Peace, education & culture are the foundation of Soka Gakkai Guam

Forever linked by a painful past, Soka Gakkai Guam seeks the continual healing of the hardships in both Guam’s and Japan’s histories.  The organization is celebrating nearly a half-century of promoting peace. 

A vision of living in a world without violence and a dream where peace, culture, and education could prosper worldwide. This is the aim of Soka Gakkai International, an umbrella organization dedicated to these values, rooted in Nichiren Buddhism.  SGI’s Guam chapter was established as the movement’s birthplace on the island in 1975 to heal the brutal histories between Guam and Japan. 

At Adelup, many gathered honoring the promise of peace, nuclear disarmament, and environmental protection, made between 51 one representatives from different countries and territories 48 years ago. Lieutenant Governor Josh Tenorio said they've come full circle hosting today's event at Adelup. 

"During world war II, this was a command post for the imperial Japanese," Tenorio cited. "And there were many hardships that were incurred here—women were held here, a lot of things that know the ugliness of war occurred here."

"From here, the same place that served the place in war now serves a very important place in peace."

Former speaker Judi Won Pat has been part of the movement since 1975.  She speaks on the importance of promoting peace through cultural understanding. 

"We have to step away from hard power and start using soft power—and soft power instead is to have a dialogue with ourselves and others you see—that we need and come across—and that we treat everyone with respect and also respect their dignity," he added.

Dialogue to foster understanding — to be perpetuated through the new SGI Guam Ikeda Peace and Cultural Center, which opens tomorrow.