Peace and unity and Filipinos were at the forefront of the United Nations celebration.
The Los Angeles chapter of the United Nations held its annual United Nations International Day of Peace with the Philippines and Sri Lanka as host nations of the special day.
"We should have more of this," said one of the performers, Gelo Francisco.
Another performer, Joan Almedilla added, "It's good to know other people, especially the arts, their dances, other food, and their culture because we can't really go to every country"..
The theme for this year's celebration: Human Rights.
Former LA County Sheriff Lee Baca and Miss Sri Lanka 2004 Anarkali Akarsha, celebrated with them, sharing their insights on the need for human rights.
"World peace and human rights are something that can be categorized as a responsibility not just of government, not just of a city in any country in the world. It is beyond just one domain that we're ever going to have," Baca said.
For Filipino community leaders, the acts of goodwill and fight for equality are part of their daily lives.
"Our work is concentrated on doing good for others, making sure that families that are suffering in their lives are given dignity," said Yey Cornell of the Filipino American Service Group Inc.
The United Nations began observing the International Day of Peace every September since 1982. This year was a grand celebration as Pope Francis visited the UN headquarters in New York just days after the special day.
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source: www.abs-cbnnews.com
