I refer to the debate that ensued following a recent Talking Point by educationalist Sandro Spiteri. I will not comment specifically on the detailed episode since I was not there. In a subsequent response Fr Stephen Attard said the following as part of his reaction:

“Our culture is, in essence, Christian, thus, when one separates the Maltese culture from the traditional Christian values and customs, one ends up having something else. This applies also to Islamic culture or any other culture.”

It is on this that I would like to pose the following questions:

To what extent is this view of Maltese culture correct? Is culture a static or dynamic concept? Is culture fluid? Should we be talking about culture or cultures?

Is it an inclusive view of Maltese culture?

If not, how do the excluded feel in front of such an assertion? Further excluded?

What are the consequences of this? What are the logical consequences of viewing Maltese culture as proposed by Fr Attard? What actions emanate from such a viewpoint?

What alternative viewpoints exist? What alternative viewpoints can we create? What spaces do we have where we can have such conversations? What are the logical consequences of viewing Maltese culture according to these alternatives? What actions emanate from such alternative viewpoints?

Which viewpoints are preferable, and which contribute most to the wellbeing of our society and beyond?

What good practices exist in different cultures? How can interculturality and the sharing of good practices enhance the well-being of societies?

What has non-violence to do with all of this?