HR0968 102ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0968 LRB102 29297 ECR 41267 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar founded the Art of Living in India in 1981, bringing the organization's program to Illinois in 1990; and

WHEREAS, Since that time, Art of Living programs for the general public have been taught throughout the State of Illinois to increase mental health with practical tools, to manage the mind and negative emotions, and to live in happiness among the general public; and

WHEREAS, Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar is a global ambassador for peace amidst conflict and violence; his work includes helping negotiate a peaceful resolution between the Colombian government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) as well as in Ayodhya, India, Sri Lanka, and other locations; and

WHEREAS, In Chicago, Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar started programs for inner city youth, administrators, teachers, and staff that were introduced through the YES! For Schools and the SKY Schools programs at 13 Chicago Public Schools and several suburban schools in 2004; these programs were implemented to reduce violence, increase attendance and scholastic achievement, increase student and staff mental health, reduce burnout, and increase student feelings of hope for their future as adults; and

WHEREAS, The Art of Living Foundation serves society by strengthening the individual, as the very intention of standing up for peace helps direct one's energy toward actions that will bring peace; and

WHEREAS, The I Stand for Peace campaign was launched on April 20, 2022 to promote change and strengthen people's commitment to peace; since then, over 1,000,000 people have taken the pledge to stand for peace; and

WHEREAS, The I Stand for Peace Summit has been held in 15 cities in Europe and North America to provide a sense of hope and relief for those affected by violence, the pandemic, and other challenges; and

WHEREAS, The Chicago I Stand for Peace Summit (the Summit) took place on June 26, 2022; it featured distinguished speakers and elected leaders to highlight ways to bring into being peace, harmony, and unity during a time of social unrest; and

WHEREAS, During the Summit, attendees worked to address the root causes of violence in Chicago and offer practical solutions in addition to addressing the looming mental health crisis affecting our society; the event reminded attendees about the importance of peace and of providing opportunities for all; and

WHEREAS, The Day of Peace represents an annual commitment to peace, prosperity, and the Gandhian principle of non-violence; this day recognizes that the movement towards peace requires an ongoing reaffirmation and commitment to the improved lives of Illinois residents; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDRED SECOND GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we declare May 13, 2022, the birthdate of Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, as the Day of Peace in the State of Illinois.