As a college student immersed in the digital age, it’s hard not to think that the world is broken. Wars continue to be waged, driven by raging nationalism and materialistic desires. Politicians, separated by party lines, initiate scathing campaigns destined to demonize their opposition. Never-ending social media feeds have resulted in the reinforcement of our own echo chambers, reducing our own engagement with conflicting perspectives.
Nonetheless, it is this very context that makes the advancement of human fraternity by younger generations all the more necessary. After embarking on the Human Fraternity Fellows Program, I’m convinced that our generation can accomplish this.
We must start by rejecting the prevailing desensitization and retain the belief that we can advance human fraternity. This starts with honoring the legacy of Pope Francis and the Grand Imam by creating spaces for conversation across differences everywhere. Our division should be fuel for engagement rather than an infinite wall at which progress dies. Universities and other academic institutions must lead this call, encouraging students to engage with ideas outside of their own.
There is also no human fraternity without mutual respect. Building mutual respect requires fighting for our societies to condemn all forms of discrimination–including on race, socioeconomic status, gender, and more. This comes with political and individual responsibilities. Leaders and wider organizations that foster hate must be held accountable. On the individual level, we must take it upon ourselves to elevate politicians of high character to office while standing up for the rights of others, especially when the government fails to do so.
On a similar note, we must emphasize our shared humanity. If we started viewing each other as brothers and sisters of divine creation, rather than disconnected subjects of larger states, we would think twice about legitimizing wars and creating needless suffering.
Centering our actions around our shared humanity also requires a shift away from individualistic culture. In America, the obsession with success results in the negligence of our moral and spiritual obligations. This culture encourages us to view each other as competitors, leading to a lack of concern for others. To escape this mindset, our generation must engage in practices promoting community. Whether it be acts of service, civic participation, or even simply checking on each other, the options are endless.
All in all, advancing human fraternity is not easier said than done. Bringing together the globalized, yet disconnected, pieces of our world requires a generational shift away from the unproductive practices that have driven us apart. With the stakes higher than ever, it is time for the younger generation to embrace the challenge.
