried out the work of the international organization United for Human Rights in the Southeast United States.

 

Tennessee United for Human Rights (TnUHR) was formed as a non-profit public benefit corporation in 2015 to educate Tennesseans on the basic principles and foundations of human rights. Seven years later, in 2022, the organization has taken great strides to provide help to people of all ages so they may understand their basic human rights.

 

Much of the year was spent educating people on their human rights online through audio-visual presentations and public service announcements online.

 

The group had events with special guest speakers for Nelson Mandela Day and International Peace Day, bringing the community together to learn about history and the need for change.

 

Closing out the year as always, TnUHR was a co-organizer for the annual Tennessee Celebration of International Human Rights Day, a spectacular event that showcased human rights leaders for their work and uplifted others. This year the event was held in the community hall of the Church of Scientology Nashville where leaders were acknowledged and everyone uplifted.

 

“The time for true human rights education is now,” says Julie Brinker, spokesperson for Tennessee  United for Human Rights, “we’ve come far over the past few years but there is still more work to be done so that each and every person has a voice and human rights can be a reality for all.”

 

TnUHR is the local chapter of United for Human Rights (UHR), an international, not-for-profit organization dedicated to implementing the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Its membership is comprised of individuals, educators, and groups throughout the world who are actively forwarding the knowledge and protection of human rights by and for all Mankind. United for Human Rights was founded on the Declaration’s 60th anniversary, in the face of continued worldwide abuses which violate the spirit, intent, and Articles of this charter of all human rights, the first such document ever ratified by the community of nations. For more information about United for Human Rights, go to humanrights.com. For more information on the Tennessee chapter, visit tnuhr.org.

 

Nashville Religion Communicators to Host “How and Why to Enter the DeRose Hinkhouse Awards”

 The Nashville Chapter of the Religion Communicators Council (RCC) meets monthly to talk about topics of interest and hear from professionals in religious communications.  

 

The Religion Communicators Council (RCC) is an interfaith association of religion communicators at work in print and electronic communication, marketing and public relations. The Nashville Chapter meets monthly at rotating locations to learn about other faith traditions, learn from fellow communicators and gain professional development opportunities.

 

The first meeting of 2023 will be virtual, with members learning how and why to enter and win the DeRose Hinkhouse Memorial Awards.

 

“The DeRose-Hinkhouse Memorial Awards are given annually to active members of the Religion Communicators Council who demonstrate excellence in religious communications and public relations. The awards are named to honor the late Victor DeRose and the late Paul M. Hinkhouse, leading lithographers in New York City, and longtime friends of the RCC. Both men shared a strong interest in, and concern for, excellence in communications,” according to the religioncommunicators.org website.

 

The discussion about the awards will be led by Rev. Brian Fesler, President of the RCC National Board of Governors, and Pastor of the Church of Scientology Nashville.

 

The RCC has members from every faith group and walk of life including Baha’is, Christians, Jews, Muslims, Scientologists, Sikhs, Hindus and more. The RCC, founded in 1929, is an association of communications professionals who work for and with a diverse group of faith-based organizations in the areas of communications, public relations, advertising and development.

 

The RCC provides opportunities for communicators to learn from each other. Together, RCC members promote excellence in the communication of faith and values in the public arena. For more information about the Religion Communicators Council, visit religioncommunicators.org/nashville-chapter. 

Scientology Nashville Welcomes Community to “Advancing Universal Freedom” Human Rights Day Event

 Part of an international movement, the Church of Scientology with Tennessee United for Human Rights is raising awareness of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

 

Tennessee United for Human Rights commemorated 74 years of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights alongside community organizations by honoring top leaders and advocates in Tennessee in the Church of Scientology for International Human Rights Day.

 

Human Rights Day commemorates the United Nations adoption in 1948 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights--the world's premier human rights document. Despite the best intentions of those who crafted the Declaration, 74 years later, the UN points out, "disrespect for basic human rights continues to be widespread in all parts of the globe. Extremist movements subject people to horrific violence. Messages of intolerance and hatred prey on our fears. Humane values are under attack."

 

The UN’s motto for this year’s Human Rights Day, “Dignity, Freedom & Justice for All,” with the call to action #StandUp4HumanRights which is also the central message of a program carried out by the Scientology Church in Nashville with an event under the theme “Advancing Universal Freedom.”

 

In a message from U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres said: “Moments of great difficulty are also moments of great opportunity. To come together in solidarity. To unite behind solutions that can benefit all people."

 

In carrying out this mandate, Scientologists are proud to host events each year and partner with government agencies and nongovernmental organizations to bring about broad-scale awareness and implementation of the 1948 United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the world's premier human rights document.

 

The Church of Scientology and Scientologists support United for Human Rights and its program for young people, Youth for Human Rights, whose award-winning educational materials are translated into 27 languages, bringing the message of human rights to 195 nations. Their actions are inspired by the principles expressed by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard who observed, “It is vital that all thinking men urge upon their governments sweeping reforms in the field of human rights.”

 

For more information on how Tennesseans are working toward human rights, visit tnuhr.org. For more information on United For Human Rights’ International movement or to learn more about your basic human rights, visit humanrights.com.

 

Nashville Religion Communicators Look Back on 2022, Plan for 2023

 Nashville Religion Communicators Look Back on 2022, Plan for 2023

 

The Nashville Chapter of the Religion Communicators Council (RCC) meets monthly to talk about topics of interest and hear from professionals in religious communications.  

 

The Religion Communicators Council (RCC) is an interfaith association of religion communicators at work in print and electronic communication, marketing and public relations. The Nashville Chapter meets monthly at rotating locations to learn about other faith traditions, learn from fellow communicators and gain professional development opportunities.

 

The December meeting will take place virtually, with RCC Board members for the Nashville Chapter reviewing the content of the year’s meetings and creating a plan for 2023. This has become a tradition for the Nashville Chapter, to both allow members the chance to have time for the holidays, and also plan the coming year by noting what was successful this year.  

 

“We have excellent programming, and more good things to come,” says Julie Brinker, Communications Coordinator for the Nashville RCC and Director of Community Affairs for the Church of Scientology Nashville.

 

The RCC has members from every faith group and walk of life including Baha’is, Christians, Jews, Muslims, Scientologists, Sikhs, Hindus and more. The RCC, founded in 1929, is an association of communications professionals who work for and with a diverse group of faith-based organizations in the areas of communications, public relations, advertising and development.

 

The RCC provides opportunities for communicators to learn from each other. Together, RCC members promote excellence in the communication of faith and values in the public arena. For more information about the Religion Communicators Council, visit religioncommunicators.org/nashville-chapter. 

Church of Scientology Nashville Welcomes Community to 74th Annual Human Rights Day Event

 

Part of an international movement, the Church of Scientology with Tennessee United for Human Rights is raising awareness of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

 

Tennessee United for Human Rights is commemorating 74 years of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights this December. Community organizations are honoring top leaders and advocates in Tennessee in the Church of Scientology on December 8^th from 5-7pm.

 

Human Rights Day commemorates the United Nations adoption in 1948 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights--the world's premier human rights document. Despite the best intentions of those who crafted the Declaration, 74 years later, the UN points out, "disrespect for basic human rights continues to be widespread in all parts of the globe. Extremist movements subject people to horrific violence. Messages of intolerance and hatred prey on our fears. Humane values are under attack."

 

The UN’s motto for this year’s Human Rights Day, “Dignity, Freedom & Justice for All,” with the call to action #StandUp4HumanRights and this will also be a central message of a program carried out by the Scientology Church in Nashville with an event under the theme “Advancing Universal Freedom.”

 

In a message from U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres said: “Moments of great difficulty are also moments of great opportunity. To come together in solidarity. To unite behind solutions that can benefit all people."

 

In carrying out this mandate, Scientologists are proud to host events each year and partner with government agencies and nongovernmental organizations to bring about broad-scale awareness and implementation of the 1948 United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the world's premier human rights document.

 

The Church of Scientology and Scientologists support United for Human Rights and its program for young people, Youth for Human Rights, whose award-winning educational materials are translated into 27 languages, bringing the message of human rights to 195 nations. Their actions are inspired by the principles expressed by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard who observed, “It is vital that all thinking men urge upon their governments sweeping reforms in the field of human rights.”

 

For more information on how Tennesseans are working toward human rights, visit tnuhr.org. For more information on United For Human Rights’ International movement or to learn more about your basic human rights, visit humanrights.com. 

Church of Scientology Nashville Celebrating Dignity, Freedom & Justice for All

 Part of an international movement, the Church of Scientology and Scientologists across Tennessee are raising awareness in commemoration of the 74^th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

 

In commemoration of International Human Rights Day, the Church of Scientology Nashville is joining forces with public officials, community groups and concerned individuals to forward the basic principles enshrined in the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights to protect and defend “the inherent dignity and… the equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family.”

 

Adopted by the UN General Assembly on December 10, 1948, the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), whose 74th anniversary we celebrate this year, is a compilation of the 30 essential rights belonging to everyone.

 

The UN’s motto for this year’s Human Rights Day, “Dignity, Freedom & Justice for All,” with the call to action #StandUp4HumanRights and this will also be a central message of a program carried out by the Scientology Church in Nashville with an event under the theme “Advancing Universal Freedom.”

 

In a message from U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres said: “Moments of great difficulty are also moments of great opportunity. To come together in solidarity. To unite behind solutions that can benefit all people."

 

In carrying out this mandate, Scientologists are proud to host events each year and partner with government agencies and nongovernmental organizations to bring about broad-scale awareness and implementation of the 1948 United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the world's premier human rights document.

 

The Church of Scientology and Scientologists support United for Human Rights and its program for young people, Youth for Human Rights, whose award-winning educational materials are translated into 27 languages, bringing the message of human rights to 195 nations. Their actions are inspired by the principles expressed by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard who observed, “It is vital that all thinking men urge upon their governments sweeping reforms in the field of human rights.”

 

For more information on how Tennesseans are working toward human rights, visit tnuhr.org. For more information on United For Human Rights’ International movement or to learn more about your basic human rights, visit humanrights.com.

 

Church of Scientology Nashville Welcomes Community During Holidays 2022

 Scientologists believe in spreading the warmth and joy of the holiday season to the community and beyond.

 

More than 10,000 Scientology Churches, missions, related organizations and affiliated groups minister to millions in 165 countries, according to Scientology.org. Because of this worldwide diversity, Scientologists come from a wide variety of faiths and cultural traditions. But no matter their background, they, like most people, gather with loved ones to enjoy the warmth of friends and family and celebrate the joy of the holiday season.

 

With the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, churches, like most places, were forced to limit numbers to keep in social distancing measures since 2020. But now, with restrictions lifted, the Church of Scientology Nashville is again happy to welcome the community to celebrate the joys of the holiday season with friends and loved ones.

 

Pastor of the Nashville Church, Rev. Brian Fesler, says, “Our church captures the spirit of the holidays. We bring people together to celebrate and plan the year ahead, and everyone is welcome here throughout the season.”

 

The Nashville church hosts an annual potluck for Thanksgiving and Christmas, as well as other community events including holiday shows and festivities, the annual Human Rights Day celebration, open houses and other community get-togethers.

 

Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard honored the great religious leaders of the past for the wisdom they brought to the world, writing that Scientology shares “the goals set for Man by Christ, which are wisdom, good health and immortality.” It is in this spirit that Scientologists celebrate the holiday season, whether they observe Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or any other religious or cultural tradition.

 

The Church annually celebrates New Year’s Eve with a large-scale event that all parishioners and members of the community are invited to attend. It is at this event that the church reviews the accomplishments for the year and sets the course for the year to come.

 

This past decade has seen explosive expansion for the religion, with over 70 new Churches of Scientology in global cities—from Orlando to Perth, Dublin to Detroit and Kansas City to Johannesburg. This decade further saw the inauguration of the Church’s global communications headquarters, Scientology Media Productions. The studio subsequently launched its own television channel, broadcasting in 17 languages across 24 time zones: Scientology Network—available on DIRECTV Channel 320 and streaming online at scientology.tv.

 

For more information about Scientology, visit www.scientology.org.

 

Tennessee Human Rights Day Committee Announces 2022 Award Recipients

 The Tennessee Celebration of International Human Rights Day will take place on December 8^th at 5pm.

 

Tennesseans gather each year around December 10th for the Tennessee Celebration of International Human Rights Day.  During the event, leaders are acknowledged, and awards recognize human rights champions in three categories: Rising Advocate, Outstanding Service and Lifetime Achievement.

 

Muriel Nolen, director of the Tennessee Human Rights Commission, will serve as master of ceremonies for the affair. Rev. Davie Tucker, director of Metro Human Relations Commission, will comment on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and how it applies locally.  The theme, “Advancing Universal Freedom,” will be explored by a special panel.

 

The Lifetime Achievement Award will go to A.J. Starling, a past commissioner for the Tennessee Human Rights Commission who has been an advocate for workers’ rights since 1971. Some of his earliest work was with the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1235, and since the early 1980s he has been with the Tennessee AFL-CIO.

 

Outstanding Service Awards are going to Dr. Allison Quintanilla Plattsmier, the Executive Director of the Edgehill Neighborhood Partnership and Robin Derryberry who served on the Tennessee Human Rights Commission from 2015 - 2022.

 

Rising Advocate Awards will go to Jacob Aparicio, the Building Bridges & WE City Program Coordinator for the Oasis Center; Rev. Earle Fisher, the senior pastor of Abyssinian Baptist Church in Memphis and founder of #UPTheVote901; and Stephanie Kang, the Bureau Director of Health Equity for the Metro Public Health Department.

 

A committee of human rights organizations, nonprofits, and advocates, including the Tennessee Human Rights Commission, Metro Human Relations Commission, Tennessee United for Human Rights, the Scarritt Bennett Center, the Nashville chapter of Amnesty International, the Church of Scientology and others, work together each year to plan the event.

 

“Human Rights Day is a day to remember past advances in human rights, to honor those who have made our lives better. It’s also a day to refresh and restore and be inspired for the following year, and a sort of annual reunion of the state’s various agencies and organizations who work daily to make human rights a fact,” says planning committee chair Rev. Brian Fesler, pastor of the Church of Scientology in Nashville. “The day centers around the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and this year we focus on how human rights advance universal freedom.”

 

The event will be live in person this year, after two years of virtual events during the pandemic.   To ensure the safety and health of all, extra precautions are being taken. Temperature screenings will take place at entry, and the committee asks that anyone who may have symptoms of illness to please view the event later when it is posted online.  The event venue this year is the Church of Scientology, 1130 8th Ave S, Nashville TN 37203.  There is no charge for admission, but donations are being accepted to cover costs of the event.  Registration is at TnUHR.org, where one can find more information about the event and human rights.

Nashville Religion Communicators Council Showcase the Art of Strategic Design

 The Nashville Chapter of the Religion Communicators Council (RCC) meets monthly to talk about topics of interest and hear from professionals in religious communications. 

 

 

The Religion Communicators Council (RCC) is an interfaith association of religion communicators at work in print and electronic communication, marketing, and public relations. The Nashville Chapter meets monthly to learn about other faith traditions, learn from fellow communicators and gain professional development opportunities.

 

The November 2022 meeting saw guest speakers on the topic of “Behind the Design ~ Strategic Questions to Elevate Your Creative Projects.” According to RCC Nashville, “Creative projects begin with exploration. Understanding what a project needs to accomplish helps a designer develop the most successful and innovative ones.”

 

“Artistic design helps forward a basic communication, turning it into something much deeper and impactful,” says Julie Brinker, communications coordinator for the Nashville RCC and Director of Community Affairs for the Nashville Church of Scientology, “we were so glad to hear from members of the design team at United Methodist Communications during our November virtual meeting.”  

 

The RCC has members from every faith group and walk of life including Baha’is, Christians, Jews, Muslims, Scientologists, Sikhs, Hindus, and more. The RCC, founded in 1929, is an association of communications professionals who work for and with a diverse group of faith-based organizations in the areas of communications, public relations, advertising, and development.

 

The RCC provides opportunities for communicators to learn from each other. Together, RCC members promote excellence in the communication of faith and values in the public arena. For more information about the Religion Communicators Council, visit religioncommunicators.org/nashville-chapter. 

Drug-Free Tennessee Helping All Learn the Truth

 Drug-Free Tennessee, the local chapter of the Foundation for a Drug-Free World, is promoting drug awareness and education for Red Ribbon Week.

 

Drug-Free Tennessee was out on the streets of downtown Nashville to spread the truth about drugs, helping people understand what drugs are and how they affect the body so they don’t become unsuspecting victims of addiction. This all happened during Red Ribbon Week, a national initiative to promote drug prevention and awareness.

 

Tennessee consistently ranks in the top five US states in terms of substance abuse rates, according to a report from lakeviewhealth.com. The website further describes that despite the rise in opioid addictions, alcohol abuse statistics have remained stable, so alcohol is still the most commonly abused substance in Tennessee. In fact, more than 60 percent of patients who enter state drug treatment programs seek treatment for alcohol addiction and about 1 in 20 Tennessee residents abused or were dependent on alcohol in 2016.

 

To protect youth and others from the disastrous effects of abusing drugs and alcohol, Drug-Free Tennessee teams up with community partners to bring the truth about drugs to young people during Red Ribbon Week.

 

“We have an immediate task ahead of us: get the drug overdoses going downward,” says Julie Brinker, an ambassador for the organization, “Nashville has seen an increase every year in overdoses since 2018 and it’s time to get this turned around.”  

 

Red Ribbon Week is a week-long celebration at the end of October to promote a drug-free lifestyle. The Red Ribbon has been worn as a symbol since 1985 when DEA Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena was murdered. Angered parents and youth in communities across the country began wearing Red Ribbons to show their commitment to raise awareness of the killing and destruction caused by drugs in America.

 

The volunteers distributed copies of The Truth About Drugs booklet, a booklet that helps people understand what drugs are and how they affect the user. Drug-Free Tennessee is the local chapter of the Foundation for a Drug-Free World, an international non-profit organization. Its materials demonstrate the dangers of drugs through factual information and interviews with former addicts giving personal perspectives on each of the substances covered. For more information on the Truth About Drugs, visit drugfreeworld.org or drugfreetn.org.

 

Drug-Free Tennessee to Hold Special Event for Awareness During Red Ribbon Week 2022

 Drug-Free Tennessee, the local chapter of the Foundation for a Drug-Free World, is promoting drug awareness and education for Red Ribbon Week.

 

Drug-Free Tennessee in partnership with the Church of Scientology Nashville is holding a drug prevention and educational event during Red Ribbon Week, a national initiative to promote drug prevention and awareness.

 

Tennessee consistently ranks in the top five US states in terms of substance abuse rates, according to a report from lakeviewhealth.com. The website further describes that despite the rise in opioid addictions, alcohol abuse statistics have remained stable, so alcohol is still the most commonly abused substance in Tennessee. In fact, more than 60 percent of patients who enter state drug treatment programs seek treatment for alcohol addiction and about 1 in 20 Tennessee residents abused or were dependent on alcohol in 2016.

 

To protect youth from the disastrous effects of abusing drugs and alcohol, Drug-Free Tennessee teams up with community partners to bring the truth about drugs to young people during Red Ribbon Week.

 

“We have an immediate task ahead of us: get the drug overdoses going downward,” says Julie Brinker, an ambassador for the organization, “Nashville has seen an increase every year in overdoses since 2018 and it’s time to get this turned around.”  

 

Red Ribbon Week is a week-long celebration at the end of October to promote a drug-free lifestyle. The Red Ribbon has been worn as a symbol since 1985 when DEA Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena was murdered. Angered parents and youth in communities across the country began wearing Red Ribbons to show their commitment to raise awareness of the killing and destruction caused by drugs in America.

 

Volunteers will join with Drug-Free Tennessee for educational events and to distribute copies of The Truth About Drugs, a booklet that helps young people understand what drugs are and how they affect the user. It’s happening during the weekend of October 28-30. For more information, email info@drugfreetn.org.

 

Drug-Free Tennessee is the local chapter of the Foundation for a Drug-Free World, an international non-profit organization. Its materials demonstrate the dangers of drugs through factual information and interviews with former addicts giving personal perspectives on each of the substances covered. For more information on the Truth About Drugs, visit drugfreeworld.org or drugfreetn.org.

 

Nashville Religion Communicators to Showcase the Art of Strategic Design

 The Nashville Chapter of the Religion Communicators Council (RCC) meets monthly to talk about topics of interest and hear from professionals in religious communications. 

 

 

The Religion Communicators Council (RCC) is an interfaith association of religion communicators at work in print and electronic communication, marketing, and public relations. The Nashville Chapter meets monthly to learn about other faith traditions, learn from fellow communicators and gain professional development opportunities.

 

The November 2022 meeting will be virtual with guest speakers on the topic of “Behind the Design ~ Strategic Questions to Elevate Your Creative Projects.” According to RCC Nashville, “Creative projects begin with exploration. Understanding what a project needs to accomplish helps a designer develop the most successful and innovative ones. Learn more about what to do before you begin designing your next display, ad, landing page, or campaign.”

 

“Artistic design helps forward a basic communication, turning it into something much deeper and impactful,” says Julie Brinker, communications coordinator for the Nashville RCC and Director of Community Affairs for the Nashville Church of Scientology, “we look forward to a wonderful meeting.”  

 

The RCC has members from every faith group and walk of life including Baha’is, Christians, Jews, Muslims, Scientologists, Sikhs, Hindus, and more. The RCC, founded in 1929, is an association of communications professionals who work for and with a diverse group of faith-based organizations in the areas of communications, public relations, advertising, and development.

 

The RCC provides opportunities for communicators to learn from each other. Together, RCC members promote excellence in the communication of faith and values in the public arena. For more information about the Religion Communicators Council, visit religioncommunicators.org/nashville-chapter. 

Nashville Religion Communicators Learn from Video Production Professional

 The Nashville Chapter of the Religion Communicators Council (RCC) meets monthly to talk about topics of interest and hear from professionals in religious communications. 

 

 

The Religion Communicators Council (RCC) is an interfaith association of religion communicators at work in print and electronic communication, marketing, and public relations. The Nashville Chapter meets monthly to learn about other faith traditions, learn from fellow communicators and gain professional development opportunities.

 

The October 2022 virtual meeting saw guest speaker A.J. Thurman with the United Methodist Communications production team share tips and tricks for video perfection. Thurman walked the group through the equipment he uses, his tips for shooting video on the fly or at home, lighting, sound quality and more.

 

“We’re in the visual age,” says Julie Brinker, communications coordinator for the Nashville RCC and Director of Community Affairs for the Nashville Church of Scientology, “If your video quality is lacking, there is instant judgement, so it really has to be the best.”

 

The RCC has members from every faith group and walk of life including Baha’is, Christians, Jews, Muslims, Scientologists, Sikhs, Hindus, and more. The RCC, founded in 1929, is an association of communications professionals who work for and with a diverse group of faith-based organizations in the areas of communications, public relations, advertising, and development.

 

The RCC provides opportunities for communicators to learn from each other. Together, RCC members promote excellence in the communication of faith and values in the public arena. For more information about the Religion Communicators Council, visit religioncommunicators.org/nashville-chapter. 

Divinity over Division: How the Religion Communicators Council is Bringing People Together

 

 

The Religion Communicators Council (RCC) is an interfaith association of professionals who communicate about or on behalf of religious groups.

 

 

Religion communicators come from all walks of life, and pop up everywhere on the political spectrum, but according to RCC members who participated in a webinar this week, politics seek to divide and religion should bring people together.

 

The Religion Communicators Council (RCC) is an interfaith association of religion communicators at work in print and electronic communication, marketing, and public relations. During a recent webinar co-hosted by the RCC and Communicators for Women Religious (CWR), the topic was Divinity over Division: Communicating Spirituality in a Climate of Polarity.

 

The panel focused in on how communicators can bring people together over the issues that matter while both staying above the noise and how to make a difference in today’s world.

 

Panel members were Ibrahim Anli, Executive Director, Rumi Forum Center for Faith, Identity & Globalization; Joanne Gallagher, CSJ, Director of Communications, Sisters of St. Joseph of Boston; Barbara Hecht, Director of Communications, Sisters of St. Joseph of Baden; Joyce Litoff, Associate Director of Communications, Baha’i National Center; and Brad Pomerance, Senior Vice President, Programming & Host, Jewish Life Television. It was moderated by Rev. Brian Fesler, President of the Religion Communicators Council and pastor of the Church of Scientology Nashville and Ginny Hizer, Executive Director of the Communicators for Women Religious. The webinar was recorded and is available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IiQjcejoGd0.

 

The RCC has members from every faith group and walk of life including Baha’is, Christians, Jews, Muslims, Scientologists, Sikhs, Hindus, and more. The RCC, founded in 1929, is an association of communications professionals who work for and with a diverse group of faith-based organizations in the areas of communications, public relations, advertising, and development.

 

The RCC provides opportunities for communicators to learn from each other. Together, RCC members promote excellence in the communication of faith and values in the public arena. For more information about the Religion Communicators Council, visit religioncommunicators.org or to become a member visit https://religioncommunicators.org/become-a-member/.  

Human Rights Day Committee Calls for Nominations for 2022 Awards

 

The Tennessee Celebration of International Human Rights Day will take place in person on December 8^th. The planning committee for the event is now accepting nominations for the prestigious human rights awards.

 

Tennesseans will gather on December 8^th to celebrate International Human Rights Day. During the event, leaders are acknowledged, and awards will go to human rights champions in three categories: Rising Advocate, Outstanding Service and Lifetime Achievement.

 

The planning committee for the event has just announced on Facebook at www.facebook.com/tennesseehumanrights that nominations are now open and may be submitted at www.tnuhr.org/nominations.

 

Past award recipients have included Rev. Bill Barnes, John Seigenthaler, Rosetta Miller Perry, Avi Poster, Remziya Suleyman, Justin Jones and others. The complete list of honorees can be found at www.nashvillehumanrights.org/past-award-recipients/

 

A committee of human rights organizations, nonprofits, and advocates, including the Tennessee Human Rights Commission, Metro Human Relations Commission, United Nations Association, Scarritt Bennett Center, Tennessee United for Human Rights, the Church of Scientology, and others, work together each year to plan the event.

 

“Human Rights Day gives the community a chance to acknowledge advocates and leaders while also learning more about what human rights really mean for all people,” says planning committee chair Rev. Brian Fesler, pastor of the Church of Scientology in Nashville.

 

The event will also have speakers, entertainment and various exhibits from human rights organizations. All information regarding the event can be found on the website www.tnuhr.org.  

Tennessee Human Rights Day 2022 Sets Theme: Advancing Universal Freedom

 The Tennessee Celebration of International Human Rights Day will take place in person on December 8^th.

 

Tennesseans will gather in person for the first time in three years on December 8, 2022 to celebrate International Human Rights Day. During the event, leaders are acknowledged, and awards will go to human rights champions in three categories: Rising Advocate, Outstanding Service and Lifetime Achievement.

 

The planning committee has just announced the theme of the 2022 event will be “Advancing Universal Freedom,” and will focus on Article 28 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights: “Everyone is entitled to a social and international order in which the rights and freedoms set forth in this Declaration can be fully realized.”

 

A committee of human rights organizations, nonprofits, and advocates, including the Tennessee Human Rights Commission, Metro Human Relations Commission, United Nations Association, Amnesty International, Tennessee United for Human Rights, the Church of Scientology, and others, work together each year to plan the event.

 

“Human Rights Day gives the community a chance to acknowledge advocates and leaders while also learning more about what human rights really mean for all people,” says planning committee chair Rev. Brian Fesler, pastor of the Church of Scientology in Nashville.

 

The event will also have speakers, entertainment and various exhibits from human rights organizations. All information regarding the event can be found on the website www.tnuhr.org.   

Church of Scientology to Host the Art of Peace

 The Tennessee chapter of United for Human Rights (TNUHR) will have a youth-centered arts event for International Peace Day.

 

 

The Church of Scientology in partnership with Tennessee United for Human Rights will hold its annual Nashville Celebration of International Day of Peace in mid-September. Tennessee United for Human Rights (TUHR) has held an event for International Day of Peace for many years, each with a different theme related to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. TUHR promotes human rights education as a way to combat ignorance and increase awareness. 

 

During past Peace Day events, a different human right has been the focus. Past themes have included religious diversity, human trafficking awareness, and domestic violence education.

 

“Each year we focus on a human rights issue that needs to be brought to light. This year we will bring together the community to speak and learn of peace on a universal level,” says Rev. Brian Fesler, regional coordinator of the Tennessee United for Human Rights program. The theme this year is the Art of Peace, and will see the announcement of the annual Human Rights art contest with artists beginning their work right at the Peace Day event.

 

International Day of Peace was declared by the United Nations General Assembly as a day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, both within and among all nations and peoples.

 

The Peace Day event will be held this weekend in the Nashville Church of Scientology community hall.

 

TNUHR is a chapter of the international organization United for Human Rights, formed on the 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights to provide human rights resources and educational materials to all sectors of society.

 

For more information about Peace Day or to find out more about Tennessee United for Human Rights, visit tnuhr.org. 

Nashville Religion Communicators Shine Light on Virtual Reality for Research

 The Nashville Chapter of the Religion Communicators Council (RCC) meets monthly to talk about topics of interest and hear from professionals in religious communications.  

The Religion Communicators Council (RCC) is an interfaith association of religion communicators at work in print and electronic communication, marketing, and public relations. The Nashville Chapter meets monthly to learn about other faith traditions, learn from fellow communicators and gain professional development opportunities. 

The September 2022 virtual meeting saw guest speaker Dr. Kelly Price talk with attendees on the topic of “Research: The Sacred Ground of Understanding Your Consumer.” According to RCC Nashville, “Using research to inform decision-making and strategy development can lead to a better understanding of consumers in both physical and online environments.” Not only did Dr. Price cover a wide variety of ways research informs decision-making and strategies, she also shared innovative techniques to conduct research as the world moves into “web 3.0.” tackling topics of the metaverse and virtual reality. 

“It’s important to know your audience, and staying ahead of the curve with innovative techniques is extremely important,” says Julie Brinker, communications coordinator for the Nashville RCC and Director of Community Affairs for the Nashville Church of Scientology. 

The RCC has members from every faith group and walk of life including Baha’is, Christians, Jews, Muslims, Scientologists, Sikhs, Hindus, and more. The RCC, founded in 1929, is an association of communications professionals who work for and with a diverse group of faith-based organizations in the areas of communications, public relations, advertising, and development. 

The RCC provides opportunities for communicators to learn from each other. Together, RCC members promote excellence in the communication of faith and values in the public arena. For more information about the Religion Communicators Council, visit religioncommunicators.org/nashville-chapter. 

Drug-Free Tennessee Promotes Red Ribbon Week and Spreads Awareness

 Drug-Free Tennessee, the local chapter of the Foundation for a Drug-Free World, is promoting drug awareness and education for Red Ribbon Week. 

Drug-Free Tennessee in partnership with the Church of Scientology Nashville is holding several drug prevention and educational events during Red Ribbon Week, a national initiative to promote drug prevention and awareness. 

Tennessee consistently ranks in the top five US states in terms of substance abuse rates, according to a report from lakeviewhealth.com. The website further describes that despite the rise in opioid addictions, alcohol abuse statistics have remained stable, so alcohol is still the most commonly abused substance in Tennessee. In fact, more than 60 percent of patients who enter state drug treatment programs seek treatment for alcohol addiction and about 1 in 20 Tennessee residents abused or were dependent on alcohol in 2016. The website describes opioid abuse, specifically pointing out that oxycodone and hydrocodone are the most commonly abused of painkillers. Although physicians legally prescribe them, these medications often end up on the black market, which has led to a surge in drug related crimes in Tennessee. Opioid overdoses have become so widespread that the Tennessee General Assembly has permitted pharmacies to carry naloxone, a medication used to negate the effects of an opioid overdose until the patient receives professional treatment.

To protect youth from the disastrous effects of abusing these and other drugs, Drug-Free Tennessee teams up with community partners to bring the truth about drugs to young people during Red Ribbon Week.

“We have an immediate task ahead of us: get the drug overdoses going downward,” says Julie Brinker, an ambassador for the organization, “Nashville has seen an increase every year in overdoses since 2018 and it’s time to get this turned around.”  

Red Ribbon Week is a week-long celebration at the end of October to promote a drug-free lifestyle. The Red Ribbon has been worn as a symbol since 1985 when DEA Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena was murdered. Angered parents and youth in communities across the country began wearing Red Ribbons to show their commitment to raise awareness of the killing and destruction caused by drugs in America. 

Volunteers will join with Drug-Free Tennessee for educational events and to distribute copies of The Truth About Drugs, a booklet that helps young people understand what drugs are and how they affect the user. Additionally, DFT is holding an event to promote a drug-free lifestyle. 

Drug-Free Tennessee is the local chapter of the Foundation for a Drug-Free World, an international non-profit organization. Its materials demonstrate the dangers of drugs through factual information and interviews with former addicts giving personal perspectives on each of the substances covered. For more information on the Truth About Drugs, visit drugfreeworld.org or drugfreetn.org.