Rizal’s ideals reaffirmed
Rizal’s ideals reaffirmed
The International Conference on Rizal has determined that the thoughts, ideals and philosophies written about and/or exemplified by Dr. Jose P. Rizal are as relevant today as they have always been since the time of Rizal. Dubbed “Rizal in the 21st Century TechnoWorld,” the event was held on on Sept. 11-13, 2008 in Mississauga.
The Conference further determined that those ideals, thoughts and philosophies together make up the Rizalian Principles that every student or admirer of Rizal should advocate, promote and apply in their individual circumstances as they relate to their families, their neighborhood, their associations and their communities.
Speakers at the conference were: Prof. Jean Q. Hall (“Rizalism as a Cause: Its Meaning and Relevance in Today’s World”); Lucien Spittael (“Rizal’s Rhinebetrip” and “Rizal in Europe” Slide Presentations); Voltaire de Leon (“Rizal the Man: A Scrutiny of the Mind of a Hero”); Don Brennock (“Who Rizal is to Non-Filipino: The Universality of Rizalism”).
Those in attendance at the International Conference on Rizal held at Kalayaan Community Centre believe that the world would be a much better place to live in if the following Rizalian Principles are adhered to:
Principle of Racial and Gender Equality: All people are equal in the eyes of God and law regardless of color of skin or gender;
Principle of Non-violent Political and Social Change: The pursuit of lasting, positive and progressive changes in society and in the political lives of a people can best be achieved through democratic and non-violent means;
Principle of Universal Access to Proper Education: Proper Education that is accessible to every member of society is an inherent right and a necessary tool in building and sustaining the individual lives of the members of any society.
Principle of Economic Self-Sufficiency: True realization and appreciation of one’s self worth and the value of his contribution to the society in which he belongs can be enhanced by attaining economic self-sufficiency.
Principle of Religious Freedom and Moral Uprightness: Peace of mind and peace among people is attained and maintained by mutual recognition and respect for each person’s intrinsic right to freedom of religion just as keeping a high moral standard prevents conflicts among individuals and groups of individuals.
Principle of Reponsible Citizenship: Each member of society shares equal responsibility in the establishment and enforcement of just laws and each person is responsible to contribute to maintaining a just and efficient government.
Principle of Ethical Leadership. A leadership that abides by a code of ethics that respects the rights of others even if they are opposite to the leadership’s own, guarantees a stable progression of development and change for the better for its constituents.
Principle of Solidarity: Solidarity in maintaining a high moral ground on any issue among like-minded people is an assurance for a just resolution of those issues.
In the conference, organized by the International Federation of the Knights of Rizal, attendees held a general meeting, workshops, a gala night dinner and a wreath laying at the Rizal monument at Earl Bales Park in Toronto.
(PRESS RELEASE)
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