Vision Statement:
Stand Up and Be the Change

Make this century one hundred years of peace

On June 16th, 2012 His Holiness the Dalai Lama will address an audience of young people in Manchester on the urgent need to foster a culture of peace and dialogue in the 21st century.

STAND UP & BE THE CHANGE will introduce principles of non-violence, compassion and the resolution of disputes through dialogue to a young audience. This century will be shaped by those who are students today. This generation can become decisive catalysts for change, helping to usher in a century of dialogue that leads to peace.

STAND UP & BE THE CHANGE will call on young people to assume a universal responsibility by acquiring the skills, knowledge and values that will enable them to make positive contributions to the times in which they live. Engaging in a mindful process that begins with the individual, a culture of peace extends to the local community, ultimately broadening its reach to become a global reality encompassing the lives of millions.

STAND UP & BE THE CHANGE affirms that we have the potential to choose non-violent solutions. All human beings want freedom, dignity and happiness, and have the right to live in a just society.

Humanity is not inescapably disposed to war, conflict and aggression. We can do things differently.

Nothing is inevitable. Everything is possible.

Imagine a culture of peace and then… STAND UP & BE THE CHANGE.

Thubten Samdup
Representative of His Holiness the Dalai Lama