In recognition of the International Day of Peace, the Ismaili Council for the Southeastern United States collaborated virtually with the Gwinnett Rotary Club to strengthen the ideals of peace, unity, and social justice.
The speakers were from diverse and distinguished backgrounds and included Poet Laureate Hank Stewart, who is a youth activist, philanthropist, humanitarian, and motivational speaker; Marlon Allen, a community leader serving Victorious Living Church and the Rotary Club of Gwinnett County; and Dr. Jann Joseph, the President of Georgia Gwinnett College. All speakers highlighted the significance of peace and unity as the responsibility of a conscious community recognized through community service. They also emphasized the importance of addressing diversity, social injustice, racial inequality, and poverty, and how these obstacles can be overcome through working together and commitment.
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"Service is one of the pillars of Gwinnett County College, along with scholarship, leadership, and creativity," said Dr. Joseph. She encouraged students to have first-line experiences in serving their communities during their college years because students create transformative solutions and advocate for peace. Stewart shared renowned words by Mother Teresa, Gandhi, and others that reflected love, care, service, and the importance of working together.
Allen’s call to action was to encourage all to continue to engage in solutions that address social justice and inequality.
The event ended with prayers for peace, unity, and love, dedicated especially to healthcare workers, first responders, firefighters, police officers, schoolteachers, and government officials, as they tirelessly work to shape peace in their communities and fight against the pandemic.
