A few nights ago, Myrieme Churchill, Executive Director of Parents for Peace, had the honor of speaking at an Iftar gathering, where she shared reflections on faith, community, and the importance of early intervention in preventing extremism.
As someone who grew up in Morocco, later moved to France, and ultimately became an American by choice, Myrieme carries a hybrid identity that mirrors the diverse experiences of many in the audience. During her speech, she spoke about how Ramadan provides an opportunity for deep reflection—not only on personal faith but on the collective responsibility to build stronger, more united communities.
A Legacy of Unity and Coexistence
Drawing from her personal history, Myrieme shared the story of her grandfather, a Sufi Sheikh in the Sahara Desert who was known for his wisdom and commitment to peace. In his village, he built a mosque—but with an important distinction. He ensured that symbols of Christianity and Judaism were also included in its architecture, reinforcing a belief that faith should unite, not divide.
This message of coexistence was central to Myrieme’s upbringing, but she also witnessed firsthand how intolerance could take root. As a child in Casablanca, she experienced prejudice because of her mixed heritage—her father was Muslim, and her mother was a French Christian. She recalled moments when children threw stones at her, using “Jewish” as an insult. These experiences made clear how hate is taught—but also how it can be unlearned.
From Personal Reflection to Action
Today, as the leader of Parents for Peace, Myrieme works to prevent the spread of extremist ideologies across all backgrounds—Muslim, Christian, Jewish, and secular alike. Parents for Peace operates the only helpline in the United States dedicated to supporting families concerned about loved ones being drawn toward extremism.
During her speech, she shared a powerful story about a Muslim family in Boston who called the helpline, desperate for help. They feared their son was being radicalized and had already sought guidance from teachers, doctors, and faith leaders—yet nothing seemed to work. When they turned to Parents for Peace, the organization provided intervention support, and ultimately, they were able to guide their son away from extremism and toward healing.
This story highlights two critical truths:
- Young people are vulnerable. Just as Myrieme saw in Morocco, harmful ideologies—whether driven by religious extremism, political radicalization, or other influences—can take root in young minds.
- Intervention works. With the right approach, families and communities can redirect individuals away from dangerous paths before it’s too late.
The Role of Community in Preventing Extremism
As Myrieme emphasized, extremism is not inevitable—it is preventable. But prevention requires early intervention, strong community ties, and a rejection of scapegoating. She spoke about how important it is to resist narratives that divide people, particularly when frustrations and grievances can lead to blame-based thinking.
One key issue she addressed was the rise in scapegoating—including antisemitism—when communities feel under pressure. She urged the audience to remain vigilant against these divisive narratives, emphasizing that hate is never the answer.
“In my work, I see what happens when people choose hate,” Myrieme said. “But I also see the power of healing, of reaching out a hand instead of raising a fist. That is the path my grandfather walked, and it is the path I urge us all to follow.”
A Call to Action: Strengthening Communities Together
Closing her speech, Myrieme called on attendees to take an active role in shaping a more unified future. She recognized the strength of the Boston Muslim community and the leadership of figures like Farhana, who organized the evening’s gathering. But she also encouraged everyone—whether Muslim, non-Muslim, immigrant, or lifelong Bostonian—to step beyond their immediate circles and help build broader networks of trust and support.
As Ramadan continues, her message resonates beyond just one gathering: reflection is important, but action is essential.
Parents for Peace is committed to transforming fear into understanding, division into unity, and extremism into prevention. If you or someone you know is concerned about radicalization, the helpline is available to offer support.
👉 Learn more at Parents for Peace
#RamadanMubarak #BuildingBridges #ParentsForPeace #FaithAndUnity #InterventionWorks
