Written by Kathy Manzella (Thanh Tu)

Thich Chuc Thanh was asked to speak on a panel of religious leaders at Norfolk State University. The discussion was held on December 3, from 3 to 4:30pm in the Woods Science Building Room. This panel was coordinated by Robert Baker, Aloni Hill, Julia Jessie, Marisa Smith and Riva Medina, who are Honors' College students in the Multiculturalism and Mass Media class (JRN 299), which is offered by the Department of Mass Communications and Journalism.

Various faiths were represented on the panel including Muslim, Islam and Judaism. They all presented their views on mass media coverage of their religions and controversial issues that have meant either understanding or condemnation from viewing/reading audiences.

The speakers in attendance were Islamic, Muslim, Jewish, and Buddhist.  All of the speakers were eloquent and inspirational.

My most memorable part was when the Rabbi recited: "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances."

When asked how Buddhists are treated by the local media, Thich Chuc Thanh replied by saying, “ each person must make their own personal choice what to believe.  After careful analysis and thinking we can come to our own conclusions what is right and what is wrong. This is what our mind is for.”  He also mentioned that that WAVY-TV has always been very supportive of the Temple as well as our local newspaper.

Personally, I learned it was a more meaningful experience seeing people speak in person rather than on TV, radio, or in the paper. The experience humanizes each person as opposed to the detachment that is involved in watching TV or reading. It was both refreshing and rewarding to be a witness to a panel that believes in the values of freedom of religion. Although many of their thoughts were not necessarily new to me, their energy and enthusiasm deeply touched me.

The Dong Hung Temple and Buddhist Education Center gives its deepest thanks to Riva Medina and her fellow Honor students for putting this panel together. You all did a wonderful job!

Kathy Manzella – Thánh Từ