International Day of Tolerance: A Reflection

"True tolerance is rooted in respect—respect for cultures, traditions, and history by emma ugarelli

​In today’s world, the concept of tolerance is often misunderstood. Tolerance is not about turning a blind eye to harmful behavior or accepting things that violate human dignity, nor is it about conforming to trends that promote division. Instead, tolerance is rooted in respect—respect for different cultures, traditions, beliefs, and even our shared history, with all its flaws and achievements.
We are sometimes quick to tolerate what should never be tolerated, such as abusive or aggressive behavior, whether physical or verbal. We look the other way because we believe it doesn't affect us directly. But tolerance isn't about passive acceptance—it’s about actively standing up for what is right, protecting human dignity, and refusing to tolerate harm in any form.
On the other hand, we often see a call for tolerance that encourages superficiality and division rather than unity. There’s a push to erase parts of our history because they don't align with modern values, but in doing so, we risk losing the lessons we need to build a better future. We are who we are because of the past, both the good and the bad. Instead of erasing history, we should acknowledge it, learn from it, and heal the wounds left behind.
True tolerance is about balance. It's about respecting others, understanding where they come from, and seeking common ground. But it also means holding onto the values that protect human dignity and ensuring that we do not sacrifice integrity in the name of tolerance. As we move forward, let's commit to respecting each other, embracing our diverse histories, and working toward a future built on understanding, not division.
This International Day of Tolerance, I invite you to reflect on what tolerance means in your own life. Are we truly fostering a culture of respect, or are we allowing intolerance, fear, and indifference to take root? Let’s use this day to challenge ourselves to stand for both kindness and truth, ensuring that tolerance brings us closer together, rather than pushing us apart.