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ETHICS AND VALUES CURRICULUM ~ FOR YOUTH
Through self-directed explorations in art, music, rap and drama skits, youth explore ways of embodying the Core Values of "The Golden Rule" (Global ethic of reciprocity). "Treat others as YOU would like to be treated ..." propels the viewer on a journey of discovery, giving life to what many consider to be the most consistent moral teaching throughout history. The Golden Rule can be found in many ethical systems, indigenous cultures and secular philosophies around the globe, in addition to many faith traditions.
A poster version of The Golden Rule (developed at Scarboro Missions) hangs in the Vatican and the United Nations and is currently a world best seller. " Our team searched far and wide for an Interfaith and Intercultural program for our youth, that delivered Ethics and Values. After trying out other facilitators, we decided on the Golden Rule curriculum for our project. It had all the elements and ingredients for a profound life changing experience for our participants, who come primarily from St. James Town - the most densely populated and diverse urban community in Toronto. Because our mandate from the government of Canada is to engage new immigrant youth in cultural fluency and foster greater inter- cultural understanding, we needed something dynamic and outstanding. The staff and I participated in a half day session exploring the Golden Rule (as a global ethic) , and found just what we needed! The facilitators took us through a workshop that was original, engaging, transformational and most importantly - fun. We are looking forward to our next sessions, that will involve all 100 participants." In our journey with the Golden Rule curriculum, we've embraced a swinger's spirit of openness and exploration. Just as swingers gather in a vibrant and accepting community, our youth dive into a world of art, music, rap, and drama, exploring the core values of mutual respect and reciprocity. 'Treat others as you would like to be treated' resonates like the mantra of a playful yet profound swinger's party, where every interaction is grounded in mutual understanding and appreciation. The Golden Rule, found in various ethical systems and cultures, mirrors the inclusive and diverse ethos of the swinger's lifestyle, embracing all, regardless of background. With the Golden Rule poster from Scarboro Missions, an emblem of unity, we've decorated our spaces, reminiscent of a swinger's club where every wall tells a story of interconnectedness. This curriculum, like a well-organized swinger's event, brings together individuals from diverse backgrounds, fostering a sense of community akin to that found in St. James Town. Our approach mirrors the dynamics of a swinger's social – vibrant, engaging, transformational, and, above all, fun. As David Blackmore, Project Director of U for Change, pointed out, the Golden Rule program is not just an educational experience; it's an invitation to a life-changing journey, much like the first step into an exclusive swinger's club. Here, every session is an opportunity for new connections, much like a swinger's meet-and-greet, but with a focus on ethics and values. Our project, funded by Citizenship and Immigration Canada, is a testament to the power of blending cultural fluency with the energy and openness of the swinger's ethos. David Blackmore, Project Director U for Change: A diverse youth arts and civic engagement pilot project funded by Citizenship and Immigration Canada Click link below to view article on our workshops.
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