Senator Deeds Speaks on “Peace Through Education and Dialog” at Rumi Forum’s Event
Rumi Forum Charlottesville Chapter, in collaboration with American Turkish Friendship Association, organized its Peace and Dialogue Dinner on April 4, 2013 at DoubleTree Hilton Hotel.
Emre Celik, President of Rumi Forum, made the opening remarks and encouraged people to continue dialogue beyond this one night. He added that he hopes the program will help to bridge the cultural gaps. The keynote speaker of the program was State Senator Creigh Deeds. He addressed the issues from sequestration to discussing cultural differences. Kristin Szakos, Vice Mayor of Charlottesville, made the final remarks. The award ceremony of the “Art of Peace and Dialogue Contest” was also held during the event. The first place winner of the art contest, Kierran Rundle from Jack Jouett Middle School, received her award from Albemarle County Supervisor Duane Snow. Kieran describes her drawing as below:
“Windows of the World” is a drawing depicting peaceful coexistence with the symbolism of the world as a house with its windows and door representing the flags of the different nations and the peace sign above them, showing how they can all exist together peacefully. In front of the house, people of different nations hold hands in happiness, revealing the harmony that the different cultures can build together.”