Spirited Arts 2024
Why do animals matter - 2024
This theme invites creativity and critical thinking around the important issue of how we humans value and act towards other animals. Use of religious stories, texts and ideas is strongly encouraged! Religions and ethical belief systems promote kindness and compassion, and call upon people to actively avoid doing harm… the Golden Rule demands that we treat others how we would wish to be treated. But do these moral codes extend to animals as well as other humans? Can they? Should they? Do some animals matter more than others? Engaging with this theme will encourage a search for wisdom in texts, stories, traditions and practices from the world's religions and philosophies. Students will reflect and think with care about humanity's relationship with the other animals who share the earth with us. Younger children may express the spirituality of their love for animals. Older students may grapple with diverse opinions on animal welfare and rights.
Generously sponsored by Veganism in Education (VinE) and the Animal Interfaith Alliance (AIA). The RE Today suite of resources on Ethical Veganism which span all age groups will support engagement with this theme.