For a peaceful society: Speakers advocate social justice, harmony

Schoolchildren, poets and citizens express their resolve to strive for peace

ISLAMABAD: Activists, schoolchildren and poets expressed their resolve to work for promoting peace and harmony in society and fight against violence and injustices.

They were speaking at an event organised by the Pakistan Youth Hostels Association (PYHA) at its head office here on Monday in connection with International Day of Peace.

Speaking on the occasion, noted activist Romana Bashir traced the history of the peace movement.

“Silence is not peace. If people are afraid to challenge and question the powerful, and forces of extremism then that is not peace,” she said.

Bashir also highlighted the importance of creating an egalitarian and pluralistic society which is prerequisite for peace. Talking to The Express Tribune, she said peace was not possible without ensuring social justice and equality equal treatment to all members of society, regardless of ethnicity or religion.

She added that the disparities in society, as well as social and economic imbalances need to be addressed.

“Their [law enforcement agencies’] responsibility is to fight terrorism and establish peace. Our responsibility as citizens is to promote peace in society,” she commented.

In his opening address, PYHA National Secretary Qazi Humayun said peace was necessary to ensure the uplift of human dignity. In order to achieve this there is a need to rid society of conflicts, he added.

Noted short-story writer Mazharul Islam, poets including Wafa Chishti, Asghar Abid, Shaida Chishti, Sail Nizami and others also spoke on the occasion and presented poems.

At another event ‘Right To Play’ Manager Iqbal Jatoi said sport can be an effective tool to create an environment of harmony and social integration.

“The power of play can be used to bridge the gaps between different communities and bring people together. Sports are the path that leads towards peace”, he said, adding that “Pakistan needs to promote sport, games and physical activities to foster a tolerant and peaceful society.”

Published in The Express Tribune, September 23^rd, 2015.