Diversity

In Greenville, SC, the opportunities available are just as diverse and plentiful as the people who live here. Boasting the highest per capita international investment of any region in the nation and having 250 international firms from 24 different countries, Greenville attracts people from all over the world. In fact, according to the 2000 Census, only 40% of Greenville residents are originally from here. It doesn’t hurt that our quality of life ranks as one of the highest in the nation.

Furthermore, Greenville has three international sister cities: Bergamo, Italy; Kortrijk, Belgium; and Tianjin, China.

Greenville’s international zest is also seen in its religious community – with a variety of major world religions represented. Greenville’s religious offerings include many Protestant and Catholic churches, two Jewish synagogues, an Islamic center, a Vedic center, a Buddhist center as well as a strong Baha’i community. There are religious services in Greenville that are provided in Kurdish, Korean, Chinese, Spanish, and many other languages. Greenville’s Furman University is also home to a very rare international treasure: an authentic Buddhist Temple that was shipped in 2,400 pieces and reassembled by 13 specialized temple artisans from Japan. The structure, referred to as “A Place of Peace,” was donated by a Japanese family with roots in Greenville’s textile past and connections to a university professor. It used to be used as the family’s private worship place. The Place of Peace is a symbol of Greenville’s growing diversity and religious tolerance.

Greenville prides itself on its diversity. That is why certain organizations have been formed to promote cooperation and tolerance. For instance, Greenville’s Interfaith Forum is a coalition of faith communities, individuals and organizations in the Upstate of South Carolina that advocates social justice, promotes charitable outreach, and fosters mutual support and interfaith dialogue. Formed in 1999, the organization has had Board members, representatives, and clergy members who are Baha’i, Baptist, Catholic, Christian Science, Episcopalian, Hindu, Jewish, Methodist, Muslim, Presbyterian, and Quaker. Interfaith Forum exists to celebrate interfaith understanding, respect and cooperation in pursuit of a just society. Another organization, that originated in Greenville and is now a statewide program, is the Riley Institute Diversity Leaders Initiative (DLI). It is a unique program that encourages community leaders to consider the challenges and opportunities presented by the many facets of diversity in our state, including among others, differences in cultural background, language, and gender. Over 400 CEOs of corporations, mayors, city and county council members, legislators, school superintendents, pastors and rabbis, non-profit leaders, chamber of commerce directors, and community leaders have graduated from the program.

Greenville, SC is a melting pot. We are a truly international community who prides ourselves on being a perfect model of southern hospitality….bonjour y’all!