Diversity, Tolerance, and Youth in Medowo Village

by: Marcello Larz Keegan, Nadia Andini Putri Suyanto, Salwa Septia Harwi, Try Agung Dipa Aryanta 

Indonesia is a nation woven from a vibrant tapestry of cultures, languages, and beliefs. As the world's largest archipelagic country, its diversity is a source of immense strength. Yet, in an era where differences can become sources of conflict, the spirit of unity is more important than ever. While some may misuse religion as a tool for division, places like Medowo Village in Kediri, East Java, stand as a powerful reminder that true faith can be a unifying force.

Our recent study of Medowo Village revealed a community that lives and breathes tolerance. Despite its diverse population of Muslims, Hindus, and Christians, the village thrives on a profound sense of harmony and mutual respect. This isn't just passive coexistence; it's an active, ongoing effort where villagers come together to support one another, regardless of their religious backgrounds.

Uniting Through Tradition and Mutual Support
The uniqueness of Medowo lies in its tangible expressions of religious tolerance and interfaith harmony. Here, solidarity is not an abstract concept but a daily practice. We spoke with a young resident, Abisay Abdi Gusti Aditya, who shared how the community's unique traditions and values foster this sense of togetherness.

•  Shared Celebrations: Villagers actively participate in each other's religious events. During the Hindu holiday of Nyepi, Muslims and Christians lend a hand, assisting with the Ogoh-Ogoh parade and providing support. Similarly, during the Muslim Takbir keliling and the Christmas holiday, all residents pitch in to ensure events run smoothly and safely. This cross-community support isn't an obligation; it's a natural expression of neighborly care.

•  Cultural Traditions as Unifying Events: Beyond religious holidays, the people of Medowo celebrate unique cultural traditions that bring everyone together. The annual Sedekah Bumi (Earth Almsgiving) is a collective act of gratitude for the harvest, while the Pesta Durian (Durian Feast) is a joyous occasion that unites the entire village. These events strengthen the social fabric and reinforce a collective identity that transcends religious lines.

A Lesson for Indonesia's Youth
The spirit of Medowo Village offers an invaluable lesson, especially for Indonesia's youth. The ability to embrace differences, to see them not as a threat but as a source of strength, is a skill we must all cultivate. Medowo demonstrates that harmony isn't a gift; it's a choice made every day through acts of empathy and cooperation.

We can all start small, just as the villagers of Medowo have. Whether it's in our schools, our workplaces, or our neighborhoods, we can choose to build bridges instead of walls. By following their example, we can ensure that Indonesia's rich diversity remains its greatest asset, fostering a future of unity and peace for generations to come.

What do you think are some of the first steps we can take in our own communities to build better interfaith relationships?