[Peace Education-USA(Washington DC branch)]

Peace Clarified Through Education, To Teach Through 12 

▎ Washington, D.C., the City Planting Seeds of World Peace, and HWPL’s Peace Education

Washington, D.C., the capital of the United States and a global hub of politics and economy, holds immense international influence. As a city densely populated with international organizations and embassies, it is not only a political center but also a prominent stage for global peace and cooperation. Amid this, the global private peace NGO Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL) has drawn attention by planting seeds of peace through its peace education and seminars in Washington, D.C.

▎ HWPL’s Peace Education: Spreading Hope Worldwide

HWPL has been expanding its peace education efforts through its Washington, D.C. branch, reaching both local and international audiences. In particular, HWPL has collaborated with teachers from Caribbean nations, including the Bahamas, the Dominican Republic, Antigua and Barbuda, and Haiti, to implement peace education, which has positively impacted both teachers and students.

Josianne Floreus, a teacher at RM Bailey Senior High School in the Bahamas, praised HWPL’s peace teacher training, saying, "The various aspects of peace have become clearer." She highlighted HWPL’s approach of turning abstract concepts into practical education. Her colleague, Renee Bethel, also emphasized that HWPL’s education helps students learn to live harmoniously as children of God, significantly contributing to character development.

▎ Transformations in Students Learning Peace

HWPL’s peace education has had a profound impact on students as well. Shakina, a student at McPherson Primary School in the Bahamas, shared how the training taught her ways to live harmoniously and helped her discover the value of peace in herself and her surroundings. She mentioned experiencing harmony and peace through collective dances and worship, realizing the importance of HWPL’s beautiful approach to life.

▎ Collaborators for Peace: Partnering with HWPL

In Washington, D.C., HWPL is joined by numerous collaborators committed to the mission of peace. Human rights activists like Sirley Avila DeLeon from Cuba, Troy Clarke from the Bahama, and Mitsan Burrows initiative are working alongside HWPL to promote peace education and awareness.

Troy Clarke emphasized the importance of incorporating conflict resolution and human rights education into school curriculums, stating, “Teaching students how to handle conflicts and respect human rights from elementary to high school is crucial for building a more peaceful and safe society.”

▎ HWPL and Washington, D.C.: A Bridge for Peace

HWPL’s peace initiatives go beyond education. In 2021, HWPL Chairman Man Hee Lee visited Washington, D.C., and shared insights on the Mindanao Peace Agreement in the Philippines, garnering support from local leaders. Inspired by Chairman Lee’s efforts, many pledged to join HWPL in advancing peace globally.

▎ Washington, D.C.: A Global Center for Peace

Washington, D.C. is not just a hub for politics and economics but also a vital platform for global peace initiatives. As a city hosting international organizations, embassies, and various institutions, it plays a crucial role in addressing global challenges. HWPL’s peace education and activities further enhance the city’s value and influence.

We look forward to HWPL’s peace education spreading worldwide, fostering harmonious living and global peace. May the efforts of HWPL and Washington, D.C. in planting seeds of peace continue to gain the attention and support they deserve.

[HWPL  Peace Summit] 100,000 people attend HWPL Peace Summit

on its 10th Anniversary, Launch of the 'Together Campaign'

Celebrating a Decade of Peace: HWPL’s 10th Anniversary

The central theme of the celebration was “Creating World Peace Community Through Regional Collaboration” This theme resonated throughout the event as leaders and citizens reflected on the contributions made over the past decade and strategized for future efforts in global harmony. Notable attendees included prominent figures such as the Venerable Hyechong of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism and Jeronimo dos Reis, the Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Culture of Timor-Leste.

In his keynote address, HWPL Chairman Man Hee Lee expressed gratitude to all attendees, emphasizing the importance of unity and collaboration. He urged participants to move beyond divisions and to work together, stating, "Let us not draw lines between 'you' and 'me,' but unite through love and peace to nurture our planet."

The event highlighted the practical outcomes of HWPL's peace initiatives since 2014 and focused on establishing regional networks tailored to local contexts. These networks aim to proactively address peace threats in communities, fostering collective strength and collaboration.

Aligning with the event’s theme, HWPL announced new partnerships with the G7+ and the Latin American and Caribbean Parliament (PARLATINO) to enhance peace initiatives. These partnerships aim to promote stability and development in conflict-affected regions.

Additionally, the launch of the “DongHaeng: Connecting South Korea” campaign was a highlight of the ceremony. This campaign, involving over 230 civil society organizations, seeks to bridge generational gaps and foster intercultural understanding through various peace activities.

As HWPL continues to expand its efforts globally, the vision remains clear: to empower individuals to become peace ambassadors. Through community-driven sessions across diverse sectors, the campaign will share messages advocating for peace and unity.

Since its inception in 2014, HWPL has been at the forefront of promoting dialogue among diverse stakeholders to address conflicts and foster religious harmony. This anniversary celebration not only commemorates past achievements but also sets a hopeful trajectory for a future where peace is a shared responsibility among all.

Let us join hands in this vital mission and work together to create a world where peace prevails.