One Voice for Peace: HWPL Connects Buddhists, Climate Activists, and Citizens

At a time when division still scars our world, Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL) continues to unite people across religions, cultures, and continents through peace-centered dialogue and action. Led by Chairman Man Hee Lee, HWPL's latest global activities demonstrate that peace is not only possible—but already in motion.

From a global Buddhist peace academy to climate action in Botswana and a human rights dialogue in Frankfurt, HWPL is showing how grassroots engagement can build a more harmonious future for all.

Buddhist Leaders Worldwide Join Forces for Peace

On June 22, 2024, over 500 participants—including 253 Buddhist leaders from various schools and traditions—gathered for the inaugural HWPL International Buddhist Peace Academy (IBPA) under the theme “A Platform for Inter-Sectarian Dialogue and Harmony.” The event was held both online and offline, with temples across South Korea—such as Seokgulam in Obong Mountain, Yonghwasa in Damyang, and Daeseongsa in Pohang—serving as local gathering points.

The academy’s goal was to explore shared Buddhist teachings and values rooted in sacred texts, foster inter-sect dialogue, and renew Buddhism’s commitment to peace and coexistence in today’s global society.

Monks, scholars, and even Christian clergy attended the event, illustrating the academy’s open spirit. In a keynote panel on “Reincarnation and Liberation,” respected voices from South Korea and Thailand shared insights on how peace aligns with the spiritual core of all religions.

“Most wars stem from religion losing its original purpose,” said Sun-il, chief monk of Beommyeongsa. “This academy should become a turning point for religions to rediscover their true role in today’s world.”

Another speaker, Seok Dae-woong, emphasized, “Peace is a universal goal across all religions. This kind of dialogue, though simple in concept, is deeply profound.”

Even Christian leaders present praised the initiative for expanding their understanding of Buddhism and expressed support for HWPL’s work to unify religions under peace.

Climate Dialogue and Peacebuilding in Botswana

On July 18, 2024, HWPL partnered with the Volunteer Hub in Gaborone, Botswana to host a roundtable discussion titled “Dialogue: Promoting Climate Activism, Volunteering, and Peacebuilding through the UN SDGs.” Held at the Botswana Labour and Employment Research Institute, the hybrid event welcomed 35 participants, eager to address the interconnected crises of climate change and community well-being.

With increasing drought and food insecurity due to climate change, local leaders emphasized the need for education and youth engagement.

“Recycling means little if we don’t understand why it matters,” said Christopher Sigateng of the Botswana Youth Alliance. “We must make climate response part of our culture—starting with our schools.”

The forum featured practical scenario-based discussions, empowering residents to understand and address local environmental and social challenges. HWPL and the Volunteer Hub announced plans for ongoing programs to support sustainable development and peace.

Frankfurt's Human Rights Forum: Finding Home in a Diverse World

Meanwhile, on July 5, 2024, HWPL’s Frankfurt branch hosted a powerful human rights dialogue under the theme “My Hometown: One Global Village United in Peace.” As a multicultural hub, Frankfurt provided the perfect setting for residents of diverse backgrounds to reflect on belonging, identity, and peace.

The event opened with remarks from Noreen Akram Lattore, Director of Europe InfoPoint, who commended HWPL’s efforts:

“In a multicultural society, interactions between people lead to mutual respect and can enhance human rights. HWPL’s dedication to this is truly commendable.”

Participants shared their personal journeys and visions for a more peaceful Frankfurt. Stories ranged from cultural challenges to hopes for unity.

Yuliya, a university student from Kyiv, reflected:

“Since moving to Frankfurt, I’ve realized how important it is to treat everyone with dignity—not as strangers, but as equals.”

In a creative segment, attendees wrote their ideas for a more inclusive Frankfurt on sticky notes and placed them on a shared storyboard. This was followed by an open dialogue session and tea time, fostering deep and meaningful exchanges.

Morris Veiter, a volunteer with Helping Hands, noted:

“Even if people are different from us, we must still be ready to help. That’s what makes us a community.”

HWPL representatives confirmed that ideas from the forum will inform future initiatives promoting multicultural harmony, especially in response to the rise in extremism, racism, and xenophobia across Europe.

One Vision, Many Paths: Peace as a Shared Responsibility

Whether bringing together Buddhist monks, youth activists, or multicultural citizens, HWPL continues to demonstrate that peace is not confined by borders, beliefs, or backgrounds. Through education, dialogue, and compassion-driven action, Chairman Man Hee Lee’s message of “We Are One” continues to resonate globally.

The work of HWPL is a reminder that lasting peace is not just the responsibility of world leaders—but of each of us.

source: https://vo.la/jNizsD

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