CNV Kolkata, India—Where We Find Peace
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Saadia Azim for East West Center- Kolkata Chapter and Tiljala Shed, Kolkata shares that on September 21 they held an event called “Where We Find Peace” for about 300 young people. “A storytelling activity was organized by the East-West Center Alumni Association, Kolkata Chapter, and Tiljala Shed with the children of Kolkata's ragpickers. The children shared their personal reflections on the theme 'Where We Find Peace.' These stories were recorded and are being presented to diverse audiences to promote a deeper understanding of how children living in extreme poverty and deprivation perceive and experience Peace. Most of the children spoke out against war, while also expressing their simple needs—such as food, education, and jobs—as key to finding Peace.
The storytelling activity with the children of Kolkata's ragpickers contributes to building a culture of nonviolence by amplifying the voices of those most affected by poverty and marginalization. By allowing these children to express their thoughts on peace, with many speaking against war and highlighting basic needs like food, education, and employment as crucial to their sense of peace, the activity shifts the focus to the root causes of violence—inequality, deprivation, and unmet needs.
Sharing these stories with a broader audience fosters empathy and understanding, challenging societal indifference to the struggles of the underprivileged. It encourages people to see peace not just as the absence of conflict, but as the presence of justice and opportunity. By giving these children a platform, the initiative cultivates a sense of shared responsibility and supports broader efforts to promote nonviolence through addressing systemic issues like poverty and lack of access to basic rights.
This action humanizes the narrative around peace and nonviolence, demonstrating that when the needs of the most vulnerable are met, the foundation for a peaceful and just society is strengthened.