Friendship--An Introduction
January 2004
Banner photo: Hokkaido, Japan ©SEKAI BUNKA PHOTO
Earth Charter Community Summits
Joining hands at the Washington, D.C. Summit [Rob Hendry]
SGI-USA local organizations and individual members were involved in more than half the October 11 Earth Charter Community Summits which convened in 30 cities in five countries including the U.S.A. There were six additional U.S. cities in which SGI-USA organized more informal Earth Charter gatherings and dialogues. In each city, like-minded organizations and individuals worked together to promote Earth Charter awareness and education through dialogue, cultural exchange, performing and visual arts, interfaith panels, presentations and creative activities for children. Celebrating the interconnectedness of life and the environment and respect for the dignity of all life were common themes.
In several cities, miniature exhibits were mounted, using the "Seeds of Change: The Earth Charter and Human Potential" exhibition created by SGI and the Earth Charter Initiative. The SGI-sponsored documentary "A Quiet Revolution" was shown as part of several Summit programs or at gatherings leading up to the Summits.
The Chicago Summit was held at the SGI-USA Culture Center with the theme "One Earth Community; Creating Our Future," with Dr. Elisabet Sahtouris as keynote speaker talking about evolution and interdependence. Linda Osborn, coordinator of the Earth Charter Community Alliance, commented, "The SGI community has been phenomenal in backing this event . . . the level of volunteers within the SGI culture I am always amazed at."
