We do not always appreciate the role the Queen has played in one of the most significant changes in the past 60 years: the transformation of Britain into a multi-ethnic, multi-faith society. No one does interfaith better than the Royal family, and it starts with the Queen herself.

The quote by Jonathan Sacks emphasizes the important role of the Queen in guiding Britain’s social transformation over the past several decades. When he says, “We do not always appreciate the role the Queen has played in one of the most significant changes in the past 60 years: the transformation of Britain into a multi-ethnic, multi-faith society,” he highlights how Queen Elizabeth II quietly influenced and supported social cohesion during a period of profound cultural change. Her symbolic presence and actions helped normalize diversity in a country experiencing immigration and religious pluralism on a historic scale.

Sacks continues, “No one does interfaith better than the Royal Family, and it starts with the Queen herself,” which underscores the leadership role of the monarchy in fostering unity among different religions and cultures. By participating in interfaith events, acknowledging multiple communities, and modeling respect for diversity, the Royal Family—led by the Queen—served as a stabilizing and unifying force. This highlights how soft power, expressed through symbolic gestures and inclusive engagement, can strengthen national identity in a diverse society.

The quote also reflects a broader theme of gratitude and recognition. Sacks suggests that society often overlooks the subtle influence of the monarchy, focusing more on ceremony than on its social impact. Yet, by embracing interfaith dialogue and multi-ethnic representation, the Queen contributed to peaceful coexistence and mutual respect in a period that could have been marked by tension or division.

The origin of this quote comes from Jonathan Sacks, the former Chief Rabbi of the United Kingdom, who was a prominent religious leader, philosopher, and author. Throughout his career, Sacks often praised the Queen’s dedication to faith, unity, and public service, recognizing her role in interfaith harmony. This statement captures his admiration for her quiet yet profound influence on modern British society, particularly in promoting inclusion and respect across cultures and religions.