Nairobi (Kenya) - National NGOs/CSOs Conference & Sustainable Development Goals Award 2019

29 December 2019

The Brahma Kumaris were invited to this important forum for NGOs/CSOs and others under the Theme 2019: Recognizing the role of NGOs/CSOs and other stakeholders towards the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals and other development agenda in Kenya.

 

Dr Hasmukh Dawda, one of our trustees introduced the Pause for Peace project. Sr Vedanti shared inspirations and gave blessings to over 100 participants who attended from various counties of Kenya. Sr Dipti conducted Pause for Peace meditation.

 

With Ms Sylvie Bertrand, Deputy Regional Representative for Eastern Africa, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and other members of Churches and Religious Organizations.

 

NAIROBI FAMILY

 

 

 

 

October UN Newsletter 2019

24 December 2019

Dear National and Center Coordinators,

Greetings of love.

 

We invite you to read news of events held for International Day of Peace, Climate Action, 150th. anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, UN Day, Diwali, and more.

 

UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD)

The Brahma Kumaris has recently been accredited observer status with UN Convention to Combat Desertification and participated in the Conference this year for the first time. It was held in New Delhi, India from September 2-13. Please read few reports here and here. View photos. 

Participants at Happy Farms

BK Booth

International Day of Peace

The theme for this year's International Day of Peace is, Climate Action for Peace In observance of this day, the Brahma Kumaris is participating in a number of events.

 

Peace events around the world

Brahma Kumaris participated in the "vigil4peace" event at Central Park, NYC, on Sunday, September 15 where visitors spun the virtue wheel and shared how they’ll use that virtue to help bring peace in the world, whether it is personal, family, work or social circle.

 

A workshop on “Destination: Peace and Happiness” was organized by the Brahma Kumaris is Cinnaminson, New Jersey, USA, where about 35 people enjoyed exploring what peace and happiness mean to them.

 

On the eve of the United Nations Secretary General’s Climate Action Summit, a gathering of silence and contemplative sharing led by Christiana Figueres, co-Founder of Global Optimism, and friend of the BKs, took place in the Quaker House, NYC. People of all faiths were present. Topic was: "Earth Silence 2019: Holding Earth in the Light."

 

Brahma Kumaris Center for Spiritual Learning & Retreat Center, Philippines, offered for the first time, Climate Art for Peace program. Read more. 

 

A number of events were held in many cities across Australia. Read more. 

Event in Australia

Peace initiative, Australia

Phillipines

Climate Art for Peace, Phillipines

Peace workshop in NJ, USA

vigil4peace, Central Park

 

Climate Action Summit

Brahma Kumaris participated in the UN Climate Summit in various ways:

SDG Action Zone at the UNHQ Rose Garden. The Brahma Kumaris inside-out approach in achieving the SDGs was shared with emphasis on vegetarianism, gender equality, and ban of single-use plastics.

 

UN Latin America Climate Change Summit held in Brazil. Read more. 

BKs - SDG Action Zone, UNHQ

Climate Change Summit, Brazil. BK Luciana with Mayor

 

Peoples Summit on Climate, Rights and Human Survival, New York City

18-19 September 2019

This two-day event in New York City brought together 100's of key actors of the different strands of the climate justice movement. (i.e. workers, indigenous peoples, youth, the women and gender constituency, environmental activists, faith-based organizations), human rights organizations and other influential stakeholders (such as foundations, journalists, thought-leaders and like-minded politicians) to discuss common and concrete strategies to accelerate the transition to a zero-emissions economy in a way that respects, protects and fulfill human rights. Valeriane Bernard, BKUN rep. from Geneva (would usually attend Human Rights events) was unable to be in New York and so BKUN rep Julia Grindon-Welch (NY) attended. This was the first time the human rights movement as a whole had engaged with climate change in a coordinated and concerted manner. This lively committed gathering came together in plenaries, working groups, and individual conversations with an emphasis on partnership and action.

Friday, September 20

Climate Action Youth Strike

Organized by New York City’s youth in Manhattan to demand radical improvement in the way our world’s governments are managing the climate crisis. The strike specifically exerted pressure on the September 23rd UN Climate Summit while addressing local, national, and global climate issues. The youths and Greta Thunberg called on governments to advance real, just climate solutions to achieve our goal of lowering CO2 emissions by 50% by 2030.

 

Thousands of people, including children, students, youth, and the Brahma Kumaris, marched the streets of Manhattan. The march was inaugurated by a simple interfaith session in which the BKs led a short meditation. The BKs were part of a newly formed interfaith committee “GreenFaithNYC” which supported the youth by reaching out to their New York communities to join the 1,000's who marched.

 

Tuesday, September 24

Climate Emergency: Faith-based Organizations Raising Ambition - Leaving No One Behind

After world leaders gathered in New York on September 23rd for the Climate Change Summit hosted by UN Secretary-General, a coalition of interfaith planning partners held a “Consultation” the following day regarding the current climate emergency. The Consultation built on the moment with the theme: “Climate Emergency: Faith-based Organizations Raising Ambition - Leaving No One Behind.”

 

The Consultation included interfaith global leaders from over 45 organizations discussing the role of faith-based organizations at this watershed moment. There were representatives from The Anglican Communion, Brahma Kumaris, Church World Service, The Episcopal Church, The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, Franciscan Action Network, GreenFaith, Parliament of World’s Religions, United Methodist Women, and World Council of Churches. The Consultation was held at the Salvation Army New York.

Olivia Wohlegemuth, 17, and Xiye Bastida, both climate justice activists based in New York and lead organizers of “Fridays For Future” youth climate strike movement, eloquently addressed the participants of over 100.

 

For more information on the Brahma Kumaris and the environment, please visit the website. 

 

Wednesday, October 2

As this year marks 150 years of the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi, the Indian Permanent Mission to the UN, in collaboration with various NGOs, organized a few events. The Brahma Kumaris shared a short guided reflection during one of the events. Many stories around Gandhiji's principles of non-violence and discipline were shared, inspiring all present to renew their commitment to world peace. Many gifts were distributed in honor of the Mahatma.

 

Ongoing at BKUN Office

Diwali and UN Day was a joint celebration with friends who rekindled their commitment to carry the torch of respect, love, and enlightenment across the globe.

 

Thursday evening meditation gathering continues weekly at the BKUN space and also weekly lunchtime meditation in the Meditation Room at the UNHQ.

 

Visitors from across the world continue to share their good energy that adds to the oasis of the space.

 

Recent book, God and Love on Route 80, written by Dr. Stephen Post, a long-time friend of BKUN, was launched where a healthy conversation on God and synchronicity took place.

Diwali at BKUN, NY

BK students, Queens, NY

BK Amir Chand, India

Dr. Stephen Post second from left

Meditation Room, UNHQ, NY

 

A Heart to Heart Conversation with Alfredo-Sfeir-Younis

Spirituality making more of an impact on the world stage

Monday, September 23, 2019

The BKUN office welcomed Alfredo Sfeir-Younis, who was in New York for the UN Climate Summit, to meet with some of his friends and NGO colleagues. A meaningful conversation was shared as Alfredo highlighted the importance of the spiritual community stepping forward at this time. Alfredo, a long-time friend of the Brahma Kumaris, was the Representative for the World Bank in New York and in Geneva in the 1990’s. During this period, he consistently put spirituality at the core of global issues being discussed by the world body. On leaving the World Bank he spent a number of years in Portugal further developing the spiritual dimension at both personal and secular levels. He returned to Chile in 2013 and took a bold step as a presidential candidate in the Chilean general elections. His aim was clear — to position the spiritual phenomenon directly into the political campaign dynamic. Even though he was not elected, he definitely left a mark on the collective consciousness.

 

 

 

 

November - December 2019 UN Calendar of Events

3 November 2019

Dear National Coordinators and Center Coordinators,

Greetings of love.

 

There are a few UN Observances in November and December which the Brahma Kumaris participate in. Kindly take a moment to read the calendar of events below. We encourage you to use these opportunities to share the message of peace, love, and respect within your communities. As always, we appreciate it if you send a brief report along with photographs.

 

 

International Day of Tolerance

Saturday, November 16

Since 1996, we’ve celebrated International Day For Tolerance on November 16. It was started by the UN General Assembly, with the goal of getting educational institutions and the general public to see tolerance as a staple of society. And it came after the United Nations declared a Year for Tolerance in 1995. Although we should be tolerant every day, it’s always good to have one occasion to remind us just how important tolerance is. The UN defines tolerance as respect, appreciation and acceptance of the diversity of the world’s cultures and all the ways that we are human. It is a human right to receive, and should be expected to be practiced by not just individuals, but groups and states.

 

Visit this website for more ideas.

 

You are encouraged to arrange events in your local area, in partnerships or otherwise, around this theme. We look forward to receiving news in writing and photos.

 

 

World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims

Life Is not A Car Part

Sunday, November 17

"The World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims (WDR) is observed on the third Sunday of November each year. The Day has become an important tool in global efforts to reduce road casualties. It offers an opportunity for drawing attention to the scale of emotional and economic devastation caused by road crashes and for giving recognition to the suffering of road crash victims and the work of support and rescue services. Why is there a need for this day?" 

 

World Meditation Hour is a perfect time to serve these souls. You are welcome to organize a program having official personnel and/or family members of victims share their stories.

 

We look forward to receiving your reports, with photographs.
Watch video of last year:

 

 

Human Rights Day

Let’s stand up for equality, justice and human dignity

Tuesday, December 10

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights has completed its 70th anniversary in 2019 and had a year-long campaign to highlight the importance and necessity of upholding human dignity.

However, the celebration is not over. We are still inspired to use this as an opportunity to have events that raise awareness and uplift the inner dignity of the soul.

 

Secretary General's message

 

You're invited to watch this excellent animation which can generate ideas when planning your event: What are the Universal Human Rights? Do send your brief reports along with photos.

 

 

Other UN Observances

You are welcome to participate in local events around other UN Observances:

 

20 November - Universal Children’s Day

25 November - International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women

3 December - International Day of Persons with Disabilities

18 December - International Migrants Day

 

 

 

September - October BK UN Calendar of Events

14 September 2019

Dear National and Center Coordinators,

Greetings of love.

 

This year, September is unusually busy at the United Nations as it marks not only the 74th. Session of the United Nations General Assembly and its numerous side events, but the Secretary General's Climate Action Summit taking place prior the General Debate.  Additionally, International Day of Peace, as you are aware, is also in September and the focus is also on Climate Action for Peace!

October this year is extra special as we will be celebrating 150th. anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.

We hope you organize events to celebrate these days and send news and photos. We invite you to please read below for more details.

 

 

International Day of Peace

The theme for this year's International Day of Peace is, Climate Action for Peace In observance of this day, the Brahma Kumaris is participating in a number of events:

 

Friday, September 20

Climate Action Youth Strike

Organized by New York City’s youth in Manhattan to demand radical improvement in the way our world’s governments are managing the climate crisis. The strike will specifically exert pressure on the September 23rd UN Climate Summit. The strike will address local, national, and global climate issues. The youths will call on governments to advance real, just climate solutions to achieve our goal of lowering CO2 emissions by 50% by 2030.

You are welcome to support this call for climate action should you become aware of such activity taking place in your community. However, it is vital that you do not take any political stance and that it is a general principle you are supporting.

 

photo credit: United Nations/Basma Baghal

 

Ringing of the Peace Bell

At the UN, The Secretary-General will celebrate the Day in the Peace Garden at United Nations Headquarters by ringing the Peace Bell at 9:00am. This will be followed by Student Observance in the General Assembly Hall and observing a minute of silence at 12 noon on Friday, September 20. All global citizens are invited to join in solidarity at 12noon, NY time, for this minute of silence.

 

You can watch live here.

Ringing of the Peace Bell

 

students chalking peace on UN courtyard

 

Sunday, September 22

Earth Silence 2019: Holding Earth in the Light

On the eve of the United Nations Secretary General’s Climate Action Summit, there will be a gathering in silence and contemplative sharing led by Christiana Figueres, co-Founder of Global Optimism. People of all faiths, or none, are welcome. The Brahma Kumaris will be attending. You may also want to consider hosting an event with similar interests.

 

Monday, September 23

Climate Action Summit

To boost ambition and accelerate actions to implement the Paris Agreement on Climate Change, UN Secretary-General António Guterres is hosting the 2019 Climate Action Summit on 23 September to meet the climate challenge. The Summit will showcase a leap in collective national political ambition and it will demonstrate massive movements in the real economy in support of the agenda.

 

Read more.

©UN Photo/Mark Garten

 

 

 

International Day of Non-violence

Wednesday, October 2

This year marks 150 years of the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi. We encourage you to organize events in your community to celebrate this day. To get ideas, please click here. 

 

Calendar Dates

List of Upcoming UN International Days Supported by the Brahma Kumaris

International Day of Older Persons - October 1
International Day of Non-violence - October 2
World Mental Health Day - October 10
International Day of Tolerance - November 16
International Day for Elimination of Violence Against Women - November 25
Human Rights Day - December 10

 

You are invited to note these dates and can even begin planning events. You will receive more information in upcoming newsletters.

 

 

 

 

July - August UN Newsletter

14 September 2019

Dear National and Center Coordinators, and Friends,

Greetings of love.

 

We extend a warm invitation for you to read details about the participation of BKUN team, New York, in the annual UN Department of Global Communications Civil Society Conference (UN CSC) and International Day of Youth.

 

 

Building Inclusive and Sustainable Cities and Communities

Salt Lake City, Utah, USA, August 26-28

About 5,000 participants from over 100 countries attended the annual UN NGO conference held in Salt Lake City (SLC) in the magnificent Salt Palace Convention Center. The hospitality of Mayor Jackie Biskupski and the people of SLC was beyond words, giving everyone an unforgettable and memorable experience. A delegation of five represented the Brahma Kumaris at the conference:

Sabita Geer, Kinnari Murthy MD, Nik Lal, Shivani Dayal, and Valerie Still. The Brahma Kumaris co-organized a workshop entitled: "Re-imagining Communities from the Inside-out: Solutions from a faith-based perspective" and exhibit entitled, "Return to one: one planet, one spirt, one human family." You are invited to read more here.

 

the exhibit

during the workshop

a group of the participants

 

The BK team also participated in a number of other workshops. You are invited to read full report here.

 

 

Building Inclusive and Sustainable Cities and Communities

Tuesday, August 13

A delegation of three youths represented the Brahma Kumaris at the International Youth Day event held at the UNHQ, NY. This is what the youths had to say: "Attending the United Nations International Youth Day event this year was inspiring, fostering a creative outlook on how we can each be catalysts for change in the fight for a sustainable future.

 

Read more.

 

 

 

 

UN Calendar of Events for July and August

12 September 2019

Dear National and Center Coordinators, and Friends,

Greetings of love.

 

July and August is an exciting time for the BKUN team in New York as it marks the participation of the annual UN Department of Global Communication Civil Society Conference. This time also reminds us of Nelson Mandela International Day, International Day of Youth and World Humanitarian Day. We extend a warm invitation for you to read details about these observances and encourage you to organize events to serve the community around you. We look forward to receiving news and photos of your programs.

 

 

 

 

Building Inclusive and Sustainable Cities and Communities

Salt Lake City, Utah, USA, August 26-28

 

The Brahma Kumaris will be participating in this conference in two ways: 
* co-sponsoring a workshop on the topic, Re-imagining Communities from the Inside-out: Solutions from a Faith-based perspective 
* co-organizing an exhibit entitled, Return to one: one planet, one spirit, one human family.

 
A BK delegation of 6 will attend and participate.

 

 

Take Action. Inspire Change. Make Every Day A Mandela Day.

Thursday, July 18

 

Nelson Mandela International Day celebrates the idea that each individual has the power to transform the world and the ability to make an impact. So, in honor of his 67 years of public service, the Nelson Mandela Foundation and the UN ask that you spend 67 minutes of your time helping others. 

To join or learn more about the campaign, click here.

 

 

Transforming Education

Monday, August 12

 

This year’s theme highlights efforts to make education more inclusive and accessible for all youth, including efforts by youth themselves. The aim is to focus on Sustainable Development Goal 4: “ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all” Read more.

 

This provides a good opportunity for you to hold conversations within the community.

 

 

Women Humanitarians

Monday, August 19

 

World Humanitarian Day 2019 is set to celebrate Women Humanitarians and their undying contribution in making the world a better place. 

This year’s campaign supports the recognition that women deserve in the strengthening of global humanitarian response. Read more.

 

As a women's led organization, we encourage you to co-organize events and we look forward to receiving news and photos.

 

 

 

 

E-notice: Time Sensitive: World Environment Day June 5

28 May 2019

A Call for reports: UN Global Road Safety Week - May 6-12

17 May 2019

Leadership for Road Safety

6th to 12th May 2019

Dear Serviceable Instruments,

Warm Greetings!

We are in process of collating news of events organized to mark the Global Road Safety Week. We encourage you to send us a brief report of any event at your local center. Kindly upload photographs or videos to the web and you may share the link for download with brief news to this email: bkroadsafety01@gmail.com.

Below are pictures of what took place in few places in India.

Ulhasnagar

Delhi

Chennai

Rajkot

Thank you and looking forward to receiving your reports/videos.

With Divine Remembrances, 
BK Kavita,

Borivali, Mumbai

 

 

Important UN Observances in May and June: Road Safety, Families, IDY and the Environment

21 April 2019

Dear National and Center Coordinators,

Greetings of love.

In the upcoming month of May, BKUN is observing the 5th. Global Road Safety Week and International Day of Families. June brings International Day of Yoga and World Environment Day to the forefront of our calendars. Please find below more details about these observances. We look forward to receiving news and photos of events you are organizing and participating in.

 

May 6 - 12
Leadership for Road Safety: Save Lives Speak Up
Please refer to previous email sent with all details.
BK organizers are requested to share photos, video clips and brief details of their programs via email to bkroadsafety01@gmail.com

International Day of Families

Families and Climate Action: Focus on Sustainable Development Goal (SDG)13 Climate Change

Wednesday, May 15

The United Nations is encouraging the global community to observe this day by focusing on families, family policies and major SDG13 targets, highlighting: 
* Inter-generational approach to sustainability. 
* Sustainable development education & practice. 
* Sustainable family farming from indigenous perspectives. 
* ‘Greening the blue’ and other good practices.

We invite you to work with various organizations in your local area to organize events. Please send us photos and a brief report. To learn more, visit UN website. 
If you need information on BKs and Climate Change relevant to the topic, please contact Sonja Ohlsson.

 

World Environment Day
Air Pollution: we cannot stop breathing but we can do something about the quality of our air.

Wednesday, June 5

This year’s World Environment Day provides an opportunity for each of us to combat air pollution around the world. Let's start from now. There are many things we can do: from cycling or walking to work and back, to recycling non-organic trash, to persuading local authorities to improve green spaces in your city.

Here are some other ideas: 
* Turn off lights and electronics when not in use. 
* Check efficiency ratings for home heating systems and cookstoves to use models that save money and protect health. 
* Never burn trash, as this contributes directly to air pollution.

Events that support this campaign can go a long way in reducing air pollution. Get ideas 
For queries on BKs and the environment, please contact Pratibha Patel.

Please send us your news in brief.

Posters that could be used

World Environment Day
Air Pollution: we cannot stop breathing but we can do something about the quality of our air.
Wednesday,International Day of Yoga
Yoga and Climate Change

Friday, June 21, 2019

The theme for this year's celebration at UN Head Quarters, New York, is Yoga and Climate Change. The Brahma Kumaris at the UN will be participating in an exhibition showcasing the connection between soul energy, solar energy and the Source, and also co-organize an event.

We encourage you to also plan events and share news and photos. You can visit the website of the Indian Permanent Mission at the UN, or the BKUN website for ideas. 
You are also welcome to contact us if you need more information: BK Sabita

 

UN International Observances Celebrated by the Brahma Kumaris
International Days

Kindly make a special note of these dates so that events can be organized to commemorate them. As usual, we appreciate a brief report and photos for the facebook page and the blog. 
You are welcome to browse the UN website for updates on themes on other information and international days you may wish to observe.

April 22 International Earth Day 
May 15 International Day of Families 
June 5 World Environment Day 
June 21 International Day of Yoga 
August 12 International Youth Day 
August 19 World Humanitarian Day 
September 21 International Day of Peace 
October 1 International Day of Older Persons 
October 2 International Day of Non-violence 
November 16 International Day of Tolerance 
November 18 World Day of Remebrance for Road Traffic Victims 
December 3 International Day of Persons with Disabilities 
December 10 Human Rights Day

International Weeks:
May 6 - 12 UN Global Road Safety Week

E-notice: UN Global Road Safety Week - May 6-12

14 April 2019

Leadership for Road Safety

6th to 12th May 2019

Dear Serviceable Instruments,

Warm Greetings!

Roads are like the arteries and veins of our planet; they transport us to places of purpose, and bring us back home! Let us celebrate the Fifth UN Global Road Safety Week by serving and honoring the personnel from the local government’s transport and traffic departments, they are the ones who work relentlessly to keep road crashes to a minimum. Their lives are dedicated to save lives! 
We invite you to join a Global Observance! And you could do this in simple, non-complicated ways! 
Kindly download and print the full letter as per your region: 
Russian and Baltic Region 
Latin and South America Region
Canada
USA 
Africa
Asia 
UK and European Region
Middle East 
Oceanic Region

BK organizers are requested to share photos, video clips and brief details of their programs via email to bkroadsafety01@gmail.com

With Divine Remembrances,
BK Gayatri, BK Kavita and the Road Safety Team

March 2019 UN Newsletter

6 April 2019

Dear National Coordinators and Center Coordinators,

Greetings of love.

We invite you to read news of International Women's Day and the 63rd Commission on the Status of Women (CSW63).

International Women's day Observances - Brahma Kumaris Australia

Tuesday, 5 March 2019
‘Calling all Women of Courage’, a morning retreat, took place at Brahma Kumaris Blue Mountains Retreat Centre. The sun shone and the gum trees sparkled as the 17 participants ranging in age from mid-20s to late 60s shared stories of courage and power. Meditation and reflection led to a writing, drawing and exploration of how virtues enhance and support the value of courage. All joined in singing a closing song of healing and hope. A delicious vegetarian lunch was appreciated by everyone.

Thursday, 7 March 2019
The history of IWD was shared through a PowerPoint presentation by Sr Jenny Forrest for about 20 people in the Spirituality Matters evening talk series. The presentation also included some of the history of the Brahma Kumaris as a women-led organisation. The main aim of IWD is achieving gender equality and Sr Jenny spoke about how awareness of ourselves and others as spiritual beings helps to achieve that. There was also a special display in the bookshop with self-empowering products in the IWD colour scheme of green, white and purple.

Saturday, 9 March 2019
‘Achieving Balance’, a day retreat for women, was held at the BK centre in Five Dock from 11am to 3:30pm. 45 women listened to a panel of speakers sharing diverse stories about their lives, the qualities that help them and the qualities that are needed for restoring balance in the world. 
Lalitha Nair spoke of her experience as a police office, lawyer and social worker and how doing her best in every task and advocating fairly for all enabled her to deal with intense situations and remain emotionally free. Jett Tatersall, a performer, producer and film screenwriter spoke of overcoming the fear of failure in a world where usually only ‘success’ is valued and celebrated. Ami Trivedi spoke of using different types of balance to respond to situations in the corporate world, saying that balance doesn’t have to mean between ‘bad’ and ‘good’ but between different types of positive qualities, which can both be different forms of expressing love. Bobbie Stanton led a practical but simple interactive exercise about dealing with the opposing energy of another person. 
Lively discussions over lunch were followed by a creative collage session where participants explored issues of ‘balance’ in their own lives – whether with family, health, work, ambitions, time, connection to nature etc. Three short meditations punctuated the day with moments of silence and reflection.

More than 5,200 women and men representing civil society, along with at least 1,850 delegates from governments, attended this year’s Commission on the Status of Women CSW63, the United Nations largest gathering on women’s rights issues. The theme for 2019 was :

Social Protection Systems, Public Services And Sustainable Infrastructure For Gender Equality
Representatives from the Brahma Kumaris also attended and participated in the various sessions.To read more on our conference experience and insights, click here...

Awareness to Action: Preparing Women to Advocate for Themselves
Paralell Event Monday, 11 March 2019
It is time that spirituality and values be given its rightful place as a formidable mechanism for personal change – which is a necessary first step in preparing women to relentlessly advocate for and access all other social protection systems, public services and infrastructures for gender equality.

The Brahma Kumaris at the United Nations invited the conference participants and delegates of the CSW63 to join them in an inclusive dialogue to explore how a spiritual and values based approach can serve as a mechanism to drive personal change and how women can be empowered to ‘do it for themselves’. More specifically, the aim was to : 
• Explore the factors of pride in gender identity 
• Arrive at new innovative methods to achieve the outcomes women wish to reinforce 
• Envisage the practical expression of self-respect and courage in claiming a share of power.

 

The session contained a balance of didactic input, personal reflection and engagement in small group discussions as well as meditation practices.

In the words of one of the participants : “Among the numerous and utterly interesting events currently taking place during the sixty-third session of the Commission on the Status of Women was an extremely compelling to me event, refreshingly enough without a panel and with little breaks for reflection through meditation.”

The initial didactic input addressed the theme of gender identity and how this has, on a cultural and social level, contributed significantly towards shaping and inextricably limiting an individual’s overall sense of identity. The spiritual trajectory was explained - of how identity developes awareness, which shapes attitude, which in turn builds vision, that influences decisions and ultimately is expressed as actions. Participants were thus encouraged to ‘go beyond gender’.

These underlying dynamics of decision making was explore as a tool for personal development. The audience were invited to rotate in pairs and discuss their reflections to the following questions :

• What intrinsic qualities do you identify in yourself that serve as a foundation in your decision-making process? How have those decisions further empowered you? Please share a story or an example. 
• How does gender identity play a role in upholding your intrinsic qualities during decision-making? 
• Now that I have tapped into my inner resources, how do I take awareness and bring it into action as I try to bring change into the world?

April UN Calendar of Events

29 March 2019

 

Dear National Coordinators and Center Coordinators,

Greetings of love.

The calendar for April was sent out a few months ago and since a lot has been happening, this is a gentle reminder with the hope you can organize events to celebrate or honor these days: World Health Day and Mother Earth Day. Please find below more details and we look forward to receiving news and photos.

Sunday, April 7
Universal Health Coverage: everyone, everywhere

The World Health Organization (WHO) was founded on the principle that all people should be able to realize their right to the highest possible level of health. This year, WHO will maintain a high-profile focus on Universal Health Coverage via a series of events, starting on World Health Day on 7 April, with global and local conversations about ways to achieve health for all. Their slogan is “Health for All”.

As an organization that teaches the highest form of yoga and well-being, this venture is a wonderful way to share some of what we practice with our friends, contacts, and the general public. We encourage you to partner with WHO in your area, or any other organization, to host an event. 
Learn more.
As usual, we appreciate receiving your brief reports and photographs.

Report on Brahma Kumaris Event during the 57th Session on the Commission for Social Development

20 March 2019

Side Event co-organized by Brahma Kumaris, Clarence B. Jones Institute for Social Advocacy, Unspoken Smiles Foundation, and International Day of Yoga Committee at the UN.
Tuesday February 19, 2019

Compassion in Action: Building a Coherent Society, Click here for Speakers

A side event with a different and refreshing approach took place where four storytellers got together for a workshop to address inequalities and challenges to social inclusion using compassion as a tool, calling everyone to be Compassion In Action (CIA) agents. So, what is compassion? As moderator, BK Sabita Geer, NGO representative of the Brahma Kumaris, stated, “it is feeling that comes from deep inside of us. Compassion generates love, kindness, support without boundaries; it is something to be felt and experienced individually.”

Download full report here.

January - February UN Newsletter

5 March 2019

 

Dear National Coordinators and Center Coordinators,

Greetings of love.

We invite you to read news of World Interfaith Harmony Week and the 57th Session on the Commission for Social Development (CSocD57).

 

 

 

February - April 2019 Calendar of Events

27 February 2019

 

Dear National Coordinators and Center Coordinators,

Greetings of love.

 

The new year started with a buzz of activities amidst the beauty of silence that comes with January. 

February brings a flavor of diversity as we observe World Interfaith Harmony Week and the Commission for Social Development. The month of March reminds us of women's empowerment and happiness, while April draws our attention to health and Mother Earth.

 

Please find below more details and we encourage you to arrange programs to promote these observances.

 

 

Sustainable Development through Interfaith Harmony

At the core of all the faith systems and traditions is the recognition that we are all in this together and that we need to love and support one another to live in harmony and peace in an environmentally sustainable world.

 

Even though the dates are passed, events around the theme can still be organized. We look forward to receiving news with photos.

 

 

Addressing inequalities and challenges to social inclusion through fiscal, wage and social protection policies

February 11 - 21, 2019

For the past three years, the Brahma Kumaris has been actively participating in this conference by co-hosting events and submitting statements. This year, a delegation of 7 is preparing a workshop and an oral statement to address the theme of the conference. 

The topic for discussion is: Compassion to Action: Building A Coherent Society and will take place on Tuesday, February 19 at the UNHQ. 

The event is co-hosted by the International Day of Yoga Committee at the UN, Clarence D. Jones Institute for Social Advocacy, and Unspoken Smiles Foundation.

 

You can learn more about the Commission from their website.

 

Think equal, build smart, innovate for change

Friday, March 8

The theme for this year's International Women's Day will focus on innovative ways in which we can advance gender equality and the empowerment of women, particularly in the areas of social protection systems, access to public services and sustainable infrastructure, which will echo CSW63 Priority theme

 

We look forward to receiving news, in writing and pictures, of event/s you have organized in your communities.

 

 

63rd. Commission on the Status of Women

Social Protection Systems, Public Services, and Sustainable Infrastructure for Gender Equality

March 11 -22.

This annual two weeks conference held at the UN Headquarters in New York, addresses current issues women face all around the world. The Brahma Kumaris has been participating for many years and this year, a delegation of 5 will be representing the Institution. A statement written by the Brahma Kumaris is published on the UN Women's website.

A workshop on the topic, Awareness to Action: Empowering Women to Advocate for Themselves, will be facilitated by the BK delegation on Monday, March 11.

 

To learn more on the commission, click here.

 

BK Delegation: Devindree Pillay, Nalishha Mehta, Sabita Geer, Kinnari Murthy, and Tina Agarwal.

 

Ten Billion Happy: Happiness Day. Every Day. For All of Humanity, by 2050.

Wednesday, March 20

Since 2013, the United Nations has celebrated the International Day of Happiness as a way to recognise the importance of happiness in the lives of people around the world. For the past two years, the Smurfs partnered with the UN and UNICEF to help advocate the awareness and importance of leading a life of happiness. 

We do hope you feel inspired to organize an event to celebrate Happiness.

You may read more about this day here and join the campaign.

 

 

Sunday, April 7

The World Health Organization (WHO) was founded on the principle that all people should be able to realize their right to the highest possible level of health. This year, WHO will maintain a high-profile focus on Universal Health Coverage via a series of events, starting on World Health Day on 7 April, with global and local conversations about ways to achieve health for all. Their slogan is “Health for All”.

 

As an organization that teaches the highest form of yoga and well-being, this venture is a wonderful way to share some of what we practice with our friends, contacts, and the general public. We encourage you to partner with WHO in your area, or any other organization, to host an event.

 

Learn more.

As usual, we appreciate receiving your brief reports and photographs.

 

 

International Mother Earth Day

Protect Our Species

Monday, April 22

This year, UN is asking people to join their Protect our Species campaign. Their goals are to:

• Educate and raise awareness about the accelerating rate of extinction of millions of species and the causes and consequences of this phenomenon.

• Achieve major policy victories that protect broad groups of species as well as individual species and their habitats.

• Build and activate a global movement that embraces nature and its values.

• Encourage individual actions such as adopting plant based diet and stopping pesticide and herbicide use.

 

Events that support this campaign can be of great service to our world. Get ideas. 

 

Please send us your news in brief.

 

UN International Observances Celebrated by the Brahma Kumaris

International Days

Kindly make a special note of these dates so that events can be organized to celebrate or honor them. As usual, we appreciate a brief report and photos for the facebook page and the blog.

You are welcome to browse this website for updates on themes and other information and international days you may wish to observe.

 

February 11 International Day for Women and Girls in Science 
March 8 International Women's Day 
March 20 International Day of Happiness 
April 7 World Health Day 
April 22 International Earth Day 
May 15 International Day of Families 
June 5 World Environment Day 
June 21 International Day of Yoga 
August 12 International Youth Day 
August 19 World Humanitarian Day 
September 21 International Day of Peace 
October 1 International Day of Older Persons 
October 2 International Day of Non-violence 
November 16 International Day of Tolerance 
November 18 World Day of Remebrance for Road Traffic Victims 
December 3 International Day of Persons with Disabilities 
December 10 Human Rights Day

 

International Weeks:

February 1 - 7 World Interfaith Harmony Week 
May 4 - 10 UN Global Road Safety Week

 

 

UN Newsletter, December 2018

28 December 2018

 

Dear National Coordinators and Center Coordinators,

 

Greetings of love. At this auspicious point of the confluence of the ending of 2018 and the beginning of 2019, may the wonders of life, and the secrets of time continue to elevate us in many divine ways.

 

There are a few UN Observances in November and December which the Brahma Kumaris participated in, such as World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims and Human Rights Day. We invite you to take a moment to read news of that and other events that took place globally - Interfaith Conference, Climate Change Conference, Biodiversity Conference, and Women's Empowerment programs.

 

 

Sharm-El- Sheik, Egypt.

17th - 29th November

Governments, organizations and civil society meet under the theme of “Investing in Biodiversity for People and Planet". The small coastal city Sharm-El-Sheik at the tip of Sinai desert was fully decorated with road banners announcing the conference. Read more.

 

 

World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims

Road Have Stories

Sunday, November 18

A number of events have been organized by the Brahma Kumaris in collaboration with the Police Department and other social groups to honor those whom have been affected, including family members, and to stand in solidarity as candles were lit and moments of silence were observed. The Brahma Kumaris at the UN hosted an event at the Global Harmony House, the Regional Head Quarters of the BKs in the Americas. Read more here.

More news to follow in the next newsletter.

 

 

Human Rights Day

Let’s stand up for equality, justice and human dignity

Thursday, December 13

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights is celebrating its 70th anniversary in 2018 and the International Day of Yoga Committee hosted an event at the Brahma Kumaris UN space to celebrate this wondrous achievement. Various Human Rights articles and their respective Spiritual Rights were discussed and each participant was gifted a copy of the booklet. It being the Holiday Season, focus was also drawn to the bringing the Light into our lives. 

The Brahma Kumaris also attended and participated in the grand celebration at the UN HQ. 

 

Secretary General's message

 

 

Interfaith Conference

Healing the Soul of the Nation

As a follow-up to the ‘Healing the Soul of the Nation Conferences’convened by the School for Conflict Analysis and Resolution (S-CAR) in Virginia, USA, and the University of Pennsylvania Office of the Chaplaincy, a one day conference was convened for religious leaders, lay leaders and community activists at the Respect Graduate School on Saturday, November 10. About 80 people participated. The Brahma Kumaris was invited to speak on one of the panels. Read full report.

 

 

Women's Empowerment Programs

Two very inspiring events were organized around women's empowerment, one in Sri Lanka with the theme, "Start where you are: the journey of women's emotions towards empowerment," and the other in South Africa called, African Women in Dialogue. 

Read details here. and here.

 

Climate Change Conference

As usual, the Brahma Kumaris delegation did outstanding work during this year's climate change conference held in Poland. You may have already read a lot about it however, here is the link for those who may not have read it: Enjoy.