Public Relations

The Public Relations committee serves as the official representative of the local SGI-USA Chapter in the areas of community relations, interfaith relations, media relations, academic relations, and / or United Nations NGO relations. Many SGI-USA members are responding to the diverse needs in their communities on an individual basis. As a group, we wish to support and participate in community events that promote peace, culture and education. Through these events, our goal is to establish bonds of trust and friendship in society and to enable more people to gain a correct understanding of our movement.

Key points from the SGI Charter that serve as a guide to public relations activities are:

  • We are determined to challenge the global issues that face humankind through dialogue and practical efforts based on a steadfast commitment to nonviolence.
  • Based on the Buddhist spirit of tolerance, we shall respect and protect the freedom of religion; respect other religions and engage in dialogue and work with them toward the resolution of fundamental issues concerning humanity.
  • Based on the ideal of world citizenship, we shall safeguard fundamental human rights and not discriminate against any individual on any grounds.
Examples of past community events:
  • December 5, 1999 –– Functioning as an official NGO of the UN, Austin Chapter sponsored a consultation on the Earth Charter. It was a forum for providing input into the Earth Charter Benchmark Draft that will be submitted to the UN General Assembly in 2000. The goal is for the Earth Charter to be the environmental equivalent to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
  • Spring, 1998 – Austin Chapter members supported the efforts of the Pagan Student Association (a student organization at the University of Texas) and local Pagan members in planning for a religious tolerance conference entitled ‘Merry Meet Me’.
  • June, 1998 – Members participated in the City of Austin’s Storm Drain Marking Program where they permanently attached button-like markers next to storm drains/inlets. The message “No Dumping –Drains to Creeks” displayed on the markers informs the public about how rainfall runoff can wash soil, yard waste, fertilizer, motor oil and other pollutants into local creeks and rivers.
  • July 19, 1997 -- Austin Chapter sponsored a “Community Fair” where we brought together groups that provide support, aid and information about family violence in order for citizens to learn what is available to them. Some of the groups that participated were The Austin Police department, United Way, the Austin Rape Crisis Center, Parents Anonymous and the Family Crisis Center. The fair also featured various musicians, clowns, storytellers, and drummers.


Nam Myoho Renge Kyo