"We Are One": HWPL Brings Peace Education and Dialogue Across Borders

In a world still scarred by war, division, and injustice, peace is often seen as an ideal—too distant, too fragile. But what if peace could be practiced, taught, and lived, even in the most conflict-stricken regions? Through its global peace initiatives, Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL) continues to prove that peace is not only possible—it’s already happening.

From uniting Jewish and Arab children in Israel, to hosting interfaith dialogue in Mongolia, to empowering women in India—HWPL is making tangible strides in fostering understanding, human rights, and coexistence.

🌿 Peace Education in Israel: Children Leading the Way

In May 2024, in the midst of Middle Eastern conflict, a peace camp titled “Beyond Borders: Becoming One Through Peace” was held in Haifa, Israel. Organized by HWPL Global 02 Branch, the event brought together around 70 Jewish and Arab students from the Leo Baeck Education Center.

The children engaged in interactive sessions where they discussed their visions of peace in both Hebrew and Arabic, crafted signs of hope, and participated in the “Peace Drum Concert”—a moving musical performance symbolizing unity beyond language or ethnicity.

“For a moment, it felt like there was no war,” said Michael Chakour, Director of Mamre Elias Education, who co-hosted the event. “We created a bridge between the two communities—something we deeply need."

 

🕊️ Mongolia: Dialogue Among Faiths

In June 2024, 19 leaders representing Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, and Christianity gathered for a roundtable at HWPL’s Religious Youth Peace Office in Mongolia. The theme: “Religious Foods and Sacred Traditions.”

From dietary laws to spiritual views on life and karma, leaders explored how food reflects their religious principles. The atmosphere was one of mutual respect, with participants expressing joy over discovering shared values through cultural exchange.

“We feed the body with food, but wisdom feeds the soul,” said Buddhist leader Sukbat Purevjav.

This dialogue wasn’t merely academic—it was a living example of how understanding others can break down prejudice and build peace from the inside out.

👩🏽‍⚖️ Empowering Women in India: A Step Toward Justice

Meanwhile, on June 7, HWPL hosted its second women’s rights webinar in Andhra Pradesh, India. The topic: “Efforts and Challenges for Improving Women’s Rights in India.” Over 90 participants, including scholars, activists, and NGO leaders, discussed urgent issues such as early marriage, gender-based violence, and access to education.

Speakers emphasized the need for:

• Legal reform to prevent workplace harassment

• Better monitoring systems by government

• Increased opportunities for rural women

• Shifting societal mindsets around gender roles

“Despite 75 years of independence, Indian women still face normalized violence and inequality,” said one speaker. “Real change will come when the government, civil society, and families work together.”

Peace in Action, Not Just in Words

What ties these stories together is not just the message of peace—but the method. HWPL doesn't impose change; it creates platforms for local people to speak, act, and lead. Whether it’s a child creating a peace placard, a monk sharing sacred food traditions, or a woman demanding dignity—HWPL stands with them, reminding us all that we are one.

And when people realize this truth, borders dissolve. Healing begins. Peace lives.

Source: https://shorturl.at/M40rX