Journal Written Remarks – House Bill 345, Peace Day

Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu
Journal Written Remarks – Day 24 and Day 25
March 1 and 2, 2007
House Bill 345, Relating To Holidays

I rise in support.

I entered politics with hopes to make our state, nation, and world more peaceful. I believe we must all play a role in promoting peace. Too often, the cycle of violence is fueled through anger and revenge. Every generation has witnessed violence domestically and abroad. As a representative of Generation X, I am determined to continue striving for peace throughout the world just as the leaders before me.

I was pleased when I learned that the Hawaii Federation of Junior Young Buddhist Association was working on a peace resolution. After talking to their advisor, I decided to introduce a peace day bill on their behalf. I was touched to know that young leaders in the next generation, Generation Y had the same dream of attaining a more peaceful world.

House Bill 345 would establish September 21st of each year as “Peace Day” to promote peace programs, improve international relations, and increase educational awareness of peace. If we all work towards this goal of a more peaceful world, we will see priceless results and touch many lives.

Thank you.