Santo Domingo.– This Thursday, October 2nd, marks the International Day of Non-Violence, a date proclaimed by the United Nations (
UN) in honor of the birth of Mahatma Gandhi. In the Dominican Republic, the day takes on a special meaning due to the recent acts of violence that have generated concern in different sectors of society.
The commemoration seeks to promote a culture of peace, respect, and tolerance, principles that many Dominicans consider urgent today.
Consulted by this media, citizens expressed the need to assume the day as a collective commitment.
“It is very important to remember this day because in our society we are seeing too much violence. We need more education and more empathy among us,” said a resident of Santo Domingo.
From his side, Rafael Pérez, a university student, opined that the change must begin in the classrooms.
“Non-violence should be taught from school. We cannot normalize people solving problems with blows or weapons”.
While other citizens call for the date not to remain symbolic.
“Today is a day for reflection, but it should not remain just in words. We want actions from the authorities, prevention campaigns and support for the affected families.”
The commemoration thus becomes a reminder that, in the face of femicides, fights, and conflicts that mark the national current events, the construction of a culture of peace requires the joint action of the State, civil society, and the citizenry in general.
