Drug-Free Tennessee Encourages Sober St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations

 

Drug-Free Tennessee has a mission to educate people on the dangers of drug abuse.

 

 

WalletHub says that St. Patrick’s Day is the third-biggest drinking holiday in the United States. In 2018, 73 people died in drunk driving accidents on St. Patrick’s Day and according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 38 percent of drivers killed in St. Patrick’s Day accidents had a blood-alcohol level over .08.

 

Drug-Free Tennessee has long warned youth and adults alike on the dangers of drug abuse, including alcohol abuse. For the 2021 St. Patrick’s Day celebration, the group is encouraging folks to celebrate sober with family-friendly festivities.

 

One idea for celebration comes from the group Sober St. Patrick’s Day (https://www.soberstpatricksday.org/). Sober St. Patrick's Day events have been hosted around the world with ambassadors in Belfast, Dublin, Long Island, NY, Philadelphia, PA,

​West Warwick, RI, Mystic, CT & Richmond, VA. This year, the event is going virtual on March 17, 2021 starting at 4pm EST. The virtual event is free, but registration is required at the website.

Drug-Free Tennessee has hosted virtual resources throughout 2020 at drugfreetn.org and has continued this year with audio-visual messages and videos aimed at helping people steer clear of drug abuse and addiction. The organization has also long offered virtual learning resources and free materials to all educators wanting to help people learn the truth about drugs. Resources are available free of charge through drugfreeworld.org.

 

Drug-Free Tennessee distributes the Truth About Drugs booklet, which cover all basic side effects of drugs, common street names, and how to recognize when you are being persuaded by a dealer. DFT also has a range of award winning Public Service Announcements and an award winning feature length documentary detailing the dangers of drugs and addiction. To learn more or to order booklets or view the videos, visit drugfreetn.org and drugfreeworld.org.

2019 Year in Review – Tennessee United for Human Rights

2019 saw the expansion of Tennessee United for Human Rights, carrying out the work of the international organization United for Human Rights in the Southeast United States.

Tennessee United for Human Rights (TnUHR) was formed as a non-profit public benefit corporation in 2015 to educate Tennesseans on the basic principles and foundations of human rights. In 2019, the organization has taken great strides to provide help to people of all ages so they may understand their basic human rights.

Volunteers began the year by participating at the annual convocation for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at the Tennessee State University Gentry Center. They distributed the What are Human Rights? Booklets, spoke to community and religious leaders about the human rights education curriculum and how to help people with this knowledge.

Next, the group held an event to educate the community on human rights for International Mandela Day and announced the winners of the youth for human rights summer arts contest: Anna B. (5), Harper P. (5), Jazzelyn L. (11) and Norah H (11). Each of them received a prize for their human rights

artwork.

In September, the chapter organized a large event for International Day of Peace centered on the theme of religious freedom. The theme was “Speak Your Peace,” and featured a multicultural, multi-faith community of people who spoke to peace on a universal level.

Next month the group had a special service on International Religious Freedom Day where students were educated on their human rights, with a special focus on freedom of thought. Then, to close out the year, TnUHR was a co-organizer for the annual Tennessee Celebration of International Human Rights Day, a spectacular event which showcased human rights leaders for their work and uplifted others.

TnUHR is planning to begin 2020 with several events to continue promoting human rights. “The time for true human rights education is now,” says Julie Brinker, spokesperson for Tennessee United for Human Rights, “we’ve come far over the past few years but there is still more work to be done so that each and every person has a voice and human rights can be a reality for all.”

TnUHR is the local chapter of United for Human Rights (UHR), an international, not-for-profit organization dedicated to implementing the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Its membership is comprised of individuals, educators and groups throughout the world who are actively forwarding the knowledge and protection of human rights by and for all Mankind. United for Human Rights was founded on the Declaration’s 60th anniversary, in the face of continued worldwide abuses which violate the spirit, intent and Articles of this charter of all human rights, the first such document ever ratified by the community of nations. For more information about United for Human Rights, go to humanrights.com. For more information on the Tennessee chapter, visit tnuhr.org.

Church of Scientology Nashville Rings in the Holiday Season with Open Doors, Open Hearts

Scientologists believe in spreading the warmth and joy of the holiday season to the community and beyond.

More than 10,000 Scientology Churches, missions, related organizations and affiliated groups minister to millions in 165 countries, according to Scientology.org. Because of this worldwide diversity, Scientologists come from a wide variety of faiths and cultural traditions. But no matter their background, they, like most people, gather with loved ones to enjoy the warmth of friends and family and celebrate the joy of the holiday season.

Pastor of the Nashville Church, Rev. Brian Fesler, says, “Our church captures the spirit of the holidays. We bring people together to celebrate and plan the year ahead, and everyone is welcome here throughout the season.”

The Nashville church hosts an annual potluck for Thanksgiving and Christmas, as well as other community events including holiday shows and festivities, the annual Human Rights Day celebration, open houses and other community get-togethers.

Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard honored the great religious leaders of the past for the wisdom they brought to the world, writing that Scientology shares “the goals set for Man by Christ, which are wisdom, good health and immortality.” It is in this spirit that Scientologists celebrate the holiday season, whether they observe Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or any other religious or cultural tradition.

The Church annually celebrates New Year’s Eve with a large-scale event that all parishioners and members of the community are invited to attend. It is at this event that the church reviews the accomplishments for the year and sets the course for the year to come. This year’s event will be all the more special as we usher in a new decade for 2020.

This past decade has seen explosive expansion for the religion, with over 70 new Churches of Scientology in global cities—from Orlando to Perth, Dublin to Detroit and Kansas City to Johannesburg. More Church openings are planned in the next 12 months for cities across North America, Australia, Europe and the United Kingdom. This decade further saw the inauguration of the Church’s global communications headquarters, Scientology Media Productions. The studio subsequently launched its own television channel, broadcasting in 17 languages across 24 time zones: Scientology Network—available on DIRECTV Channel 320 and streaming online at scientology.tv.

For more information about Scientology, visit www.scientology.org. 

Tennessee United for Human Rights Plans Fifth Annual Peace Day Event

The Tennessee chapter of United for Human Rights (TNUHR) will have a large inter-religious, multicultural event for International Peace Day.

Tennessee United for Human Rights in partnership with the Church of Scientology Nashville will hold the fifth annual Nashville Celebration of International Day of Peace on September 19, from 5:00-7:00pm, with a large number of religious and cultural leaders, each bringing words of peace from their respective traditions and backgrounds.

Participating are representatives of the LDS Church, AME Church, Sikh Faith, Baha’i Faith, Scientology and more.

Tennessee United for Human Rights (TUHR) has held an event for International Day of Peace for the past four years, each with a different theme related to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. TUHR promotes human rights education as a way to combat ignorance and increase awareness.  During each of the past Peace Day events, a different human right has been the focus.

“Each year we focus on a human rights issue that needs to be brought to light. This year we are proud to bring together a multicultural, multi-faith community of people who can speak to peace on a universal level,” says Rev. Brian Fesler, regional coordinator of the Tennessee United for Human Rights program.

International Day of Peace was declared by the United Nations General Assembly as a day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, both within and among all nations and peoples.

The Peace Day event will be held on September 19^th at 5:00 pm in the Nashville Church of Scientology community hall.

TNUHR is a chapter of the international organization United for Human Rights, formed on the 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights to provide human rights resources and educational materials to all sectors of society. For more information about Peace Day or to register, visit nashvillepeace.eventbrite.com, and to find out more about Tennessee United for Human Rights, visit tnuhr.org. 

Church of Scientology to Host Fifth Annual Peace Day Event

The Tennessee chapter of United for Human Rights (TNUHR) will have a large inter-religious, multicultural event for International Peace Day.

The Church of Scientology in partnership with Tennessee United for Human Rights will hold the fifth annual Nashville Celebration of International Day of Peace on September 19, from 5:00-7:00pm, with a large number of religious and cultural leaders, each bringing words of peace from their respective traditions and backgrounds. The event is being dubbed “Religious Freedom in the Bible Belt.”

Tennessee United for Human Rights (TUHR) has held an event for International Day of Peace for the past four years, each with a different theme related to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. TUHR promotes human rights education as a way to combat ignorance and increase awareness.  During each of the past Peace Day events, a different human right has been the focus.

“Each year we focus on a human rights issue that needs to be brought to light. This year we are proud to bring together a multicultural, multi-faith community of people who can speak to peace on a universal level,” says Rev. Brian Fesler, regional coordinator of the Tennessee United for Human Rights program.

International Day of Peace was declared by the United Nations General Assembly as a day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, both within and among all nations and peoples.

The Peace Day event will be held on September 19^th at 5:00 pm in the Nashville Church of Scientology community hall.

TNUHR is a chapter of the international organization United for Human Rights, formed on the 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights to provide human rights resources and educational materials to all sectors of society. For more information about Peace Day or to register, visit nashvillepeace.eventbrite.com, and to find out more about Tennessee United for Human Rights, visit tnuhr.org. 

Tennessee United for Human Rights to Participate at Nashville MLK Day Event

Tennessee United for Human Rights (TNUHR) has the mission to bring awareness and education on the 30 human rights, as listed in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, to people all across the state.

“The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. federal holiday is a perfect opportunity for Americans to honor Dr. King’s legacy through service. [The day] empowers individuals, strengthens communities, bridges barriers, creates solutions to social problems, and moves us closer to Dr. King’s vision of a beloved community,” according to NationalService.gov. It is with this in mind that Tennessee United for Human Rights (TNUHR) will join in the movement in Nashville to honor Dr. King’s legacy.

TNUHR, which was formed as a non-profit public benefit corporation in 2015 to educate Tennesseans on the basic principles and foundations of human rights, will participate in events in Nashville to honor the iconic human rights hero. The main event is the MLK Day march and convocation which takes place at Tennessee State University. The march begins at 10am at Jefferson Street Baptist Church. According to MLKDayNashville.com, the theme for 2019 is “Beyond the March: A Life of Action.”

One TNUHR volunteer says the organization is excited about being part of these events and is anxious to spread education on human rights, “This is the time for everyone to learn their basic human rights and be united in the fight for freedom.”

TNUHR is the local chapter of United for Human Rights, an international, not-for-profit organization dedicated to implementing the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Its membership is comprised of individuals, educators and groups throughout the world who are actively forwarding the knowledge and protection of human rights by and for all Mankind, according to humanrights.com.

United for Human Rights was founded on the Declaration’s 60th anniversary, in the face of continued worldwide abuses which violate the spirit, intent and Articles of this charter of all human rights, the first such document ever ratified by the community of nations. For more information about United for Human Rights, go to www.humanrights.com.

Drug-Free Tennessee Reminds Youth to Stay Healthy this Holiday Season

Drug-Free Tennessee recently participated in community events to remind young people to be safe and healthy by distributing the Truth About Drugs booklets.

Drug-Free Tennessee is committed to making neighborhoods drug and crime-free. So it was that volunteers joined community partners, neighbors and police for local neighborhood health fairs and community events recently to remind kids to make good choices.

The final week of October is Red Ribbon Week. “Red Ribbon Week is the oldest and largest drug prevention campaign in the country,” according to imdrugfree.com. This is the best time to educate young people and help prevent drug abuse. The Red Ribbon Campaign was started to commemorate DEA agent Kiki Camarena, who died in the line of duty in 1985. This began the continuing tradition of displaying red ribbons as a symbol of intolerance towards the use of drugs. The mission of the campaign is to present a unified and visible commitment towards the creation of a Drug-Free America, according to redribbon.org.

With Halloween falling during the same week, volunteers found several community events to participate in where they could help remind young people to make safe choices during the holiday.

Rev. Brian Fesler, regional coordinator for Drug-Free Tennessee, says, “Youth today make decisions about drugs at a younger age. We need to get them reliable information so they can make educated choices and lead healthier lives.”

Drug-Free Tennessee is the local chapter of the Foundation for a Drug-Free World, which provides booklets with information on how drugs affect the body and mind, what a dealer might say, and common street names to young people know how to avoid them. The materials are available free of charge, and can be obtained through drugfreeworld.org.

For more information on Drug-Free Tennessee or to order materials, visit drugfreetn.org. 

Church of Scientology Asks Religious Leaders to ‘Speak Your Peace’

The Church of Scientology with the Tennessee chapter of United for Human Rights (TNUHR) held a large inter-religious, multicultural event for International Peace Day.

The Church of Scientology, in partnership with Tennessee United for Human Rights, held its fourth annual Celebration of International Day of Peace, with a large number of religious and cultural leaders, each bringing words of peace from their respective traditions and backgrounds for an event dubbed “Speak Your Peace.”

International Day of Peace was declared by the United Nations General Assembly as a day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, both within and among all nations and peoples.

In Nashville, International Day of Peace has been observed over the past three years, each year with a different theme related to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. TUHR promotes human rights education as a way to combat ignorance and increase awareness.   This year is the 70^th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, since it was signed in 1948, so TUHR wanted to do something on a large scale involving all people. Thus, an event that would tie together people of all faiths in unity through words of peace.

“I’m proud that we were able to bring together a multicultural, multi-faith community of people who could speak about peace on a universal level,” says Rev. Brian Fesler, regional coordinator of the Tennessee United for Human Rights program.

Participants represented a myriad of faith traditions and religions including Baha'i, Baptist, Jewish, LDS Church (Mormon), Sikh, Unity and Scientology. A common theme among all of the religious messages was that in unity, there is peace.

TNUHR is a chapter of the international organization United for Human Rights, formed on the 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights to provide human rights resources and educational materials to all sectors of society. For more information about Peace Day or to find out more about Tennessee United for Human Rights, visit tnuhr.org. 

Preparations in Motion for the 70th Anniversary of International Human Rights Day

The planning committee for the Tennessee celebration of International Human Rights Day is preparing for the 2018 event.

Each year, Tennesseans gather to celebrate the ratification of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) by the United Nations on Dec 10, originally signed in 1948. This year will mark the 70^th anniversary of the signing of this important document. “Human Rights Day is a special event where future leaders come together with lifelong advocates to be inspired, educated and readied for the next challenge,” says planning committee chair Rev. Brian Fesler, pastor of the Church of Scientology.

The celebration centers around the presentation of awards to human rights champions in three categories: Rising Advocate, Outstanding Service and Lifetime Achievement. Past recipients of these prestigious honors have included the Rev. Bill Barnes, Rev. James “Tex” Thomas, Senator Thelma Harper, Kwame Lillard, Rosetta Miller Perry, Father Joseph Breen, Gatluak Thach, First Baptist Capitol Hill, and many more.  The committee is now accepting nominations for this year’s award recipients.

A committee of human rights organizations and nonprofits, including the Tennessee Human Rights Commission, Metro Human Relations Commission, United Nations Association, Amnesty International, Tennessee United for Human Rights, the Church of Scientology and others, work together each year to plan the event.

The committee plans to feature many different human rights organizations, especially the Tennessee governmental and non-profit agencies that have commitments to the thirty rights as laid out in the UDHR. Organizations who wish to participate in the planning may contact the organizer through www.tnuhr.org.

Church of Scientology to Hold 10 Days of Peace in September

The Nashville Church of Scientology will be doing a series of events for “10 Days of Peace,” ending with a large event on September 21^st for International Day of Peace.

The Nashville Church of Scientology works with Tennessee United for Human Rights to hold events that promote human rights education for everyone. The church has held an event for International Day of Peace for the past three years and will be holding an event again this year on September 21. Leading up to this, the church is having “10 Days of Peace” which launches on September 11, the anniversary of the terrorist attack on the Twin Towers in New York City.

International Day of Peace was declared by the United Nations General Assembly as a day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, both within and among all nations and peoples. To launch the 10 Days of Peace, the church will hold a special event each day, culminating in the large event for Sept 21.

This is the fourth annual observance of Peace Day by TNUHR, and promises to be bigger than ever. In 2015, the group organized an eye-opening panel discussion on “Exposing the Hidden World of Human Trafficking,” and in 2016, TNUHR held an event under the theme “Know Your Rights and Survive: Overcoming Domestic Violence.” Last year the group held a panel discussion on “Religious Freedom and What This Means Today.”

“We are excited to hold ’10 Days of Peace’ this year and make these events larger than ever before,” says Rev. Brian Fesler, Pastor of the Nashville Church of Scientology.

’10 Days of Peace’ launches on September 11 at the Church of Scientology, and all are welcome.

TNUHR is a chapter of the international organization United for Human Rights, formed on the 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights to provide human rights resources and educational materials to all sectors of society. For more information about the events on Peace Day or to find out more about Tennessee United for Human Rights, visit tnuhr.org.

Tennessee United for Human Rights to Hold Panel Discussion for Fourth Annual Peace Day Event

The Tennessee chapter of United for Human Rights (TNUHR) is making plans for International Peace Day on September 21st.

Tennessee United for Human Rights has a mission to bring human rights education to everyone. And what better way to do this than through discussing these rights at public events? The group has held an event for International Day of Peace for the past three years and will be holding an event again this year on September 21.

International Day of Peace was declared by the United Nations General Assembly as a day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, both within and among all nations and peoples. This is more relevant than ever, and TNUHR is planning an event to focus on issues of domestic violence.

This is the fourth annual observance of Peace Day by TNUHR. In 2015, the group organized an eye-opening panel discussion on “Exposing the Hidden World of Human Trafficking,” and in 2016, TNUHR held an event under the theme “Know Your Rights and Survive: Overcoming Domestic Violence.” Last year the group held a panel discussion on “Religious Freedom and What This Means Today.”

“Each year we focus on a human rights issue that needs to be brought to light. We are returning to the issue of domestic violence this year, as this is something that seriously needs to be addressed,” says Rev. Brian Fesler, regional coordinator of the Tennessee United for Human Rights program.

According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, “…nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner in the United States. During one year, this equates to more than 10 million women and men.”

The Peace Day event will be held on September 21^st at 4pm in the Nashville Church of Scientology community hall.

TNUHR is a chapter of the international organization United for Human Rights, formed on the 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights to provide human rights resources and educational materials to all sectors of society. For more information about the events on Peace Day or to find out more about Tennessee United for Human Rights, visit tnuhr.org. 

Tennessee United for Human Rights to Participate at Nashville MLK Day Event

Tennessee United for Human Rights (TnUHR) has the mission to bring awareness and education on the 30 human rights, as listed in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, to people all across the state.

2017 MLK Day Celebration

“The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. federal holiday is a perfect opportunity for Americans to honor Dr. King’s legacy through service. [The day] empowers individuals, strengthens communities, bridges barriers, creates solutions to social problems, and moves us closer to Dr. King’s vision of a beloved community,” according to NationalService.gov. It is with this in mind that Tennessee United for Human Rights (TnUHR) is joining in the movement in Nashville to honor Dr. King’s legacy.

TnUHR, which was formed as a non-profit public benefit corporation in 2015 to educate Tennesseans on the basic principles and foundations of human rights, will be participating in events in Nashville to honor the iconic human rights hero. The main event is the MLK Day march and convocation which takes place at Tennessee State University on Jan 15^th. The march begins at 10am from Jefferson Street Baptist Church. According to MLKDayNashville.com, the theme for 2018 is “Investing in Our Children, Investing in Our Future.”

One TnUHR volunteer says the organization is excited about being part of these events and is anxious to spread education on human rights, “This is the time for everyone to learn their basic human rights and be united in the fight for freedom.”

TnUHR is the local chapter of United for Human Rights, an international, not-for-profit organization dedicated to implementing the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Its membership is comprised of individuals, educators and groups throughout the world who are actively forwarding the knowledge and protection of human rights by and for all Mankind, according to humanrights.com.

United for Human Rights was founded on the Declaration’s 60th anniversary, in the face of continued worldwide abuses which violate the spirit, intent and Articles of this charter of all human rights, the first such document ever ratified by the community of nations. For more information about United for Human Rights, go to www.humanrights.com.

Nashville Church of Scientology Presents An Introduction to Human Rights

Part of an international movement spanning 192 countries, the Church of  Scientology Celebrity Centre Nashville is raising awareness of human rights in commemoration of the 69^th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

The Nashville Church of Scientology held a special program to introduce young people to their most basic human rights for International Human Rights Day this year.

Human Rights Day commemorates the United Nations adoption in 1948 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights--the world's premier human rights document. Despite the best intentions of those who crafted the Declaration, 69 years later, the UN points out, "disrespect for basic human rights continues to be widespread in all parts of the globe. Extremist movements subject people to horrific violence. Messages of intolerance and hatred prey on our fears. Humane values are under attack."

For this reason, Church pastor Rev. Brian Fesler brought together families with young children to learn about their human rights and the spirit of the day. “If we don’t educate the next generation on their rights, what kind of world will we be living in?” he says.

Human rights are an integral part of the Scientology religion. The Creed of the Church of Scientology, written in 1954 by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard, begins: "We of the Church believe: That all men of whatever race, color or creed were created with equal rights." And the Code of a Scientologist calls on all Scientologists "to support true humanitarian endeavors in the fields of human rights."

The Church of Scientology and Scientologists support United for Human Rights, the world's largest nongovernmental human rights education campaign, active in 192 countries and partnering with 1,500 groups and organizations.  The initiative is inspired by Mr. Hubbard's conviction that "It is vital that all thinking men urge upon their governments sweeping reforms in the field of human rights."

For more information about the Church of Scientology or its programs, visit scientology.org. 

Nashville Church of Scientology Spreading Joy During the Holiday Season

Scientologists believe in spreading the warmth and joy of the holiday season to the community and beyond.

More than 10,000 Scientology Churches, missions, related organizations and affiliated groups minister to millions in 165 countries, according to Scientology.org. Because of this worldwide diversity, Scientologists come from a wide variety of faiths and cultural traditions. But no matter their background, they, like most people, gather with loved ones to enjoy the warmth of friends and family and celebrate the joy of the holiday season.

Pastor of the Nashville Church, Rev. Brian Fesler, says, “Our church captures the spirit of the holidays. We bring people together to celebrate and plan the year ahead, and everyone is welcome here throughout the season.”

The church hosts an annual potluck for Thanksgiving and Christmas, as well as other community events during the holidays, including an Introduction to Human Rights on December 9^th, holiday shows, open houses and other community get-togethers.

Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard honored the great religious leaders of the past for the wisdom they brought to the world, writing that Scientology shares “the goals set for Man by Christ, which are wisdom, good health and immortality.” It is in this spirit that Scientologists celebrate the holiday season, whether they observe Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or any other religious or cultural tradition.

The Church annually celebrates New Year’s Eve with a large-scale event that all parishioners and members of the community are invited to attend. It is at this event that the church reviews the accomplishments for the year and sets the course for the year to come.

For more information about Scientology, visit www.scientology.org. 

Nashville Church of Scientology Presents an Introduction to Human Rights

Part of an international movement spanning 192 countries, the Church of  Scientology Celebrity Centre Nashville is raising awareness of human rights in commemoration of the 69^th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

The Nashville Church of Scientology is set to have a special event to introduce young advocates to the subject of human rights for International Human Rights Day this year.

Children, along with others new to the subject, will see interactive visual displays on each of the human rights, will read easy-to-assimilate materials, and will get the chance to put human rights into action with activities that will give them a practical view of specific rights.

Last year, the church worked with Tennessee United for Human Rights to produce a video of children each saying an abbreviated version of one of the human rights. This video was then shown during the Tennessee Celebration of International Human Rights Day, and is now online at tnuhr.org.

“It’s so important for people to learn at a young age what their human rights are,” says Rev. Brian Fesler, pastor of the Nashville Church of Scientology. “We live in a world where rights are being taken away by those seeking to oppress and this is made easier by the fact that people just don’t know what their rights are. Education is vital in this battle against ignorance and oppression.”

Human Rights day commemorates the United Nations adoption in 1948 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights--the world's premier human rights document. Despite the best intentions of those who crafted the Declaration, 68 years later, the UN points out, "disrespect for basic human rights continues to be widespread in all parts of the globe. Extremist movements subject people to horrific violence. Messages of intolerance and hatred prey on our fears. Humane values are under attack."

Human rights are an integral part of the Scientology religion. The Creed of the Church of Scientology, written in 1954 by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard, begins: "We of the Church believe: That all men of whatever race, color or creed were created with equal rights." And the Code of a Scientologist calls on all Scientologists "to support true humanitarian endeavors in the fields of human rights."

The Church of Scientology and Scientologists support United for Human Rights, the world's largest nongovernmental human rights education campaign, active in 192 countries and partnering with 1,500 groups and organizations.  The initiative is inspired by Mr. Hubbard's conviction that "It is vital that all thinking men urge upon their governments sweeping reforms in the field of human rights."

Tennessee United for Human Rights Says Freedom of Religion is Key to Peace

Tennessee United for Human Rights has a mission to bring human rights education to everyone. And what better way to do this than through discussing these rights at public events? The group has held an event for International Day of Peace for the past two years and will be holding an event again this year on September 21.

International Day of Peace was declared by the United Nations General Assembly as a day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, both within and among all nations and peoples. This is more relevant than ever, and TNUHR is planning an event under the heading “Religious Freedom and What this Means Today.”

This is the third annual observance of Peace Day by TNUHR. In 2015, the group organized an eye-opening panel discussion on “Exposing the Hidden World of Human Trafficking,” and in 2016, TNUHR held an event under the theme “Know Your Rights and Survive: Overcoming Domestic Violence.” Expert panelists spoke about human rights abuses, how to recognize signs of violence and trafficking and how to help someone who may be a victim.

This year, the Peace Day event will be held on September 21^st at 7pm in the Nashville Church of Scientology community hall.

Rev. Brian Fesler, regional coordinator of the Tennessee United for Human Rights program says, “We want to inspire peace and educate people about their basic rights. With this knowledge, we can work together to end violence in this country.”

TNUHR is a chapter of the international organization United for Human Rights, formed on the 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights to provide human rights resources and educational materials to all sectors of society. For more information about the events on Peace Day or to find out more about Tennessee United for Human Rights, visit tnuhr.org. 

Nashville Church of Scientology Brings People Together for Friendship Day

International Day of Friendship was created to inspire peace and bridge building. The Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre Nashville just held its third annual event with a diverse crowd.

Terrorism, shootings, war—it’s become commonplace to hear of these things day after day in a stream of news. Yet, there is a group of people determined to bring people together despite differences of race, color and creed. It all happened at the International Day of Friendship in the community hall of the Nashville Church of Scientology.

International Day of Friendship is an annual observance, dignified in 2011 by the United Nations General Assembly with the idea that “friendship between peoples, countries, cultures and individuals can inspire peace efforts and build bridges between communities,” according to un.org.  The resolution emphasizes that young people, as future leaders, can be brought together in activities with different cultures. This promotes international understanding and respect for diversity.

The Church of Scientology held its third annual dialogue for the day on August 1st, with community leaders and members coming together to participate. Organizers called for participation from the myriad ethnicities and nationalities that make up the diverse city of Nashville, and held an “International Potluck” as part of the event. “The whole point was to bring a diverse group of people together and demonstrate the power of intentional friendship,” says Rev. Brian Fesler, pastor of the Church of Scientology.

“Most of life’s problems come from a basic misunderstanding of each other, a misunderstanding of intentions.  Getting along with one another starts with getting to know one another,” he says.

The Church of Scientology partnered in this effort with The Way To Happiness Association of Tennessee (TWTH-TN).  TWTH-TN provides a community betterment program based on the book The Way To Happiness by L. Ron Hubbard. The program is predicated on the fact that one’s survival depends on the survival of others—and that without the survival of others, neither joy nor happiness are attainable. Several concepts in the book promote dialogue and friendship. Among them, “Respect the Religious Beliefs of Others,” “Be Worthy of Trust,” and “Try to Treat Others As You Would Want them to Treat You.”

For more information on the Church of Scientology, its programs or upcoming events, visit scientology-ccnashville.org.

The Way to Happiness Association of Tennessee Marks International Friendship Day with Dialogue

International Day of Friendship was created to inspire peace and bridge building. At the beginning of August, The Way to Happiness Association is holding a large event with a diverse crowd to dialogue for the occasion.  

Terror attacks on London Bridge, hate crimes on innocent people leaving mosques after Ramadan services, and even attacks in New York's Times Square during a crowded lunchtime -- this is not the news people need to hear on a daily basis. Yet, this is the case in the world today.

To combat events like these, the The Way to Happiness Association will be holding an event with dialogue and activity aimed at raising awareness and friendship among even the most diverse peoples for International Day of Friendship, an observance dignified in 2011 by the United Nations General Assembly. The day was created with the idea that “friendship between peoples, countries, cultures and individuals can inspire peace efforts and build bridges between communities,” according to un.org.

The resolution emphasizes that young people, as future leaders, can be brought together in activities with different cultures. This promotes international understanding and respect for diversity.

The Way to Happiness is holding the third annual observance in Nashville on August 1st to help people learn about those with whom they might not otherwise associate. The event will be held in the community hall of the Nashville Church of Scientology. Rev. Brian Fesler, pastor of the Church says, “This event is needed. There are too many problems arising from basic misunderstanding that could be cleared up with honest and open communication.”

The Way to Happiness is a community betterment program that the Church of Scientology is involved with, as it is based on the book of the same name by L. Ron Hubbard.  The program is predicated on the fact that one’s survival depends on the survival of others—and that without the survival of others, neither joy nor happiness are attainable. Several concepts in the book promote dialogue and friendship. Among them, “Respect the Religious Beliefs of Others,” “Be Worthy of Trust,” and “Try to Treat Others As You Would Want them to Treat You.”

For more information on The Way to Happiness Association of Tennessee, visit twthtn.org.

Tennessee United for Human Rights Announces Event for Peace Day 2017

The Tennessee chapter of United for Human Rights (TNUHR) is making plans for International Peace Day on September 21st.

International Day of Peace was declared by the United Nations General Assembly as a day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, both within and among all nations and peoples. This is more relevant than ever, and human rights activists are planning a large event for the occasion in Nashville on September 21st at the Church of Scientology.

Tennessee United for Human Rights (TNUHR) is sponsoring the event.  TNUHR is a chapter of the international organization United for Human Rights, formed on the 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights to provide human rights resources and educational materials to all sectors of society.

This is the third annual observance of Peace Day by TNUHR. In 2015, the group organized an eye-opening panel discussion on “Exposing the Hidden World of Human Trafficking,” and in 2016, TNUHR held an event under the theme “Know Your Rights and Survive: Overcoming Domestic Violence.” Expert panelists spoke about human rights abuses, how to recognize signs of violence and trafficking and how to help someone who may be a victim.

This year, the Peace Day event will be held on September 21^st from 4-6pm in the Nashville Church of Scientology community hall under the theme “Immigration at the Founding of Our Nation.”

Rev. Brian Fesler, regional coordinator of the Tennessee United for Human Rights program says, “We are inspiring peace and educating people about their basic rights. With this knowledge, we can work together to end violence in this country.” For more information about the events on Peace Day or to find out more about Tennessee United for Human Rights, visit tnuhr.org.

Nashville Church of Scientology Advocates Importance of Friendship and Bridge Building

International Day of Friendship was created to inspire peace and bridge building. At the beginning of August, the Church of Scientology will bring together a diverse crowd to dialogue for the occasion a third time. 

The 2016 Friendship Day Event

Terrorism, shootings, war—it’s become commonplace to hear of these things day after day in a stream of news. Yet, there is a group of people determined to bring people together despite differences of race, color and creed. It’s all happening at the International Day of Friendship dialogue at the beginning of August in the community hall of the Nashville Church of Scientology.

International Day of Friendship is an annual observance, dignified in 2011 by the United Nations General Assembly with the idea that “friendship between peoples, countries, cultures and individuals can inspire peace efforts and build bridges between communities,” according to un.org.  The resolution emphasizes that young people, as future leaders, can be brought together in activities with different cultures. This promotes international understanding and respect for diversity.

The Church of Scientology will hold its third annual dialogue for the day at the beginning of August, with several community leaders coming together to participate. Organizers want to get as many ethnicities into one room as possible, so are holding an “International Potluck” as part of the event. “The whole point is bringing a diverse group of people together to talk about things that matter in the hopes that this will spread throughout our community,” says Rev. Brian Fesler, pastor of the Church of Scientology.

“There are so many problems in the world today caused by a basic misunderstanding of each other. If we learn something about other people we might end these problems, disputes and upsets altogether,” he says.

The Church of Scientology is partnering for this effort with The Way To Happiness Association of Tennessee (TWTH-TN).  TWTH-TN provides a community betterment program based on the book The Way To Happiness by L. Ron Hubbard. The program is predicated on the fact that one’s survival depends on the survival of others—and that without the survival of others, neither joy nor happiness are attainable. Several concepts in the book promote dialogue and friendship. Among them, “Respect the Religious Beliefs of Others,” “Be Worthy of Trust,” and “Try to Treat Others As You Would Want them to Treat You.”

For more information on the Church of Scientology, its programs or upcoming events, visit scientology-ccnashville.org.