We applaud the Rumi Forum on its 2024 Annual Gala and Dialogue Award Ceremony, marking the 25th anniversary of the Forum’s dedicated work to foster peace, religious pluralism, and social harmony.

This milestone event celebrated Rumi Forum’s legacy of interfaith dialogue and honoring individuals who have made exceptional contributions toward the promotion of peace, dialogue, and inclusion. We congratulate our beloved Imam Dr. Talib Shareef, who is internationally recognized dialogue advocate, for being the honored recipient of this year’s 2024 Dialogue Award.

The award was presented by Rev. Thomas L. Bowen, Senior Advisor for Public Engagement at the White House, who leads the administration’s faith engagement efforts. Rev. Bowen has had a distinguished career as a faith leader, community organizer, and advocate for social justice. He currently serves as the Earl L. Harrison Minister of Social Justice at Shiloh Baptist Church in Washington, DC, and has worked extensively with the Children’s Defense Fund. His leadership has made a profound impact on both local and national levels, earning him the recognition as “DC’s Pastor.”