A LEGACY OF NONVIOLENCE: WFWP ARKANSAS PANEL HONORS MLK, JR.
Through his words and actions, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. left behind an amazing legacy of peace which still inspires and educates many people today. On January 29th, WFWP Arkansas met to discuss the first three principles of nonviolence that Dr. King taught. Fourteen people gathered at the North Little Rock William F. Laman Library, many of whom were peace activists from various faiths and organizations. The diversity of the group fostered a great discussion of Dr. King’s principles.
The afternoon featured three prominent speakers, each covering one of the principles. Dee Dee Boniecki Moore of the United Church of Peace spoke on Principle 1: Nonviolence is a way of life for courageous people. Reverend Steve Copley, Executive Director of Interfaith Arkansas, spoke on Principle 2: Nonviolence seeks to win friendship and understanding. Brittany Taylor, Miss Philander Smith College, presented on Principle 3: Nonviolence seeks to defeat injustice, not people.
It was wonderful to have Ms. Taylor there as a speaker since she also attended Arkansas’ Bridge of Peace Ceremony in December, when she presented the Arkansas State Traveler's Certificate to WFWP USA President Angelica Selle, making her an Ambassador of goodwill for the state of Arkansas. She is a very sharp young lady and has been very inspired by WFWP. The speakers brought up many great points which made us think more deeply on nonviolence as a way of life. The response was so positive after the meeting, we will have another meeting at the end of the month to discuss the last three principles:
Principle 4: Nonviolence holds that voluntary suffering can educate and transform.
Principle 5: Nonviolence chooses love instead of hate.
Principle 6: Nonviolence believes that the universe is on the side of justice, and that justice will eventually win out.
A particular highlight of the evening was the discussion after the presentations. There was a recognition that we need to unite to address issues beyond our differences by finding common ground to bring about positive change, which is right in line with WFWP’s vision and mission. There was an emphasis that though we are different, we are one human family. We were all reminded that change comes about through love, loving others different than us, and looking for what we have in common. WFWP Arkansas is inspired to continue Dr. King’s legacy in our own communities.
