In the aftermath of 9/11, tensions between Muslims and Christians reached an all-time high in both America and throughout the world. It was during that time that two former ambassadors Dr. Akbar S. Ahmed (a Muslim) and J. Douglas Holladay (a Christian) met for the first time at the National Press Club in Washington. Because both were in search of someone with whom to explore ways to address the growing suspicion in the wake of 9/11, the two made a mutual commitment to meet regularly to better understand one another’s faith and worldview.

Over the course of a few months, they engaged in frequent dialogue. No controversial issue or question was avoided. Their honest discussions led to deep mutual understanding, trust, and a lasting friendship. Soon they expanded the conversation to include other leaders from a variety of sectors, and the Buxton Initiative was born.

Dr. Akbar Ahmed and J. Douglas Holladay wrote about their experience creating the Buxton Initiative in a Washington Post op-ed.