With election season in full swing and the rhetoric that comes with partisan politics reaching fever pitch, it’s easy to lose sight of the importance of respecting our neighbors’ opinions. We are fortunate to live in a country where no matter which candidate you choose or what policy you stand behind, you can voice your views openly and vote to effect change. That freedom forms the foundation of our nation.

The Adrienne Arsht Center has been at the helm of a three-month initiative that has not only been educating the community about universal acceptance, but also gone beyond to create public dialogue for protection of human rights and against bigotry.

Called Light / The Holocaust & Humanity Project, the program has brought together several community organizations, including the Anti-Defamation League and Miami-Dade County Public Schools, to create a countywide calendar of performances and events.

At the Community Relations Board of Miami-Dade County, while we work to relieve community tensions when they arise, we also strive to proactively foster understanding, communication and mutual respect. The work of the Arsht Center and all of its partners has gone a long way toward this mission.

The Light / The Holocaust & Humanity Project will culminate with a moving performance by Ballet Austin on Nov. 3 and 4, inspired by the poignant story of a Holocaust survivor. Also on Nov. 3, the Arsht Center will host a free Family Fest that will feature, among other activities, spoken-word performances by children of Miami-Dade public schools under the theme of No Place for Hate.

On the weekend before Election Day, I urge the community to attend these performances to remember the lessons learned from the tragic events of the Holocaust and reflect upon how we can become a better city and nation by applying those lessons to our lives every day. You can find more information on Light / The Holocaust & Humanity Project, at arshtcenter.org/light.

The Rev. Walter T. Richardson, chair, Miami-Dade County

Community Relations Board, Miami