While society is becoming more and more secular, religion is once again featuring in public discourse. The canton of Neuchâtel is in a unique situation of reconciling secularism of the state (one of the only cantons to do this) with religious diversity increasingly making itself felt. In the light of this, from 8 September to 2 December 2016, NeuchàToi is encouraging the people of Neuchâtel to consider the canton’s identity through two different approaches:

Living together with our beliefs: Neuchâtel, secularism and religious pluralism

• What are the challenges of secularism in Neuchâtel and religious pluralism?
• What role do religions and religious communities play in this secular canton?
• What do people understand by the phrase “inclusive secularism”? How does this model promote cohesion?
• How, on a daily basis, can we manage religious diversity in the relationship between the state and citizens, in schools and public institutions?

Deconstructing stereotypes: Religious affiliations and discrimination

• What role does (non-)belief play in the daily lives of individuals?
• On what common points should we build our coexistence together?
• What are the prevailing stereotypes about religions and how can we deconstruct them?

These are some of the questions that NeuchàToi hopes to share with people through the events that will take place across the canton over the next three months. The discussions, which will be held around the symbolic table made up of the NeuchàToi 2016 mandala, will make it possible to think about secularism, showcase existing religious pluralism and promote constructive talks all at the same time.