Starting today, 34 Filipino activists will be at NIU for a monthlong training institute to promote peace, tolerance and hope for the future.

Titled “Bridging the Gap,” the program advocates inter-ethnic dialogue and conflict resolution to a balanced group of Muslims and Christians from the Philippines.

The Center for Southeast Asian Studies and the International Training Office will host the group thanks to a $200,000 grant from the U.S. Department of State.

“[This is a] very historical momentous event,” said Lina Ong, director of the International Training Office. This is the largest group of Filipino activists to participate in such a program, she said.

Ong will guide the group through classes, lectures, workshops, seminars, volunteer activities and discussions with local government and community leaders.

“We want to teach these young activists skills that they can take back home and adapt to the needs of their own community,” said Susan Russell, director of the Center for Southeast Asian Studies.

Since the activists are from an area of frequent civil unrest, the training institute aims to teach conflict resolution skills, examine the important role of volunteerism in civil society and introduce participants to American institutions that promote tolerance and religious diversity. Participants also will study the historical, ethical and moral dimensions of the ethno-political landscape in Southeast Asia.

“Ultimately, the institute aims to create leaders who will work toward peace and democratic ideals and promote greater understanding between Muslims and non-Muslims,” Russell said.