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"The Earth Charter is not 'just' about the
environment. It is broad, encompassing respect
for all living beings, the eradication of poverty,
the need for justice, and building a culture of
peace. The Earth Charter is actually about values,
the kind of values we as human beings need to
cultivate in order to make our continued
existence sustainable. It may be considered a
guideline for humanity in the 21st century."
~SGI President Daisaku Ikeda
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Ordinary People, Doing Extraordinary Things
The Earth Charter is a tool--a road map--for ordinary people to make a difference in their own daily life--and in the process affect change around the world.
We see change everyday. Some good, but a lot of bad change. The Earth Charter is a way for us to see what individuals can do to live a more sustainable way of living that benefits as many people as possible.
While the issues the Earth Charter addresses are difficult, global issues, this international grassroots document is founded on the principle that individuals have the power to improve the situation--starting with their own daily choices.
Many local, community organizations around the world, including national constituent SGI (Soka Gakkai International) organizations have wholeheartedly supported the Earth Charter because it is a comprehensive statement of values that, not only addresses the major issues affecting the world today, but encourages people in their local communities to take positive action. SGI Canada has added the promotion of Earth Charter values as an important movement for positive change in the community.
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"It's very, very important
for us to take action at
the local level. Because
sometimes when we think of
global problems, we get
disempowered. But when we
take action at the local
level, we are empowered."
Wangari Maathai
Green Belt Movement
(Kenya)
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This website exists to build on the awareness of the Earth Charter from activities carried out by SGI Canada members and their communities. It is meant to serve as a public resource to find practical ways to address issues arising from the Earth Charter--such as issues of sustainable living, the environment, peace-building and non-violence, social and economic justice, and many others. As new resources become available, they will be added to the growing archive of information.
To access these resources, visit the links on the top of the page.
If you would like to submit a relevant internet link, or pertinent information,
please send it to earthcharter@sgicanada.org (no spaces).
Copyright SGI Canada 2004-2007. All rights reserved.
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