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2020 January through September UN News Archive
Table of Content
International Day of Nonviolence special meditation: fourth in a series of 15 mins. meditation
30 September 2020
Dear National and Center Coordinators,
We are pleased to inform you the fourth 15 minute meditation on Karuna (compassion) Response to Corona (virus) is on Nonviolence, especially prepared for the International Day of Nonviolence on October 2. You are most welcome to use it as part of any event you maybe organizing to celebrate the day. It is also Mahatma Gandhi's anniversary. The video is already available on YouTube.
Click image to watch video.
Brahma Kumaris to Address Celebration of International Day of Peace with other Eminent Ambassadors
18 September 2020
Did you know that 21 September is the International Day of Peace?
To celebrate and to contribute to making the world a more peaceful place, Heartfulness in partnership with the United Nations, along with many ambassadors such as Dr. Deepak Chopra, Dr. Bruce Lipton, Sister BK Shivani and many others will be coming together for a global movement to ACTIVATE PEACE, Your Super-sense.
Peace needs you!
So, wherever you are, join the celebrations on Monday, September 21st, 2020 at 8 pm IST (India time), followed by a group meditation at 9 pm, on YouTube. Together we can activate this 24-hour chain of peace around the world, by joining the millions.
The ‘Celebrate Peace’ event will be broadcasted in over 100 countries and translated into over 24 languages via online streaming platform partners. Similar virtual events organized by the Heartfulness Institute, such as the International Day of Yoga, have been viewed by over 22 million people, and the upcoming event is poised to reach over 40 million people.
Daaji, the Guide of Heartfulness, said, “At Heartfulness, we will be transmitting on that day throughout the 24 hours. And if you would like to join us in meditation, simply close your eyes and tune into your innermost corner, where you find love in your heart. We will all be meditating together, for peace, harmony, and serenity to engulf this planet.”
BK Sister Shivani, a teacher from the Brahma Kumaris spiritual movement, said, “It’s time to heal the planet and love is the energy which is a healing energy. So when we all come together for our love for the planet, for our love for each other, and for our love for humanity, and together we create peace, we are going to take that first step towards healing our world.”
Deepak Chopra, well-known author and speaker, said, “Bring the presence of peace wherever you go, and if you do that the people around you will feel peaceful not by what you say, not by what you do, even, but just by your presence.”
Shekhar Kapur, noted director and actor, will steer the conversations between the renowned proponents of inner peace, including Daaji, Javier Zanetti, Deepak Chopra, BK Sister Shivani, Sharon Salzberg, as well as Bruce Lipton, Amandine Roche, Bob Boisture, Thomas d’Ansembourg, Marta Bassino, and Michela Moioli. Renowned musicians who have volunteered their time for peace will also be part of the event.
Confirmed partners include the United Nations Information Centre, the Fetzer Institute, Knauf Armstrong, Global Ecovillage Network, Amazoncare, ICSI, Red FM, the Spirit of Humanity Forum, Global Citizen India, Give India, Football for Peace, Education for Peace, Guerrand-Hermes Foundation for Peace, MIT World Peace University, Lovely University, International Cities of Peace, and more.
The Heartfulness network will be supporting Communities of Peace around the world leading up to the main day, by holding online events from 5 September 2020. To participate in your local activities in India, please call 1-800-121-3492 or send an email to peaceday@heartfulness.org.
21 September is a great occasion to come together to create peace to help safeguard and preserve all life on our planet. Please join to “Create and Celebrate Peace.”
#connectingforpeace – Sign up today: heartfulness.org/peaceday
Virtual UN Peace Day Event: Shaping Peace Together Mon 21 Sept 2020 at 5.15 - 6.00 pm, Melbourne time.
10 September 2020
Dear friends,
Please find an invitation to a very special virtual UN Peace Day event on Monday 21st Sept, 5.15-6.00pm, Melbourne time. The event will be peaceful/meditative in nature with leaders from faith/non-faith traditions and the Honourable Linda Dessau AC, the Governor of Victoria and the Melbourne Lord Mayor Sally Capp will give the Opening and Closing Reflections to the event, respectively.
Sister Jayanti -who many of you may already know from her meditation commentaries and online classes - an international emissory of peace - will be a special guest at the event, among others (including Charlie Hogg) and Caroline Ward will be facilitating.
Please feel free to invite your friends and family to this event - and note that they will need to register separately through the booking site: tiny.cc/unpeaceday2020
We hope that you will be able to make it.
With warm good wishes,
Jacqui
Jacqueline Russell
RETREAT CENTRE MANAGER, CENTRE FOR SPIRITUAL LEARNING, PENINSULA
83 Stotts Lane, Frankston South, VIC 3199
Tel: +61359711599 | peninsula@brahmakumaris.org
W: https://brahmakumaris.org.au/peninsula-meditation-retreats/
Karuna (Compassion) Response to Corona (Virus) – 15 Minute Meditations from UN Meditation Room
28 August 2020
New York (USA): This is a series of six 15-minute meditation videos within the UN Meditation Room, done virtually. The meditation invokes the experience of “Karuna” (compassion) as a response to the Corona (virus). The 6 values of focus are love, kindness, mercy, non-violence, forgiveness, and generosity.
This sacred space is inspired by Secretary-General, Dag Hammarskjold: “This is a room devoted to peace and those who are giving their lives for peace. This is a room of quiet where only thoughts should speak.”
Three of these meditation videos are already premiered. You are welcome to include them in events you may organize and also to share with your contacts. Watch videos here.
Brahma Kumaris at the United Nations, New York, Celebrate Raksha Bandhan
28 August 2020
New York ( USA ): This year, in keeping with Covid-19 guidelines, UN contacts were invited to come to the BKUN Space by appointment to celebrate Raksha Bandhan. It was a very powerful and cherished experience for all.
The message shared with them by BK Gayatri Naraine, Representative of Brahma Kumaris to the United Nations: Rakshasbandan reminds us that the eternal flame of love is intrinsic to each soul. This festival stirs sacred memories deep within – memories that anchor us to universal truths. Accepting this thread reminds us that the healing power of love comes from a Source that is beyond limits, conditions, and discrimination.
For more information about Brahma Kumaris at the United Nations, please click here.
“Why Friendship ?” – Online Workshop on UN International Friendship Day
21 August 2020
Click on each page below to download.
Australia: On UN International Friendship Day, a 90 Minute Online Workshop was organized by Brahma Kumaris Australia for adults aged 18-35 on the topic “The Spirit of Friendship”.
May - August 2020 Newsletter
21 August 2020
Dear Friends,
As COVID-19 global pandemic and lockdown continued, many realized that this may go on for a while. As such, online events began to take shape and the BKUN team also planned a few such progams. One of the advantages of these online activites is that we were able to involve presenters and participants from all across the world. The team also initiated a few special projects, including the launch of the new BK UN YouTube channel!
Please see below reports of events on the International Day of Yoga, High Level Political Forum, International Friendship Day, International Day of Youth, Raksha Bandhan, and special projects.
Click image to view channel.
Brahma Kumaris at the UN YouTube Channel
We are happy to announce that the BKUN Office has launched its very own YouTube Channel with 439 subscribers to date. You are welcome to browse and subscribe to it. We appreciate it if you share this link with your friends and contacts.
Karuna (Compassion) Response to Corona (Virus)
This is a series of six 15-minute meditation videos within the UN Meditation Room, done virtually. The meditation invokes the experience of "Karuna" (compassion) as a response to the Corona (virus). The 6 values of focus are love, kindness, mercy, non-violence, forgiveness, and generosity.
This sacred space is inspired by Secretary General, Dag Hammerskjold: “This is a room devoted to peace and those who are giving their lives for peace. This is a room of quiet where only thoughts should speak.”
Three of these meditation videos are already premiered. You are welcome to inlcude them in events you may organize and also to share with your contacts.
Watch videos here.
A Series of 30-Minute Meditation Workshops for Women to Build Inner Resilience through Self Care
As a means to nurture and empower women by giving them an experience of how to create a peaceful and strong mind, especially during these times of COVID-19, six workshops were piloted by the BKUN team for women's empowerment. These sessions consisted of 3 parts— EXPLORE • EXPRESS • EXPERIENCE — integrating the practice of meditation and self reflection.
Women from various professional backgrounds had uplifting experiences and shared constructive feedback which will serve as a springboard for the team, moving forward.
Yoga: Building A Culture of Inclusivity
Saturday, June 20
This year's Yoga Day celebration was organized keeping in mind the words enshrined in the preamble of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights which are also cornerstones of yogic philosophy to live by each day: “All beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. We are endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood.”
The event was graced with sharings by enlightened spiritual teachers, including BK Mohini who closed the conversation with a powerful guided meditation. Additionally, such gatherings are not complete without musical expressions. This time, it was beautifully done by violinist, Anthony Hyatt.
Watch full event on Facebook.
To read about events held elsewhere: click here.
BK Mohini
Few of the presenters and coordinating team
Yogis - Linking Living Lights
June 20 - 21.
The United Nations is celebrating its 75 th. anniversary this year and the Brahma Kumaris International Youth Forum (IYF) created this film to honor this great achievement, and to celebrate International Day of Yoga. Youths from 75 countries captured the benefits they experience by practicing Raja Yoga. These stories were shared using various artistic expressions. The video was live streamed for 24 hours worldwide on Facebook and YouTube.
8 Postures of the Heart
The Greatest Love Story of All, Between the Soul and God
As many of you would know, there was a virtual screening of this one hour film and participants had the opportunity to meet some of the presenters. It was live streamed on Facebook, YouTube, and WhatsApp. Close to 1000 people enjoyed the experience. You are welcome to watch it on
A Shift in Mindset: Faith-based Solutions to Climate Action Obstacles
July 13
The UN annual High Level Political Forum took place from July 7-17 on the theme, Accelerated action and transformative pathways: realizing the decade of action and delivery for sustainable development.
The Committee of Religious NGOs (CRNGO) working group on Climate Change organized a parallel event in which the welcome and introduction to the working group was made by BK Julia Grindon-Welch, Co-chair of the working group on Climate Change.
Thursday, August 6
This year, in keeping with COVID-19 guidelines, UN contacts were invited to come to the BKUN Space by appointment to celebrate Raksha Bandhan. It turned out to be a very powerful and cherished experience for all.
The message shared with them: Rakshasbandan reminds us that the eternal flame of love is intrinsic to each soul. This festival stirs sacred memories deep within - memories that anchor us to universal truths. Accepting this thread reminds us that the healing power of love comes from a Source that is beyond limits, conditions, and discrimination.
Click image to watch video.
Youth Participation
A few events were organized by youths of the Brahma Kumaris in countries countries:
* The BK Awakening Channel hosted a video to celebrate UN International Day of Youth, an event organized by the Youth Wing of the Brahma Kumaris, India. Watch here.
* A group of BK Australian youths celebrated International Friendship Day.
Click image to watch video.
Ongoing at BKUN
Weekly Meditation
After 3.5 months of lockdown, the BKUN team in New York has re-opened the Office as of July but with limited visitors. The weekly Thursday evening meditation continues virtually with a small group of UN contacts and friends. The UNHQ remains closed to NGOs and visitors.
Additionally, the team has been engaged in various worldwide events online with a focus on sustainable spirituality, and spirituality and secularism, for example: Seizing the Moment: Women taking the Lead in Creating the New Normal, watch here.
World Environment Day event was organized by Brahma Kumaris, NY, USA: read more.
Click image to watch video.
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.
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 15 World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims
November 16 International Day of Tolerance
December 3 International Day of Persons with Disabilities
December 10 Human Rights Day
International Weeks:
February 1 - 7 World Interfaith Harmony Week
UN Friendship Day Report - Young Adult Public Event 26th July, Brahma Kumaris Australia
16 August 2020
Click here to dowload full report.
Brahma Kumaris invites One-Minute Video from Young Leaders around the World
5 August 2020
Divine Brother/ Sister,
Kindly accept greetings of peace from Madhuban.
The 12th of August is International Youth Day. The theme for this year declared by the UN is "Youth Engagement for Global Action". In this context, the Brahma Kumaris have designed a unique platform for all youth to raise their voices of meaningful actions.
Participants will be encouraged to answer these simple questions:-
Imagine you have the opportunity to be a great leader...
Whether it’s in your local place, your country or even a world leader!
You are given one decision to make, in your role as a leader.
1) Which problem will you like to solve?
2) What is your priority decision?
3) What constructive actions will it take to bring your decision into reality?
And finally, participants will be requested to create a short video (up to one minute) sharing their responses.
Instruction for the video :
"Hello I am ROHIT, I support Youth4GlobalAction.
As a leader (XYZ minister of My country)( XYZ leader of Global Organisations, UN Bodies)(Leading XYZ department of my local community)
My message ... THANKS."
Note:-
Videos can be in Hindi or English.
Videos can be sent by Youth from teenage to 35 years of age,
Videos can be sent by BK youth also but in color clothes.
All Videos must reach awakeningtv8@gmail.com by 3rd of August.
We hope your divine motivation and guidance will encourage BK youth and Youth in contact to share their ideas on screen. The compilation of these videos will be showcased on the 12th of August on Awakening TV.
Please see the promo in English and Hindi.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pTUW2dsLOqc (Hindi)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o8_C5zmkQlI (English)
In Godly Service,
BK Karuna
Jul. 16, Mercy: third in a series of 15 mins. meditation in a virtual UN Meditation Room
14 July 2020
Dear Friends,
We are pleased to inform you the third 15 minute meditation on Karuna (compassion) Response to Corona (virus) will be premiered on Thursday, July 16, at 6:45pm EST. We invite you to join us as we focus on Mercy.
Download flier here.
Please subscribe to the channel to receive notifications of upcoming meditations.
Time Sensitive - Youth Essay Competition, ages 15-29
25 June 2020
Youth Essay Competition: Ages 15-29.
Dear NCs and CCs,
Greetings of Peace. Even though this doesn't give the youths much time, we still encourage you to share with them this opportunity to serve.
The United Nations Secretary-General’s Envoy on Youth (OSGEY), the Under-Secretary-General and Special Adviser to the Secretary-General on the Commemoration of the United Nations’ 75th Anniversary and Devex, are excited to announce the launch of an Essay Competition for the best essay by a young person on the topic ‘The Future We Want, The UN We Need’.
The deadline for submissions is 29 June, 2020.
Young people are asked to share their views and suggestions about the UN’s future role by answering the question: Within the context of the “new normal” that has unfolded post-COVID-19, and as we plan and re-build to recovery, what does the future of the UN look like to you?
More Information, click here.
Updates: with translation: UN Yoga Day initiative for BK youth and young adults
7 June 2020
Dear NC and CC’s,
As per our previous message regarding the project called ‘Yogis - Linking Living Lights, to celebrate International Yoga Day and the UN 75th year, we would now like to share the translated materials of the project in Spanish, French and Portuguese. We appreciate that the project is time sensitive and appreciate your patience in waiting for these. Please circulate to all BK youth in your region needing these languages.
Download Linking Living Lights Spanish
Download Linking Living Lights French
Download Linking Living Lights Portuguese
SUBTITLING:
Please note that for those video clips which will be recorded in their local languages (ie NOT ENGLISH), we would need the following:
- An original raw video clip of the Youth Speaker
- Document of the translation text for subtitle.
- A reference video clip created by the Youth Speaker with the subtitle inserted in it. This video clip is for our reference to insert the subtitle.
We are requesting the above 3 files so that we can create a same, unified style and pattern of all the subtitles according to the Youth event theme.
Very important are extra guidelines for shooting an effective 3 minute video Download here.
The following souls from part of the support team who will be guiding the BK youth in their region:
Br Saurabh (USA - North America)
Sr Nora (Canada - North America)
Br Augusto (Brazil - South America)
Sr Maria (Colombia - South America)
Sr Stefania (Iceland - Europe)
Br Minal (UK - Europe)
Br Chandan (Belgium)
Br Piyush (Dubai - Middle East)
Br Andrew and Sr Priya (Kenya - Africa)
Br Bhanu (India IYF)
Sr Aganita (Malaysia - Asia Pacific)
Sr Lauren (Australasia)
Br Sathesh (Australasia)
If you have any questions please email: iyf@brahmakumaris.org
Many thanks again for your support and co-operation.
In Baba’s yaad
BK Gayatri and BK Gopi
Previous information if needed:
Click on the banner and pdf download links for more information
Linking Living Lights_Central page download pdf
Preparation Guidelines download pdf
Kindness: Second in series of 15 mins. meditation in a virtual UN Meditation Room
5 June 2020
Dear Friends,
Join us tomorrow, Thursday, June 4, at 6:45pm EST, for the second in a series of 6 15-minute meditation in a virtual UN Meditation Room on a Karuna (compassion) Response to Corona (virus). The focus is on Kindness.
Download flier here.
Time Sensitive: UN Yoga Day initiative for BK youth and young adults
3 June 2020
Dear NC’s and CC’s,
Om shanti and loving greetings. We would very much like you to give your support to a global initiative, ‘Yogis - Linking Living Lights’, in partnership with the BK International Youth Forum to celebrate International Yoga Day and UN 75th year.
It would be important to have your country represented, so please do take the time to read this email and forward it to all BK youth and young adults in your area and region (pls translate into your local language so that the youths are able to grasp clearly the intention and preparation needed for this initiative. Note: French, Spanish and Portuguese translations are already underway and will be with you shortly.
Click here for Invitation Video
This is an invitation to all BK youth and young adults between the ages of 13 - 40 from around the world to come together as a united force, to set our world aglow on International Yoga Day. A 3 minute video of live reflection/meditation/creative expression is required from each BK Young Adult to be put together into a 24 hr meditation/yoga/giving sakaash experience for the world starting 20th June midnight and ending 21st June midnight.
Click here to register
Ideally, we would like youths from all 193 countries of the UN, but we could settle for 75 countries, to honor the UN anniversary.
Click here for how to prepare for this initiative.
We would like the videos to carry ‘shiv-shakti’ power to the world. So we are requesting participants to specially prepare themselves before creating their authentic spiritual expressions through video. (Language of Expression: English would be first preference however if the local language is the comfortable medium, then that is fine too and we especially request translated text in English to offer as subtitles.) For your information, the United Nations recognizes 6 official languages: Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian and Spanish.
Click here for guidelines for producing an effective 3 minute video.
Deadline date for submission of videos: 11 June 2020 or before. (Time needed to produce the show for 21 June!)
Promotion of the event:
We will be sending you a pack of ‘media’ materials within the next week, which is being prepared by the BK young adults, for you to customize the event to your country and promote it using your social media outlets.
The following souls form part of the support team who will be guiding the BK youth in their region.
Br Saurabh (USA - North America)
Sr Nora (Canada - North America)
Br Augusto (Brazil - South America)
Sr Maria (Colombia - South America)
Sr Stefania (Iceland - Europe)
Br Minal (UK - Europe)
Br Chandan (Belgium)
Br Piyush (Dubai - Middle East)
Br Andrew and Sr Priya (Kenya - Africa)
Br Bhanu (India IYF)
Sr Aganita (Malaysia - Asia Pacific)
Sr Lauren (Australasia)
Br Sathesh (Australasia)
If you have any questions please email: iyf@brahmakumaris.org
Many thanks in advance for your support and co-operation.
In Baba’s yaad
BK Gayatri and BK Gopi
Click on the banner and pdf download links for more information
Linking Living Lights_Central page download pdf
Preparation Guidelines download pdf
March - April 2020 Newsletter
14 April 2020
Dear National Coordinators, Center Coordinators and friends,
As you are all aware, due to COVID 19 global pandemic, we are all observing the stay-at-home, work-from-home guideline, resulting in the cancellation of one of the largest international conferences, Commission on the Status of Women, along with all other events scheduled to take place at UNHQ. The last in-person event was the celebration of International Women's Day after which, UN and many NGOs are now hosting events online, including the BKUN office.
Please see below a brief synopsis of what took place, information regarding UN 75th. anniversary, and what is ongoing.
March 4
The spotlight of this decade is on action and mobilization of youth to achieve the Global Goals by 2030. The United Nations Department of Global Communications and Friendship Ambassadors Foundation joined hands to support the UN Decade of Action, placing particular focus on youth. The Decade of Action aims to provide a framework and call-to-action for all sectors of society, targeting three levels suggested by the Secretary-General: global action, local action, and people action.
The event focused on:
* strengthening youth engagement in UN priority areas, including UN@75.
* ideas and solutions for action to accelerate the achievement of the Global Goals.
* youth participation in platforms and discussion at local and national levels. We encourage you to mobilize youth in your contact in supporting this decade. Watch event here.
An equal world is an enabled world. “I am Generation Equality: Realizing Women’s Rights”
Friday, March 6
The IWD 2020 celebration took place with great enthusiasm in the General Assembly Hall, even though the event was restricted to only UN grounds pass holders, however, the general public were able to watch online. The observance, moderated by Sade Baderinwa of WABC News, celebrated the next generations of women and girl leaders and gender equality activists, together with women’s rights advocates and visionaries on whose shoulders they stand. There were also performances by Grammy award winner and Goodwill Ambassador for the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Angélique Kidjo, and the Broadway Singers.
Grammy award performer (UN photo: E. Debebe)
Sade Baderinwa, WABC
Broadway Singers
A Women's Circle: Cultivating our Inner Connection
March 12.
Due to the cancellation of the conference, instead of the planned workshop on Strategies to Create a Peaceful Mind in Times of Conflict, a simple meditation session was organized by BKUN Office for a limited number of friends. Uplifting words by Dadi Janki and a lovely poem by Maya Angelou were read out followed by silent reflection and heartfelt sharing.
To learn more on the commission, click here.
April 5
First ever, International Day of Conscience (IDC) resolution was adopted by the UN in July 2019 and is inspired by article 1 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which states, "all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights, are endowed with reason and conscience, and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood." It aims to promote a culture of peace based on a set of values, attitudes and behaviors inspired by the principles of freedom, justice, democracy, human rights, tolerance, and solidarity.
The current COVID-19 pandemic, which is affecting people and communities across the entire globe, does not recognize boundaries or frontiers, and affects us all, regardless of race, nationality, religion, ethnicity or gender. This global pandemic necessitates a global solution.
We are part of a human family, connected and bound by something far more powerful and significant than what divides us — our love and our conscience.
IDC was launched virtually and you are invited to watch it here.
World Health Day: Year of the Nurse and the Midwife 2020
Tuesday, April 7
World Health Organization (WHO) and partners including, the International Confederation of Midwives (ICM), International Council of Nurses (ICN), Nursing Now and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), in a year-long effort to celebrate the work of nurses and midwives, co-hosted an online event. What better time than during the COVID 19 global pandemic to recognize the dedication of healthcare professionals!!
Celebrating United Nations 75th Anniversary
UN@75
A golden opportunity to share our thoughts on how we see the UN in the next 25 years, the United Nations is igniting a people’s debate, UN75, to mark its 75th anniversary in 2020. Launched by UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, it promises to be the largest and furthest-reaching global conversation ever on building the future we want. The UN is circulating a survey encouraging everyone to take it. Please take the survey and we appreciate it if you send this out to all your contacts and friends whom you feel may be interested.
Ongoing at BKUN
Weekly Meditation
The weekly Thursday evening meditation is continuing virtually with a small group of UN contacts and friends.
As a means of continued spiritual support, they are invited to join the ongoing weekday evening meditation that is being offered at BK centers.
RCNGO Meetings
BK Julia, BK UN Representative and the newly appointed Vice-Chair of CRNGOs, was a panelist at a meeting organized by the Committee of Religious NGOs (CRNGOs) at the United Nations called "Preparing for COP26: An interfaith consultation."
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.
March 8 International Women's Day
March 20 International Day of Happiness
April 5 International Day of Conscience
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 15 World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims
November 16 International Day of Tolerance
December 3 International Day of Persons with Disabilities
December 10 Human Rights Day
International Weeks:
February 1 - 7 World Interfaith Harmony Week
"Spiritual Challenges of Corona": Online INTERVIEW WED. APRIL 8th. 7:30 AM (EDT)
7 April 2020
Spiritual Challenges of Corona
Dear Friends,
You are invited to watch Rabbi Alon Goshen-Gottstein in conversation with BK Sr. Jayanti on the "Spiritual Challenges of Corona"
WED April 8th (7:30 AM EDT)
Sister Jayanti Kirpalani is the European Director of the Brahma Kumaris, with over 50 years of experience of Raja Yoga Meditation and its practical application in daily life. Her gentle voice and profound insights on spiritual solutions to everyday problems have touched the hearts of thousands around the world.
Rabbi Alon Goshen-Gottstein is a scholar of Jewish studies and a theoretician and activist in the domain of interfaith dialogue. He is founder and director of the Elijah Interfaith Institute since 1997.
KARUNA RESPONSE to the CORONAVIRUS: message from BK Sr. Mohini
24 March 2020
Dear family and friends,
BK Mohini Panjabi, President, Brahma Kumaris in the USA, Regional Coordinator, Brahma Kumaris network in the Americas and the Caribbean, shared some insights in response to the coronavirus:
Karuna comes from the Sanskrit kara, meaning “to do,” or “to make.” Karuna is the highest level of compassion and is comprised of six basic spiritual virtues latent in the soul. These latent virtues are transmitted from the living beings, souls, through the spiritual trajectory of awareness, attitude, vision, and action. These virtues live as vibrational frequencies in the soul, and their expression forms a living system of interrelationships that connects us in the experience of life.
Karuna is like a satellite that emits the frequencies of love, kindness, mercy, forgiveness, non-violence, and generosity. Read more.
UN February Newsletter
14 March 2020
Dear National Coordinators, Center Coordinators, and friends,
Greetings of love.
We invite you to read news of the 10th anniversary of World Interfaith Harmony Week and the 58th Session on the Commission for Social Development (CSocD58).
10th Anniversary Celebration
An auspicious time for faith-based traditions to come together and discuss how we can collectively harmonize to bring about world harmony. Brahma Kumaris participated in a few events to observe this year's celebration. Read full report here and here.
Ribbon tying ceremony at UN Church Center
BK Noni meeting the President of Peru
BK Julia sharing on climate and interfaith
BK Sabita sharing a meditation on climate action
Affordable housing and social protection systems for all to address homelessness.
February 10 - 19, 2020
Over the years, the Brahma Kumaris has actively participated in this conference. This year, a BK delegation of 8 organized a workshop, read out an oral statement (Time 2.56.16 to 2.59.28), and a written paper on the topic Open Hearts Create Warm Hearths: Shifting the Paradigm to End Homelessness With Respect and Compassion, is published on the CSocD website.
BK delegation: Kinnari Murthy PhD, Valerie Still, Shivani Dayal, Nik Lal, Bhrugu Yagnik PhD, Nidhi Shukla, Karen Perusse, and Sabita Geer, with Gayatri Naraine as Spiritual Resource.
BK Nidhi meeting with ED Jean Quinn, SOPHIA Housing
workshop flier
BK team in planning mode
The BK delegation also attended a number of side events organized by various Missions and UN Agencies. Read report here.
Ongoing at the BKUN Office
Despite everyone's busy schedules, weekly one hour meditation is continuing with a small group of BKs along with regular Thursday evening meditation with friends of the BKs. There have been visits from Perry Ellis Inc., other friends of the BKs, and meetings with various committees the BKs are involved in. Additionally, one-on-one meditation course is offered to interested persons. This year, a special evening was organized to celebrate Shiv Jayanti.
There has been many conversations around UN@75 which will be shared in later newsletters.
SG UN in conversation with youth on UN@75.
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
UNEP: Young Champions of the Earth Contest
8 March 2020
Dear family and friends,
We are pleased to share with you the news and all associated digital assets of the 2020 launch of UNEP's flagship youth initiative, Young Champions of the Earth
For the 4th year running, UNEP is calling on 18-30-year-old innovators to submit their creative solutions to the world’s most pressing environmental challenges.
Representing every global region, seven applicants with the most promising solutions will be recognized as Young Champions of the Earth – the world’s preeminent environmental honour for young people. Each winner will receive seed funding, mentorship and participation in a high-level UN meeting and global publicity.
How to apply: Applications can be submitted in 7 UN languages via a portal on the Young Champions website. The deadline for submissions is 10 April 2020 (see here for a complete timeline).
‘If you choose to submit under Brahma Kumaris, we would appreciate it if you share with BKUN office your “creative solution” via email before submitting. Thank you.’
Young Champions of the Earth launch 2020 video
Links to all launch posts on social media
February - April 2020 UN Calendar of Events
7 February 2020
Dear National Coordinators, Center Coordinators and friends,
A new decade dawned as we enter the new year bringing with it uncertainties, yet hope; chaos, yet an air of stability and silence that come with January.
February brings a flavor of diversity as we celebrate World Interfaith Harmony Week and participate in the Commission for Social Development. The month of March reminds us of women's and girls' empowerment and of happiness, while April draws our attention to global health and Mother Earth.
Please find below more details and we encourage you to arrange programs to raise awareness around these observances.
10th Anniversary Celebration
February 1 - 7
More so now than ever before, there's a need for faith traditions to come together and demonstrate that at the core of all faith systems is the recognition that we are in this together, and that we need to love and support one another to live in harmony and peace in an environmentally sustainable world.
You are encouraged to organize events to celebrate 10 years of observing interfaith harmony. We look forward to receiving news with photos. For more information, visit website
Meditation Room, UNHQ, with a group of faith leaders
Interfatih Event, 2019
Affordable housing and social protection systems for all to address homelessness.
February 10 - 20, 2020
Over the years, the Brahma Kumaris has actively participated in this conference. This year, a BK delegation of 8 is co-facilitating a workshop, preparing an oral statement, and a written paper on the topic Open Hearts Create Warm Hearths: Shifting the Paradigm to End Homelessness With Respect and Compassion, is published on the CSocD website
BK delegation: Kinnari Murthy PhD, Valerie Still, Shivani Dayal, Nik Lal, Bhrugu Yagnik PhD, Nidhi Shukla, Karen Perusse, and Sabita Geer.
An equal world is an enabled world. “I am Generation Equality: Realizing Women’s Rights”
Sunday, March 8
The IWD 2020 campaign theme, #EachforEqual is drawn from a notion of 'Collective Individualism.' Individually, we're all responsible for our own thoughts and actions - all day, every day. We can actively choose to challenge stereotypes, fight bias, broaden perceptions, improve situations and celebrate women's achievements. Our individual actions, conversations, behaviors and mindsets have an impact on our larger society.
Collectively, we can make change happen. Collectively, we can each help to create a gender equal world. We are all parts of a whole.
We look forward to receiving news, in writing and pictures, of event/s you have organized in your communities.
Beijing+25: Realizing Gender Equality and the Empowerment of all Women and Girls
March 9 -20.
This annual two weeks conference held at the UN Headquarters in New York, addresses current issues women and girls face all around the world. The Brahma Kumaris has been participating for many years and this year, a delegation of 7 will represent the Institution. A statement written by the Brahma Kumaris on Pause for Peace: a strategy to elevate our thinking to bring the future we want is published on the UN Women's website. Read statement.
A workshop on the topic, Strategies to Create a Peaceful Mind in Times of Conflict will be facilitated by the BK delegation on Wednesday, March 11.
To learn more on the commission, click here
BK Delegation: Marianne Lizana, Gayatri Naraine, Julia Grindon-Welch, Pratiba Daya, Sabita Geer, Nalishha Mehta, and Blanca Elena Estrada.
Ten Billion Happy: Happiness Day. Every Day. For All of Humanity, by 2050.
Happier Together
Wednesday, March 20
Everyone wants to be happy - and life is happier when we're together. So let's celebrate our common humanity rather than focus on what divides us. We do hope you feel inspired to join the community and be part of this special day by organizing an event to celebrate Happiness.
You are invited to read more about this day here and join the campaign, #TenStepsToGlobalHappiness.
World Health Day: Year of the Nurse and the Midwife 2020
Tuesday, April 7
Join World Health Organization (WHO) and partners including, the International Confederation of Midwives (ICM), International Council of Nurses (ICN), Nursing Now and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in a year-long effort to celebrate the work of nurses and midwives.
As Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, says: “Nurses and midwives are the backbone of every health system: in 2020 we’re calling on all countries to invest in nurses and midwives as part of their commitment to health for all.”
We encourage you to partner with WHO in your area, or any other organization, to host an event. As usual, we appreciate receiving your brief reports and photographs.
50th. Anniversary: International Mother Earth Day
Climate Action
Wednesday, April 22
The enormous challenges, which also offer vast opportunities, of acting on climate change have distinguished the issue as the most pressing topic for the 50th anniversary. Climate change represents the biggest challenge to the future of humanity and the life-support systems that make our world habitable.
Events that support this campaign can be of great service to our world. Please send us your news in brief. Get involved.
Posters that could be used
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 15 World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims
November 16 International Day of Tolerance
December 3 International Day of Persons with Disabilities
December 10 Human Rights Day
International Weeks:
February 1 - 7 World Interfaith Harmony Week