For many, January 30th is known as the School Day of Non-Violence and Peace (or DENIP: Dia Escolar de la No-violència i la Pau). Today also marks the 64th anniversary of Mohandas K. Gandhi's death, and it’s not a coincidence.
The School Day of Non-Violence and Peace and similar observances take place worldwide around this time of the year to commemorate Gandhi's death, and serve as the perfect moment reflect on the lessons he imparted to the world.
DENIP calls for the promotion of harmony, tolerance, and respect for human rights within education, with the message that “Universal love, non-violence, and peace. Universal love is better than egoism, non-violence is better than violence, and peace is better than war.”
Often referred to as Mahatma (meaning “Great Soul”), Gandhi advocated the use of non-violence in his social protests, which included his attempts to alleviate poverty in India, improve women’s rights, achieve independence for India from foreign rule, and many more. His teachings on non-violence and satyagraha (devotion to truth) proved greatly influential to the likes of Nelson Mandela, Martin Luther King Jr., Desmond Tu Tu.
Share some of your favourite words of wisdom from Gandhi on Facebook or @takingitglobal. Also, check out some great work inspired by Gandhi in the Global Gallery, and add your own! Finally, check out some of the many great organizations, like Project Save, that promote non-violence and peace. If there are none in your area, use our projects page to start and coordinate your own!
Truth and Love,
The TIG Team
Photo: "Gandhi in Union Square" by bee721.
