Based on the American nonviolence movement for civil rights started by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., an introductory training in Kingian non-violence conflict reconciliation was conducted on January 25 at St. Joseph College (SJC), Jakhama.
Around 500 students were instructed on the philosophy and principles of Dr. King by director for Center of Nonviolence and Peace Studies at the University of Rhode Island, Prof. Dr. Paul Bueno de Mesquita along with his wife and fellow nonviolence co-trainer, Professor Kay Johnson-Beuno de Mesquita.
Recalling Dr. King’s famous 1963 “I Have a Dream“speech, the two professors outlined how everyone could realize their dreams by following the principles of nonviolence. Contrary to popular misconceptions that nonviolence is for passive and timid people, Dr. Bueno de Mesquita explained that nonviolence was actually an active way of life for courageous people. King’s vision of the “beloved community” was built on equality and justice for all. Quoting King, Dr. Bueno de Mesquita said “Nonviolence means not just refusing to shoot another, but also refusing to hate another.”
During the session students interacted with the visiting peace professors. The programme concluded by singing “We Shall Overcome” the American civil rights anthem of nonviolence. Principal St. Joseph’s College, Rev. Dr. Sebastian thanked the resource persons and Peace Channel for initiating the network with the University of Rhode Island USA.