Seventh-day Adventists, Sikhs, and civic leaders joined community members at Watford Sri Guru Singh Sabha Gurdwara on June 12, 2026, to reject hate and intolerance and affirm support for religious freedom, mutual respect, and unity across Hertfordshire, United Kingdom.

Organized by the Gurdwara and One Vision Charity, the gathering brought together various leaders, including Ian Sweeney, Public Affairs and Religious Liberty director for the Trans-European Division.

Speakers emphasized the importance of protecting religious freedom, supporting vulnerable communities, and working together across faith and cultural boundaries.

Sweeney told attendees that religious liberty flourishes when communities defend one another’s rights and dignity. He said genuine freedom of religion includes supporting the freedom of others to practice and express their beliefs without fear or discrimination.

The event also recognized the Sikh community’s long-standing commitment to serving others, particularly through local welfare initiatives and public service. Speakers referenced the Sikh principle of Seva, or selfless service, noting the role Sikh Gurdwaras played during the COVID-19 pandemic by providing food, practical assistance, and support to vulnerable people.

Enoch Kanagaraj, founder and chief executive of One Vision Charity, said, “When faith communities, public services, and civic leaders work together, we can build stronger communities rooted in trust, respect, and shared purpose.”

Throughout the program, participants reiterated the shared message that hatred directed towards any community affects society as a whole and communities are strongest when they stand together.

Harjit Singh, deputy lieutenant of Hertfordshire, and other community leaders concluded the event by encouraging continued cooperation, understanding, and friendship between faith groups and local communities.

Kanagaraj stated that the Adventist church has a long history of supporting religious liberty. The Seventh-day Adventist Church’s official statement on religious freedom says that Adventists “champion freedom of conscience and religion as a fundamental human right” and “cooperate and network with others to defend the religious liberty of all people, including those with whom we may disagree.”

The original article was published on the Trans-European Division news site.