Global Peace Foundation (GPF) commemorated the United Nation’s International Day of Non-Violence on October 2, 2023, with forums and engaging workshops, as well as creative activities like painting murals. The UN General Assembly established the day in 2007, stating that it was an occasion to “disseminate the message of non-violence, including through education and public awareness… and to secure a culture of peace, tolerance, understanding and non-violence.” October 2 was chosen because it was also the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, a prominent leader of the Indian independence movement. He is remembered as a pioneer of the philosophy and strategy of non-violence.

GPF India’s Mount Abu Public School Youth Peace Club marked the International Day of Non-violence with the #PaintPeace initiative. Students, staff, and volunteers organized a collaborative mural painting, peacebuilding awareness sessions, and workshops, emphasizing the importance of non-violence and global peace. The event culminated in a moving candlelight ceremony where participants stood in solidarity to demonstrate their commitment to promoting peace.

GPF Nigeria also observed International Day of Non-Violence with a forum where GPF Nigeria Country Director Rev. John Joseph Hayab called on all Nigerians to live up to their collective responsibility to foster peace in the country.

Rev. Hayab shared,

“Nonviolence is not a passive stance; it is an active force capable of healing wounds, mending divides, and constructing societies rooted in genuine cohesion. Mahatma Gandhi’s timeless directive, you must be the change you want to see in the world… In the spirit of nonviolence, the Global Peace Foundation Nigeria has been actively intervening in regions that have experienced conflict, aiming to promote peace and social cohesion. Our efforts extend to diverse groups in Kaduna, Zamfara, Niger, Plateau, Rivers states, and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

Rev. Hayab called this spirit of non-violence a “powerful force that, when embraced, creates a ripple effect, positively influencing individuals, communities, and entire nations.”

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