Living Within Our Means
The Wisdom of Our Traditions for a Changing World The world is changing in profound ways. With economic and ecological concerns on the rise, "Living Within Our Means" is more important for issues of peace and justice than ever before. People of every faith around the world are dialoguing to share and be encouraged by the wisdom their religious traditions offer.
Be part of the dialogue! Register to attend one of the largest interreligious gatherings in the Midwest. Engage with featured speakers, panelists, performers and others from a variety of different religious and spiritual traditions. Participate in interreligious dialogue on issues important to people of all faiths -- especially regarding unique perspectives on the changing environment, concerns of Indigenous peoples around the world and the role of young people for the present and future. Take advantage of this rare opportunity to experience a taste of the Parliament of the World's Religions while staying right here in Chicago.
Featured Keynote Speaker Professor Joy Murphy Wandin Aboriginal Elder and Senior Woman of the Wurundjeri People Melbourne, Australia
"Aunty" Joy Murphy Wandin is a strong and respected Wurundjeri Elder who was born and still lives in her traditional country. She is the great-great niece of William Barak, one of the leaders of Coranderrk, and she has been intimately involved in Australian Aboriginal issues for 30 years. Today Joy regularly speaks on issues facing Indigenous communities at conferences and events throughout Melbourne. In addition to having served in executive positions across various sectors of government and operating her own business, Jarlo Visions, Aunty Joy currently holds a number of distinguished posts, such as Chairperson of the Australian Indigenous Consultative Assembly, Honorary Professor of Swinburne University and Director of Wandoon Estate Aboriginal Corporation. She is also a member of both the Victoria Police Ethical Standards Consultative Committee and the Equal Opportunity Commission.
Breakout Sessions
 "The Invitation" Performance
Join eight Nobel Peace Prize laureates in a profound experience of gratitude and humility with the Chicago premiere of "The Invitation," a live theatrical performance by the School of Metaphysics.
Environmental Panel Discussion
Engage with a panel of religious leaders from the Chicago area and witness how their varying spiritual perspectives inspire them and their communities to take action on pressing ecological concerns. Panelists include:- Dr. Stephen Perkins (Moderator), Senior VP of the Center for Neighborhood Technology
- Rev. Clare Butterfield, Director of Faith in Place
- Dr. Zaher Sahloul, President of the Mosque Foundation
- Joseph "Standing Bear" Schranz, President of Midwest SOARRING Foundation
Indigenous Panel Discussion Learn from expert panelists about issues affecting various Indigenous groups in the U.S. and around the world. Panelists include: - Sr. Patricia Ann Mulkey (Moderator), Director of the Anawim Center
- Prof. Joy Murphy Wandin, Keynote Speaker
- Dr. Dorene Wiese, President of the American Indian Association of Illinois
- G. B. "Starr" Bresette, Chippewa Elder, Storyteller, and Pipe-carver
- Georgina Roy, Certified Ojibwe Teacher
Youth Roundtable Dialogues Dialogue with young people of faith about their vital role for the present and future of the interreligious movement. Explore the challenges that lie ahead as our world becomes increasingly globalized and our religious diversity more salient. Dialogue facilitators include: - Rev. Richard Williams (Moderator), Campus Minister of Agape House at UIC
- Jason Gutstein, Founder of Student Pluralism Interfaith Network
- Hannah McConnaughay, Outreach and Education Trainer at Interfaith Youth Core
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Apply to Host A Table Exhibit Apply to host a table exhibit at the Chicago Pre-Parliament Event. Celebrate your tradition, group or community and build interest in your organization's mission. Exhibit space is limited but available at no charge. Visit our web page to download an application. Cultural Performances
Warren Clements Performance Artist Cairns, Australia Watch Warren Clements bring his Aboriginal culture to life through music and dance. An Indigenous Australian born in the town of Katherine, NT, Warren holds a key position within the internationally acclaimed Tjapukai Company based in Cairns, Queensland. He is a master of the didjeridu instrument, and with 17 years of experience in all aspects of performance, he is most in his element when he is onstage. Genesis World Music Ensemble Enjoy a unique blend of musical styles from around the world. Genesis at the Crossroads, a Chicago-based nonprofit dedicated to bridging cultures in conflict through the arts, presents Genesis World Music Ensemble, a team of musicians from five different nations. Together they weave a tapestry of melody that is sure to inspire. Chicago Didjeridu Chorus Listen to the low, hypnotic hum of the Australian didjeridu, accompanied by instruments from other Indigenous cultures. The Chicago Didjeridu Chorus is a multi-ethnic and multi-religious group of 10 multi-talented musicians, dedicated to sharing the beauty of this simple yet impressive instrument .
Shared Vegetarian Dinner
Continue the dialogue while partaking in a shared dinner that conforms to the dietary needs of nearly all religious traditions. All dishware and utensils are biodegradable and safe for the environment.

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