CITIES FOR PEACE
We help cities improve quality of life by actively promoting peace, compassion and nonviolence.
The Problem
According to an article published in CityLab, "American cities remain the most violent in the advanced world. In 2017, 12 U.S. cities in the database had a murder rate of more than 20 murders per 100,000 people—a threshold used to distinguish the world's most violent, war-torn places." Research shows that murder and violent crime tend to be concentrated in the most disconnected and disadvantaged areas of cities. Acts of violent crime may include murder, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault.
Neighborhood violence has a devastating effect on communities. Premature deaths, non-fatal injuries, physical pain, and long-term health challenges are some of its typical outcomes. People who fear crime and perceive their environment to less safe tend to withdraw from physical activity, resulting in poor health outcomes (e.g. obesity, higher body mass index scores). Children exposed to violent crime often display early signs of aggression, drug abuse, depression, and anxiety, among other behavioral issues. Individuals who are exposed to violence at any age are likely to engage in and experience intimate partner violence. Individuals exposed to intimate partner violence are at an increased risk to develop eating disorders, depression, and suicidal tendencies.
Urban violence has serious short- and long-term health effects on community health (Link).
It becomes evident that city leaders (e.g. council member, Mayor, Chief of Police) need to invest in novel solutions that help reduce violence, and enhance mental and social well-being, happiness, and a feeling of connectedness. Reduction in violence will help transform cities into vibrant and prosperous spaces.
Our Solution
In order to reduce violence in cities and urban communities, we believe it is important to bring together all parties affected by the problem. This includes, but is not limited to, law enforcement agencies, government agencies, community leaders, local non-profit organizations, small businesses, youth groups, and faith leaders. We strongly feel that empowering these individuals and groups with greater self-awareness, a sense of connectedness, and compassion (using meditation-based tools) will enable them to develop innovative solutions that promote peace and prosperity in their communities.
Our Partners
We partner with the following organizations to co-create solutions that strengthen our shared mission of promoting peace and nonviolence:
- Law enforcement agencies
- Mayor's Office of Public Safety
- Community organizations
- Non-profit groups
- Faith leaders
- Youth organizations
Our Programs
- SKY Mindful Leadership Workshop: A 4-session leadership development workshop that aims to improve health, wellness, and interpersonal skills
- Nonviolence Ambassador Certification: An 8-week program that trains participants in the theory and practice of nonviolence
- World Summit on Countering Violence & Extremism: An annual gathering of global leaders and change makers to brainstorm innovative solutions to promote peace and non-violence in local communities