Washington, D.C. Passed Saturday, the law, an amendment to an existing anti-prostitution rule, says those found guilty of same-sex relations will face 10 to 15 years in jail. Additionally, the law criminalizes those who seek or perform gender-affirming medical treatments. Transgender people or the doctors who help them can face a prison term of one to three years.
The United Nations said it was “alarmed” by the passage of the law.
“The law runs contrary to several human rights treaties and conventions ratified by Iraq, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and should be shelved,” U.N. Human Rights Office spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani said in a statement Monday.
“Everyone, without distinction, is entitled to enjoy all human rights, including the right to privacy, the right to be treated as equal before the law and the right to protection from discrimination on various grounds that include sexual orientation and gender identity,” she added.
Rasha Al Aqeedi, an Iraq consultant with Freedom House, a Washington think tank, said the new law surpasses in its severity all pre-existing laws and leaves no room to advocate for the protection of the LGBTQ+ community in the majority-Muslim country.
“Iraq has long been a conservative country where the potential for advancing LGBTQ+ rights was dim, but homosexual individuals were often left alone in a ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ style,” Al Aqeedi told VOA.
“There is denial in Iraq that homosexuality is global, common and has been around as long as mankind,” she said. “In recent years, it has been portrayed as a Western-imported phenomenon aimed at corrupting youth. In reality, everyone in Iraq knows someone who is part of the LGBTQ+ community, but it’s a reality Iraqis refuse to accept after decades of social conditioning and homophobia.”
Previous discrimination
Even before the new law was passed, rights groups said LGBTQ+ individuals faced discrimination by the Iraqi authorities.
The U.S. State Department said in its annual Country Reports on Human Rights Practices, released last week, that Iraqi authorities used public indecency or prostitution charges to prosecute individuals involved in same-sex sexual acts.
“Despite repeated threats and violence targeting [LGBTQ+] individuals, specifically gay men, the government failed to identify, arrest or prosecute attackers or to protect targeted individuals,” the report said.
Iraqi officials have defended the new law, describing it as a necessary measure to protect the country’s societal values.
But IraQueer, an Iraq-based LGBTQ+ human rights organization, said the LGBTQ+ community in Iraq doesn’t pose any threat to the Iraqi population.
“Our government has yet again let its people down. This is what they’re most known for — ignoring the truly needy, and focusing on what benefits their own agendas. The LGBT[Q+] community in Iraq has no agenda. We only want to exist in peace,” the group said Monday in a statement posted on social media.
U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said that “limiting the rights of certain individuals in a society undermines the rights of all” and could also weaken Iraq’s ability to attract foreign investment.
“International business coalitions have already indicated that such discrimination in Iraq will harm business and economic growth in the country,” he said in a statement.
Miller added that the law undermines the government’s political and economic reform efforts.
This decision came days after Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani concluded a visit to Washington where he met with President Joe Biden and other senior officials. Economic and political reforms were among the issues discussed.
Al Aqeedi said the law “demonstrates the near nonexisting influence the U.S. has on domestic and social matters in Iraq, contrary to the belief still held by some.”
Jim Luce brings a deeply personal perspective to his extensive writings on Thailand and the Thai-American experience. As someone married to a Thai-American and a frequent visitor to Bangkok—where he envisions spending his retirement years—Luce offers readers an intimate lens into both contemporary Thai society and the vibrant diaspora communities that bridge East and West. His diverse collection of essays spans cultural exploration, political commentary, and social observation, covering everything from Bangkok’s evolving nightlife and traditional festivals to significant political developments and Thailand’s place in the modern world. Through his unique position as both cultural insider and Western observer, Luce captures the complexity and richness of Thailand’s ongoing transformation while celebrating the enduring traditions that define Thai identity both at home and abroad.
The theme of The Stewardship Report is Connecting Goodness, and The Luce Index™ ranks leaders in their ability to do so.
New York, N.Y. The J. Luce Foundation Stewardship Report Index™ (“The Luce Index™”) ranks thought leaders and global citizens on ten confidential criteria which collectively indicate the individual’s ability to create positive social change. The theme of The Stewardship Report is Connecting Goodness, and The Luce Index™ ranks leaders on their ability to do so.
Luce Index™ scores are updated frequently and may be used for public use with attribution to Luce Index™. More than 300 thought leaders and global citizens are already ranked (and written about). Luce Index™ scores are updated frequently and may be used for public use with attribution to Luce Index™.
Other Luce Indexes may be found as follows:
The Luce Index™ – NGOs (https://web.archive.org/web/20110620015251/http://www.stewardshipreport.com/index.php/the-luce-index-ngos.html)
The Luce Index™ – Corporations
The Luce Index™ – Books (https://web.archive.org/web/20110620015251/http://www.stewardshipreport.com/index.php/the-luce-index-books.html)
The Luce Index™ – Films
The first 400 thought leaders and global citizens to be ranked, with links to Stewardship Report stories, are as follows:
New York, N.Y. Not since the protest movement against the Vietnam War have we seen such ferment on the campuses of U.S. academic institutions. With more 100,000 killed or injured in Gaza, emotions around the world have reached the breaking point.
In the first ten days of the war, pro-Israeli demonstrations in support of Israel in the wake of the Hamas-led attackand focusing on the Israeli hostage crisiswere most common, but they have since been outnumbered by pro-Palestinian anti-war protestsdemanding a ceasefire and an end to the Israeli occupation.
On 17 April, the ongoing campus occupation by student protestors at Columbia University began, with protestors establishing the “Gaza Solidarity Encampment,” which was dismantled by the New York Police Department but later set up again on another part of campus. Protests later spread to several other campuses, including M.I.T., Yale and N.Y.U. In late April 2024, pro-Palestinian students set up protest encampments on the grounds of Swarthmoreand Haverford College.
Bangkok and New York City both have vibrant LGBTQ+ communities, but there are differences in their LGBTQ+ scenes.
Bangkok, Thailand. Our trip to the ‘land of smiles‘ this month caused me to compare and contrast gay life here and at home, based on my experience with my Thai partner Bix.
While both Bangkok and New York have thriving LGBTQ+ communities, there are some key differences in gay life between the two cities:
Visibility and Acceptance
While Thailand is generally seen as more tolerant and accepting of LGBTQ+ individuals compared to many other Asian countries, including legal recognition for same-sex relationships, there are still challenges, and societal attitudes can vary. In New York City, LGBTQ+ rights have been at the forefront of activism for decades, and the city is known for its strong LGBTQ+ community and legal protections.
Bangkok has a much larger and more visible transgender community, with an estimated 1 in 166 men identifying as “kathoey” (transgender women). Thailand is considered one of the most welcoming countries for transgender people, who are commonly seen working in mainstream jobs in the city
Nightlife and Entertainment
Both Bangkok and New York City offer a diverse array of LGBTQ+ nightlife options, including bars, clubs, and events catering to the community. However, the atmosphere and style of venues may differ between the two cities, reflecting cultural differences and local preferences.
Community Resources
LGBTQ+ culture in Bangkok is influenced by Thai society, which has its own norms, traditions, and social dynamics. In contrast, LGBTQ+ culture in New York City is shaped by American society and its history of LGBTQ+ activism, pride, and visibility.
Cultural Context
New York City has a long history of LGBTQ+ activism and advocacy, resulting in numerous community centers, organizations, and support networks dedicated to LGBTQ+ individuals. Bangkok also has LGBTQ+ community centers and organizations, but they may be fewer in number and face different challenges.
Legal Rights and Protections
New York City and the state of New York have extensive legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals, including anti-discrimination laws and legal recognition of same-sex marriage. While Thailand has made progress in LGBTQ+ rights, including legal recognition for same-sex couples, there are still gaps in legal protections and societal acceptance.
Overall, while both Bangkok and New York City offer vibrant LGBTQ+ communities with nightlife, resources, and support networks, the cultural, social, and legal contexts in each city can result in unique experiences for LGBTQ+ individuals.
When he disappeared into the Malaysian jungle never to return, was he killed my Maoist forces operating in the jungle who knew of his past? Did the CIA consider him to friendly with the locals — including Chinese — and terminate him? Or did he just wish to disappear and live a quiet, gay life with a partner?
Bangkok. Nestled amidst the bustling streets of Bangkok lies a hidden gem that tells the tale of a remarkable man whose legacy continues to shape the world of Thai silk. The Jim Thompson House Museum, located in the heart of the city, offers visitors a glimpse into the fascinating life of Jim Thompson [Luce Index™ Score: pending], an American architect and entrepreneur who played a pivotal role in revitalizing Thailand’s silk industry.
Transferred to Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) with the Office of Strategic Services (OSS) to work with the pro-Allied Free Thai Movement(Seri Thai), Jim Thompson was deeply involved with U.S. foreign policy. His mission was to help liberate Thailand from the occupying Japanese Army. The group had the support of the regent to King Ananda Mahidol of Thailand, and Seni Pramoj, the Thai ambassador to the U.S.
In August 1945, Thompson was about to be sent into Thailand, when Japan surrendered after the atomic bombs and officially ended World War II.Jim arrived in Thailand shortly after Victory over Japan Day and organized the Bangkok OSS office. It was here he got to know Constance (“Connie”) Mangskau, an Allied Services translator, who later became one of his closest friends, possibly his secret gay lover. The American Ambassador to Thailand in the early 1950’s was William J.Donovan, the head of the OSS.
As I stepped through the gates of the museum, I was immediately struck by the lush greenery and traditional Thai architecture that enveloped the compound. The museum consists of several traditional Thai teak wood houses, meticulously assembled by Thompson himself in the 1950s. Each building is adorned with intricate carvings, vibrant silk textiles, and antique artifacts, transporting visitors back in time to an era of elegance and refinement.
Guided tours of the museum provide insight into Thompson’s life and achievements, from his early days as an architect and art collector to his groundbreaking efforts in reviving Thailand’s silk trade. Known affectionately as the “Silk King,” Thompson’s passion for Thai silk and his dedication to preserving traditional craftsmanship left an indelible mark on the country’s cultural landscape.
One of the highlights of the tour is the display of Thompson’s personal collection of rare and exquisite silk fabrics, sourced from across Thailand’s rural regions. Visitors can marvel at the vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and luxurious textures that define Thai silk, gaining a deeper appreciation for the artistry and skill involved in its creation.
Beyond its role as a museum, the Jim Thompson House is also a center for cultural preservation and education. The museum hosts workshops, demonstrations, and exhibitions that showcase various aspects of Thai silk production, from spinning and weaving to dyeing and design. These interactive experiences offer visitors the opportunity to engage with Thailand’s rich textile heritage firsthand, fostering a deeper understanding of the craftsmanship and tradition behind Thai silk.
Of course, the experience raises two thorny questions:Was Jim bisexual or gay, and How did he die?
Thompson, raised in Delaware and graduated from Princeton, was divorced and had no children. He traveled to Thailand where he never had a female companion that we know of. He never mastered Thai language and relied closely on his male confidant and Thai interpreter, Connie. Being closeted was de rigor for discerning gay gentlemen in the 1940’s and ’50’s. As Jim was a member of the O.S.S., the precursor to today’s CIA, during World War II, and people like J. Edgar Hoover at the FBI were rabidly ‘anti-homosexual,’ it was impossible to be out and serve such an agency.
When he disappeared into the Malaysian jungle never to return, was he killed my Maoist forces operating in the jungle who knew of his past? Did the CIA consider him too friendly with the locals — including Chinese — and terminate him? Or did he just wish to disappear and live a quiet, gay life with a partner?
Bix and Jim Luce enjoying the Jim Thompson Museum in downtown Bangkok
As I concluded my visit to the Jim Thompson Museum, we couldn’t help but feel inspired by Jim Thompson’s enduring legacy and his passion for preserving Thailand’s cultural heritage. In a world that often prioritizes modernity over tradition, the museum serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of honoring the past while embracing the future. For anyone with an interest in art, history, or fashion, a visit to the Jim Thompson Museum is a must-see destination that promises to captivate and enchant.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a curious explorer, the Jim Thompson House Museum invites you to embark on a journey through time and discover the timeless beauty of Thai silk.
“But here is the reality. Right now, what Netanyahu’s right-wing, extremist and racist government is doing is unprecedented in the modern history of warfare. They have killed in the last six-and-a-half months 33,000 Palestinians, wounded 77,000, two-thirds of whom are women and children.
Washington, D.C. Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) spoke with CNN‘s Dana Bash on “State of the Union” to discuss the Israel-Hamas war and the pro-Palestinian protests at major U.S. universities. Sanders [Luce Index™ Score: pending] said:
“Antisemitism is a vile and disgusting ideology which has resulted in the deaths of many, many millions of people in the last 100 years. And we have got to oppose it in every form. “And do I doubt for a moment that antisemitism exists, that it’s growing in the United States, that it’s part — that exists among some people in the protest movement? Of course.
“But here is the reality. Right now, what Netanyahu’s right-wing, extremist and racist government is doing is unprecedented in the modern history of warfare. They have killed in the last six-and-a-half months 33,000 Palestinians, wounded 77,000, two-thirds of whom are women and children.
“They have destroyed over 60% of the housing. They have destroyed the health care system. They have destroyed the infrastructure, no electricity, very little water. And, right now, we are looking at the possibility of mass starvation and famine in Gaza. “When you make those charges, that is not antisemitic. That is a reality.
“So, our job is to condemn Hamas, a terrorist organization that started this war, condemn in every form antisemitism, Islamophobia, and other forms of bigotry. But we do have to pay attention to the disastrous and unprecedented humanitarian disaster taking place in Gaza right now. …
“The New York Times just reported a few days ago — and I have talked to doctors, American doctors, who have been over there. There has been a systemic — systematic effort to destroy the health care system, to destroy the infrastructure, to destroy housing. They are completely demolishing Gaza right now, and God knows what happens in the future.”
As someone who has experienced the joys and challenges of marriage firsthand, particularly as a husband to my beloved Bix, a Thai citizen, I strongly advocate for the legalization of same-sex marriage in Thailand.
Our love story, like countless others, is built on commitment, mutual respect, and unwavering devotion. Yet, despite the profound bond we share, our marriage would lack legal recognition in Thailand solely because of our sexual orientation. This inequality is not only unjust but also undermines the very foundation of equal rights and dignity for all individuals.
Thailand, a country known for its rich cultural heritage and spirit of inclusivity, has the opportunity to lead by example in promoting equality and acceptance.
Legalizing same-sex marriage is not about redefining tradition; it’s about upholding the fundamental principles of fairness and justice. Marriage, in its essence, is a celebration of love and partnership, transcending gender norms and societal expectations.
Denying same-sex couples the right to marry not only perpetuates discrimination but also deprives them of essential legal protections and benefits.
By granting legal recognition to same-sex marriage, Thailand would follow in Taiwan‘s footstep and affirm its commitment to human rights and pave the way for a more inclusive society. It would ensure equal access to healthcare, inheritance rights, and parental rights for all couples, regardless of their sexual orientation.
Moreover, it would send a powerful message of acceptance and respect to LGBTQ+ individuals, affirming their rightful place in the fabric of Thai society.
Opponents of same-sex marriage may cite cultural or religious objections, but we cannot let fear or prejudice dictate the course of progress. Love knows no bounds, and it’s time for our laws to reflect the diversity and complexity of human relationships.
As a loving husband and proud advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, my partner Bix and I urge the Thai government to embrace marriage equality and stand on the right side of history.
Let’s ensure that every individual, including Bix and me, has the opportunity to marry the person they love and build a life of happiness and fulfillment together.
Bodhgaya, India. I first stayed at the Sakura House in 2014. Having studied in Tokyo, I was intrigued to find a Japanese-friendly inn in India located near the Thai Temple.
Upon inspection, I realized the friendly innkeeper Dip Agrawal was married to a Japanese national and they had a lovely, international family.
Bodhgaya, not far from Nepal, was where Lord Buddha obtained Enlightenment under the Bodhi tree five hundred years before Christ.
Today, Mahabodhi Templesurrounds the tree, with parts of the temple contributed by King Ashoka a thousand years ago.
Tourists flock to worship here, many on pilgrimage, especially from Buddhist nations. His Holiness the Dalai Lama holds court with tens of thousands in audience every December in an event known as “Kalachakra.”
Sakura House is a budget hotel and a great stay option for budget travelers who just want to tour the historic city. Gaya city and the airport are about four miles away. Sakura House has a total of fifteen comfortable rooms offering relaxing accommodation to the guests. The hotel has a 24-hour front desk service and a complimentary breakfast.
There is a back-up generator installed to deal with frequent power outages. Round the clock room service is also provided so that the guests enjoy a comfortable stay at the hotel.
In fact, the owner is on the board of the J. Luce Foundation India, responsible for our free primary school at Saraswati Center in the countryside, as well as Lotus Free School, and Ganesha House being built by Orphans International.
Each of these projects are for the poorest of the poor, once called the “Untouchable” or Dalit. Most of the people we serve live in mud-and-manure huts without plumbing.
Dip helps them. He knows India well and is happy to arrange custom tours ‘walking in the footsteps of Buddha,’ visiting Mother Teresa’s mission in Calcutta, or even a trip over the Himalayas into neighboring Nepal.
In all of the chaos, I find serenity with the staff of Sakura Hotel who I am pleased to call my friends.
I am proud of my friend DipAgrawal [Luce Index™ Score: pending] and his work, love to stay in his friendly hotel and play with his friendly little dog, and cannot recommend him or his establishment more highly.
The question in the 21st Century is: Does anyone care anymore? Is it cool to belong to a service club? Or are these organizations too old, too Midwestern, too goofy to matter today?
New York, N.Y. Service clubs are a particularly American institution that began in the heartland, although now they are found on both coasts, as well as virtually every country in the world. Iraq and North Korea are exceptions, although Libya now has a Lions Chapter.
The ideal of these international organizations – particularly Rotary, Lions, and Kiwanis – is exemplified by their enduring relationship with the United Nations here in New York.
Rotary International is an organization of service clubs located all over the world. It is a secular organization open to all persons regardless of race, color, creed, or political preference.
Rotarians gather as business and professional leaders to provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and help build goodwill and peace in the world.
As the world’s first service club organization, Rotary began as an idea 104 years ago. Today, Rotary flourishes worldwide with 1.2 million members in more than 200 countries and geographical areas. I personally have visited and spoken at Rotary clubs in Africa, Asia, and the Americas.
Rotarians serve the world through projects and activities they undertake every day.
Rotary club members are volunteers who work locally, regionally, and internationally to combat hunger, improve health and sanitation, provide education and job training, promote peace, and eradicate polio under the motto “Service Above Self.”
The first members chose the name “Rotary” because they rotated club meetings to each member’s office every week. During World War I, Rotary in Britain increased from 9 to 22 clubs, and other early international branches were Cuba in 1916 and India in 1920.
In 1922, because branches had been formed in six continents, the name was changed to Rotary International. By 1925, Rotary had grown to 200 clubs with more than 20,000 members.
Rotary’s top priority is the global eradication of polio, a crippling and potentially fatal disease that still threatens children in Africa and Asia.
Since 1985, Rotary club members worldwide have contributed more than US$800 million and countless volunteer hours to the effort, and Rotary is now working to raise an additional $200 million to fulfill its commitment for a $355 million challenge grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
Great progress has been made, and the incidence of paralytic polio infection has plunged worldwide from 350,000 cases in 1988 to fewer than 2,000 in 2008. To learn more about polio eradication, visit the Rotary End Polio or Polio Eradication websites.
Rotary also sponsors the largest privately funded international scholarship program in the world. Since 1947, Rotary has contributed roughly $500 million to fund a year of study abroad for 38,000 students from 100 countries.
These cultural ambassadors use the skills and knowledge they acquire through their time abroad to advance the cause of international understanding, goodwill, and peace.
Rotary also sponsors seven Rotary Centers for International Studies in peace and conflict resolution at eight leading universities in six different countries.
One of Rotary’s most visible programs includes the Rotary Youth Exchange, a student exchange program for students in secondary education similar to AFS.
Rotaract is a Rotary-sponsored service club for young men and women ages 18 to 30. Rotaract clubs are either community or university based, and they’re sponsored by a local Rotary club. This makes them true “partners in service” and key members of the family of Rotary.
As one of Rotary’s most significant and fastest-growing service programs, with more than 7,000 clubs in about 163 countries and geographical areas, Rotaract has become a worldwide phenomenon.
The video This Is Rotary is available as part of a collection of public service announcements and short videos about Rotary on YouTube. You can also visit Rotary’s website.
I look forward to interviewing both Carol Pandak on Rotary’s polio eradication program and Judy Gibson on Rotary’s Peace Center program.
Lions Clubs International. In 1917, 12 years after Rotary began, another Chicago business leader told members of his local business club they should reach beyond business and address the betterment of their communities and the world. His group, the Business Circle of Chicago, agreed.
After contacting similar groups around the U.S., they met in 1917 in Chicago. The new group took the name of one of the invited groups, the “Association of Lions Clubs,” and a national convention was held in Dallas later that year.
Within three years, Lions became an international organization. Since then, they have earned high marks for both integrity and transparency. They are a well-run organization with a steady vision, a clear mission, and a long – and proud – history. One that I am about to become a part of.
In 1925, Helen Keller spoke to the Lions convention on the “Crusade Against Darkness.” The Lions bought into it and began their historic cause, eradicating blindness. Since then, they have worked tirelessly to fulfill her charge to aid the world’s blind and visually impaired.
In the late 1950’s, Lions Clubs created the “Leo Program” to provide the youth of the world an opportunity for personal development and contribution. There are now more than 5,500 Leo clubs in more than 130 countries, with more than 140,000 Leos worldwide.
In 1990, they launched their most aggressive sight preservation effort, SightFirst. This US$215 million program aims to rid the world of preventable and reversible blindness by supporting desperately needed health care services.
In 2008, Lions completed Campaign SightFirst II, which raised more than US$200 million to expand the program.
Lions Clubs International grows stronger and extends its mission of service every day – in local communities, in all corners of the globe.
In 2002, they were the first international service club to be granted permission to organize and operate clubs in mainland China. And in 2007, a Lions club was formed in Iraq.
These clubs join an international network that has grown to include 45,000 clubs located in more than 200 countries across the globe.
Kiwanis International is an international, coeducational service club founded in 1915. It is headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana. It comprises approximately 8,000 clubs in 96 countries with over 260,000 adult members.
Kiwanis remains the smallest of the Big Three service clubs because it remained male and American longer than Rotary and Lions.
The name “Kiwanis” means “we trade” or “we share our talents” and was coined from an American Indian expression, Nunc Kee-wanis. This was originally the motto of Kiwanis, translated as “We build.” The current motto is “serving the children of the world.”
The organization’s original purpose was to exchange business between members and to serve the poor. The debate as to whether to focus on networking or service was resolved in 1919, when Kiwanis adopted a service-focused mission.
Kiwanis became international with the organization of the Kiwanis club of Ontario in 1916. Kiwanis limited its membership to the U.S. and Canada until 1962, when worldwide expansion was approved. Since then, Kiwanis has spread to all inhabited continents of the globe.
Each year, clubs sponsor nearly 150,000 service projects and raise more than $107 million. As a global project in coordination with UNICEF, members and clubs contributed more than $80 million toward the global elimination of iodine deficiency disorders (IDD), the leading preventable cause of mental retardation.
Until 1988 the organization accepted only men as members. By action of the International Convention in 1987, the rules were changed to admit women as well. Currently women constitute about 22% of total members.
Kiwanis serves children two ways: improving the quality of their lives through activities promoting health and education, and by encouraging leadership and service among youth.
In pursuit of encouraging leadership and service, Kiwanis sponsors about 7,000 youth service clubs with nearly 320,000 youth members.
Kiwanis members are involved with programs to shelter the homeless, feed the hungry, mentor the disadvantaged, and care for the sick. They have built playgrounds and raised funds for pediatric research.
Are These Service Clubs Too Old To Matter? With a combined 2.5 million members in virtually every city on earth, these service clubs are able to be on the ground anywhere at any time to do whatever needs to be done to make our world a better place.
Is there value in these old fossilized institutions today? Yes, because they have not fossilized at all. They are growing. Their growth is stronger outside the U.S., but it is strong.
I am proud to be both a Rotarian (although on hiatus), and possibly a soon-to-be Lion. Putting others first is about as cool as it gets.
A youth activist in Haiti has described how years of gang violence, kidnappings and insecurity in the country’s capital, Port-au-Prince, has forced their “tears to run dry.”
In this country, the preferred food for dogs and pigs is the fresh bodies they find on the streets of the city.
Port-au-Prince. The security situation has worsened in the Caribbean country since then. In the first three months of 2024, over 2,500 people have been killed or injured due to gang violence, according to the United Nations mission in the country, BINUH.
Mr. Dormeus told UN News how he has managed to get by over the past two years.
“I am looking at the bad state of my country. I am looking at the lives of people whose lives are burdened with violence and misery. I’m watching how people have become resigned to poverty.
There are more bandits, and I’m watching how they are turning Haitians into refugees in their own country.
I still live in the Cité Soleil neighbourhood, a place of war, a place of misery, even though as a country Haiti is barely habitable. But, despite everything, we are resilient. This is how we survive.
Everything that is happening in front of me makes me tired. I want to find refuge somewhere, but I cannot hide as I need to resist.
My breath is exhausted, and our tears, the tears of young people, are dry.
I’ve seen too much for someone of my age. My head is spinning, but my brain will not stop thinking, so I continue to fight.
Motivating young people
I have continued to work in a community organisation [Comité Consultatif de Jeunes] which supports young people. We are working hard in areas which are affected by gang violence to reduce juvenile delinquency.
We do this through group activities, getting young people together from neighbourhoods which are controlled by different gangs to discuss the challenges they face and their hopes for the future.
I am paid for these group activities, and this is how I survive.
Despite the many problems, I feel as though I have grown in the last two years due to my work in the community. I am always available to motivate and support other young people.
I would like to get to know youth from other countries to exchange ideas and to understand how they deal with the problems they face, including climate change, technology and sustainable development.
When I first spoke to UN News, my identity was protected for security reasons. I was anonymous.
Even though the situation is now more dangerous, I want to show my face and demonstrate the sort of person I am.
I know there are risks but, in this way, I think my family, my friends and the community will be better protected.
Comité Consultatif des Jeunes is part of a program called Semans Lapè (seeds of peace) which is managed by the non-governmental organisation Concern Worldwide. It has been funded by the UN Peacebuilding Fund in line with the U.N.’s youth, peace and security agenda, which calls for the full participation of young people in issues of peace and security in their communities.
As deadly attacks in Ukraine continue, the U.N. Children’s Fund (UNICEF) warned recently that the number of children killed so far this year has increased by nearly 40 per cent compared to 2023.
Attacks that occurred between January and March left 25 children dead, including a two-month-old, said the agency. During the first three weeks of April, nine children lost their lives during attacks.
UNICEF‘s Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia, Regina De Dominicis, said during a visit to the war-torn country that children and families are being forced to endure more loss and destruction as the deadly attacks continue.
Every attack sets back recovery and rebuilding efforts, prolonging the deterioration in children’s quality of life.
‘Nowhere is safe’
“I am troubled to see that attacks across the country continue, destroying schools, health facilities and residential buildings. Nowhere is safe for children,” she said.
Official U.N. data reveals that about 600 children have lost their lives and more than 1,350 have been injured in attacks since the war in Ukraine escalated in 2022. The true number of children’s lives lost is likely to be considerably higher.
The attacks have also destroyed infrastructure children in Ukraine rely on. Within the first three months of the year, thousands of homes, 36 health facilities and 140 educational facilities have been either damaged or destroyed.
Power and water targeted
Additionally, attacks have affected power and water supplies which have disrupted critical services, putting children’s lives and wellbeing at a heightened risk. UNICEF, along with partners, are rebuilding the power and water supplies destroyed in the attacks.
Access to schooling has also been disrupted for four years in a row, due to the combined impact of theCOVID-19 pandemic and Russia’s full-scale invasion.
Almost half of all children enrolled are missing out on classroom learning, while nearly one million Ukrainian children cannot access in-person sessions due to insecurity.
UNICEF’s efforts
As attacks continue, UNICEF is working across Ukraine to rehabilitate schools and shelters and provide at-home learning kits and online support. In 2023, the agency reached 103 million youngsters with formal and non-formal learning.
Also in 2023, UNICEF administered mental health and psycho-social support through safe spaces, protection and support hubs, reaching 2.5 million children and caregivers.
The agency is requiring an additional $250 million to further support children and families in Ukraine in frontline areas and for humanitarian and recovery programs in 2024.
With twelve dogs at home in New York City, it’s hard particularly excited to make a loop around the world visiting three national capitals on three continents. But this month I managed, touching down in Delhi, Bangkok, and Tokyo.
Tokyo, Japan. Working with Orphans Intentional Worldwide and the J. Luce Foundation over the last twenty five years, I have traveled extensively. I remember in particularly grueling ten days when I attended meetings in Denpasar, Bali, Port-au-Prince, Haiti, and Georgetown, Guyana. On this trip, it was Delhi, Bangkok, and Tokyo – three very different yet similar national capitals.
Delhi, as the capital of India, stands as a testament to the nation’s rich history, cultural diversity, and political significance. Its ancient monuments, bustling markets, and governmental institutions reflect India‘s complex tapestry of tradition and modernity.
Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, embodies the country’s vibrant spirit, blending ancient traditions with contemporary flair. Its bustling streets, ornate temples, and dynamic nightlife showcase Thailand’s unique blend of culture, commerce, and spirituality.
Tokyo, the capital of Japan, epitomizes the country’s commitment to innovation, efficiency, and harmony. Its futuristic skyline, advanced technology, and impeccable infrastructure underscore Japan’s status as a global economic powerhouse and cultural trendsetter.
Each capital city, Delhi, Bangkok, and Tokyo, serves as a microcosm of its respective nation, offering insights into their history, culture, and aspirations on the global stage.
Delhi, as one of the most populous cities in the world, boasts a diverse population of over 20 million people. Its infrastructure is a mix of modern developments and historical landmarks, with ongoing efforts to improve air quality, transportation and amenities. The city is home to prestigious institutions like the University of Delhi and the Indian Institute of Technology, while poverty remains a significant issue, particularly in slum areas.
Bangkok, with a population of around 10 million, is Thailand‘s largest city and a major hub for commerce, culture, and tourism. Its infrastructure includes modern transportation systems like the BTS Skytrain and extensive road networks. Bangkok is home to leading universities such as University of Bangkok, Chulalongkorn University, and Thammasat University. While poverty levels have decreased in recent years, disparities persist, especially in rural areas and informal settlements.
Tokyo, the most populous metropolitan area globally, houses over 37 million people. Its infrastructure is renowned for its efficiency, including an extensive public transportation network and cutting-edge technology integration.
Tokyo is home to prestigious universities like the University of Tokyo and Tokyo Institute of Technology, as well as rivals Keio and Waseda Universities. In my youth I attended Waseda, so I a prejudiced, although many of my friends attended Keio and International Christian University. Despite being a wealthy city overall, poverty exists, primarily among marginalized groups and the elderly population.
While all three cities share significant population densities and face infrastructure challenges, Tokyo stands out for its advanced infrastructure and technological innovations.Delhi and Bangkok grapple with higher poverty levels, with efforts underway to address socioeconomic disparities and improve living standards. Universities in all three cities play crucial roles in education and research, contributing to their global prominence and cultural vibrancy.
I have never lived in Delhi, although I have visited it often. I do not think I could deal with it’s chaos and pollution. Living in Tokyo in the 1980s was an incredible experience and today it is an amazing city for its quietness – most of the vehicles are electric. It rivals New York, in my mind the capital of the world. But my partner Bix hails from Bangkok, and we are actively exploring the possibility of relocating here eventually. Because Bangkok is the perfect mix of chaos and calmness, old and new, East and West.
In the heart of Bihar, India, amidst the vastness of the once-named Dalit (“Untouchable”) community, a beacon of hope rises – the Global Love Village. As I stood amidst the construction, witnessing the collaborative efforts between the Tzu Chi Buddhist Compassion Relief Foundation and local villagers, I couldn’t help but marvel at the transformative power of compassion and community.
Photo: Bix Luce.
Bodhgaya, India. This initiative, reminiscent of Habitat for Humanity‘s endeavors, signifies more than just the construction of 80 homes. It symbolizes a collective commitment to uplift and empower marginalized communities, echoing the ethos of love and solidarity that transcends borders.
My journey to Bihar began with a visit to the Tzu Chi Foundation in New York, nestled near the Roosevelt Island Tram. There, I was introduced to the profound legacy of compassion fostered by Dharma Master Cheng Yen, the visionary founder of the Tzu Chi Foundation. From humble beginnings to becoming one of Taiwan‘s largest philanthropic organizations, Tzu Chi‘s journey exemplifies the transformative potential of grassroots movements.
What sets Tzu Chi apart is its volunteer-driven model, where over 100,000 individuals dedicate their time and resources to serve others selflessly. With minimal overhead costs and a steadfast commitment to sustainability, Tzu Chi has become a beacon of hope for communities worldwide.
From international emergency relief operations to long-term aid programs, Tzu Chi’s reach extends far beyond Taiwan’s shores. Their ability to operate in areas where traditional Western NGOs face challenges speaks volumes about Taiwan’s unique international position and the foundation’s unwavering dedication to humanitarian causes.
As I reflect on my experience in Bihar, I am reminded of the power of collective action and the profound impact of compassion in transforming lives. The Global Love Village stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of solidarity that binds us together as a global community, transcending differences and building a brighter future for all.
Left: the author attended an Interfaith Breakfast at Tzu Chi New York in 2019.
Oxford, Ohio. I first met Luan, who would later marry my father Stan Luce, on Easter 1970. My dad and I were walking back from church on our weekly separation-Sunday visit. He wanted to introduce me to his “friend,” the woman he was dating. I was ten. Luan was not particularly kid-friendly, but we grew closer as I grew older and had more to chat about. And I liked her a lot because she made my dad so very happy.
Luan, or Dr. Louise Fiber Luce, wasProfessor Emeritiof French at Miami University. Miami was founded in 1809, making it the second-oldest university in Ohio, Miami was one of the original eight Public Ivy schools, a group of publicly funded universities considered as providing a quality of education comparable to those of the Ivy League. Miami maintains an international campus, the Dolibois European Centerin Luxembourg where I visited Dad and Luan on several occasions when they were there on sabbatical.
Luan wrote bothThe French-Speaking World and The Spanish-Speaking World: An Anthology of Cross-Cultural Perspectives andToward Internationalism: Readings in Cross-Cultural Communications with her sister, Elise Smith.
A native of Detroit, Luan earned degrees at the University of Michigan, Middlebury College, and Northwestern University. In addition to French and cross-cultural communication classes at Miami from 1970 until her retirement in 1995, she was also half-time Associate Provost for three years and a long-time member of the Women’s Center Policy and Management Council.
She toured Europe–and Russia–with my father, and had really enjoyed the Women’s Conference in Asia. The United Nations‘ Fourth World Conference on Women, which was held in Beijing, China in 1995. The conference was attended by 189 governments, U.N. agencies, intergovernmental organizations, activists, and organizations
Shortly after retiring, Luan applied her leadership skills to designing and implementing an Institute for Learning in Retirement at Miami; she was very involved in the League of Women Voters and loved singing in the Hamilton-Fairfield Symphony Orchestra’s Chorale.
Always gracious and interested in others, Luan focused on possibilities and on making opportunities for learning and development widely available. She was an avid reader and eager learner who was open-minded, appreciated differences, with a wonderful sense of humor and infectious laugh.
She died at the age of 75, shortly after my father passed away. Her funeral was held in the church I was baptized in half a century earlier, at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, in Oxford, Ohio, blocks from the Miami University campus that was her home for so many years.
Aruba is known for its pristine beaches and turquoise waters.
Oranjestad, Aruba. They speak four languages in Aruba (including an Amerindian Taino/Arawak dialect). That alone makes this island destination interesting. But, for me, the flamingos were hands-down the coolest thing. As soon as I was pretty sure the birds were being treated fairly, I was (somewhat) comfortable with their semi-captivity. Aruba is a ‘constituent country‘ with the Netherlands (since 1986), so they speak Dutch.
Windswept Watapana Tree Divi-Divi Caesalpinia Coriaria Libidibia Coriaria Always Pointing in SouthWest Direction at Malmok Beach Noord Aruba. By EgorovaSvetlana – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=145173339
Aruba‘s official languages are Dutch and Papiamento. While Dutch is the sole language for all administration and legal matters, Papiamento is the predominant language used on Aruba. Papiamento is a Spanish/Portuguese-based creole language, spoken on Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao, that also incorporates words from Dutch and various West African languages. English and Spanish are also spoken, their usage having grown due to tourism.
This island is surprising close to Venezuela–18 miles–and is only 20 miles long. Alongside Bonaire and Curaçao, Aruba forms a group easy to remember as the “ABC islands.” It has a little over 100,000 inhabitants.
In contrast to much of the Caribbean, which experiences humid tropical climates, Aruba has a dry climate with an arid landscape.
Between 1529 when Alonso de Ojeda arrived as the first European, and the signing of the Treaty of Westphalia (1648), the name “Isla de Oruba” was used for the island by the Spanish. After the signing, the island was ceded to the Dutch and gradually its name changed to Aruba. I enjoyed learning about the Treaty as I was an exchange student to Westphalia, now in Germany.
Main port of Aruba. The waterfront of Oranjestad, capital of Aruba, with the Renaissance Hotel (center) and the Seaport Village Marina. In the background the Hooiberg hill can be seen.
The appropriation of the Caribbean region turned out to be a failure for the Spaniards. The exploitation of the West Indian islands proved unprofitable, and gold mining on Hispaniola (Haiti/Dominican Republic) and Puerto Rico declined. Spanish settlers moved elsewhere, and In 1569, the Spanish Crown banned settlement on the Caribbean islands by Royal decree. This measure that did not apply to the leased islands of Curaçao, Aruba, and Bonaire.
The colonization of the large Caribbean islands, such as Cuba, was encouraged, while the small islands were abandoned. Most of the islands remained largely uncontrolled and undefended, making them a potential opportunity for northwestern European countries that wanted to break Spain‘s monopoly on colonizing the New World.England, France, the Netherlands, and Denmarkexplored the possibilities of piracy and trade on the Caribbean islands.
The conquistadors brought not only people but also European cattle to Aruba. Over time, they also introduced goats, sheep, dogs, donkeys, cows, pigs, and possibly even cats. It’s believed that rabbits, brought by the Dutch, later became wild on the island. Aruba essentially became a Spanish ranch, with cattle roaming freely in search of food. The horses introduced here were lighter than Dutch ones, and their hooves became so hard from roaming freely that they didn’t need horseshoes.
After hostilities resumed, the Dutch established the West India Company with the main objective of engaging in strategic military actions and privateering organization against Spain. This was the raison d’être of the WIC. Their secondary objective was focused on commerce and colonization, a choice that ultimately led to the downfall of the WIC in 1674. The WIC also gathered information on Spanish treasure fleets.
In 1623, three years after the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth, the first official fleet of the new WIC, a small squadron of only three ships set sail for the Caribbean to engage in looting and plundering in the Lesser Antilles and the Yucátan peninsula. It was during this voyage that the Dutch first encountered Aruba.
Between thePeace of Westphalia in 1648 and the Peace of Nijmegen in 1678, there were 30 years of crisis in the Dutch Antilles and the entire Caribbean region. By 1648, Curaçao had lost its importance as a military outpost. Governor Peter Stuyvesant had a plan to strengthen the connections between the islands and New Netherland(East Coast of the U.S.).
During World War II, the Netherlands was occupied by Nazi Germany. In 1940, the oil facilities in Aruba came under the administration of the Dutch government-in-exile in London, causing them to be attacked by the German navy in 1942.
The book Buccaneers of America, first published in 1678, states through eyewitness account that the natives on Aruba spoke Spanish already. Spanish became an important language in the 18th century due to the close economic ties with Spanish colonies in what are now Venezuela and Colombia. Venezuelan TV networks are received on the island, and Aruba also has significant Venezuelan and Colombian communities.
The island’s economy is dominated by four main industries: tourism, aloe export, petroleum refining, and offshore banking. Aruba has one of the highest standards of living in the Caribbean region. Until the mid-1980s, Aruba’s main industry was oil refining. Then the refinery was shut down and the island’s economy shifted towards tourism.
Currently, Aruba receives about 1.5 million guests per year, of which three-quarters are Americans. Tourism is mainly focused on the beaches and the sea. About 3/4 of Aruba’s modern economy is tourist-based.
I first met Ghalib Shiraz Dhalla at the IAAC’s New York Indian Film Festival with Aroon Shivdasani. Photo: Mike Allen.
Ghalib so engulfed me in his complex narrative of human emotions, culture, commitment, and human sexuality that I reached the first dénouement of events during rush hour on the New York City subway.
When I was a freshman in college I moved into the international dorm and was faced with people from around the world who spoke English better than I. Many of them frequently used vocabulary twice the size of my own. As I began the novel The Two Krishnas, I was reminded of this as I was struck by the book’s evocative, lush language and deeply detailed description by its Indian-American author, Ghalib Shiraz Dhalla [Luce Index™ Score: pending]. Within a few pages I was hooked on this richly told story.
The Two Krishnas is simply one of the best books I have read in my life — I can hardly wait to wade into the author’s earlier Ode to Lata. Photo courtesy of the author.
Ghalib directing his film “Embrace.” Photo courtesy of the author.
I have not wept over a book since the hotel bathtub scene in Khaled Hosseini’s The Kite Runner. Ghalib so engulfed me in his complex narrative of human emotions, culture, commitment, and human sexuality that I reached the first dénouement of events during rush hour on the New York City subway. Fellow riders looked on with concern as I burst into tears at Herald Square!
I imagine myself to be something of a novice author, but Ghalib’s masterpiece makes me realize the vast difference between good and great. I look forward to reading the author’s first novel, Ode to Lata. Ghalib is also a brilliant filmmaker whose film, Embrace, I reviewed in the spring. The short, now being developed into a feature length film, was written, produced, and directed by Ghalib and is about four intimate love stories set against a backdrop of actual terror events.
Ghalib Shiraz Dhalla wrote and directed “Embrace,” focused on the Mumbai terrorist attack. Photo: Still from “Embrace.” Courtesy of Don’TakeNo Productions.
Arranged marriage, romantic marriage, gay marriage, relationships, family — each difficult to grasp in all their complexities — are the glue that binds The Two Krishnas. In so doing, Ghalib has crafted one of the most intelligent and sophisticated works I have ever read. His characters quote liberally from the poetry of Rumi and discover, along with the reader and sometimes too late, how spirituality is more about following the path of truth instead of cowering to expectations and misinterpreted religion.https://0c9c5f561f7df60665d5c7bdca867740.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-40/html/container.html?n=0
The novel, told from three different perspectives, brings us on intimate terms with the betrayed wife, philandering husband, and his lover. The consequences of being dishonest or accepting their true natures, their hopelessness in the face of what they desire, and the lengths to which they will go to preserve what they hold sacred is what makes us root for each of them, even as we know, on some level, that things cannot turn out well. Consider Pooja’s denial — a betrayed wife willing to overlook everything to keep the façade of her marriage and home intact:
She felt him standing there, both of them feeling like fugitives who had run from the truth for too long. Pooja drank the air deeply, wiped her eyes with the end of her chunni, and went straight to the sink where she started to vigorously wash the greasy crock-pot with a sponge. She would not make a scene. She would not let them dishonor themselves in this way despite what he had done. She would remain strong, elegant, magnanimous.
It would be simpler if her husband, Rahul didn’t love her. But herein lies the pinch and complexity. Their connection, one that may be devoid of the passion he feels for his lover, is palpable and even deepened by his transgression:
Why now was he missing the fragrance of her freshly washed hair, peonies and vanilla, when she gave him a hug or leaned over his shoulder at the table to lay down breakfast? He saw her sleeping alone, now, still sticking to her side of the bed, turned away from his side as if afraid to look at the vacancy there, lonely and wondering about him. He was connected to her in a way he wasn’t when he was sleeping besides her, more there now than he had ever been.
Then there is the lover, who after being disowned by his own family, has found in Rahul, not only a father figure, but also compensation for the alienation that being an illegal immigrant in the “land of the free” has brought:
Atif clasped Rahul’s hand tightly, held it close to him, against his thudding chest, as if in that grip they held a common heart. He shook with grief, his tears unbounded. He cried now not only for the love that he knew Rahul felt for him, but also the loves that he had lost, for his mother and father, all the rejections he had suffered up until now, and the realization that when at long last, love had arrived, it had been so that he would be able to neither claim nor keep it.
I sat next to Ghalib at a dinner this spring for the Indo-American New York Indian Film Festival at Essex House on Central Park South. He confided to me, “This is a cautionary tale for the women of the world who may find themselves involved with or married to a gay man, as well as the men who think they can ignore their true nature to play normal.” My minister came out from the pulpit to the surprise of his wife who was in the front pew — this is a very real challenge for many.
Ghalib Shiraz Dhalla was born and references Mombasa, Kenya in his latest novel. Here, Mombasa’s Bamburi Beach. Photo courtesy of the author.
I reached out to Ghalib and he told me:
As a writer, I wanted to expose the catastrophes we create when we lie to ourselves and to those we love; how we are completely helpless and equalized in the face of desire. Hindu, Muslim, straight, gay — it doesn’t matter. Ultimately we all want the same thing — to be loved and accepted. But in a world where we are unable to get past such differences, where we judge desire as unruly or unnatural just because it’s different from ours, we become complicit in the resulting tragedy.
Oppressors love to brandish religious dogma to justify their intolerance, but a careful analysis of theology serves up a surprisingly tolerant and spiritual take that has been deliberately or inadvertently ignored.
The Two Krishnas, while letting us live intimately in the minds of the betrayed wife, her husband and his lover, explores the progressive nuance of religion, the complexities we’ve overlooked in our lust to condemn those who are different from us.
Along the route, the cross-cultural author traverses the chasm of culture, be it Indian, American, or African, straight and gay, male and female, Muslim and Hindu — even haves and have-nots. His dialogue between Hindu and Muslim lovers trying to understand each other’s concept of “terrorism” was exemplary. As a New Yorker, for me the book presents my first truly favorable impression of Los Angeles, where the novel takes place.
Ghalib Shiraz Dhalla, author of my new favorite novel The Two Krishnas. Photo: Mike Allen.
Ghalib wrote me on the complexities of the closet:
The closeted husbands of this world feel it necessary to enter into what society has decided is normal, to shun what is natural to them because they’ve been brought up to believe that desiring a same-sex partner is a sin and something to be ashamed of.
When we encounter women — a sister, an aunt, a girlfriend — who is devastated because her husband has decided to come out of the closet, sadly too late in life and having already involved others in his lie, it’s important to realize that we, as a society, have enabled this deception.
By creating a world where we refuse to let others live their lives honestly and have the same rights, we create the “closet” and a stage for deception. Nobody is innocent.
Born in Mombasa, Kenya, Ghalib writes as a thought leader and global citizen in ways that create dialogue, diversity — as well as excitement for the written word. He has done as much to build bridges for his readers to cross as any author I have encountered. Last year Ghalib was honored at the prestigious Master’s Tea at Yale where he spoke with some of the brightest, most talented students, discussing his writing, film work, and the intersection of LGBT and Asian American cultures.
I hope fervently that my old friend Frankétienne, who I have written about (story), will be the first Haitian to win the Nobel Prize for Literature. Although Rabindranath Tagore was the first Indian to win the Nobel Prize, I believe Ghalib Shiraz Dhalla will be the first Indian-American to be named in Oslo. I cannot imagine the award going to a better writer, nor a finer human being.
Attending the Light of India Awards, I was excited to be able to educate myself further on this dynamic nation and its emissaries — the great India and the many extraordinary Non-Resident Indians.
New York, N.Y. More than 200 of the South Asian community’s Who’s Whoin New York City, as well as special dignitaries and performers from India and around the world, crowded into last week’s Remit 2 India‘s Light of India Awardsat the historic Waldorf-Astoria on Park Avenue. The event — the first of such awards – was conceptualized and created by Sapnna Vats and Evolve Entertainment. It will be broadcast via Sony Entertainment Television, Asia, to more than 150 countries around the world.
The Waldorf-Astoria ballroom was electric as comedian Aasif Mandvi performed.
Remit2India‘s Light of India Awards was a simple concept for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs): “You loved their ideas, followed their journey, respected their vision — now help honor them by choosing among them the best.” Thousands of Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) did just that — presenting their global leadership across the fields of Business, Corporate, Politics, Arts & Entertainment, Science & Technology, and Journalism & Literature.
TimesofMoney President Avijit Nanda applauds as actor Shabana Azmi felicitates Her Excellency Meera Shankar, Indian Ambassador to the U.S.
The Awards were announced at a black-tie event here in New York with the Indian Ambassador to the U.S., the Hon. Mrs. Meera Shankar, as the Chief Guest. The well-organized award show was electric, with music and celebration, hosted by the charming high society set of television personalities Nina Manuel and Jitin Hingorani.
The show was co-hosted by television host and model Nina Manuel and television personality Jitin Hingorani.
As the India Timeswrote recently on the importance of the Indian diaspora:
Over the years, the Indian community abroad has contributed significantly not only to their country of residence but also to the Indian economy back home. Worldwide, Indians are recognized as the most valued ethnic community in terms of their intellectual capital.
Their efforts in infusing capital, ideas and international practices have also contributed significantly to the Indian economy apart from keeping alive the Indian traditions and culture far and wide. Indians today have done the country proud through their contribution in various fields like art, science, technology, and politics the world over.
Naveen Jain is a philanthropist, entrepreneur and technology pioneer.
Power of Influence Award: Narasimha Chari, Chief Tech Officer & Founder, Tropos Networks
Extraordinary Contribution in Research & Innovation in Medical Sciences:
Shiladitya Sengupta, Assist. Prof., Medicine & Health Sciences, Harvard Medical School
One of the most distinguished inventors, entrepreneurs and venture capitalists in the world, Vinod Dham is known for being the ‘father of the Pentium chip.’
Aroon Shivdasani accepting the award for Mira Nair in her characteristically enthusiastic style.
Recognition in Arts & Entertainment Jury Award & People’s Choice Award: Mira Nair, Film Director & Producer
I wrote about Mira Nair the first time I met her here. Mira debuted her first feature film, Salaam Bombay! in 1988. As founder of Orphans International Worldwide (OIW), I am deeply impressed that Mira has used the proceeds of this film to establish an organization for street children, called the Salaam Baalak Trust in India. Her other films of note include Kama Sutra: A Tale of Love and Mississippi Masala.
Competition in the Arts & Entertainment category was fierce, but there is only one Mira. Runners-up included Anglo-Indian comedian Russell Peters, actor Sunil Nayar, and the British-Indian comedians Sanjeev Bhaskar and Meera Syal.
Salman Rushdie with Vinod Dham. Salman is author of eleven novels including The Satanic Verses. Vinod won both the Jury and People’s Choice Award winner in the Science and Technology category.
Power of Influence Award: Salman Rushdie, writer and novelist
The event, with exclusive television partner Sony TV Asia, is being carried to living rooms in 150 countries.
Key corporate partners to the event include Sony Entertainment Television, Asia as the Exclusive Television Partner, Etihad Airways as the International Travel Partner, TimesofIndia.com as the online partner, Comcast, and Goa Tourism as Associate Sponsors.https://e9ab87bd750277bf0f3edeef981c1d20.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-40/html/container.html?n=0
Jaideep Janakiram, Head of North America for Sony Entertainment Television, Asia.Photo courtesy of JINGO Media by Nan Melville.
Jury members included Javed Akhtar (Hindi/Urdu poet, lyricist, screenwriter), Shabana Azmi (Indian actress, social activist), Pranay Gupte (journalist, author), Prasoon Joshi (Executive Chairman, McCann World Group India), Sulajja Firodia Motwani (Managing Director, Kinetic Motors India), Priya Paul (Chair, Apeejay Park Hotels), Mahesh Dattani (Indian director, playwright, actor), Madhu Trehan (journalist), and Shiv Khera (author, educator, consultant, entrepreneur).
The swell and elegant of Indo-American society were out in force. Here, jewelry designer Amrita Singh with her brother Herman Singh.
The Northeast U.S. Advisory Board for Remit 2 India’s The Light of India Awards included Aroon Shivdasani, who is the Executive Director of the Indo-American Arts Council, Jaswant Lalwani of the Corcoran Real Estate Group, Sunnil Hali (chairman and publisher, CineMaya Media), and Amrita Singh (accessories and fashion designer). Amrita designed exclusive jewelry for the gift bags from her company Amrita Singh Jewelry.https://e9ab87bd750277bf0f3edeef981c1d20.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-40/html/container.html?n=0
Aasif Mandvi, a correspondent to The Jon Stewart Show covering “Islam and Brown People,” added a touch of great humor to the exciting event.
Remit2India is a Western Union-like company that owned by the Times Group in India that allows over a million NRIs in 23 countries around the world to send money home. I often write on corporate social responsibility (CSR) in the U.S. and believe it is vital for multinational companies to give back to society — so often these multi-nationals are bigger than countries themselves. I have written on the good things being done by MetLife, the Cushman Group of MorganStanley SmithBarney, NBC’s Brian Williams, and Goldman Sachs. My hat is tipped to Remit2India and the Times Group of India for their lead in CSR in South Asia.
Exquisite Indian musician and singer Raghav Sachar flew in from Bombay to participate in the Awards show.
Attending the Light of India Awards, I was excited to be able to educate myself further on this dynamic nation and its cultural emissaries — the great India and the many extraordinary Non-Resident Indians. I am impressed by how many thought leaders and global citizens there are in the world that are not even on my own tiny radar. My take-home from the event: Americans in general, this one included, need to continue to increase the size of our internal radar ranges.
All photos courtesy of JINGO Media by Nan Melville.
One of the highlights of my pilgrimage to India has been meeting Ranjan Kumar, founder and president of the Gyanjyoti Rural Development Welfare Trust.
Bihar, India. One of the highlights of my pilgrimage to India has been meeting Ranjan Kumar, founder and president of the Gyanjyoti Rural Development Welfare Trust (site). Ranjan is a 22-year-old Indian Hindu whose passion and education is rural development. He aspires to become a member of the national government here where he can help improve the lives of literally millions of Indians.
Gyanjyoti Rural Elementary School in Bataspur Village outside Bodh Gaya, India. Photo: author.
His organization’s name Gyanjyoti is Hindi for “Light of Education.” He founded the Gyanjyoti Rural Pre-Elementary School in Bataspur Village, Bakrour Panchat Community, Bodh Gaya City, Bihar State – two miles outside of the city of Bodh Gaya where Buddha achieved enlightenment. Ranjan has overseen the construction of an orphan care facility that needs another $20,000 to complete.
The older children hard at study. With no desks, they sit on mats. Photo: author.
Ranjan gave me a tour over two separate days of both his orphan care facility under construction about a mile outside Bodh Gaya and his two-room school. We arrived at the almost-finished orphan care facility by horse-drawn carriage and rode motorcycles across– and through – wide and cold rivers to reach his rural school.https://f70e1f687e7cc4c7985d51a551482e86.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-40/html/container.html?n=0
The faces of the children in Bataspur Village across the river from Bodh Gaya, India. Photo: author.
The children at the two-room pre-school were waiting for me and I was presented a garland upon arrival. The younger kids were so pleased to take turns leading their classmates in reciting the numbers in English, 1-100. Some of the ninety students are from the Untouchable caste. They shouted out “Eleven! Twelve! Thirteen!” with staggering glee.
The younger children get chalk and slate while the older students pen and paper. Photo: author.
The rural village pre-school has ninety students divided into two classes, Kindergarten through first grade and then second through third grades. The concept is to prepare rural students for admission into the regular public school. The students sit on mats on the floor and for the most part have no shoes to call their own. Each of the younger students has a chalk pad and takes temporary notes while the older students use pen and paper. There is a junior and senior teacher for each class.
Lining up in rows with the students and staff of Gyanjyoti Rural Elementary School. Note that winter in northeast India is cold, damp and very foggy. Photo: author.https://f70e1f687e7cc4c7985d51a551482e86.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-40/html/container.html?n=0
We passed a government school in which the teaching staff had not arrived yet for the day. I am told that many public schools in India suffer from the pervasive corruption that runs through this society. The teachers in the public school are paid on average in this province about $400 a month whereas Ranjan is only able to pay his teachers half that. Despite the discrepancy in salaries, Ranjan’s teachers take great pride in their work. The end goal, however, is to move these students into the public school.
The students took turns reciting the numbers 1-100 in English for me with much glee. Photo: author.
Ranjan Kumar introduces the author to two of his youngest students. Photo: author.
The orphan care facility was begun years ago but has not yet been completed for lack of funding. Ranjan’s project director estimates the cost to finish and furnish the structure at $20,000.
The orphan care facility is well-built, spacious – and almost finished. Photo: author.
One important aspect of leadership is team-building and Ranjan has assembled a highly-capable group of administrators, accountants and business. I met several times for masala tea with his key supporters – the program manager, the bookkeeper, the social worker and others. I was also privileged to meet one of his financial backers, Deepak Agrawal, owner of the Sakura Hotel Bodh Gaya as well as several other establishments. I was impressed with their passion and commitment to Ranjan’s vision.
On the roof of the orphan care building with its panoramic view. Photo: author.
The mission of The James Jay Dudley Luce Foundation that I lead is to support young global leadership initiatives around the world that are committed to our ideal of ‘a life, not a job.’ The Gyanjyoti Rural Development Welfare Trust and its founder Ranjan Kumar personify this concept. The school needs to be improved and the orphan care facility needs to open.
The current structure has been designed to eventually rise three stories. Photo: author.
Here’s what I propose: Raising $20,000 through Orphans International Worldwide India (OIWW) to finish building “OIWW-India.” I would like to raise $600 per year from a new group of OIWW-India Sponsors – that’s only $50 per month. You can contribute immediately here. Thirty-three contributors will bring us to our goal immediately. We can assist Ranjan achieve his dream in helping the children of rural India. You can be among the first to launch a new nation for OIWW. After the Tsunami OIWW was in Indonesia and Sri Lanka, and remained in Haiti after the earthquake. Now, after this deeply inspirational pilgrimage, I need your help to help these kids in India.
Finding joy with the kids around him in a village in Bihar, rural India. Photo: author.
In addition, because of his dedication to the youth of rural India, and his position here as a thought leader and global citizen, I will nominate founder Ranjan Kumar to become a 2012 Luce Leader complete with stipend. I came to India on pilgrimage to learn more life, and a lesson I have learned is as long as the Ranjan’s of our world are given strong support, humanity has a chance. Help me make sure we give him that support – these children ask for nothing more.
The Dalai Lama is a big fan of Amjad Ali Khan, one of India’s most famous classical musicians, who was in New York last week to perform in the grand ballroom at the Indian Consulate.
The author with the maestro, Indian legend Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, along with Aroon Shivdasani and her husband, John Lee, and son Ayaan.
New York, N.Y. Indian classical musician Ustad Amjad Ali Khan [Luce Index™ Score: 91] played the Indian Consulate of New York last week. He played in the grand ballroom of the former mansion on 64th and Fifth, built in 1903 for Ms. Carrie Astor.
Amjad Ali Khan plays the sarod, the most prominent stringed musical instrument used in northern India’s classical Hindustani music.
According to the Dalai Lama, “When Amjad Ali Khan performs, he carries with him a deep spirit, a warm feeling, and a sense of caring.”
Introduced by the Indian Consul General, Hon. Prabhu Dayal, as part of the Consulate’s Jewels of India series, he was called “India’s greatest diamond.”
“When Amjad Ali Khan performs, he carries with him a deep spirit, a warm feeling, and a sense of caring.” – The Dalai Lama
The musician noted in his opening comments that classical music is a way of life. He dedicated the concert to those who died recently on the Air France plane bound from Rio de Janeiro to Paris, and expressed his heartfelt condolences to their families.
The Consulate’s ballroom was standing room only. Khan invited the overflow audience to sit on the stage with him and I joined them, sitting a few feet away. The look of concentration on his face was riveting, so deeply content and at peace.
The Consulate’s ballroom was standing room only.
I noted Khan‘s gray hair set upon a youthful complexion. His turquoise tunic shimmered in the lights as he sang and played such haunting melodies.
His eyes shut, his head gently rocking in concentration, he began by demonstrating his instrument. He played with his fingers, and then he played with his nails. The nails producing a sound unworldly in tone.
Khan explained how the lack of frets and the tension of the strings make it very difficult to play, as the strings must be pressed hard against the fingerboard. The sitar, by comparison, has frets.
The look of concentration on his face was riveting and deeply content.
The several hundred people crowded in the ballroom, dressed in suits and cocktail dresses, turbans and saris, sat in awe. Mesmerized, many sat with eyes closed, absorbing the musician’s dramatic presence.
The orange, white and green flag of India with its wheel stood proudly next to the stars and stripes. The wheel represents the Buddhist Dharma Chakra (Wheel of Law), with its 24 spokes representing the endless cycle of life.
The 19-string sarod has a deep, weighty, introspective sound — contrasted with the sweet, extremely rich texture of the sitar — with strings that give it a resonant, reverberant quality.
The gifted musician spoke of two types of music – one of pure sound, and the other almost a language in itself.
Charlotte White, a 95-year old denizen of the arts in New York City, lived in India for many years. She praised his “rare, mystical patterns, which so superbly produces such a rich variety of tones.
“His expression of what is music is similar to Leonard Bernstein, who also said music is either pure, pure sound or verbalized into words, language.”
The musician received flowers from Indian Consul General Prabhu Dayal.
Following the event, Consul General Prabhu Dayal was extremely pleased, commenting to me, “I am just thrilled by tonight’s performance.” He noted that the concert was part of an on-going series of distinguished artists from India.
I was able to speak to Ustad Amjad Ali Khan after he finished playing, and asked him what he would like to convey to the American people. The Moslem musician caught me by surprise by switching from the arts to politics.
“I was happy this week to see the energy of your president, Barack Obama [Luce Index™ Score: 92], and to hear of his dream to unite the word,” he told me.
“I was so very happy with his speech in Cairo. I wish him luck to achieve all he is trying to do, with Israel and Palestine, with Africa, with the world. This is the time for humanity, with the help of Barack Obama, to unite us all for future generations. All of the hatred that we have held on to for hundreds of years may be let go now. All people should come together now as one.”
A reception followed, where I chatted with India’s Ambassador to the U.N., the Hon. Hardeep Singh Puri, who said, “It was truly a spectacular performance. Ustad Amjad Ali Khan is indeed one of India’s brightest jewels. We are so very proud of him.”
Amjad Ali Khan explained that classical music is a way of life.
Khan was a recipient of the UNESCO International Music Forum Award, UNICEF’s National Ambassadorship, and the Crystal Award from the World Economic Forum. He was also awarded the Fukuoka Asian Culture Grand Prize.
His wife and two children, Ayaan and Amaan, were with him in New York. Both Ayaan and Amaan play thesarod, and a family concert may one day take place.
I spoke to his youngest son, Ayaan Ali Bangash. I asked Ayaan, now 30, about living and training with the world’s greatest sarod player.
“For me, it’s an honor to have been born to him. I am the only student who ever sat on his lap – since the time I was born. I know it sounds too sugary, but I could not have asked for a better dad – and a better teacher.”
His ancestors have developed and shaped the instrument over several hundred years. His forefathers came in the mid-1700’s from Afghanistan to India‘s relaxed music atmosphere and brought the rabab, a string instrument that which later developed into the sarod.
Amjad Ali Khan’s concert was sponsored by New York Life, which has a large number of Indian and Indian-American clients. New York Life frequently highlights Indian culture in its advertising campaigns and is a generous corporate patron to the arts.
At 63, Amjad Ali Khan comes from a long line of distinguished musicians. He was taught by his father, Hafiz Ali Khan, a musician to the royal family of Gwalior. Khan is the sixth generation inheritor of this lineage.
When I was asked to join a “Kalachakra” — a circle-of-life pilgrimage to where Prince Siddhartha discovered the realities of the world under the Bodhi Tree — I jumped at the chance.
Bihar, India. Americans have been flocking to India in search of enlightenment since before America was founded. Europeans, too, the conscientious objector E.M. Forster and psychoanalytic Herman Hesse among them. So my trip — my pilgrimage — to follow in the footsteps of Buddha across Northeastern India is nothing new. Except that it promises to be transformational to one person: me.
For on this trip I wish to re-examine my core values, founded in Judeo-Christianity but tempered by Buddhism, and confirm that the path that I have chosen for the second half of my life is moving me toward my desired destination before my demise. This deeply personal journey will allow me to reflect on my mother and brother’s deaths the same week, just months before 9/11, my own vow of poverty and the nature of human suffering in the context of my humble attempts to help alleviate a small part of it.
The author under the Bodhi Tree where Buddha achieved Enlightenment in Bodh Gaya. Photo: author.
I knew little of Buddhism until I got to college in the late 1970s and my first friend there was both Japanese and Buddhist. I had just returned from a year-long high school exchange program in Germany (AFS) and was certain that goodness stemmed from the Judeo-Christian roots I was familiar with. My new dorm mate was a fine person who knew next to nothing about the Old Testament. He was a practitioner of the Zen-based martial art Shorinji Kempo. How he had become a good person intrigued me and I became a Japanese Studies major in part to learn more about what made him tick.https://0fb19d69b28cd9829bdadc9a94beddf9.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-40/html/container.html?n=0
Prayer flags from pilgrims before me hang from every Buddhist site across India. Photo: author.
As part of my studies, I learned about religions of the world. In fact, my professor was Indian. I remember writing that all religions were paths up the same mountain, describing different views on the way to a common summit. He encouraged me to go on to divinity school, but I was not sure where my faith base was, and convinced that when ministers do good, it is often discounted as being their job. I knew I wished to do something to better humanity, but decided to begin my career in finance. Fast forward a few decades and I begin to leverage my parents’ estates into non-profit organizations and finally a small foundation. I am trying to do what I can to make the world better, focusing on young global leadership. But I realize that suffering cannot be removed from the human experience. I believe it can be greatly mitigated, however.
Indian children lined up at health clinic run by Buddhist monks from Thailand. Photo: author.
Last summer, when I was asked to join a “Kalachakra” — a circle-of-life pilgrimage, this one actually where Prince Siddhartha discovered the realities of the world under the Bodhi Tree and abdicated his throne to try to show people a way to deal with life’s painfulness, disease and death among them — I jumped at the chance. The invitation came from a woman I trust and admire, Dr. Kazuko Tatsumura Hillyer. With a group of mostly Japanese, we would be guided by monks spiritually and physically for 10 days. I am to be one of many — 300,000 pilgrims are expected. I was convinced that this opportunity has presented me with a once-in-a-lifetime chance to adjust my mind, my life, my soul so that my own fin de siècle actions are in line with what I believe.https://0fb19d69b28cd9829bdadc9a94beddf9.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-40/html/container.html?n=0
These monks arrived for the Kalachakra from neighboring Bangladesh. Photo: author.
As in all journeys, one must have a beginning. Ours is in Delhi, where the Americans among us have rendezvoused with our new Japanese colleagues and will soon meet our Buddhist guide. We will have Lobsang Dhondup, a private teacher affiliated with the Manjushree Orphanage that Dr. Kazuko supports and my foundation is attempting to support.
My fellow pilgrims are doctors from New York, alternative health probationers from Los Angeles, gardeners from Honolulu, and artists and designers from Tokyo and Osaka — even Okinawa. The Japanese among us consider themselves as a whole culturally Buddhist in the way that growing up in America I am culturally Christian. However, this pilgrimage is as new and exciting to them as it is to me.
My pilgrimage was made with a group of global citizens including many Japanese. Photo: author.
Our plane is taxing down the runway and I need to stow my laptop. Next stop: Bodh Gaya. We will begin our pilgrimage, following the footsteps of Buddha across Northeastern India. I don’t expect to find Nirvana, but I do hope to find myself once again. I am nervous that I might not like what I find. But finding myself again at 52 will allow me to make whatever adjustments necessary to be the person I wish to be the next half century. Let our pilgrimage begin!
Pilgrimage to Buddha’s Holy Sites
Main Sites: Lumbini, Bodh Gaya, Sarnath,Kushinagar
When you arrive in Bihar, your eyes will marvel at an endless array of litter, accompanied by incessant honking horns and buzzing flies hovering over bustling street vendors serving an unending stream of delicious snacks. Amidst this, you might accidentally encounter the occasional cow dung and its pungent odor; the seemingly chaotic and noisy ambiance challenges our preconceived notions about this ancient civilization, which thrived as early as 3,000 BC.
Bodhgaya, India. In Italy, the best “morning call” comes from the aroma of coffee; in the Netherlands, one can bask in the sea of flowers, which brings tranquility throughout the day. How about Bodh Gaya, in Bihar province in eastern India? What experiences await your senses there?
In India, there is one essential gesture to learn – greet others with a respectful “Namaste” (a gesture of folded hands). This simple and courteous way of saying hello and inquiring about the other’s well-being inevitably draws a kind-hearted response in return.
Happiness through Giving
On the morning of July 15th, Tzu Chi volunteers from Singapore and Malaysia greeted the local villagers with warm “Namaste” gestures, especially in Bakraur Colony. They were continuing their environmental efforts from the previous Saturday (7/8) under the Tamarind tree, teaching the villagers about recycling.
On the morning of July 15th, Tzu Chi volunteers from Singapore and Malaysia returned to the Tamarind tree, once again teaching the villagers of the Shepherds’ Village about recycling. (Photo by Yeh Jin-hong; India; 2023/7/15)
The main focus of the day was to create “Eco Bricks” – encouraging the villagers to collect non-biodegradable plastic waste, such as candy and biscuit wrappers, and stuff them into bottles. This method not only reduces waste but also prevents environmental pollution.
Young and old volunteers, whether they joined willingly or were convinced to help, happily engaged in sorting newspapers and cutting up materials to be placed inside the plastic bottles. Although they could not communicate through language, body language, and gestures bridged the gap, leading to shared laughter and camaraderie.
One individual stood out from the crowd. Due to congenital limb deformities, he could not sit on the large plastic sheet with the others; he worked from a modified tricycle. Volunteer Lee Li Hua (李麗華) gave him a chance and explained the process of making the Eco Bricks in English. He immediately picked up the scissors, using his left hand to cut. When Lee suggested that he did not need to cut them so small, he quickly adjusted and said, “OK.”
Malaysian Tzu Chi volunteer Lee Li-hua (left) guided Vene, who has a physical disability in his legs, to cut plastic and packaging materials into small pieces to be placed inside plastic bottles, creating eco-bricks. (Photo by Chu Hsiu-lien; India; 2023/7/15)
This person was Vinay Kumar, a 30-year-old who lived with his mother and three brothers. Despite appearing older than his actual age, Vinay has acquired many languages through interaction with tourists at the Sujata Temple – he could speak not only Hindi and English but also Thai and Japanese. Impressive!
Vinay earned a meager income by offering simple translation services; he also received government subsidies to make ends meet. Local volunteer Vivek Kumar joked that he feared Vinay might steal his job due to his multilingual abilities; this lightened the atmosphere and brought laughter from everyone.
In this relaxed ambiance, people worked and chatted without pressure. Vinay kept cutting with his left hand until it was time for the volunteers to wrap up. He wholeheartedly supported the environmental initiatives led by the volunteers in the village, including the previous mass cleaning activities and educational programs for the next generation. All these efforts contribute to making their community a better place.
The volunteers led a massive cleaning effort in the Bakraur Village and hung up plastic banners with the message that those who litter lose blessings, while those who pick them up gain blessings. (Photo by Yeh Jin-hong; India; 2023/7/15)
Far away, a little boy in a blue shirt was taught to count the number of plastic bottles on the ground by Malaysian Tzu Chi volunteerHuang Xiaoqing (黃曉清). The boy diligently counted, struggling a bit with the English numbers; but, after several attempts, he memorized them. The volunteers praised him as a “Good Boy,” and he smiled proudly at this positive reinforcement.
At another point, an elderly man known as Biggu, who helped saw bamboo, came over; he complained of foot pain and sat down. It turned out he had stepped on a nail. Volunteer Ye Zhen-zhu (葉真珠) asked him to lift his foot — but years of walking on rough surfaces had darkened the soles of his feet and made it impossible to identify the injured area and its severity.
Ye went to the nearby Senani Samaj Seva Ball Jagrup School to fetch water. There she meticulously cleaned Biggu’s foot soles and gently dried them with tissue. During the process, she noticed a wound near the base of his third toe, which showed signs of potential inflammation.
Malaysian Tzu Chi volunteer Ye Zhen-zhu thoroughly washed the soles of Biggu’s feet and used tissue to dry them before examining the injury on his foot. (Photo by Yeh Jin-hong; India; 2023/7/15)
After discussing the situation, the volunteers decided to take him to a local clinic after connecting with the Jing Si Abode in Hualien, Taiwan, later that day. However, when they arrived in the afternoon, Biggu was fast asleep, reeking of alcohol. They could not wake him, so they had to give up on their plan. They hoped the alcohol would act as a disinfectant to prevent tetanus but this was not a good solution. The volunteers warned others not to follow this method.
Throughout their journey in Bodh Gaya, Tzu Chi volunteers have experienced the joy of giving and connecting with the local community, even in the face of challenges and communication barriers.
Volunteers with Sincere Compassion
In Bakraur Village, two newly motivated volunteers, Gaina Manjhi and Malo, were greeted by an early arrival at the recycling site under the big tree. It was none other than Jaydish Manjhi, an elder in the village. Last week, when the volunteers visited his home to show concern, they found him intoxicated. So today, upon their arrival, the volunteers cautiously approached and sniffed to check for any sign of alcohol. Jaydish quickly waved his hand and shook his head, indicating that he had not been drinking. Satisfied with the lack of alcohol odor, the volunteers nodded in confirmation.
Gaina Manjhi (center) and Jaydish (right) worked together, earnestly explaining the process to their fellow villagers and using the bottles they had prepared. (Photo by Chu Hsiu-lien; India; 2023/7/15)
Jaydish then cheerfully crouched down to join a team led by Malaysian volunteer Lai Han-xin (賴漢心). Earlier, villagers had accidentally flattened plastic bottles meant for making eco-bricks. Lai was using a stick to repair them. Jaydish followed her lead, stuffing plastic into the bottles, and he seemed to be in much better spirits.
Among the Singaporean and Malaysian volunteers, Lai is known for her calm and composed demeanor. Whenever there is a need for a stand-in, she proactively steps in without anyone having to call for assistance. She is a natural at recycling work. Lai pointed out that the value of the recyclables collected by the villagers was limited, but it was essential to encourage them to participate.
“Though it might be challenging at first, we must take the first step.” At 6:40 a.m., she, along with the “advance team” of Kuo Yu-mei (郭玉梅), Ye Zhen-zhu, and Huang Xiao-xiao, arrived at Bakraur Colony. Together with Malo and Jaydish, they combined exercise with recycling, reaping benefits from both
Malaysian Tzu Chi volunteer Lai Han-xin (left), an accomplished stand-in volunteer, was guiding Jaydish (right) in making eco-bricks. (Photo by Yeh Jin-hong; India; 2023/7/15)
In contrast, Lai reflected on the abundance of clothes piled up in Malaysia that await sorting. Fast fashion trends have led to the rapid production of inexpensive garments; as a result, many people buy and discard clothing without even removing the tags. However, in this village, residents might wear the same dirty clothes for several days; it was commonplace to see men bare-chested and young children running around naked
Lee Li-hua (left) gathered the villagers, Vene, and local volunteer Vikash (second from the right), advising them to take the lead in motivating other villagers and purifying their homeland. (Photo by Chu Hsiu-lien; India; 2023/7/15)
At the age of 67, Lai Han-xin keenly felt the urgency of Tzu Chi volunteers‘ efforts to transform the Buddha’s Homeland. “Time was never enough,” she said. “You must come and experience it, to truly understand these auspicious conditions.”
As she prepared to return home next Monday, she wanted to encourage more volunteers to come and experience the environment and people of this sacred place, to reciprocate the Buddha’s kindness with sincere compassion. This way, they could put the Buddha’s heart at ease, fulfilling their role as disciples and Tzu Chi members without any regrets.
Kindling Compassion, Uniting Our Strength
After organizing the recyclables, the volunteers’ work was not complete. They were about to return to Bakraur Colony to spread the message door-to-door, demonstrating how to fill the plastic bottles for making eco-bricks and encouraging the villagers to join the cause.
Wearing their volunteer vests, Gaina Manjhi and Jaydish joined them, earnestly explaining the process to their fellow villagers using the bottles they had prepared. Their good friend Akhlesh Manjhi also put on a volunteer vest – this left Ajit Manjhi feeling envious. Ajit, like many other enthusiastic villagers, had always shown keen interest whenever the volunteers visited. However, due to his occasional drinking and gambling habits, he was undergoing a “probationary observation” period.
Ajit (right) really wanted to wear a Tzu Chi volunteer vest like his good friend Akhlesh. (Photo by Yeh Jin-hong; India; 2023/7/15)
That day Ajit diligently followed along, participating in waste sorting and eco-brick making. He openly admitted that he still indulged in occasional drinks and gambling; but he also shared that, before each gambling session, he would first contribute money to a donation box and encourage his gambling buddies to do the same. He questioned whether this approach was appropriate.
Nevertheless, his actions revealed a budding sense of compassion. The volunteers believed that, with sincerity, he too would eventually don the volunteer vest with joy.
After distributing the plastic bottles, Lee gathered the villagers and local volunteer Vikash to reiterate: “This is your homeland, and you are the leaders. You must take the lead in this effort.” The villagers nodded in agreement. Relying solely on one volunteer is not enough; it is essential to gather more volunteers from the local community, unite their strengths and dedicate themselves to purifying their homeland and spreading purity throughout the Buddha’s homeland.
A Jing Si Aphroism says: Only love and gratitude can cleanse the afflictions in our hearts.
Tzu Chi: Let us make our world a better place.
The young and old villagers of Bakraur Village were following the volunteers, sorting newspapers, and cutting up materials to be placed inside the plastic bottles. Laughter could be heard from time to time. (Photo by Yeh Jin-hong; India; 2023/7/15)
Goal 1: To increase the number of underserved women receiving a business and management education and improving the quality and capacity of business and management education around the world.
New York, N.Y. In March 2008, Goldman Sachs announced a significant new initiative called 10,000 Women that has two goals:
To increase the number of underserved women receiving a business and management education and improving the quality and capacity of business and management education around the world.
To expand the entrepreneurial talent and managerial pool in developing and emerging economies – especially among women – is one of the most important means to reducing inequality and ensuring more shared economic growth.
One of the women chosen for this program is my new friend Andeisha Farid who I first met in September when she was here. I wrote then about her work (here).
Andeisha and fellow ‘classmates’ at the Leadership Academy from Egypt, India, Rwanda, Afghanistan, and the U.S. Photo courtesy of Marc Bryan Brown.
Brian Williams’ heard of her then too. In a subsequent trip to Kabul, he heard of an American soldier who supported a kid in a local orphanage.
This led to his story featuring Andeisha’s work (video), which I also wrote about (here).
Brian hosts a segment called Making A Difference frequently for the NBC Nightly News. Goldman Sachs makes a difference through its commitment to 10,000 women.
Andeisha founded the Afghan Child Education and Care Organization (AFCECO) in Kabul, Afghanistan, supported by CharityHelp International (CHI).
The Goldman Sachs premise is that 10,000 Women will receive a business and management education: over five years. To achieve this, Goldman is supporting partnerships with universities and development organizations.
These certificate programs are pragmatic, flexible and shorter term, and help open doors for thousands of women whose financial and practical circumstances prevent them from ever receiving a traditional business education.
Andeisha Farid of AFCECO speaking at a 10,000 Women panel in New York. Photo courtesy of Marc Bryan Brown.
They provide women with the opportunity to develop specific skills, such as drafting a business plan, accounting, public speaking, marketing, management and accessing capital. There will also be a select number of MBA and BA scholarships funded.
Recently I wrote about Rotary International building peace through a very similar process: Spending $4 million a year to train peacemakers through two programs.
These are a Master’s degree in Peace and Conflict Resolution at universities around the world, and a shorter, three-month course on the same topic (here).
Many outstanding organizations are working on the ground to give girls, young women, and potential entrepreneurs a sense of their future potential.
Andeisha founded the Afghan Child Education and Care Organization in Kabul. Photo courtesy of Marc Bryan Brown.
Andeisha’s Afghan Child Education and Care Organization (AFCECO) in Kabul, Afghanistan does precisely this. AFCECO is funded in large part by CharityHelp International (CHI), founded by Paul Stevers.
“10,000 Women is helping women such as Andeisha gain the business and organizational skills to better grow and manage their respective organizations,” Paul told me.
“I have been very impressed by the growth in Andeisha’s abilities since she started with this program and expect this will greatly increase her ability to help a growing number of Afghan children and contribute to her country,” Paul said.
This past summer, Andeisha travelled to New York, where she participated in the first 10,000 Women Leadership Academy.
The two day event was attended by nearly 100 individuals from 16 countries representing most of the partner organizations in the program.
Andeisha was one of five graduates to attend the program. She was joined their by fellow “classmates” from India, Rwanda, Egypt, and the United States.
There, the partners and students were able to compare notes, share best practices, and discuss opportunities to make 10,000 Women as effective as possible.
“10,000 Women is an investment in women who can build economic growth for themselves, their families and their communities,” Dina Habib Powell, managing director and Global Head of Corporate Engagement for Goldman Sachs told me.
“Women like Andeisha represent what the tremendous potential that can be found in women entrepreneurs around the world,” Dina said.
Graduates of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Women initiative (ISB) hold their certificates. Photo courtesy of Marc Bryan Brown.
Dina’s assertions are backed by research published by Goldman Sachs, the World Bank, and others.
In recent years, Goldman Sachs has published a number of reports on the economics of gender equity, including “Womenomics” and “Women Hold Up Half the Sky.”
The latest report from Goldman, “Power of the Purse,” further illustrates this: Investing in education for women may have the highest social return of any investment, when one considers the range of income and health outcomes for such women and their families.
Investing in girls’ education leads to increased wages for individuals as well as faster economic growth for a country.
Penelope Machipi, a graduate of 10,000 Women in Zambia, accepting an award at the Fortune Most Powerful Women Summit 2009. Photo courtesy of Marc Bryan Brown. Photo courtesy of Fortune.
There is an insightful interview on CNBC with Erin Burnett who spoke with Dina and Ayodeji Megbope, of the NGO No Left-Over Nigeria. (here)
The program is founded on research conducted by Goldman Sachs, the World Bank, and others which suggests this kind of investment can have a significant impact on GDP growth.
Research also suggests that such an investment in women can have a significant multiplier effect that leads not only to increased revenues and more employees for businesses, but also healthier, better-educated families, and ultimately more prosperous communities.
Since its inception, 10,000 Women has become active in 18 countries. These include Afghanistan, Brazil, China, Egypt, India, Rwanda, and even the U.S.
10,000 Women is coordinated in local markets by a network of more than 60 academic and NGO partners.
More than thirty of the world’s leading business schools are participating in 10,000 Women, including seven of the top ten in the U.S.
Academic Partners include the American University of Afghanistan, the American University of Beirut (Lebanon), and the American University in Cairo (Egypt).
American universities participating include Brown, Columbia, Georgetown, Harvard, Stanford, Thunderbird, the University of Michigan, Wharton, and of course, Yale.
European and Asian universities also participate. These schools include HEC in Paris, Keio in Tokyo, the London Business School, and Oxford.
Goldman’s non-profit partners for 10,000 Women include the Acumen Fund, Ashoka, CARE, CHF International, the Inter-American Development Bank, the United Negro College Fund, and the World Bank.
In addition to Goldman’s financial commitment, the firm is also contributing its most valuable asset – its people – to the success of 10,000 Women.
Building on this financial firm’s strong history of service and community engagement, the people of Goldman Sachs are volunteering their time and expertise through various opportunities such as classroom instruction and mentoring.
After work or on the weekends, Goldman Sachs staff contribute their time and expertise to 10,000 Women through mentoring, serving on student selection committees, and guest lecturing.
I find corporate America helping the world very exciting – and I write about it in this column on thought leaders and global citizens – because it is so important to the world.
Corporate America saving the world with the help of NGO’s like Ashoka is even better.
Whether it is NBC’s Nightly News’ Making A Difference, Morgan Stanley-Cushman Group’s NGO series, or Goldman Sachs 10,000 Women, the reality is corporate America is in a position to give back.
Corporate America is giving back. Andeisha Farid and her orphans in Afghanistan are the living proof.
Hartford, CT. I met retired psychology professor Doffie Rotter recently in Connecticut. She sponsors ten children in Afghanistan through CharityHelp International (CHI). Doffie has also founded a beautiful library for orphans in Kabul, which may be viewed on YouTube.
Doffie Rotter in Connecticut sponsors ten children in Afghanistan through CHI.
Andeisha Farid, the founder of the Afghan Child Education & Care Organization (AFCECO), has become Doffie’s close friend.
I had lunch with Doffie in Hartford recently to meet this amazing woman. Doffie told me:
Andeisha visited me in Connecticut in 2007. When we talked I learned that the children in the orphanages had no access to a library. Public schools there have none, and a public library is not accessible.
So we decided we could build one in the Mehan Orphanage – the largest of the AFCECO orphanages. What we needed was books and videos, and we needed money.
So I contacted every school in my (small) Connecticut town – and a number of churches. I suggested to them that just about everyone here has lots of children’s and teen’s books lying around their houses unused and unwanted. Videos as well.
The “Doffie Library” of Kabul is in AFCECO’s Mehan Orphanage – their largest orphanage.
I loved the idea of children helping children, so I went to the Mansfield Middle School for an invited talk. I told them about the orphanages, about the children, about Afghanistan. This school, in particular, took the library on as a project.
Doffie shipped hundreds of donated books and DVDs from the U.S. to Afghanistan.
They collected several thousand books and held fundraisers for our Library Fund on the CharityHelp International website. They had fundraising parties, too.
The children of AFCECO’s Mehan orphanage are in the good hands of Andeisha Farid.
The Goodwin Elementary School held a faculty-student basketball game and raised some money. St. Thomas Aquinas church collected books and videos from their parishioners.
Laptop training is offered in the Doffie Library in Kabul where children are able to stay in touch with their overseas sponsors.
A number of individuals also donated money for the library, and some anonymous Starbucks customers made nice donations in a basket placed in our local coffee hangout.
AFCECO’s Mehan Orphanage in Kabul has more girls than boys.
I shipped the books and videos to Kabul. The money went toward buying books in Farsi, so that the library would not be all-English. And the wonderful staff at AFCECO built a gorgeous library in the Mehan Orphanage. The whole project was done quickly.
Libraries can stand in for health clinics when there are not enough health clinics!
One especially gratifying outcome: this library is used for everything. The children from all three Kabul orphanages read and study there, write letters and draw pictures to send to their sponsors, and use the computers which were donated.
The orphans have really taken to their Mac laptops. Doffie is a Mac aficionado.
They have birthday parties in the library. And, they regularly hold what they call “Art Parties” there as well. These parties are wondrous! The children sing and dance (in costume), put on dramas, recite poetry, and have debates.
It has turned into an all-purpose room, and all credit goes to the AFCECO staff for keeping the library so beautifully furnished, with cheerful and seasonal decorations all around.
Doffie continues her work though Hope for Afghan Children, the home of a group of people who have become child sponsors and orphanage founders through the work of the Afghan Child Education and Care Organization (AFCECO).
Their excellent and informative website is the work of Rose Vines. Co-founder Terry Cardwell wrote me recently that she too is inspired by Andeisha Farid, AFCECO’s director in Kabul.
Kristen Rouse is the founder of a wonderful group called Veterans for Afghanistan which partners with Rose, Terry and Doffie. I hope to interview Kristen before she is deployed back to Afghanistan.
Doffie Rotter with AFCECO’s Andeisha Farid, visiting the U.S. last summer from Kabul.
Related Stories on International Children’s Projects by Jim Luce
Several weeks ago Brian Williams profiled the children of the Afghan Child Education and Care Organization (AFCECO) and its founder Andeisha Farid in Kabul, Afghanistan for NBC Nightly News’ segment Making a Difference (video).
Brian is anchor and managing editor of the NBC Nightly News based in New York. Last week, his show, including the segment Making a Difference, had 9.5 million viewers. The show spikes up to 11 million viewers frequently.
I had interviewed the orphanage’s founder Andeisha of Kabul in New York in September and have followed her progress carefully. I knew immediately that Brian’s focus would have an enormous impact on her good work.
As founder of Orphans International Worldwide, I am familiar with running homes for children around the world – and the difficult task of raising the fund necessary to do so.
What I did not grasp about the piece on Making a Difference was what an enormous difference it would make – with so many contributions that flooded over the Internet to fund the kids there from Brian’s generous viewers. He thanked them the following week (video).
I wanted to speak with Brian about how good that must make him feel – and how this sense of responsibility must now shape his life – so I asked him to call me, and he did. Brian told me:
I was really revved to do a piece on this orphanage in Afghanistan. I wanted it to be seen by as many people as possible – and luckily it was. I was so grateful – we raised much more for those children than we had thought possible.
I do pieces on different topics. We were in Kabul when there was a huge loss of life at the U.N. and I wanted to do a story after that which was ‘nice and hopeful.’ We had one day to do this feature piece, and it all just came together.
Sitting there in our rental house in Kabul, I realized I had a personal enough relationship with our viewers – who I felt could be very generous – to ask them to help these kids. And they did!
The cultural differences and similarities in the orphanage were enormous. Little girls are little girls anywhere in the world. Thank God I have parented two children, so it was the most natural of moments.
Switching glasses with them, seeing them draw stars and hearts… The children were so tactile, kind, loving, affectionate, and gracious.
I saw a picture of Paul Stevers there on the wall, the founder of CharityHelp International in the U.S. that provides a bridge between child sponsors and the children there.
The kids had a politeness, and order, a discipline – not like in Annie, but an attitude of accepting real responsibility – the way I was raised. It was so real.
On his blog, Brian had posted the following after his viewers had been so generous:
I want to say thank you — and to express my ongoing appreciation at the amazing generosity of our viewers. We did a follow-up on the orphanage in Afghanistan.
I was only home from work for a few hours when we learned they had already received 500 e-mails from Nightly News viewers — many of them offering donations and pledges to sponsor a child.
It is immensely gratifying, and I’m beyond words in expressing my thanks and appreciation on behalf of the lovely children we met over there.
Brian Williams received individualized cards from each of the children in Kabul.
“Although some are one-time gifts, our experience tells us that many of the child sponsors will continue to give for the next few years so the benefits of Brian’s efforts are very substantial and will enable AFCECO to care for many more children,” Paul Stevers, founder of CharityHelp International, told me.
CharityHelp International is the Internet bridge that connects the children to child sponsors around the world. Orphans International Worldwide, the charity I founded, relies on CharityHelp to fund our kids in Haiti, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka.
“Security is an enormous issue in Kabul,” Brian told me. “In Kabul, importance is measured by the size of your gate and the number of guns you have. I hope the orphanage there will be able to spend more on security,” Brian added.
Clearly, the segment Making a Difference is making a difference. From one night a week, the segment now airs up to five times a week.
“It was my wife’s idea, honestly,” Brian shared. “With the economy sinking, she said, ‘Someone, somewhere is doing spectacular acts of kindness – go capture them!’ And we did,” Brian told me.
Making a Difference features mostly ordinary people, although it has begun to also focus on celebrities using their visibility to also help humanity.
Quintessential thought leaders and global citizen Brian Williams on the streets of Kabul.
Brian replaced Tom Brokaw, one of his mentors, in 2004. Previously, Brian was the network’s chief White House correspondent and host of The News with Brian Williams on CNBC and MSNBC.
After studying at college, Brian took an internship with the administration of President Jimmy Carter. He holds an honorary doctor of humane letters degree from one of my favorite schools, Bates College, and an honorary Doctor of Journalism degree from Ohio State University.
NBC Night News anchor Brian Williams frequently reports from Afghanistan.
Brian is the most honored network evening news anchor. He has received four Edward R. Murrow awards, his fifth Emmy award, the DuPont-Columbia University award and the industry’s highest honor, the George Foster Peabody award.
Most were given for his work in New Orleans while covering Hurricane Katrina and its aftermath, and all were awarded to Brian in only his second year on the job.
Brian Williams of NBC Nightly News with Afghani children in Kabul.
Brian was the first and only network evening news anchor to report from New Orleans before Hurricane Katrina hit and was the only network news anchor to report from the Superdome during the storm. He remained in New Orleans to report on the aftermath and destruction of Hurricane Katrina.
In 2006, Brian joined Bono, traveling to three countries in Africa — Nigeria, Mali, and Ghana — to report on the major issues facing the continent, including HIV/AIDS, poverty, disease, and crushing debt.
In 1994, Brian was named NBC News Chief White House correspondent. Accompanying President Clinton aboard Air Force One, Brian circled the world several times, covering virtually every foreign and domestic trip by the President until 1996.
On perhaps one of the most historic trips of the Clinton presidency, Brian was the only television news correspondent to accompany three U.S. presidents — Clinton, Bush, and Carter — to Yitzhak Rabin’s funeral in Israel.
Brian is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations in New York, and is also a member of the Board of Directors of the Congressional Medal of Honor Foundation. He has lectured at Columbia University School of Journalism and the Lyndon Baines Johnson Presidential Library in Austin, Texas.
In 2007, Brian was listed among Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in The World. He lives in New Canaan, Connecticut, with his wife, Jane Stoddard Williams.
There is a reason “When breaking news happens, America turns to NBC Nightly News with Brian Williams.“ America trusts Brian the way we once trusted Walter Cronkite.
“Walter Cronkite was the architect for what this show has become,” Brian told me. “Walter’s level of professionalism is what I strive for every day.”
“I have been luckier than most two have had two North Stars to follow – Walter Cronkite and Tom Brokaw,” Brian admitted.
Like Walter and Tom, Brian is the quintessential thought leaders and global citizen – and has thousands of fans on Facebook from around the world to prove it.
Today Brian Williams has an enormous power – and a parallel responsibility – to help humanity.
Luckily for all of us, he knows this well – and is highly focused on doing all that he can in his position to change our world for the better.
