SGI-Brazil Holds Grassroots Meetings Throughout Brazil

On October 18 and 19, 2008, SGI-Brazil (BSGI) members gathered at some 5,800 locales throughout the country, celebrating the 48th "BSGI Day" (October 19), marking the day SGI President Daisaku Ikeda first visited Brazil.

Mr. Ikeda arrived in São Paulo, Brazil, on October 19, 1960. The SGI's first overseas chapter was established on the following day. Since then, BSGI members have challenged to become exemplary Brazilian citizens based on their practice of Nichiren's Buddhist philosophy of humanism. Their dedication for the well-being of Brazilian society is highly admired today.

During the many commemorative meetings, members traced the growth of the SGI's peace movement in Brazil and discussed how to deepen their understanding of the shared commitment of mentor and disciple. Participants determined to continue working for lasting peace, aiming toward the 50th anniversary of BSGI’s founding in 2010.

[Adapted from an article in the November 11, 2008 issue of the Seikyo Shimbun, Soka Gakkai, Japan]