H.Res. 739 — Introduced in House

IV 113th CONGRESS 2d Session H. RES. 739 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES September 18, 2014 Ms. Meng submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform RESOLUTION Supporting the goals and ideals of the International Day of Non-Violence. Whereas the United Nations General Assembly established the International Day of Non-Violence on June 15, 2007, to disseminate the message of non-violence, through means such as education and public awareness; Whereas, the United Nations General Assembly has stated that non-violence, tolerance, full respect for all human rights and fundamental freedoms for all, democracy, development, mutual understanding and respect for diversity are interlinked and mutually reinforcing; Whereas the annual International Day of Non-Violence celebration date, October 2, was chosen to commemorate the birthday of Mohandas K. Gandhi, more commonly known as Mahatma, which means great soul; Whereas Mahatma Gandhi was a world-renowned civil rights and spiritual leader, who experienced injustices early in life, and learned to embrace the principles of non-violence as a vehicle for social and political change; Whereas Mahatma Gandhi was influenced by religious teachings in Hinduism, Jainism, and Christianity in the development of his philosophy; Whereas Mahatma Gandhi was a major influence for Martin Luther King, Jr., whose emphasis on non-violence is credited with ushering in our Nation’s civil rights; and Whereas people around the world commemorate the International Day of Non-Violence by participating in volunteer projects as a way to give back to their communities: Now, therefore, be it That the House of Representatives— (1) supports the goals and ideals of the International Day of Non-Violence; and (2) encourages the people of the United States to observe the International Day of Non-Violence with appropriate ceremonies, programs, and activities.