Dear friends,
Every year on October 17th, the international community observes the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty.
This day is a key opportunity to think of the struggle against extreme poverty that takes place every day and of the role that everyone has to play in this fight. People living in extreme poverty have an equal right to endeavor alongside all citizens to create a better world where rights are respected for all.
People’s messages written on October 17:
"We are perhaps not directly to blame for the exclusion of millions of human beings, but we can become the agents of their inclusion.”
“We need to unite with those living in extreme poverty, and work together.”
In the world, different events will be held and will gather people from different cultures, faiths backgrounds who refuse to think poverty as a fatality.
In Manila, we invite you to join us at the commemoration led by NAPC, National Anti-Poverty Commission together with ATD Fourth World Philippines.
October 17, 2010
8:00 AM, Rizal Park
Around the Commemorative Stone in honor of the poor
(near the auditorium and the chess plaza)
Sincerely, ATD Fourth World Permanent Volunteers,
Anne-Sylvie Laurent Sarah Ortega Elisabeth Lavrand
In case you would not be able to join the ceremony at Rizal Park, Manila, here are some examples of October 17 celebrations, which give you inspiration for observance of the Day and for your own commitment. Teachers in some schools focus the lessons on the issue of poverty. Children send their poems and paintings to contribute to October 17. Homeless people gather in a train station in memory of their friends who have died. There are also silent walks organized with stops at historical landmarks that bear memory of the poor.
Visit the October 17 website: www.refuserlamisere.org, for news of celebrations all over the world.
“Wherever men and women are condemned to live in extreme poverty, human rights are violated. To come together to ensure that these rights be respected is our solemn duty."
Fr. Joseph Wresinski
