Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom leaders
Equity and Inclusion

Leaders of Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom Focus on Solidarity, Understanding at CDD Event

Leaders of the nonprofit group Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom discussed their efforts to foster trust, respect and relationships among Muslim and Jewish women in pursuit of peace on April 16 during the university’s latest event held under UMass Amherst’s Community, Democracy and Dialogue (CDD) initiative.

Leading the presentation and discussion were Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom (SoSS) President Roberta Elliott, who is Jewish, and Executive Director Tahija Vikalo, who is Muslim. The women explained that SoSS empowers Jewish and Muslim women to support each other, educate on cultural and faith practices and advocate for social justice. Their vision is a world free of hate, where freedom, equality, social justice and human rights are attainable for all.

Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom
Chancellor Javier Reyes with Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom President Roberta Elliott, left, and Executive Director Tahija Vikalo
CDD event
Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom leaders
Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom Executive Director Tahija Vikalo speaks while the group's president, Roberta Elliott, listens.
Alaina Macaulay
Alaina Macaulay, senior director of inclusion and stategic engagement, moderated the event.

This event, organized by UMass Community, Democracy, and Dialogue  (CDD), aligns with UMass Amherst’s commitment to engage in dialogue aimed at building diverse, inclusive and equitable communities. The Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom event built on the success of CDD’s inaugural event, which drew over 300 participants interested in shaping a more harmonious and understanding community.

A recording of the event can be viewed below and on YouTube.